While the colder months encourage many of us to cozy up indoors, a spectacular show is taking place right in our own backyards. We invite you to grab a warm cup of cocoa, find a comfortable spot by the window, and turn your gaze outward. Winter bird watching is a delightful way to connect with nature, and we are thrilled to help you get started on this rewarding journey.
There is a unique beauty to the season. The crisp air and quiet landscapes offer a perfect backdrop for observing our feathered friends. Whether you are an experienced birder or picking up a pair of binoculars for the first time, we welcome you to join the community of nature lovers who find joy in the flutter of wings against a snowy backdrop.
Why is winter a wonderful time for birding?
Winter offers some of the best viewing opportunities of the year because the leaves have fallen, leaving branches bare and birds much easier to spot.
During spring and summer, the dense canopy can hide even the most colorful visitors. But in winter, the vibrant red of a Northern Cardinal or the brilliant blue of a Blue Jay pops against the muted colors of the dormant trees and white snow.
Additionally, birds are often more active at feeders during this time. Resources are scarcer in the wild, so your backyard offerings become a gathering place. It is heartwarming to see so many different species coming together, and it offers us a wonderful chance to observe their unique behaviors up close.
Which birds can we expect to see?
While many species migrate south, a surprising number of birds stay put or even arrive specifically for the winter. We love seeing the resilience of these creatures!
Depending on your region, here are a few friends you might encounter:
- Northern Cardinals: These are winter favorites for many. Their bright plumage brings a cheerful splash of color to grey days.
- Dark-eyed Juncos: Often called “snowbirds,” these little grey and white sparrows arrive in many parts of the U.S. just as winter begins.
- Black-capped Chickadees: These energetic, tiny birds are incredibly curious and brave. Their distinct “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call is a familiar and friendly sound.
- Downy Woodpeckers: Look for these small woodpeckers hitching their way up tree trunks or visiting suet feeders.
How can we support our backyard birds?
One of the most fulfilling parts of winter bird watching is knowing you are helping these creatures thrive during challenging weather. We can show our appreciation for nature by providing three simple things: food, water, and shelter.
High-energy foods
Birds need extra calories to keep warm during freezing nights. Offering high-fat foods is a fantastic way to help them maintain their energy.
- Black oil sunflower seeds: These are a crowd pleaser! They have high oil content and thin shells, making them easy for almost any bird to crack open.
- Suet cakes: Made from rendered fat mixed with seeds or fruit, suet is a powerhouse of energy for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees.
- Peanuts: Jays and woodpeckers love these. Just ensure they are unsalted and roasted (or raw) to keep your visitors healthy.
Fresh water
It is easy to forget about water when there is snow on the ground, but birds need liquid water to drink and keep their feathers clean. A heated birdbath—or simply refreshing a standard bowl of water on days it won’t freeze—is a wonderful gift to your local wildlife.
Shelter
Evergreens, brush piles, and roosting boxes provide essential protection from the wind and cold. Leaving a little corner of your yard “wild” with fallen branches gives birds a safe place to huddle together for warmth.
Join the celebration of nature
Bird watching is more than just a hobby; it is an act of mindfulness and appreciation. We encourage you to share this joy with friends and family. A morning spent counting birds with children or grandchildren creates lasting memories and fosters a love for our environment in the next generation.
We would love to see what visitors are gracing your garden this season! It is amazing what we can discover when we take a moment to look. Be sure to book your stay at Channel Island Shores today!