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It’s early January as I write this February column, and the forecast is calling for temperatures in the high 50s. These unseasonably warm days hardly seem fit for my subject matter. Still, I’ll go out on a very sturdy limb and predict that by the time you read this, temperatures will have dropped, puddles of water may be frozen and there may even be snow on the ground.
February is a notoriously tricky month for both people and wildlife—especially birds. Natural food sources are scarce, shelter can be limited, and sudden cold snaps can arrive without warning. For birds, this can be the most demanding stretch of the season.
Despite these challenges, February can also provide hours of enjoyment by simply watching activity at a bird feeder. Ask anyone who has laughed at a bossy blue jay swooping in to clear the area or admired a brilliant red cardinal calling its mate to a feast of seeds.
One of the best ways to help birds through the shortest—and often harshest—winter month is to ensure they have reliable access to food and water; but placement is important. Feeders should be positioned to minimize the risk of window strikes and to keep birds safe from cats and predator birds such as hawks. Putting feeders and birdbaths near shrubs or evergreens gives birds quick cover and a place to rest.
In addition to native plants that offer natural food and shelter, wintering birds benefit greatly from supplemental feeding. You can be as gourmet as your budget allows or perfectly practical by offering plain, stale bread or bruised fruits like oranges, apples, and pears. If you choose just one seed however, black oil sunflower seed is an excellent option. Rich in fats and protein, it is favored by chickadees, doves, finches, goldfinches, grosbeaks, northern cardinals, nuthatches, titmice, and woodpeckers. Suet feeders are another valuable addition and will attract a wide variety of birds.
If you’re looking for something uplifting to carry you through February, don’t forget about the birds. Caring for them—and watching them thrive—can bring entertainment, purpose, and connection during winter’s coldest days.
For more information about birding and the Caroline County Bird Club’s schedule of activities, go to: http://carolinebirdclubmos.blogspot.com
For more information about the Caroline County Garden Club visit our Facebook page at Caroline County Garden Club-Maryland or call 410-253-9540
