During the stark winter months, it is always uplifting to see the bright plumage of birds outside.  Birds that stay in one place year round are equipped to deal with the cold temperatures.  However, there are certain things a bird lover can do to help them survive the long and cold winter.

Many birds forage and store food for when food sources are remote, but none of these birds would pass up an easy meal.  Foods high in fat and oil, like suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds, are excellent sources of nutrients.  These foods build up calories for the birds to burn off at night.

To get through the night, birds need to save energy through the day.  Melting ice and snow to drink uses energy they can’t spare, so giving them fresh water makes a big difference.

Another way to help birds in winter is to provide roost boxes.  These are similar to birdhouses, but with a few adjustments in design.  First, they have limited air vents, which need to be located near the bottom.  Second, they have multiple interior perches, so more than one bird has a place to spend the night.  And the more insulated and darker in color the box is, the more it will preserve the warmth through a cold night.

By taking care of the birds that visit your yard during these harsh months, they are sure to survive to brighten up winter again next year.