11/7/2024: Ask a Naturalist: How can I help overwintering birds?

Since winter birds face limited food sources, frozen water and inadequate shelter, they can use our help. Having native plants in your yard is a great way to do so.

First, do not deadhead, prune out or rake up the seeds, nuts, berries or leaves from your native plants. Your birds will thank you! The dried seed heads from plants such as purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Joe-Pye weed (Eutrochium purpureum) and native grasses all produce essential protein. Nutrient-rich berries from native shrubs and vines support birds when their energy levels may be at their lowest. Oak trees produce important high-fat acorns. Many native plants are hosts for insects to lay their eggs, where larvae may overwinter in the remaining stems or in leaves at the base of the plants. Foraging birds can find protein-rich snacks in these hiding places.

Second, provide water. If temperatures go below freezing, consider getting a bird bath heater. Or, put out a shallow bowl with a rock in the center (allows for easier drinking access) that can be cleaned out and refilled each day.

Third, trees, shrubs and plants, if left intact, are habitat for birds. Evergreens offer shelter as well as food. Pile sticks, leaves and other detritus in a safe spot to afford birds protection. Alternately, put up roosting boxes or clean out bird houses for refuge.

If you do not have a native garden, fill your feeders with high-energy foods like suet, peanuts and black oil sunflower seeds for high-fat options. In the long-term, consider planting natives so your winter birds—as well as many other critters—have a natural source of food throughout the year.

— Preserve Naturalist Carol Graham-Toland