Getting Ready For Nesting

As winter winds down, birds will soon begin their nesting preparations. The early morning’s chorus will grow louder as the birds repeatedly sing their beautiful songs to attract a mate and defend their territory. Mating displays will begin, pairs will form, and nest sites will be inspected.

A new generation of birds will soon be entering the world and the food we provide can make a significant difference on how well they will thrive and survive in our own backyards.

By providing bird food, you can help breeding females spend less time searching for food and more time selecting better nesting sites and constructing higher quality nests. Both adults will also have more time available for protecting their nest, eggs and young from predators.

Research studies have also shown that birds with access to bird feeders will often lay their eggs earlier than those without feeders. This is significant because earlier broods typically have better rates of survival and fledging success than later ones.

Not only is the availability of ample food important, the nutritional content of that food is crucial.

Birds routinely time their nesting activity to coincide with the availability of high-protein foods. The need for protein substantially increases for birds during periods of egg-laying. Obtaining a sufficient amount of protein determines the number of eggs a bird is able to produce and significantly impacts the growth rate and health of young birds. High protein is also crucial for feather development and molting.

Without sufficient calcium levels birds don’t reproduce well. If adult birds does not obtain enough calcium they may not lay as many eggs as normal. In egg-laying females, calcium is used for shell formation. In chicks it is used for bone formation.

Wild Birds Unlimited’s premium seed blends, suet foods and seed cylinders are great bird foods to help you provide the essential protein & calcium needed by nesting families. These mixes, chosen specifically for our Nevada County and foothills birds, are perfect for birds getting ready to nest.