A Simple Guide to Help Small Wildlife Survive the Winter

Helping Small Wildlife Survive the Winter on Your Property

Here at Tanglefoot Farm, one of our goals as a Certified Wildlife Habitat is caring for the wildlife that shares this little patch of green with us. As winter approaches, small wildlife such as squirrels, rabbits, birds, raccoons, opossums, and even foxes face increased challenges.

Cold temperatures, dwindling food supplies, and harsh weather conditions can make survival difficult. We use several simple but effective ways to help local wildlife make it through the colder months, and you can, too! By taking a few proactive steps, you can provide a safe haven for animals in need, fostering a more biodiverse and resilient ecosystem.

Provide Shelter and Hiding Spots for wildlife

During winter, shelter is crucial for small wildlife. Cold winds, snow, and freezing rain can make survival especially tough for animals without adequate cover. You can make your property more hospitable by creating or enhancing shelter options.

• For squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons: Offer natural spaces like brush piles, hollow logs, or even a simple pile of leaves and branches. Yet another option is a straw bale with the ties removed; small animals can burrow there to keep toasty warm. These provide hiding spots from predators and shelter from the wind and cold. Most animals can keep themselves warm if they can find a space that is free from gusts or drafts.
• For birds: Installing birdhouses can provide safe places for nesting and roosting. For larger birds like owls and woodpeckers, placing a few tall, dead trees or snags in your yard can provide shelter and hunting opportunities. The more varied your shelter, the better, as different species have different needs. It is not recommended to leave pet fur out for birds to nest with; particularly if your pets are treated with topical flea & tick medication. Instead offer feathers, dried grasses, plant fluff, or leaves.
• For foxes and opossums: These animals prefer den-like areas where they can burrow and stay warm. If you have any old, unused outbuildings, or natural features like deadfalls, dense shrubs or tall grass, leaving them undisturbed will allow these creatures to find safe spaces.

Ensure a Wildlife-Appropriate Food Supply

Food scarcity is one of the most significant challenges wildlife faces during the winter months. As natural food sources like berries, insects, and small animals become scarce, wildlife must rely more heavily on what they can find in the environment.

• For birds: Set up bird feeders stocked with high-energy foods like sunflower seeds, suet, and peanuts. Choose a variety of feeders that accommodate different species. Remember to keep feeders clean to prevent the spread of diseases.
• For small mammals like squirrels and rabbits: Consider leaving out nuts, seeds, and cut fruits like apples or carrots. Avoid leaving out processed or sugary foods, as they can harm wildlife.
• For raccoons and opossums: These creatures are omnivores and can benefit from food scraps, such as vegetable peels or cooked rice, along with fruits and nuts. Pet kibble is also an option. However, keep in mind that feeding wild animals too regularly can cause them to become dependent on humans for food (habituation), so it’s best to limit feedings. It is also helpful if you don’t put food out in the same place all the time; this encourages animals to continue to forage and scavenge.
• For foxes: Foxes are opportunistic hunters, but they can struggle to find food during extreme cold spells. If you live in a rural or semi-urban area, providing occasional scraps like chicken or turkey bones can help, though it’s best to rely on natural food sources as much as possible.

3. Create Water Sources

Access to fresh water is essential, even during winter. Many water sources freeze over, leaving wildlife without a drink. You can help by setting up a heated birdbath. Using a container with a floating ball will help prevent ice from forming. Small rocks placed in the water will make it easier for small wildlife to access the water.

For larger animals like raccoons or foxes, leaving a shallow bowl of water near their typical travel routes is a simple but effective solution. Just be sure to check the water regularly to keep it from freezing.

Minimize Disturbance

Winter is a time when wildlife needs peace and quiet. Be mindful of any activities that might disturb animals, especially during the colder months. Avoid loud noises or unnecessary outdoor activities that might disturb resting or hibernating creatures.

Be Cautious with Chemicals

During winter, many people use salt and chemicals to melt snow and ice. While these products can help make your driveway and walkways safer, they can also be harmful to wildlife. Try using natural alternatives like sand or wood ash, and avoid spreading salt where animals may come into contact with it.

Conclusion

By taking a few simple steps—providing shelter, food, and water, as well as minimizing disturbances and avoiding harmful chemicals—you can help ensure that small wildlife on your property survive the winter months. These animals play important roles in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem, and by supporting them, you contribute to a healthier, more resilient environment for all.