As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, our backyard birds need one thing above all else — energy. This is the time of year when natural food sources start to disappear, insects go dormant, and the berries and seeds that sustained birds all summer are getting scarce. That’s where suet comes in!

Suet is like a super-fuel for birds — packed with fat, protein, and essential nutrients that help them stay warm, strong, and active through the cold months ahead. Woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, and even cardinals will visit for a high-quality suet cake, especially when it’s fresh and nutrient-dense.

At Urban Nature Store, we’re proud to carry one of my absolute favourite Canadian brands: Mill Creek Suet. It’s made right here locally in Ontario with top-quality ingredients, no fillers, and carefully balanced nutrition designed for wild birds.

My birds have very strong opinions — and their favourites are Mill Creek Peanut Suet and Mill Creek Insect Suet with real insects. Our resident Downy Woodpecker goes absolutely crazy for the insect flavour — I can barely keep the feeder filled! There’s something about that rich, natural protein blend that keeps him (and his buddies) coming back for more.

If you haven’t already, now’s the perfect time to hang a suet feeder near your window and enjoy the show. It’s one of the easiest ways to support your feathered neighbours this fall and winter — and a great excuse to sip your coffee while watching happy, well-fed birds.

Stop by your local Urban Nature Store this week and pick up a few Mill Creek suets — your birds will thank you! 🪶💛

By Paul Oliver, Founder – Urban Nature Store