Supporting Wild Birds This Fall: What You Need to Know

As summer transitions into fall, wild birds are busy preparing for migration or getting ready for the colder months ahead. Providing food, water, and shelter during this critical time can make a big difference for your feathered friends.

1. Offer High-Energy Foods
During fall, birds need extra energy to fuel their long journeys or to build up fat reserves for winter. Fill your feeders with nutrient-dense options like black oil sunflower seeds, suet, and mealworms. These foods are packed with the protein and fat birds need during this time.

2. Keep Your Birdbath Full
Birds need a reliable water source for drinking and bathing, even as temperatures drop. Make sure your birdbath is clean and filled regularly. Consider adding a birdbath heater to prevent the water from freezing as winter approaches.

3. Provide Shelter
As trees lose their leaves, birds may struggle to find adequate shelter. Planting dense shrubs or leaving piles of leaves and branches in your yard can give birds a cozy place to roost. You can also clean out and repair birdhouses to make them ready for fall and winter guests.

4. Set Up Migration Stations
Many species are on the move during fall, making your backyard an important stopover. Offer a variety of seed types and fresh water to attract migrating birds. You might be surprised at the diversity of species that pass through during this season!

5. Clean and Store Feeders
Once migration slows down and fewer birds are visiting your feeders, it’s time to clean and store them. However, consider leaving some feeders out for winter residents like cardinals, chickadees, and woodpeckers who rely on consistent food sources when natural supplies are scarce.

By taking these steps, you’ll be helping wild birds through the challenges of fall and setting the stage for a bird-friendly winter. Watching their lively activity is a rewarding way to connect with nature as the season changes.