When Should I Stop Feeding the Birds?

Many backyard bird lovers are under the mistaken impression birds only need to be fed during the winter. If bird lovers stop feeding them too soon in the spring, between incubating their eggs and defending their territory, they do not have as much time to search for food. While a female is producing eggs, she can use half of her daily food intake. On the other hand, a male burns alot of energy defending his territory. After raising their young, many birds will moult too. Since the feathers and sheaths are 90% protien, it is an energy-intensive process. Furthermore, if you stop feeding too soon, the ground may still be frozen. When the ground is frozen, the insects are still inactive. As the temperatures get warmer and you see less birds flocking to your feeders, you can probably stop feeding them then. During the summer is when a bird's food least needs to be supplemented, but it still doesn't mean it isn't important. By feeding throughout the summer, it reduces the competition for food, and for those birds that migrate, it helps build up fat reserves for the long trip ahead. If you do decide to stop feeding the birds, wait until the end of May or beginning June to discontinue feeding them. However, the best policy is to continue feeding them throughout the year. In addition to food, it is important to remember birds need water. Water is crucial for food digestion. Some birds can suffer more from the lack of water than the lack of food. If you dont provide water for them, they will either have to fly to another water source or get their water from snow. Either way, it takes away energy they could use for other functions. The temperature should be approximately 80 degrees. You will probably need to purchase a heater for your birdbath.