This is for the Birds

 

This is for the Birds

 

Watching birds can be an enjoyable activity year round. Many birds stay throughout winter. Cardinals and sparrows stick out the bad weather, juncos even come here for their vacation.
If you want to help your feathered friends I have an easier winter stay I have a few suggestions for you.
Supply a supplemental food source
Different bird species need different food requirements. It is a good idea to set up a food station with different types of feeders and feed. Some birds like doves and juncos prefer to eat off the ground so you can scatter millet and cracked corn. Finches love the small niger and thistle seeds while suet attracts woodpeckers and chickadees. Oiled sunflowers are a favorite of most birds especially cardinals.
You can also hang orange slices and add raisins to feeders. Birds also enjoy peanuts and peanut butter. You can smear peanut butter on a pinecone and roll it in birdseed then hang.
Shelter
Plant an area with bird-friendly plants that offer shelter from harsh weather and predators. Trees and shrubs with berries are a bonus food source.
Water
Birds need water to drink and bathe. Keep a supply of fresh water out for them near their food source. Change and replace frozen water. You can even buy heated bird baths. It doesn’t get any better than that Mr. Birdie, does it?
Adding these elements to your yard or garden is definitely for the birds!