This winters season has been quite a knockout! From torrential down pours in the west to snow and ice in the east – everyone has been up against some fierce competition dodging the elements. So, how are our feathered friends doing?
Tim Kiladze of Forbes.com just announced America’s Top 10 Worst Weather Cities this year (see list below). Some of them may surprise you, but what about the birds… how are they surviving.
Believe it or not, birds are very instinctive creatures and where there’s a will, there’s a way. They are wired to find food in these conditions and their bodies adjust to hang-in there during winter months.
A few of the things birds do to adapt to the cold and snow is to eat less during winter, fly further south, and can even go a few days without food if necessary.
No doubt, birds are affected by the cold – especially the young and weak, however, they are survivors and do their best each season to brave the storm.
Some experts suggest it is not necessary to put out feed for our feathered friends, but hobbyists and enthusiasts alike beg to differ. There is nothing wrong with putting out a feeder or two to help the birds cope during these times.
Some good food options to provide include black-oil sunflower seed, peanuts, and suet. These options are hearty and will keep bird energy levels high. Pet food, bread, and any of your dinner leftovers are not recommended. This will cause more problems by attracting mice, rats, and other unwanted pests.
Birds are amazing creatures and we still have a lot to learn from these season survivors. Remember to clean your feeders to prevent mold and bacteria growth and if you are looking for a new feeder, your local Russell Feed & Supply store can help! We have any and every type you need right at your fingertips – check it out!
Top 10 Worst Weather Cities in the U.S.
- Detroit
- New York City
- Cleveland
- Boston
- Chicago
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Indianapolis
- Columbus
- Baltimore
Sources:
Cohn, Meredith. BaltimoreSun.com. Birds, squirrels weather the storm. Retrieved from the World Wide Web February 16, 2010. http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/dining/bal-md.gr.animals16feb16,0,6181362.story
Kiladze, Tim. Forbes.com. America’s Worst Winter Weather Cities. Retrieved from the World Wide Web February 16, 2010. http://www.forbes.com/2010/02/05/weather-snow-storm-lifestyle-travel-winter-snowfall.html?feed=rss_forbeslife_travel