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September 30, 2025 | Kelly Barany, Chin Ridge Seeds
Autumn migration means your feeders could welcome species you don’t normally see. Redpolls, chickadees, jays, sparrows, and juncos often appear more frequently in cooler months, while goldfinches and grosbeaks are less likely to stick around.
👉 Tip: Offer a variety of bird seed and feeders. Different birds have different preferences, and variety will help attract more species to your backyard this fall.
Don’t wait until snow covers the ground to set out feeders. Birds begin scouting for winter homes in autumn, and a yard with reliable food, water, and shelter is more likely to keep them around. If you start too late, many birds may have already chosen other feeding spots.
Shelter is just as important as food. Instead of discarding trimmed branches and bushes, stack them into a brush pile about four feet tall and wide. This provides essential cover from predators and protection from harsh weather, making your yard more attractive to winter songbirds.
One of the best ways to attract birds in fall and winter is to offer fresh, ice-free water. A heated bird bath or plug-in water heater ensures your feathered friends have access even on freezing days. Birds often choose yards with dependable water sources over those without.
As temperatures drop, birds need calorie-rich food. Adding a suet feeder or peanut feeder provides quick energy and attracts species that may not visit seed feeders. These high-energy options are especially valuable during the coldest parts of winter.
After Halloween, don’t throw away your pumpkin! Spread the seeds and fibers on a tray or cookie sheet for backyard birds to enjoy. Jays, in particular, love pumpkin seeds — and many parrot food blends already include them.
By offering food, water, and shelter now, you’ll not only attract migrating birds but also encourage winter residents to settle in your backyard. With a little preparation, fall bird feeding can transform your yard into a haven for feathered friends all season long.
