Seasonal Feeding: What to Feed Birds During Winter vs. Summer
Feeding birds year-round is a rewarding way to support wildlife and bring nature closer to your home.
However, birds' nutritional needs change with the seasons, and understanding what to feed them during winter vs. summer ensures they thrive no matter the weather.
Here’s how you can tailor your bird feeding practices to the specific demands of each season.
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Feeding Birds During Winter
Winter is one of the most critical times to feed birds. Cold weather, shorter days, and limited natural food sources mean birds need high-energy foods to stay warm and survive.
1. High-Fat Foods for Energy
During winter, birds need high-fat foods to generate warmth and sustain their energy levels. Suet is one of the best options for this season.
- Suet cakes: These provide concentrated fat and calories, perfect for birds like woodpeckers, chickadees, and nuthatches.
- Peanut butter: Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on pinecones or tree bark. Make sure it’s unsalted and free from added sugars.
- Black oil sunflower seeds: A winter favorite, these seeds are rich in fat and protein, providing essential nutrition.
2. Seeds and Nuts for Sustenance
Seeds and nuts are calorie-dense, helping birds maintain energy reserves through frigid nights.
- Offer peanuts (unsalted) and mixed nuts for bluejays and woodpeckers.
- Safflower seeds and nyjer seeds are ideal for cardinals, finches, and sparrows.
3. Fresh Water is Essential
Finding fresh water is difficult for birds in winter when most sources freeze over. Offering unfrozen water in a birdbath can make a huge difference.
- Use a heated birdbath or add warm water to keep it from freezing.
- Replenish water regularly to ensure it stays clean.
4. Avoid Moldy or Wet Food
In winter, uneaten food can become damp and moldy, which may harm birds. Clean feeders regularly to prevent contamination.
Feeding Birds During Summer
In summer, birds have access to more natural food sources, such as insects, fruits, and seeds. Your focus shifts to supplementing their diet and providing hydration, especially during dry spells.
1. High-Protein Foods for Growth and Molting
Birds need protein-rich foods in summer to help feed their young and support molting, a process where they grow new feathers.
- Mealworms: A favorite for robins, bluebirds, and wrens, mealworms provide essential protein for growing chicks.
- Sunflower hearts: Easier for birds to eat during busy summer months.
2. Fruits and Berries for Hydration
Summer heat can dehydrate birds quickly. Providing fresh fruit is a great way to keep them hydrated while offering a natural source of sugar and energy.
- Offer sliced apples, berries, grapes, and melons on feeding trays.
- Plant berry-producing bushes, like serviceberry or elderberry, for a sustainable summer food source.
3. Water, Water, Water
Providing clean, fresh water during summer is vital, as birds need it for drinking and bathing to cool down.
- Keep a shallow birdbath filled with fresh water. Add stones to give birds a place to perch.
- Change the water daily to prevent algae and mosquito breeding.
4. Avoid Spoiled Food
The summer heat can cause food to spoil quickly. Avoid foods like suet that may melt and become rancid. Stick to seeds, fruits, and mealworms during the hotter months.
Seasonal Feeding Tips
1. Clean Feeders Regularly
No matter the season, keeping feeders clean prevents the spread of diseases among birds. Wash feeders with warm, soapy water and let them dry completely before refilling.
2. Monitor Food Intake
Birds’ feeding habits change with weather patterns. If food is left uneaten, reduce portions to prevent waste.
3. Provide Natural Food Sources
Planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers ensures birds have access to seeds, berries, and insects naturally throughout the year.
Help Birds Thrive Year-Round
Adjusting your feeding practices for winter and summer helps birds meet their changing energy and nutritional needs.
Whether you’re offering high-fat suet in the winter or protein-rich mealworms in the summer, your efforts make a meaningful impact.
By providing food, water, and a clean environment, you’ll create a haven where birds can thrive all year long.
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Last update on 2025-01-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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