Time for winter bird feeding

Ways to attract birds to the backyard

Mid October is when I start to ramp up bird feeding for the winter season here in the north country. Even though there is still plenty of natural food available, the cooler weather and accessibility of bird seed creates opportunities to attract the last phase of the songbird migration to the backyard. Putting out seed such as a premium bird or cardinal mix and adding a bit more cracked corn will attract a wide range of species including the ground birds such as sparrows and juncos that are prevalent right now. This type of mix works well in a hopper feeder which allows all sizes of birds to access.

Blue Jays are very plentiful right now with both migrating and resident birds visiting the feeder (more info on hopper feeders)

Always fun in every season to see the backyard cardinals

Two Fox Sparrows and a White-throated Sparrow under the feeder blending in with the leaves.

In mid November I will add suet to the feeding area. I like to wait until the weather gets colder and the raccoons go into hibernation so that they do not become a nuisance going after the suet.

I do keep one black oil sunflower feeder up all summer and I am finding the Squirrel Buster Plus by Brome to be an excellent feeder. Its weighted perch ring does keep squirrels off. The large tube size holds a good amount of seed and keeps it dry. It is a great investment and well worth paying the premium to own.

Squirrel Buster Plus mounted on a pole with a larger seed tray catching discarded seed.

This autumn has been extremely dry in Minnesota so supplying fresh water is another important way to attract birds.