From the Ground Up: Caring for birds in the winter

LINN COUNTY - As we move though the coldest days of winter - we need to remember our wildlife friends. Although birds are well adapted to survive frigid days, we can help them maintain their health by offering nutritious and plentiful seed, suet combinations, and shelter. Many people feed year-round, but it's even more important to provide food in the winter months. Birds will be dependent on your supplemental feeding when other food is not available. The National Wildlife Federation offers '10 Simple Tips for Successful Winter Bird Feeding.”

' Put out feeders with large size capacity. Offer multiple feeders, and ground feed as well. Birds require up to 50% more feed in the winter, particularly when we have below freezing temperatures.

' Provide nutritious winter seed combinations. Black oil sunflower seeds are the most nutritious and popular feed for a wide variety of bird species. Also, nyger, millet, and peanuts can be bought either in singular bags or combinations. And don't forget cracked corn as ground feed for numerous birds and squirrels.

' Offer fatty food too. Suet is a high energy food as it contains 9 calories of fat per gram. Peanuts are another option although they are more expensive. Suet is a favorite for Woodpeckers and other insect eating birds.

' Keep your feeders full. It may be necessary to refill feeders more than once a day during the coldest days.' Be consistent and keep feeding through the winter. Continue the same pattern of feeding, especially in severe weather, when the snacks you offer may be the only food available. If you are gone for an extended time, make arrangements with a friend or neighbor to keep feeders full.

' Remember water: Birds can become dehydrated in winter, so place a pan of water near the feeders. Heated water dishes are available at a reasonable price.

' Stamp down the snow below: Many ground feeding birds such as dark-eye juncos, doves, sparrows, and even cardinals and Blue Jays need to have a clear space on which you can place cracked corn and seeds.

' Hang feeders in cat-safe locations: Place feeders in places that do not have spaces where cats hide. By placing feeders at least 10 - 12 feet from shrubs or brush, the birds will have plenty of time to react to predators.

' Remember feeder cleanliness: Feeders get grimy, so clean them with hot water and dry. Remove debris that collects at the bottom of feeders, particularly tubes, and clean thoroughly.

' Save some money and stock up on seed: Buy seed mixes and sunflower seed in bulk. Store in a cool, dry place.

By following these tips, and providing places of cover for your birds and wildlife, they will not only survive the winter months, but thrive!