As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, many of us start to worry about the well-being of our feathered friends. But do birds really need our help during the winter months? The answer is yes, and here's why. While birds have evolved to survive in colder temperatures, the harsh conditions of winter can still pose a threat to their health and survival. As natural food sources become scarce and water sources freeze over, birds often struggle to find enough nourishment to keep them going. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why birds need our help in winter and how we can provide for them during this challenging season.

During winter, birds expend more energy to keep warm, and finding enough food can become a real challenge. Many insects and plants go dormant during this time, leaving birds with limited options. Additionally, the cold weather can freeze water sources, making it difficult for birds to drink or bathe. This lack of hydration can lead to dehydration and health problems.

But we can make a difference by providing them with the care they need. By setting up bird feeders and providing a freshwater source, we can help birds stay nourished and hydrated throughout the winter. Not only does this help them survive, but it also brings joy to our lives as we observe these beautiful creatures visiting our gardens. So, let's dive in and explore the different ways we can support birds during the winter season.

Winter can be a challenging time for birds, as they face numerous obstacles to their survival. The cold temperatures require birds to use more energy to stay warm, which means they need to find additional sources of food. However, many insects and plants go dormant during the winter months, leaving birds with limited options for sustenance. This scarcity of food can lead to malnutrition and even death for some species.

Additionally, water sources often freeze over during winter, making it difficult for birds to find hydration. Without access to water, birds can become dehydrated and suffer from health problems.

Furthermore, extreme weather conditions, such as storms and heavy snowfall, can disrupt the birds' natural habitats and make it harder for them to find shelter.

Understanding these challenges is crucial in order to provide the necessary care for birds during winter. By setting up bird feeders filled with high-energy foods like seeds and nuts, we can help supplement their diet and ensure they receive the nutrition they need to survive. Additionally, providing a source of fresh water, such as a heated birdbath, can help birds stay hydrated during the freezing temperatures.

By being aware of the challenges birds face in winter and taking steps to provide them with the necessary care, we can play a vital role in their survival during this difficult season.

During the cold winter months, it's essential to provide shelter and food for our feathered friends. Setting up bird feeders is a simple and effective way to offer them a reliable source of nourishment. Fill the feeders with high-energy foods like seeds and nuts, which will provide birds with the necessary nutrients to keep them healthy and warm. Consider placing different types of feeders at varying heights to accommodate a variety of bird species. Additionally, providing a sheltered area, such as a birdhouse or dense shrubs, can give birds a safe place to roost and seek protection from the harsh weather conditions. Remember to regularly clean and refill the feeders to ensure birds always have access to fresh food. By providing shelter and food, we can make a significant difference in supporting birds during the winter season and help them thrive during this challenging time. 

TOP TIP: Make sure feed is easy to eat, every little helps when it comes to conserving energy. Husk and Hull free food is faster to eat and cleaner. 

Transform your feeder into a shelter

With a few simple adaptations, you can provide extra support to your garden birds during the colder months. 

• Turn nest boxes upside down. This keeps it warmer and seal and cracks to create an insulated house leaving the bottom entrance.
• Use celotex or kingspan or whatever bedding materials you can find to warm the inner walls.
• Wedge large twigs in for a perch to stand on.
• Cover the base with sawdust, dry leaves or moss. General alternatives to sawdust also work such as horse bedding paper or absorbant hamster bedding.
• Try to position the box for drainage, slightly tilted forward to allow rain runoff to to flow away. 

70% of Robins will die within their first year. Their first winter is the hardest and they are incredibly teritorial.

As great pest eaters, singers of beautiful songs and a gardener's companion during the colder months, Robins are value assets to any garden and great to have around. 

By supplementing their diet with insect rich food you can help to keep them and their chicks supported. Robins are ground feeders but will often feed from tables and when comfortable in a garden become quite tame and feed from anywhere their favourite grub is found. 

As we continue to support our feathered friends during the winter season, there are a few additional tips we can keep in mind to ensure their well-being. First, it's important to clean the bird feeders regularly to prevent the spread of disease. Use a mild solution of water and bleach to clean the feeders, making sure to rinse them thoroughly before refilling. Additionally, consider providing a variety of foods to attract different bird species. Some birds prefer seeds, whilst others may be more drawn to suet or fruit. By offering a diverse range of food options, we can cater to the different dietary needs of birds and attract a wider variety of species to our gardens. Finally, it's crucial to create a safe environment for birds by reducing window collisions. You can apply window decals or use blinds to make windows more visible to birds, preventing unnecessary injuries or fatalities. By implementing these additional tips, we can go above and beyond in caring for birds during the winter season.