As insects begin to disappear, and herbacious foods start to become scarce, it is more important than ever to feed the birds. Feeding sunflower and safflower seeds, thistle, and suet can provide the extra protein and fats that birds need to survive the harsh winter months. If you are just beginning to feed, autumn is the perfect time to get started. Beginning early will help the birds build your feeder into their winter feeding routines. Continue feeding throughout the winter months, for it is most important to feed when birds' food supplies are scarce.
Birds migrate instinctively based on the length of each day.
When the days become short, the birds begin migrating south. Hummingbirds begin to migrate to warmer climates in late fall. It is a common misconception that hummers leave when the food supply is low. In fact, their migration patterns depend on the length of day. Take your feeder down a couple of weeks after you see your last hummingbird visitor.