When the snow starts to fall in Southern Ontario, backyard birds rely on our feeders more than ever. As natural food sources become scarce, providing the right feeder—and the right food—can make all the difference for local species. At the Urban Nature Store, we’re here to help you select a winter-ready feeder that keeps birds fed and happy, even in the harshest weather.
1. Think Durability and Weather Protection
Winter brings snow, ice, and strong winds, so choose a feeder designed to withstand the elements. Look for sturdy construction with rust-proof metal or weather-resistant plastic, and a sloped or covered roof to keep seed dry.
Hopper feeders such as the Absolute II Squirrel Proof Hopper Feeder or the Squirrel Buster Plus Tube Feeder are ideal—they protect seed from moisture and hold a generous amount, meaning fewer trips outside for refilling.
2. Pick the Right Feeder for Your Birds
Different birds prefer different feeding styles, and matching the right feeder type helps attract your desired visitors.
- Tube Feeders: Perfect for chickadees, finches, and nuthatches. Try the Brome Squirrel Buster Standard—it’s squirrel-proof and easy to clean.
- Platform Feeders: Offer an open surface for larger birds like cardinals and blue jays. The Stokes 3-in-1 Platform Feeder provides space and stability, even when snow builds up.
- Suet Feeders: Essential in winter, suet gives birds a calorie-rich energy boost. We recommend the Squirrel Buster Suet Feeder—a durable choice that prevents pests while serving nutritious blocks.
3. Match Feeder to Seed Type
Selecting the right seed is just as important as the feeder itself. In cold weather, focus on high- energy foods:
- Sunflower Hearts Seed attract the widest range of winter birds and leave no shells or uneaten seed on the ground.
- Nyjer (Thistle) is a favourite for goldfinches and siskins, but Finch and Friends provides a little more fatty oil for the winter.
- Suet Cakes keep woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees coming back daily, especially with the ever-popular Canadian Made Mill Creek Suet.
If you choose a mesh or tube feeder, go for small seeds that won’t clog. For hopper or platform feeders, larger mixes and sunflower seeds work beautifully.
4. Placement Matters
Place your feeder where it’s sheltered from wind and heavy snowfall, ideally near trees or shrubs that offer protection and perching space. Birds feel safer when they can dart into cover. Also, ensure you can easily reach the feeder to refill it—even after a snowfall.
Pro tip: Position your feeder about 10 feet from dense cover to reduce the risk of predators, but close enough that birds feel secure.
5. Keep It Clean
Moisture is the enemy of healthy bird feeding. Wet seed can mold quickly and make birds sick. Choose feeders that are easy to disassemble and clean, and check them regularly for spoiled seed. During winter, only fill feeders halfway to reduce waste and refresh seed more often.
The Urban Nature Store Cleaning Brushes and Feeder Fresh seed additive products make maintenance simple and help keep your feeding station healthy and dry all season.
6. Consider Squirrel-Proof Options
Southern Ontario’s squirrels don’t take winters off! If you’re tired of sharing seed with them, a squirrel-resistant feeder can save you money and frustration. The Brome Squirrel Buster line—available in mini, classic, and plus sizes—uses a clever and effective weight-sensitive design to block squirrels while allowing small birds to feed freely.
7. Add Water and Shelter
Don’t forget about water! Birds still need to drink and bathe in winter. A heated bird bath, like the Farm Innovators 3 in 1 Heated Bird Bath, ensures a constant source of fresh, unfrozen water. Pair your feeder with nearby nesting boxes or evergreens to give birds year-round refuge.
8. Quality Over Quantity
It can be tempting to buy multiple inexpensive feeders, but investing in one or two high-quality ones will serve you—and your birds—better. They last longer, withstand winter’s challenges, and are easier to maintain.
At the Urban Nature Store, our experts can help you choose the perfect combination of feeders, seed, and accessories for your backyard habitat.
Winter feeding in Southern Ontario isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifeline for our feathered friends. By choosing a durable, weather-resistant feeder, matching it with energy-rich food, and keeping it clean and accessible, you’ll create a welcoming haven that supports local wildlife throughout the season.
Visit Urbannaturestore.ca or stop by one of our nine Ontario locations to explore our full selection of winter feeders, suet, seed mixes, and heated bird baths. Together, we can make this winter a season of warmth—for birds and bird lovers alike.
