How do birds cope with snow?

A Blue Jay fluffs up stay warm

With snow deep on the ground for the first time this season, you might wonder how birds survive these wintry conditions. It’s truly surprising how a creature that weighs 20 to 40 grams—the weight of no more than eight nickels—can stay alive.

Birds employ several strategies to surviving the winter, according to Charles Eldermire, Bird Cams project leader at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Hang out with friends. Ever notice that birds of a feather flock together? Having friends helps birds forage and watch for predators. 

Eat, eat, eat. When the ground is covered by snow, finding natural seed is a challenge. Birds will park themselves in front of a feeder. They’ll chase each other away to make sure they are the ones to get the prize food. Birds know to search for the richest, fattiest foods possible. Some will choose black oil sunflower or sunflower chips; others will select white millet or safflower. Suet is a real treat.

Rest. Birds fluff up their feathers to stay warm. Fluffy feathers trap body heat instead of letting it dissipate.

Stay out of the wind. If a cold wind is blowing, birds will seek protection, even if it is as simple as moving to the sheltered side of a tree. This simple technique helps a bird reduce its metabolism and conserve energy.

Find shelter. There is no better protection than a tree cavity, a covered porch or the eaves of a house. And don't forget bird houses. They can be used for nighttime roosting. Remember to remove last season's nest and add some wood chips to create a warm bed for birds. If you live in a neighborhood where trees are young or sparse, hang or mount a special roosting bag or box.