Why Putting Food Out for Birds During a Big Snowstorm Matters

When a big snowstorm hits, it changes the landscape almost overnight. What was once a reliable place to forage becomes covered in snow and ice, and birds are suddenly left with limited access to food at the very time they need it most. Putting food out during severe winter weather is not just a thoughtful gesture. It can play a meaningful role in helping birds survive extreme conditions.

Snowstorms Make Food Hard to Find

Seeds, berries, and insects are a major part of a bird’s winter diet, but heavy snowfall can bury these natural food sources for days at a time. Birds that typically forage on the ground or in low vegetation are especially affected. When food is inaccessible, birds must spend more time and energy searching, which can quickly deplete their reserves during cold weather.

Cold Weather Increases Energy Demands

Birds burn a tremendous amount of energy simply staying warm. Small birds in particular have fast metabolisms and rely on frequent feeding throughout the day to maintain body heat. During prolonged cold spells, they may use most of their stored energy overnight. Reliable access to food helps birds replace those lost calories and increases their chances of making it through freezing nights.

What You Can Put Out for Birds

During snowstorms, birds benefit most from foods that are high in fat and calories and easy to eat.

Good options include:

• Black oil sunflower seeds

• Shelled sunflower hearts or chips

• Suet cakes or suet nuggets

• Unsalted peanuts or peanut pieces

• Dried fruit such as raisins or chopped apples

• Plain rolled oats in small amounts

• Cracked corn, especially for ground-feeding birds

Avoid bread, salted foods, or anything seasoned or sweetened, as these provide little nutritional value and can be harmful.

How to Help Without a Store-Bought Feeder

You do not need a traditional feeder to help birds during a snowstorm. Simple household items work just as well!

Pinecone Feeder

• Tie a piece of string around a pinecone.

• Spread peanut butter or vegetable shortening into the crevices.

• Roll it in bird seed until coated.

• Hang it from a tree branch or railing.

Recycled Container Feeder

• Cut small openings in an empty plastic bottle or milk jug a few inches above the bottom.

• Insert sticks or pencils below the openings to act as perches.

• Fill with seed and hang securely.

A Few Helpful Tips

• Place feeders in areas that offer some protection from wind.

• Keep food dry and replace anything that becomes wet or frozen.

• Clean feeders occasionally to reduce the spread of disease.

• Once you begin feeding during severe weather, try to remain consistent until conditions improve.

A Small Action with a Big Impact

Putting food out during a big snowstorm is one of the simplest ways to support wildlife in winter. It helps birds conserve energy, stay warm, and survive periods when natural food sources are unavailable. With just a small effort, you can make a meaningful difference for the birds sharing your backyard during the harshest days of the season.

If you are looking for all the materials to make your own feeder or want to purchase a ready-made feeder, check out our inventory at local markets and events!