How Can We Help Wildlife Through the Winter?

Winter often inspires people to lend a helping hand to wildlife—especially wild birds, deer, turkeys, and other animals. While winter feeding can be beneficial, it’s important to understand that feeding wildlife responsibly means consistency and proper nutrition. Sudden or improper feeding can disrupt natural habits and, in some cases, do more harm than good.

Wild Birds

Wild bird populations change with the seasons, and different species appear throughout the year. Many birds also change plumage, meaning they may look quite different in winter than they do in spring or summer.

Feeding wild birds is a fun and educational way to stay connected to nature during the colder months. Adding suet to your feeding routine can attract species you may not typically see at seed feeders, especially woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees.

Water is just as important as food in winter. Natural water sources are often frozen, so providing a bird bath with a deicer or heater can dramatically increase the number and variety of birds visiting your yard. Clean feeders regularly to help prevent the spread of disease, and offer a variety of seeds to support different species.

Deer

Deer have very specific nutritional needs, especially in winter. Their digestive systems gradually adjust from browsing lush summer vegetation to surviving on woody browse and limited winter food sources. Feeding deer improperly can cause serious digestive issues and long-term harm.

If you choose to feed deer (and after checking local regulations), keep the following guidelines in mind:

• Do not feed hay.

• Do feed nutritionally complete commercial deer feeds, such as Blue Seal Deer Pellets, Antler King, or Wildlife Grains.

• Feed only in areas where deer already naturally feed to avoid altering travel patterns. Poorly placed feeding areas can increase the risk of predation and vehicle collisions.

• Be consistent. Starting and stopping feeding forces deer to travel farther in search of food, burning precious fat reserves needed for winter survival.

• Do not tame wildlife. Avoid actions that reduce a deer’s natural wariness of humans.

Feed can be placed directly on the ground, on packed snow, or on spruce boughs. Wildlife feeders may also be used, though animals may take time to become comfortable with them.

A Thoughtful Approach

Whether feeding birds or larger wildlife, the key is responsibility and consistency. Supporting wildlife should enhance their ability to survive winter—not disrupt their natural behaviors. When done correctly, wildlife feeding can be a rewarding way to stay connected to the outdoors while helping animals through the toughest months of the year.

If you have questions about wildlife feeding or need help choosing the right products, the team at West Lebanon Feed & Supply is always happy to help.