In the winter, there is less vegetation and camouflage for birds, making them easier to see and appreciate. Hosting wild birds at your home or farm can be beautiful to watch, entertaining, and heartwarming. Choosing what kind of bird you want to host and what wild bird feed to use can be challenging. Stay informed with the helpful tips below for successful bird feeding.

Birds To Look For

Year-Round Birds

There are many birds that you can find frequenting bird feeders throughout the year, including winter. These are the American goldfinch, blue jay, morning dove, red-bellied woodpecker, black-capped chickadee, and tufted titmouse, among others.

Winter Only

You can spot a few types of birds at feeders exclusively in winter. In Ohio, you will commonly find the American tree sparrow, dark-eyed junco, red-breasted nuthatch, and the pine siskin.

Types of Wild Bird Feed

Black-Oil Sunflower Seeds

Birds desire the high oil content of this seed more than other types of sunflower seeds. It will attract blue jays, finches, chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches.

Cracked Corn

Whole kernel corn is challenging to digest and swallow for small birds. Cracked is a better option because of the manageable size. Both doves and sparrows will love this feed.

Suet Cakes

This year-round option is especially attractive in the winter because of its high-fat and energy content. Comprised of animal fats and other ingredients, place it in a wire cage or hung in a recycled onion bag. It will attract many birds, but woodpeckers especially enjoy them.

 

Pre-Made Mix

Mixes are usually the most cost-effective option but can have filler material that birds push aside. Look for varieties with black-oil sunflower seeds, cracked corn, peanuts, and suet pieces. This will ensure many different fowl visit your home.

Tips & Advice for Bird Feeding

You should clean your bird feeder regularly, as unsanitary conditions can spread wildlife diseases. Use 2 gallons of warm water, soap, and a weak bleach solution. Rinse thoroughly and dry before refilling. Additionally, you should choose a feeder designed for the specific birds you want to host. Not all birds feed the same way, so you must match the feed and feeder.

Finally, once you start feeding birds, you must continue through the winter months. If you provide a reliable food source that goes empty, birds will spend considerable energy looking for a new one, which can be dangerous.

 

Bethel Feed & Supply Pet & Garden Center houses farming supplies, equipment, and wild bird feed, in Bethel, OH. They have been around since 1858, and have a wide range of supplies like seeds in bulk, flowers and bulbs, mulch, and more. Call (513) 734-2246 to speak with a friendly staff member. Visit their website for more information about their products.