Should You Still Feed Birds in March?

 It’s one of the most common questions we hear this time of year:

“Do birds still need feeders once spring starts?”

By late March, the days are longer, the sun feels warmer, and early migrants have begun returning. It can feel like winter is winding down and birds should be able to fend for themselves again. But in Ontario, late March is actually one of the most important times to keep feeders stocked.

Even as spring approaches, conditions remain unpredictable. Snow can return. Overnight temperatures still dip well below freezing. Natural food sources are inconsistent. And many birds are entering one of the most energy-intensive periods of the year: nesting. 

Northern Cardinal. Photo by Heather Kerrison. 

Nesting Season Requires Calories

Late March marks the start of nesting season for many species. Mourning Doves may already be incubating eggs. Chickadees and nuthatches are establishing territories and choosing nest sites. Northern Cardinals and finches are pairing up and increasing their feeding activity.

Producing eggs, defending territory, and building nests all require significant energy. Reliable food sources can help birds maintain body condition as they move into breeding season.

High-energy foods are especially valuable right now:

• Black-oil sunflower

• Peanuts

• Suet

• Mealworms

Keeping feeders full during this period helps support both resident birds and the earliest migrants returning to the area.

Migrants Still Need Support

By late March, early migrants like robins, blackbirds, and grackles are settling back into Ontario. Some are just passing through, while others are establishing breeding territories. They arrive tired from travel and often face cold snaps shortly after returning.

When weather turns suddenly cold, insect availability drops again. Birds that rely on insects may struggle to find enough food. Offering mealworms or maintaining seed feeders can provide a helpful boost during these unpredictable stretches.

Your yard may act as a small but meaningful stopover site for birds moving through the region.

Water Matters Just as Much

Fresh water is just as important as food in late March. Many natural water sources remain frozen overnight, even when daytime temperatures rise above zero. Birds need water for drinking and bathing, especially as they begin preening and preparing for breeding season.

Providing a consistent water source — heated if possible — can make your yard particularly attractive during this transition from winter to spring.

Late March is a beautiful in-between season. Snowbanks shrink. Song increases. Pairs form at feeders. The first true signs of nesting begin to appear. Keeping feeders stocked during this time helps birds navigate that transition and gives you a front-row seat to one of the most active periods in the backyard.

And April and May are when things will really ramp up. Ah, migration!

Enjoy the show. 

Warmly, 

Heather