Bird Feeding – Seasons

Q: We have been feeding the birds black oil sunflower seeds all winter. Should we continue this when spring arrives or do we need to cut back to encourage them to eat berries, etc?

A: Garden coach Daryl Pulis (www.mrsgreenthumb.com) says cutting back in the spring can be hard on the birds, since in the spring there are few berries and seeds available. Many winter seed eaters will naturally switch over to native sources as they appear, so the birds will tell you when your handouts are no longer needed. You’ll notice a drop-off in birds coming to your feeders and can reduce feeding then, unless you just wish to feed for your own enjoyment.