Winter in Ontario can be .. long. It can also be magical - your choice. February is a critical month for our feathered friends as food becomes scarce. With the right setup, you can help sustain them through winter’s harshest weeks while enjoying their beauty, song and antics. This guide will help you create the ultimate backyard feeding station and hopefully help both you AND the birds making it through the rest of winter.
 |
| Pileated Woodpecker. Photo by Shayna Hartley. |
Why Feed Birds in February?
Scarce Natural Resources: Snow and ice cover natural food sources like berries, seeds, and insects. Most open water is also frozen. It's the harshest month for birds.
High Energy Needs: Birds need extra calories to stay warm and active, it takes a lot of calories just to stay warm.
Nesting Preparations: Some species will begin early nesting, requiring high-protein diets.
By providing a consistent source of food and shelter, you’re not only helping birds survive but also attracting a variety of species to your yard - which has notable mental health benefits.
Setting Up the Perfect Bird Feeding Station
1. Choose the Right Feeders
Different feeders attract different species. Here are some of our top choices:
Hopper Feeders: Perfect for mixed seeds and versatile for many species like cardinals and chickadees.
Finch Feeders: Ideal for smaller birds such as finches and nuthatches. Consider the Wild Birds Unlimited EcoClean® Tube Feeder for its durable, easy-to-clean design.
Suet Feeders: Essential for woodpeckers and other high-energy birds. Try the Tail Prop Suet Feeder for easy access and comfortability for woodpeckers.
Tray Feeders: Attract sparrows, juncos, and doves with a simple tray, hung or even on the ground.
 |
| Downy Woodpecker on tail prop feeder. Photo by Kristen Martyn. |
2. Select Quality Birdseed
The key is to pick premium blends tailored to attract specific species while minimizing waste:
No-Mess Blend: Hulled seeds eliminate cleanup and are loved by a variety of birds.
Winter SuperBlend™: High in fat and protein, this mix is specially formulated for cold-weather feeding.
Nyjer: A finch favorite that also attracts siskins.
Cardinal Confetti: a beloved blend of Cardinals, year long residents in Ontario.
3. Offer High-Energy Foods
In February, birds need calorie-dense options:
Suet: Packed with fat and protein. Choose options that include bugs, nuts, and/or berries to provide birds what they can't find naturally right now.
Peanuts: Whole or shelled, these are a high-energy snack for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and jays.
Mealworms: A protein-rich treat for insectivorous birds like robins and bluebirds - some of them are still hanging around, but you can't attract them with seed only. You can add mealworms to any order!
 |
| Red-breasted nuthatch eating mealworms. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. |
4. Provide Fresh Water
Water is often overlooked but is crucial in winter. Invest in a heated birdbath to prevent freezing and ensure a steady water supply. Birds need water for drinking and preening, even in the coldest months. If you're unsure how birds will navigate open water + frigid temperatures, we have a full blog on the topic here.
 |
| Blue Jay at heated bird bath. Photo by Leanne Leblanc. |
What Birds Might You See?
February’s backyard visitors in Ontario may include:
Northern Cardinals
Black-capped Chickadees
Dark-eyed Juncos
Blue Jays
Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers
House Finches
Chipping Sparrows
Pine Siskins
Goldfinches
Nuthatches
Pileated Woodpeckers
Feeding birds in February not only supports local wildlife but also brings life and colour to your winter days. It’s a rewarding way to connect with nature from the comfort of your home.
Enjoy the magic of winter birding!
Warmly,
Heather
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment