Birds don’t generally need food from backyard feeders to survive, but the activity is a great way to interact with nature and, if done properly, won’t harm bird populations. Here's how to make sure you are keeping birds and other wildlife safe when feeding birds.
When to Feed
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department recommends that only feeding birds during the winter months to avoid attracting bears. Bears are very fond of suet and bird seed, especially black oil sunflower seed. Bringing feeders in at night doesn’t work because bears will still feed on seed that is spilled on the ground.
