During the colder months the survival of wild birds can become challenging. With limited natural food sources available birds become reliant on us providing high energy bird food and treats. Follow our tips & feeding essentials to ensure the wild birds in your garden are well looked after during the chilly seasons.
Provide a high energy diet
Birds require high-energy foods to maintain their body temperatures and stay active. High energy seeds and suet are great sources of energy, high in essential fats and proteins. By putting out a variety of food in your garden you will attract a diverse range of garden birds.
- Peckish Sunflower Seeds - Packed with a wide variety of nutrients and healthy oils and fats helping birds maintain healthy weight.
- Peckish Nyjer Seeds - Fine seeds rich in essential nutrients, oil and energy. Great for attracting Finches and Siskins.
- Peckish Complete - Packed with 12 different seeds specifically chosen to attract a wide variety of birds. Our husk free seed blend includes our unique CALVITA® vitamin pellet, a distinctive blend of vitamins and minerals.
- Peckish Winter Warmer - High in energy this seed mix is the perfect winter blend. Containing 20% oil which is ideal for birds during the cold seasons.
- Peckish Extra Goodness Energy Balls - High in protein and fat content providing birds with the very best nutrients. Our energy balls are packed with sunflower seeds and peanuts with an added peanut aroma which will certainly get the birds interested.
- Peckish Winter Warmer Suet Cakes - These suet cakes are the perfect festive bird food, with a mince pie flavour. They include 3x more oils and fats than our standard suet cakes to fuel birds for longer.
Fresh water source
One of the often-overlooked winter essentials for birds is unfrozen water. A reliable source of fresh water is vital, as birds need it not only for drinking but also for preening their feathers to maintain insulation. Consider frequently checking your bird baths to ensure they have not frozen over. We recommend placing a ping pong ball in your bird bath to prevent the water from freezing.
Shelter and cover
Birds need protection from predators. A garden with trees, shrubs and hedges are perfect for birds to rest, feed and nest. Nest boxes are also ideal protection. Make sure existing nest boxes are cleaned before the nesting season begins and any new nest boxes are put up prior to the nesting season so birds become familiar with them.
Bird feeders
It is important to invest in good quality bird feeders that can withstand the colder, more extreme weather. Our All Weather Bird Feeders range is perfect, they are durable and sturdy with large, strong handles for easy hanging. They also include a quick release base for easy cleaning.
Cleaning bird feeders regularly is essential to prevent the spread of disease. Always monitor the amount of food you place out for birds, if it's taking a while to be eaten reduce the amount to prevent any food going mouldy. Reduce the number of birds feeding in one place, use feeding stations to prevent the build-up of droppings on the ground. Clean and wash your bird tables, feeding stations and feeders every two weeks. Find out more about how to keep your bird feeding areas clean.
Consistency is key
Birds rely on a consistent food source, especially during winter when natural food supplies are scarce. Try to fill your feeders around the same time each day to help birds anticipate when they can find food.
By following these winter tips and essentials, you can make a significant difference to the survival of wild birds during the cold seasons. So fill up your feeders, keep the water flowing, and enjoy the delightful presence of colorful wild birds in your garden.