A white-breasted nuthatch perched on a feeder in winter. Nuthatches are considered common feeder birds throughout much of the continental United States. The species is particularly attracted to suet feeders this time of year. TAMA-GRUNDY FILE PHOTO

As winter descends on the Midwest, well-stocked bird feeders suddenly become the place to be this time of year. For those looking to expand beyond the traditional feeder, Tama County Naturalist Raina Genaw has created a list of five ‘easy’ ways to further help the feathered beings in our backyards.

1. Open a Bird Spa

Did you know that birds LOVE cleaning themselves? Scientists have discovered that birds can spend upwards of 3 hours a day arranging and combing through their feathers, removing lice and other pests, and spreading oils along their wings and body to waterproof themselves. Birds rely on their feathers for flight, so they need to make sure they’re as clean and healthy as can be! How can you help them stay squeaky clean? By providing a heated bird bath, of course! Heated birdbaths take up very little space but provide necessary water for bathing and drinking, even on the coldest winter days.

2. Prevent Window Strikes

It’s no secret that birds are a bit clumsy when it comes to glass windows. Up to one billion birds are killed by window collisions each year in the U.S. alone. But fret not! There’s an easy solution: window coverings. The cause of most collisions is simply that bords aren’t able to recognize glass as a solid object. Coverings to prevent bird strikes range from exterior shutters or screens to window clings and films to simple tempera paint. For additional information on window coverings, visit the American Bird Conservancy (https://abcbirds.org/solutions/prevent-home-collisions/).

3. Let There Be (Less) Light

Hundreds of birds fly through Tama County on their annual migration routes, using the night sky as their guide. Artificial lights can muddle their view of the stars, skewing their nighttime “map” and causing confusion for passing birds. The solution is as simple as turning off any externally-visible lights each night. Save electricity, money, and birds – all at the same time!

4. Start a BB&B (Bird Bed & Breakfast)

Like most of us, birds are motivated by two main things: food and sleep. Your BB&B can be as simple as a pinecone bird feeder and recycled birdhouse, or as elaborate as a chimney swift tower and video bird feeder! Black oil sunflower seeds and suet are easy feeder-fillers and can be purchased from many local grocery stores.

5. Keep Cats Indoors

Cats are one of the leading causes of bird and small mammal mortality worldwide. If you are a pet owner, consider keeping your pet inside or leashed to prevent harm to wildlife. If your pet will be roaming wild, please make sure it is spayed or neutered! While cats may seem cute and cuddly, they can decimate wildlife if left unchecked.