Estimated read time: 4 minutes
As the trees go bare and temperatures drop across Northeast Ohio, many backyard birds stay behind, searching for reliable food, water, and shelter. With just a few simple steps, you can turn your yard into a winter haven for colorful visitors like cardinals, chickadees, woodpeckers, and finches — and enjoy the cheerful activity all season long.
Why Feed Birds in Winter
Winter can be tough for wild birds. Natural food sources such as seeds and berries become scarce, and frozen water limits where they can drink and bathe. By providing food and shelter, you’re helping local wildlife survive the cold months while bringing a bit of life and color to your backyard. It’s a simple way to support nature — and a relaxing hobby for the whole family.
Best Feed Choices for Ohio Birds
- Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: A favorite among cardinals, chickadees, and finches — packed with energy and easy to crack.
- Suet Cakes: Ideal for woodpeckers and nuthatches, suet provides high fat content to help birds stay warm.
- Nyjer (Thistle) Seed: Tiny but rich in oil, perfect for attracting colorful goldfinches.
- Peanuts and Mixed Nuts: Great for jays and titmice — offer them in a sturdy wire feeder.
- Cracked Corn and Millet: Best for ground-feeding species like sparrows and doves.
At Pettigrew Feed & Hardware, you’ll find a full selection of wild bird feed, suet cakes, and specialty blends to suit every type of backyard visitor.
Make Your Yard Bird-Friendly
- Keep feeders clean and dry: Wash them regularly and remove old seed to prevent mold or disease.
- Provide water: Use a heated bird bath or keep one near shelter to give birds a reliable place to drink.
- Add shelter: Evergreens, brush piles, or birdhouses protect small birds from wind and predators.
- Offer variety: Place different feeders — tube, platform, and suet — to attract more species.
Enjoy the View All Season Long
Attracting winter birds isn’t just good for them — it’s good for you too. Watching wildlife through the window brings a sense of peace and connection to the outdoors, even on cold days. Stop by Pettigrew Feed & Hardware for all your wild bird feed, feeders, and accessories. We’ll help you find exactly what you need to make your backyard a welcoming stop for Ohio’s winter birds.