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Credit to Wendy Wei on Pexels Right now, a massive winter storm is sweeping across the United States. With over 22 states already issuing severe weather warnings and temperatures dropping to life-threatening levels, our backyard birds are in a fight for survival. When temperatures stay below freezing, a bird’s energy needs can increase by up to 50% just to stay warm. Here is a straight-to-the-point guide on how you can help them before, during, and after this cold wave. Why This Cold Wave is Dangerous for Birds Increased Energy Demands: Birds burn through their fat reserves at an incredible speed to maintain body heat. Decreased Food Availability: Insects disappear, berries freeze solid, and snow covers the seeds they usually find on the ground. Frozen Water: Natural water sources turn to ice, making it impossible for birds to stay hydrated when they need it most. What to Do Before the Storm Hits Birds can “predict” incoming storms by sensing changes in air pressure. Hours before the snow starts, they will swarm your feeders to stock up. Fill Feeders with High-Fat Bird Foods: Offer black oil sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. These are high-energy “fuel stations”. Important: Never feed bread, crackers, or other processed human food to birds. These foods are low in usable nutrients and can harm birds’ chances of surviving a cold winter. Create a Snow-Free Feeding Area: Clear a spot on the ground or use a low tray for ground-feeding birds like juncos and sparrows. Place Feeders on the Leeward Side: Hang feeders on the side of your house or fence that is sheltered from the wind to keep seeds from getting wet or buried in snow. Provide Accessible Water: Use a heated birdbath or float a small ball in the water to slow down the freezing process. Set Up Nest Boxes: Install nest boxes to offer protection from the wind. Birds may huddle together inside to share body heat. You can add a thin layer of dry grass or wood shavings to make them more comfortable.Credit to Birdfy User: Robin Prothro What to Do During the Storm When a storm arrives, small songbirds dive into dense shrubs and woodlots for cover. Cavity‑nesting species go a step further and hide in tree holes or artificial nest boxes. Several birds may even pack into a single cavity to share body heat. Secure All Gear: Make sure your feeders, birdbaths, and nest boxes are firmly attached so they don’t become flying debris in high winds. Reduce Window Collisions Risks: Heavy storms with low cloud ceilings can push birds closer to buildings and increase the risk of window strikes. Close your blinds or dim bright indoor lights to reduce reflections. Keep Pets Indoors: Keep cats and dogs inside. A stressed bird burns energy faster, and they need every bit of it to stay alive. Avoid Unnecessary Handling: Resist the urge to pick up or “rescue” birds unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., trapped or clearly injured). Human handling is extremely stressful for wild birds. What to Do After the Storm The danger isn't over when the snow stops. The days following a storm are often the coldest. Clear Feeding Areas: Brush ice and snow off your feeders and birdbaths. Refresh Water: Empty the ice and refill birdbaths with clean, unfrozen water. Remove Spoiled Seed: Discard any wet or moldy seed. Clean the feeders and refill them with fresh, dry food. Check for Injured Birds: Take a walk around your yard. If you find an injured bird, contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Keep the Support Going: Continue providing food and water for several days after the storm. It takes time for natural food sources to thaw out. A Final Note: Safety First Most importantly, please keep yourself safe while helping your feathered friends. Extreme cold and icy conditions can be dangerous for people, too. Before heading out to refill feeders or clear snow, ensure you are dressed warmly and be mindful of slippery patches. We want all our Birdfy friends to stay warm and safe during this storm. Wait for a break in the weather if you need to, and never put yourself at risk in heavy winds or whiteout conditions. Stay warm, stay safe!  

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