Observing butterflies and birds or spotting rabbits contribute as much to the enjoyment of the summer garden as the plants themselves. When winter comes, we tend to forget about gardens and the wildlife that love them. But while we’re all comfortable indoors, the animals we watched and enjoyed all summer are still trying to survive outside. How can you make your landscape wildlife-friendly in winter?
caring for and feeding birds
Regardless of the season, if you use a bird feeder, the placement and contents of the bird feeder should be appropriate for the bird. Many of the birds you feed in the summer may leave in the winter, while others may fly south to where you live. Many sedentary species change their habits in the winter, adding berries to their diet or forming groups. some hummingbird In winter, they rely on feeders. use Audubon app Identify the birds you see near your home and use your local bird guide or contact your representative. Audubon Local Chapter To know their needs. Providing suet or a richer seed mix will help meet their needs seasonal dietary needs. If you live in a cold climate, a heater will keep your birdbath or pond from freezing and provide water for your birds to drink.
Some birds may also use roosting boxes or plant cover for winter shelter. for many migratory birdsCleaning the nest box will prevent parasites and harmful insects from overwintering in the old nest.
feed wild animals
Experts other than birds are Not recommended Feed wild animals in winter. Feeding wild animals at any time of the year teaches them dependence on humans. Therefore, if humans change their habits or move away from them, they will be at a disadvantage for survival. It can also lead to human-wildlife conflict. Feeding wild animals can increase their population to nuisance levels. They can also attract undesirable species such as rats and coyotes, and potentially dangerous species such as bears in some areas.
help animals
Although feeding animals directly can do more harm than good, it is possible to enjoy your animal neighbors during the winter in a beneficial way. Instead of preparing food this winter, spend your time designing a wildlife-friendly garden landscape. Incorporating natural foods in the form of native plants can improve wildlife habitat. Design covered areas with evergreens, naturalistic planting areas, and brush piles.
You don’t have to wait for your garden to be renovated in the spring to help wildlife. There are some changes you can make to your garden right now to help your animals survive this winter. Maintaining a collection of unfrozen water, preferably away from your home, provides a source of drinking water. Leaving fallen leaves on the ground or in piles provides an overwintering place for insects, which are an important food source for birds and small mammals. Similarly, don’t cut back perennials until spring. Seed pods and dead stems provide food and shelter for small animals.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on December 31, 2020 and updated in December 2024.
