Sparrows need grains, bulbuls prefer fruit, pigeons eat maize – and always offer water. What to feed, what to avoid, and why it matters.
Dr Zubair Ahmad War
The winter season in Kashmir is long and severe, with snowfall covering the ground for weeks or even months. During this time, natural food and water sources for birds become extremely scarce. Common household birds such as sparrows, bulbuls, warblers, mynahs, and pigeons struggle to survive the cold due to a lack of nutrition and dehydration. Providing simple, locally available food and water can play a vital role in helping these birds endure the harsh winter conditions.
Feed Ingredients
For sparrows, easily available grains found in Kashmiri homes are ideal. These include wheat, rice, barley (jau), and maize (makai), preferably cracked or lightly crushed so they are easier to eat. These grains should be placed on raised platforms, rooftops, or trays to keep them dry and free from snow.
Bulbuls prefer soft food rather than hard grains. Locally available fruits such as apples, pears, and ripe or overripe bananas are excellent choices. Soaked raisins, commonly available in households, are also very beneficial. In addition, small quantities of soaked rice or wheat can be offered to supplement their diet during cold weather.
Warblers are mainly insect-eating birds, but in winter, when insects are scarce, they adapt to available food. Soft fruits like apples and bananas, along with soaked raisins, are suitable options. Occasionally, very small amounts of boiled egg, which is commonly available in homes, can provide additional nutrition.
Mynahs are hardy and adaptable birds that accept a variety of household foods. Boiled rice, soaked wheat, apples, bananas, and dry pieces of unsalted chapati are all suitable for them during winter. These foods help meet their high energy requirements in cold conditions.
Pigeons depend largely on grains and seeds. Common staples such as wheat, rice, maize (makai), barley, and dry peas are well-suited for them. Since pigeons tend to dominate feeding areas, their food should be placed separately from that of smaller birds.
What Not To Feed
While feeding birds, it is very important to avoid harmful foods. Bread should not be given, as it provides little nutrition and can be dangerous in cold weather. Salty, spicy, oily, fried, or processed foods must be strictly avoided. Milk and milk-based products should also not be offered, as birds cannot digest them. Food scraps containing salt or spices can weaken birds and reduce their ability to survive winter stress.
Drinking Water
In addition to food, providing drinking water is essential. The importance of offering water to birds is often ignored. Infact offering water to birds is as vital as providing feed. Snow is not a dependable source of water, and birds often suffer from dehydration during freezing temperatures. A shallow bowl of clean water should be placed in a safe, accessible area and checked frequently, as it freezes quickly. Replacing frozen water once or twice daily can greatly help birds maintain body heat and energy.
Conclusion
By offering locally available food and fresh water regularly, people in Kashmir can make a meaningful contribution to the survival of birds during winter. These small acts of care and kindness help protect local birdlife and maintain the natural balance even during the harshest months of the year.
The writer is a BVSc & MVSc from SKUAST-Kashmir
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