Start feeding before extremely cold weather arrives. Remember that when it gets cold, the birds will rely on you to keep the food around. To make some extra special treats for the birds, take some pine cones and press peanut butter into the crevices. Then coat the cones with wild birdseed. It has been really fun to watch the tiny birds feed on these treats.
Orange bowls make another tasty feast for birds.
Cut an orange in half and fill it with bird seed and hang it in trees with cord or twine. Make strands of cereal loops on string and hang these in the trees. These treats not only serve to feed the birds, but add a little extra interest to the winter backyard. Don't forget water for the birds. As dry as it has been and still is in much of the area, birdbaths will be most welcome for bathing and drinking.