February is National Bird-Feeding Month

Finding food, water and shelter in the winter can sometimes be difficult for our feathered friends in the wild. Just over three decades ago, Congress declared February as National Bird-Feeding Month, so it’s a great time to feed the birds in your landscape.

Wild birds are survivalists in the truest sense of the word, but they can use a helping hand during the winter when their natural food sources are scarce. During February, people are encouraged to provide food, water and shelter to help wild birds survive the winter season. A healthy landscape is a smorgasbord for birds, offering nectar, seeds, fruits and insects. The pickings get pretty slim during the cold season.

For those who are new to feeding birds, be sure to place the feeder in the landscape in a place where it can be seen from indoors. When filling them, select wild bird food blends that contain energy-rich foods such as black oil sunflower seeds, nuts and suet. The nutrients the birds get will help keep their bodies fueled so they can sustain energy. 

Not only is feeding the birds important but providing them with water and shelter is, too. Water is essential for survival and can be difficult for birds to find in freezing temperatures. Make sure to fill birdbaths and other containers regularly with fresh water. Birds need water to drink but also for maintaining their feathers and regulating their body temperature.

Shelter is important so the birds have an opportunity to get out of the elements. While a birdhouse is nice, there are other options in the landscape. Don’t be in a hurry to clean up the brush pile in the yard because birds will use it as a sanctuary from the weather. Homeowners with a stack of firewood can create a habitat by leaving gaps in the stack, especially close to the ground. Anything that protects from harsh winds is a place in which birds can rest and stay dry. These spaces can also protect them from predators.

Feeding birds in the backyard not only benefits the birds, but it’s also a fun family activity. It can give families a break from the constant hustle of work, school activities, sports, homework and other extracurriculars. Turn birdwatching into an educational activity by checking out bird-identifying books from the local library or download one of the many apps to help children learn more about the types of birds they’re seeing. They can learn about the birds’ feeding habits and even how to identify birds by the calls they make. This information could also be used as the basis for a school project.

Making a homemade feeder can be a fun, kid-friendly activity. Spread peanut butter on pinecones and roll them in birdseed, then tie a piece of yarn to the pinecone and hang it on a tree branch.

If you like having birds in the landscape, consider planting more native plants. These plants provide essential resources for birds, including shelter and nesting sites. Check with the local Oklahoma State University Extension office for guidance.