Don’t Forget the Birds This Christmas

A seed wreath provides birds with high energy food during the winter months and adds a festive touch to backyard feeding. Photo credit: Stock image for editorial use.

“Feed the birds, tuppence a bag.”

Jamie Kleman, Contributing Writer | Delaware Live

The simple kindness at the heart of Mary Poppins’ famous song resonates even more during the holiday season. As we focus on giving, gathering, and celebrating, it is a fitting reminder that the smallest acts of care can have a big impact, especially on the wildlife that shares our winter landscape.

As holiday preparations fill homes across Delaware, one group of neighbors is especially grateful for a little extra attention during the winter months. The birds that visit backyards in Hockessin, Centreville, and surrounding areas face some of the toughest conditions of the year in December. Food becomes scarce, daylight is limited,d and cold nights demand more energy than usual. This Christmas, local experts are reminding residents not to forget the feathered friends that brighten winter days.

A bright cardinal visits a backyard feeder during the winter season, a common sight in Delaware when residents provide food and water for local birds. Photo credit: Stock image for editorial use.

Why Winter Is Hard on Birds

When temperatures drop, natural food sources such as insects, berries and seeds become limited or frozen over. Birds need to consume more calories to stay warm, and many rely on dependable food supplies found in residential yards. High-fat foods like black oil sunflower seed, suet, peanuts, and winter seed blends help birds maintain body heat. Water is equally important. With many outdoor sources frozen, a birdbath or shallow dish of fresh water can be essential for winter survival.

Chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, and woodpeckers are frequent Delaware visitors that benefit from supplemental feeding. Wildlife agencies note that small birds burn through energy rapidly and often lose significant body weight overnight. Reliable food sources help them replenish quickly each morning.

Wild Birds Unlimited in Hockessin

For those looking to support backyard birds this Christmas, Wild Birds Unlimited in Hockessin offers products designed specifically for winter feeding. Shoppers will find suet cakes, no mess seed blends, peanut cylinders, seed wreaths and feeders made to withstand cold weather. The store also carries holiday-themed seed ornaments that provide both decoration and nourishment.

The staff is known for guiding customers toward the best foods for local species and offering advice on feeder placement, weather protection and ways to keep seed dry during storms. Even small additions such as a weather guard or heated birdbath can make a meaningful difference during freezing conditions.

Winter Bird Care Checklist

A simple way to support local birds this holiday season

• Offer high-energy foods. Sunflower seed, suet, peanuts and winter seed blends help birds stay warm during cold nights.
• Keep feeders full and dry. Birds eat more during winter and rely on consistent food sources.
• Provide water. A heated birdbath or daily refreshed container keeps birds hydrated when natural water sources freeze.
• Add shelter. Place feeders near trees or shrubs to reduce wind exposure and provide a safe escape.
• Try a bird-friendly gift. Seed wreaths and feeder ornaments make thoughtful seasonal additions and can be found locally at Wild Birds Unlimited.

A Simple Way to Spread Joy

Staff Writer

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