Feeding birds in the winter doesn't appear to disrupt migration, but it does carry some risks. Feed birds only in harsh winter conditions, and follow these tips:
Avoid window strikes - set up feeders very close to windows (within 1 m) to minimize collisions. Use window protection products to prevent birds from colliding with windows.
Keep cats inside - collar bells will not stop cats from killing birds.
Don't feed other animals - bird seed can attract animals like mice, rats, squirrels, raccoons, deer or bears. Clean up spilled seed and make your bird feeder inaccessible to other animals.
Prevent disease - clean up spills and clean feeders regularly using a 9:1 (10%) bleach solution.
In the warmer months, there are usually abundant natural food sources available for birds. You can also attract birds to your yard naturally with native plants and well-managed bird baths and bird houses.
Feeding hummingbirds has special considerations - read more about hummingbird feeders and how to make hummingbird nectar.
Read our position statement on wildlife feeding.
[caption id="attachment_2098" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Photo credit: Harold Vos[/caption]