Offering food is the fastest way to bring life to your garden. However, not all mixes are created equal. To attract colorful species like the Northern Cardinal or the Purple Finch, you need to provide a high-quality menu tailored to the nutritional needs of our local birds.
Discover which seeds to choose to prevent waste and how to adjust feeding according to Canadian seasons.
The Seasonal Feeding Calendar
While it is possible to feed birds year-round, their needs change drastically with the temperature:
- Winter (November to March): This is the critical period. Birds need high-fat foods (suet, sunflower) to survive freezing nights in zones 3, 4, and 5.
- Spring (April to May): A vital energy source for migrants returning to Quebec and for nesting birds.
- Summer and Fall: Natural food is abundant, but feeders help parents feed their young. Use smaller quantities to prevent seeds from molding in summer humidity.
The Best Seeds: Who Eats What?
The secret to attracting a wide diversity is offering seeds separately or choosing mixes without "filler" (like wheat or milo), which birds often toss to the ground.
| Seed | Target Birds | Why Choose It? |
| Black Oil Sunflower | Cardinals, Chickadees, Grosbeaks, Woodpeckers. | The most versatile. High oil content and easy-to-open shells. |
| Safflower | Cardinals, Chickadees, Finches. | Its bitter taste deters squirrels and European starlings. |
| Nyjer (Thistle) | Goldfinches, Redpolls, Pine Siskins. | A tiny black seed rich in oil, perfect for small beaks. |
| Suet (beef fat) | Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, Black-capped Chickadees. | Essential in winter to replace the insects that are no longer available. |
The Natural Larder: Choosing the Right Plants
While feeders provide valuable support, nothing beats food sources provided by nature. By planting native species in your garden, you create a self-sustaining ecosystem that feeds birds all year round.
- Berry-producing Shrubs: Serviceberry, elderberry, and highbush cranberry offer antioxidant-rich berries essential for migration and winter survival.
- Seed-bearing Trees: Birches and conifers (spruce, pine) provide seeds and cones highly sought after by chickadees and redpolls.
- Flowers for Pollinators: Beyond providing nectar for hummingbirds, flowers like coneflower (Echinacea) or Black-eyed Susan produce seeds that goldfinches will harvest directly from the stalks in the fall.
To plan your landscaping, consult our detailed guide on plants that naturally attract birds. It is the perfect complement to your feeders!
Important Health Precautions
The food you offer must always be healthy. Here are some golden rules:
- No Bread: It contains no essential nutrients and fills a bird's stomach uselessly.
- No Salt: Avoid salted peanuts or bacon grease. Salt is toxic to small birds.
- Freshness: If seeds smell musty or are clumped together, discard them immediately to prevent fatal respiratory diseases.
To serve this feast in the best conditions, ensure your setup is adequate by consulting our guide on Choosing Bird Feeders and Birdhouses.
