In the animal kingdom there are three ways of coping with winter; hibernate, migrate, or tolerate. Migration is certainly associated with birds but we also see many birds stay. For those who stay behind….. harsher Winter weather will soon descend on Alberta. All of the summer’s visiting wild birds are now in their winter habitats down south. So one might ask why some birds migrate and others stay behind? Pure speculation on our part, but there are a few details of which we are certain. Those who remain behind are true survivors and will face many challenges throughout the winter months, which will prove the saying “survival of the fittest.”
Designed to Cope
The birds that stay behind (not those that should have migrated south with their kind but for unforeseen reasons remained) are designed to combat the cold. These birds face a lack of protein, which they get from insects during the summer. Also, they are constantly trying to stay warm and hydrated, and searching for food that is usually scarce during cold winter days. Flocking together is another way birds over-winter. By staying in a flock there is less risk of predation and sharing body heat can make a huge difference. Here in Alberta we do have some wonderful migratory birds who spend the summer here for the abundance of food necessary to raise their young, but the birds that remain all year round are the true “Albertans” and there are plenty to keep our backyards active during those harsh winter days.
Facts and Myths
Winter bird fact: Birds are well equipped to survive the coldest of temperatures. They store fat during the short days of winter to keep themselves warm during the long nights. During those freezing nights, they fluff their feathers to trap heat and slow their metabolism to conserve energy. They also look for good places to roost, whether it’s a birdhouse, natural tree cavity, grass thicket, evergreen or shrub.
Winter bird myth: If you leave town during winter, the birds that rely on the food from your feeders, will die. Research has proven this one wrong. Scientists have shown that Chickadees, for example, will eat only 25% of their daily winter food from feeders. They find the other 75% in the wild and additionally, with so many people feeding them nowadays, birds in your yard will simply fly to a nearby neighbour to get their food until you return home.
Winter bird fact: Most suet cages have laminated covering, so you don’t have to worry about the birds’ feet sticking to it. But in general, their feet can endure cold weather. Birds have a protective scale-like covering on their feet, and special veins and arteries that keep their feet warm.
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