Is it OK to attract wildlife, birds, and pollinators to my yard in winter? (ASK Around)

As we transition from fall into winter, habits change: in my house, out come the warm sweaters and hot cocoa to stay cozy despite the chill! Outside, yard critters make their own transitions, whether they migrate, go into hibernation, or change their eating habits as the cold months set in. Here are three tips on taking care of the friendly wildlife, birds, and pollinators in your yard this winter.

Yes, you can keep birdfeeders out all winter! Some people hesitate to keep out a birdfeeder in winter, either fearing that bird who are supposed to migrate will get confused and stay, or reasoning that most birds have already flown south. However, bird experts tell us this isn't the case, but rather winter is the most critical time when backyard birdfeeders can improve bird survival rates. The main considerations are putting the birdfeeder in a safe place (e.g. keeping pet cats indoors) and stocking it with nutritious nuts and seeds (rather than grains like barely, for example). Click here for more detailed tips about seasonal bird feeding. 

Put out a bird bath or de-ice your pond. Water can also become a scarce commodity for wildlife in winter, especially when there's no snow on the ground. A bird bath can provide much-needed water for birds and other wildlife in your yard, but the trick is to keep it from freezing! Choosing a dark-colored bird bath can help with this since it will best absorb the sun's warmth, as can changing the water frequently, or some people purchase a heated bird bath. Alterntaively, if you have a pond in your yard, you could purchase a de-icer or heater to keep liquid water available for thirsty birds and wildlife.

Minimize disturbance to soil and other hibernation spots. Most bees (especially queen bees) and many other pollinator insects spend the winter burrowed underground to keep from freezing. Burrowing animals also include turtles, salamanders, and more. Leaving dead plant stalks and fallen leaves on the ground can provide more winter habitat for insects, including butterfly and moth larvae. Be careful when pruning perennials, disposing of brush, or moving rocks or logs, since birds, small mammals, or pollinator insects may be using them for winter shelter!