Winter in Ontario is beautiful… but it’s not easy for wildlife.
Many birds stay here all season, like Black-capped Chickadees, Blue Jays, Northern Cardinals, House Sparrows, Downy Woodpeckers, and Red-breasted Nuthatches. They don’t migrate, which means they have to find enough food every single day through snow, wind, and freezing temperatures.
By February, natural food sources can get scarce. Seeds are buried, berries are picked clean, and insects are tucked away. That’s when a backyard feeder can make a real difference, helping birds conserve energy and stay fueled through the coldest stretch of the year.
Why winter is the hardest season for birds
Birds burn a lot of calories just to stay warm. On the coldest days, they may need to eat frequently to maintain body heat. Add deep snow and icy conditions, and it becomes harder to find what they need.
A feeder isn’t about “spoiling” wild birds, it’s about giving them a reliable, high-energy option when nature is running low.
What birds do for us year-round
Feeding birds isn’t just a feel-good winter activity, our local bird populations support healthier gardens and ecosystems all year.
Here are a few benefits we’d miss without them:
Natural pest control
Many birds eat insects, larvae, and overwintering pests, helping reduce garden damage in spring and summer.
Seed spreading + biodiversity
Birds help spread seeds and support plant regeneration, which improves local biodiversity and strengthens natural habitats.
Stronger ecosystems
Birds are a key part of the food chain. They support balance, both as predators (of insects) and as prey (for larger wildlife).
Pollination support
While birds aren’t the primary pollinators in Ontario, some species do move pollen as they feed, especially around flowering shrubs and trees.
More life in the garden
Even in winter, birds bring colour, song, and movement to your yard. It’s a simple way to make the season feel a little more alive.
Best high-energy winter foods (what to feed)
In winter, fat = fuel. To help birds stay warm and energized, choose high-calorie foods like:
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Black oil sunflower (the #1 crowd-pleaser)
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Peanuts (especially loved by jays, woodpeckers, and nuthatches)
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Sunflower chips (less mess, fast eating, great energy)
These options provide quick calories and help birds maintain body heat, especially during cold snaps.
Want to attract specific birds?
Different birds prefer different foods and feeder styles. If you want to attract:
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Chickadees
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Cardinals
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Woodpeckers…ask us what to feed and we’ll point you to the right mix (and the right feeder to match).
Come by and we’ll help you set up a feeder that fits your yard and the birds you want to see.
