The takeaway: Winter can bring a whole new cast of characters to your smart bird feeder–and require a new seed strategy.

Life slows down when winter sets in–but it doesn’t grind to a halt–and you can see this play out at your smart bird feeder.

While it may seem that there is less bird life to observe once the cold sets in, winter can be a great time to enjoy your smart bird feeder. A well-stocked bird feeder could attract a colorful variety of birds all winter long–even when the landscape is bare and seemingly lifeless.

Common Winter Birds You’ll See at Your Bird Feeder

Across much of North America, you may see:

  • Black-capped chickadees–Curious, friendly, and always on the move. They love sunflower seeds and suet.

  • Northern cardinals–Bright red will contrast with any snow on the ground. They prefer safflower and black oil sunflower seeds.

  • Dark-eyed juncos: Often seen pecking at the ground, they choose cracked corn and millet.

  • Woodpeckers: Energetic woodpeckers like downy and hairy woodpeckers will go for suet blocks and peanuts.

  • Nuthatches and titmice: Agile, they enjoy sunflower seeds, suet, and pieces of peanuts.

  • Finches: Colorful visitors who will be drawn to thistle or sunflowers.

Viewing a bird feeder located in the U.K.? Be on the lookout for:

  • Blue tit: Small and acrobatic–may even hang upside down from feeders. Set out sunflower seeds, peanuts, suet, and mealworms.

  • Great tit: This popular bird prefers eating from trays or the ground. Draw them in with sunflower seeds and peanuts.

  • Robin: Cheerful garden visitors love mealworms and suet.

  • House sparrows: Noisy and social, they liked mixed seeds, breadcrumbs, and millet.

  • Long-tailed tits: Charming and fluffy, they eat fat balls, suet, and peanuts. 

Winter Smart Bird Feeder Tips

The lack of natural food options may bring a surprising number of birds to your Wi-Fi bird feeder in the winter. Make sure you are creating an inviting, healthy environment:

  • High-energy foods are key

  • Keep your feeder clean to prevent disease

  • Provide fresh water daily

  • Scatter some food on the ground

  • Refill your feeder regularly