Winter Bird Feeding Tips for the Peak of Bird Watching Season (2026)

As the peak of bird watching season approaches in the winter of 2026, it’s important to provide our feathered friends with the essential nutrients they need to survive the cold weather.

One key tip for winter bird feeding is to offer high-energy foods such as black oil sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. These foods are packed with essential fats and proteins that help birds maintain their body heat in the cold.

Another tip is to keep your bird feeders clean and free of debris. Moldy or stale food can be harmful to birds, so be sure to regularly clean and refill your feeders to keep the food fresh.

During the winter months, water can be hard for birds to find, so providing a heated birdbath or a shallow dish of water can attract more feathered friends to your yard.

It’s also important to place your bird feeders in a safe location, away from predators like cats and squirrels. Hang feeders high off the ground and in an open area to give birds a clear view of any potential threats.

Adding a variety of feeders with different types of food can attract a diverse range of bird species to your yard, making bird watching even more enjoyable during the peak of the season.

Remember to be patient and observant when bird watching in the winter. Birds can be more skittish during the colder months, so it may take some time for them to feel comfortable enough to visit your feeders.

By following these winter bird feeding tips, you can help our feathered friends thrive during the peak of bird watching season in 2026.