Easy tips for helping city song birds this spring

Although it is sometimes hard to tell, spring is here and that means Calgary’s migratory birds have returned. You've probably heard them singing in the morning over the past couple weekends and with the recent dump of snow the Robins might be reconsidering why they came back so soon.  

Photo courtesy of Paul Carroll 

All kidding aside, sometimes inclement spring weather can be harmful to our friendlier feathered friends. Between the frozen ground and the snow cover, birds aren't able to get the food they need to keep warm. Whether it's seeds or bugs, foraging for food on the ground is not easy for a hungry, cold and tired bird. Add fattened neighbourhood cats to the mix and it's almost a smarter idea to starve.

Calgarians can help though. Robins and other migratory birds such as song sparrows and red-winged blackbirds are easy to assist with some extra TLC during times like these. Follow these tips to save an avian life:

·        Hang mealworm (beetle larvae) and sinew mixtures from trees for robins and other birds requiring protein. It can be purchased in pet stores and is loaded with nutrients and calories.

·        Uncover the crab apples and mountain ash berries you strategically left on the ground all winter exactly for this spring moment. Even those old fallen fruits from last season can be digested by birds looking for a hearty snack.

·        Remember to maintain, clean and replenish seed in your bird feeder well into the springtime this year to help seed-eating birds during lean, snowy times.

Providing extra food will help attract birds to your yard and keep them warm and healthy so they can nest and compete during Calgary's springtime.

Remember that berries and crab apples can attract coyotes and other natural wildlife. If coyotes frequent your area, place bird food up high where it can’t be detected; also please place food out of reach of cats by using bird feeders or other above-ground platforms. 

For more information on birds in Calgary visit the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary's page on calgary.ca. You can find a list of parks, nature and school programs and volunteer opportunities that will get you out in nature in your own backyard.