Blog
Feeding the Birds: Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Winter Garden
Jan
Winter is a season of quiet beauty in the garden, but for birds and other wildlife, it can be a challenging time to find food, water, and shelter. By making small changes to your outdoor space, you can create a sanctuary that supports these creatures throughout the colder months. Here’s how you can transform your garden into a wildlife-friendly winter haven.
1. Provide Natural Food Sources
Birds rely on seeds, berries, and insects for sustenance during the winter. Planting native shrubs and trees is a wonderful way to ensure your garden offers year-round nourishment. Consider adding these options:
- Berry-producing shrubs like holly, winterberry, and viburnum provide essential calories.
- Seed-bearing plants such as coneflowers, sunflowers, and grasses can be left standing to provide seeds.
- Evergreens not only supply shelter but also attract insects that birds can eat.
2. Set Up Bird Feeders
Supplement the natural food supply with bird feeders filled with high-energy treats. Here are a few suggestions:
- Black-oil sunflower seeds: A favorite for a variety of birds.
- Suet cakes: A rich source of energy, especially for woodpeckers and nuthatches.
- Nyjer seed: Great for finches and other small songbirds.
- Mixed seed blends: Attract a wide range of species.
Place feeders in safe locations, preferably near shrubs or trees, where birds can quickly retreat from predators.
3. Keep Water Accessible
Finding fresh, unfrozen water can be a challenge for wildlife in winter. Consider adding a heated birdbath to your garden. These keep water from freezing, ensuring birds have access to hydration. If a heated birdbath isn’t an option, place a shallow dish of water outside and refresh it regularly before it freezes.
4. Create Shelter
Birds and small mammals need safe places to escape harsh weather and predators. You can provide shelter in the following ways:
- Plant evergreens: They offer year-round protection from the elements.
- Leave brush piles: Stack twigs, leaves, and branches to create a cozy refuge.
- Install birdhouses: Provide a warm spot for roosting birds.
- Mulch garden beds: Mulch can create hiding spots for insects, which in turn attract insect-eating birds.
5. Avoid Harmful Practices
To truly make your garden wildlife-friendly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Limit chemical use: Pesticides and herbicides can harm birds and the insects they rely on.
- Clean feeders regularly: Prevent the spread of disease by washing feeders every two weeks.
- Cover windows: Reduce bird collisions by placing decals on large glass surfaces near feeding stations.
6. Plan for the Future
A wildlife-friendly winter garden starts with thoughtful planning throughout the year. Plant trees, shrubs, and flowers that offer year-round interest and food sources. Look for native plants, which are best suited for supporting local wildlife.
Winter Wonders at The Country Barn Garden Center
Need help creating your winter haven? Stop by The Country Barn Garden Center for all your wildlife-friendly garden needs. We have bird feeders, seed blends, and native plants to help you build the perfect habitat. Our team of gardening experts is here to offer personalized advice and tips for a thriving, beautiful winter garden.
By making your garden a haven for birds and other wildlife, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of helping nature while bringing your outdoor space to life with activity and song. Winter may be quiet, but your garden doesn’t have to be!
