Freezing temperatures and snow are rare in the Lowcountry, but when they do happen, they can be especially challenging for birds. Natural food sources become scarce, water freezes, and birds must work harder just to stay warm.

The good news? A few simple steps can make a meaningful difference.
By providing reliable food, fresh water, and sheltered spaces, you can help birds conserve energy and safely weather the storm.

Below, we’ve shared our best recommendations for supporting birds during extreme cold, what to do first, and why it matters.

We also share winter tips, fun facts, and store updates regularly on our Facebook and Instagram!

 

⭐ 3 Things to Do Before the Freeze

1. Put Out High-Energy Food (and More Than You Think You Need)

Birds burn a tremendous amount of energy staying warm overnight, especially during cold, wet weather.

• Focus on high-fat, high-protein foods
• Add suet, seed cylinders, and loose seed
• Use multiple feeding stations to reduce competition
• Weather guards help keep food dry and encourage birds to use feeders more

2. Prepare Fresh Water When It’s Safe

As temperatures drop, unfrozen water becomes harder for birds to find and it’s just as important as food. Birds often flock to water during freezes as soon as it becomes available.

• When safe, pour warm (not boiling) water into birdbaths to melt ice
• Make sure birdbaths are shallow (2–3 inches)
• Remove glass birdbaths during freezes and use cold-weather-safe options

3. Provide Shelter from Wind & Precipitation

Protection from wind and predators helps birds conserve energy during storms.

• Create a brush pile using sticks and yard trimmings
• Make sure nesting boxes are cleaned out and secure
• Leave native plants and shrubs in place — they provide natural shelter and food

 

Want to Go a Little Deeper?

If you’d like more detail, we’ve broken each section out below so you can jump straight to what’s most helpful for you and your backyard birds.

Helping Birds: Food
What to feed during freezing weather, which foods provide the most energy, and why multiple feeding stations matter.
→ Read more about feeding birds during a freeze

Helping Birds: Water
Why fresh water is just as important as food, how to safely thaw birdbaths, and what to know about winter bathing behavior.
→ Read more about providing water during freezing temperatures

Helping Birds: Shelter & Native Plants
How brush piles, nesting boxes, and native plants help birds stay protected from wind, predators, and harsh weather.
→ Read more about shelter & native plant support

Extra Tips & What You Might See During a Freeze
Why weather guards matter, birds that often appear during cold snaps, and how to enjoy watching from home.
→ Read more winter storm bird tips

 

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