Providing Food for Robins in Winter

Robins are a familiar sight in backyards and gardens during spring and summer. But many people are surprised to see robins sticking around through the cold winter months. While some robins migrate south for warmer weather, others tough out the winter in northern climates. These hardy birds rely on us to provide food and shelter to help them survive until spring. In this article, we’ll look at the best foods to offer robins in winter and tips for attracting them to your yard.

Why Robins Stay in Winter

Not all robins head south when winter arrives Some that breed in northern areas stick around all year rather than making the long migration, Young robins may not migrate their first winter if they haven’t learned the route And some robins simply find enough food in backyard gardens and landscapes to sustain them through the cold months,

Robins that overwinter in cold climates conserve energy by entering a lethargic state at night. Their metabolism slows down and body temperature drops to conserve calories During daylight hours, they actively forage for food to build up fat reserves and keep their metabolism running. Access to high-calorie foods is critical for their survival

Best Winter Foods for Robins

Robins switch up their diet in winter since worms and insects are scarce. They rely heavily on fruits left on trees and shrubs. Robins need foods that are high in carbohydrates and calories to provide energy and body heat. Some of their favorite winter foods include:

• Berries – Robins forage on berries and small fruits like raisins, currants, juniper berries, sumac, and crabapples. They prefer bigger fruits like grapes, blueberries, strawberries, and even sliced apples.

• Mealworms – These high-protein worms are a great supplemental food. Offer live or freeze-dried mealworms in platform feeders or ground trays.

• Suet – Nutrient-dense suet provides fat and protein. Offer suet in cages to prevent larger birds from hogging it.

• Chopped Nuts – Chopped peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and other nuts offer healthy fats. Mix with dried fruits for added calories.

• No Seeds – Surprisingly, robins won’t eat birdseed or grains. They lack the right beak and digestive system.

Focus on soft, high-calorie foods robins can swallow easily. Place food on elevated platforms like tree stumps or fence posts so birds feel safe landing to eat. Scatter berries, chopped nuts, and mealworms on the ground too. Position feeders in secluded, protected areas and keep feline predators away.

Water Sources

Don’t forget to provide open water for drinking and bathing. Use a birdbath heater or deicer to prevent freezing. Place it in a sheltered spot and keep the water shallow to avoid feathers getting wet. Robins won’t bathe in water below 10°F since wet feathers can lead to frostbite.

Winter roosting sites

Robins appreciate having protected roosting spots in winter. Place a wood platform or box on a tree, post, or under an eave. Add drainage holes and a wrap of hardware cloth to keep predators out. The enclosure will provide insulation while birds huddle together at night.

Attracting Robins to Your Yard

Here are some tips to bring robins to your yard by offering winter shelter and sustenance:

• Landscape with fruit-bearing trees like crabapples, wild cherry, and viburnum. Choose berry plants like holly, juniper, dogwood, and sumac.

• Mulch beds to provide access to worms and insect larvae. Clear leaf litter to expose ground foods.

• Provide a water source, heated if possible. Offer shallow moving water like a fountain or bubbler.

• Set up roost boxes and platforms 8-12 feet high for nighttime shelter.

• Position feeders and food trays in secluded areas near cover. Keep them stocked and refreshed.

• Eliminate pesticide use which reduces the insect population robins rely on.

• Keep cats indoors so they don’t pick off winter robins.

With a little preparation, you can encourage robins to stick around all winter. It’s rewarding to see them flock to your yard for much-needed nourishment during the lean months. Just remember to provide high-fat, high-carb foods that give robins the energy and calories they require. With abundant food and shelter, robins can survive freezing temperatures and return to your yard season after season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Robins

Here are answers to some common questions about attracting and caring for robins in wintertime:

What time of day are robins most active in winter?

Robins are most active foraging for food during the warmest part of the day, typically mid-morning through early afternoon. Offer food at first light and replenish it midday.

How often do robins eat in winter?

Robins need to refuel more frequently in cold months. Plan on filling feeders or refreshing food trays at least once or twice daily. Provide enough food so robins can eat small meals throughout the day.

Do robins mate in winter?

No, robins do not breed in winter. Breeding season runs from March through July across most of their range. In winter, robins form large nomadic flocks rather than pairs.

How do robins keep warm in winter?

Along with eating high-calorie foods, robins fluff their feathers for insulation and roost together at night to share body heat. They also minimize activity to conserve energy on very cold days.

What are signs robins are hungry or starving?

Look for robins eating grit or gravel which may indicate an empty stomach. Increased conflicts over food is another sign of hunger. Weak, lethargic behavior may mean starvation, requiring emergency food intervention.

Will robins come inside my house in winter?

It’s extremely rare for robins to enter homes in winter. But very hungry, disoriented robins may accidentally fly or fall into garages or basements if food is present. Calmly catch and release any indoor robins.

With a basic understanding of robins’ winter ecology and nutritional needs, you’ll find it easy and gratifying to help robins survive the toughest months. A few modifications to your yard and feeding routine can make all the difference for overwintering robins.