Help wild animals in winter, but do it wisely

Winter is a particularly challenging time for wild animals and waterfowl. Low temperatures, snow, and frozen water bodies limit access to food and water, forcing many species to struggle for survival. Human assistance during this period is invaluable but must be provided thoughtfully. Irresponsible actions, even with good intentions, can cause more harm than good. So how can we help wisely?

Feeding wild animals

Feeding is one of the most obvious forms of assistance. However, it’s important to remember that not all food is suitable for wild animals. Deer, roe deer, and hares benefit from hay, root vegetables like carrots, beets, or parsnips, as well as branches from deciduous trees, especially willow, aspen, or hornbeam. This type of food closely resembles their natural diet and does not cause health problems.

What should be avoided? Bread, which many people offer to wild animals, is harmful to them. White bread, in particular, provides no nutritional value and can lead to severe digestive issues like rumen acidosis, which can be fatal. Salty, seasoned, or processed foods are also unsuitable for wildlife.

The location of feeding is equally important. It should be far from roads and residential areas to minimize stress for the animals and reduce the risk of collisions. Feeding spots should be placed in quiet, sheltered areas where animals can feed safely away from predators.

Feeding waterfowl

Waterfowl such as swans, ducks, and coots suffer particularly during winter due to frozen water bodies and limited food access. To help them, you can provide natural food such as:

• Grains like oats, wheat, or barley;
• Cooked vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or beets;
• Specialized waterfowl feed available in pet stores.

It is crucial not to feed birds with bread. Bread ferments in their stomachs, leading to digestive disorders and, in severe cases, death. When choosing a feeding location, avoid busy areas frequented by people. Feeding should take place on the shores of water bodies, in spots sheltered from the wind.

How to ensure access to water

Water is one of the most vital resources during winter, especially for waterfowl. Frozen water bodies deprive them of drinking and bathing opportunities, which negatively affects their health and condition. To help, you can:

• Maintain ice holes in ponds and lakes using floats or special water pumps to prevent freezing;
• Provide water for forest animals by placing containers in quiet areas and regularly checking that they haven’t frozen. Avoid using metal containers, as they can cause frostbite.

Creating natural shelters for animals

In winter, animals need not only food and water but also places where they can shelter from the cold and predators. In forests and gardens, you can create simple shelters to provide protection:

• Piles of branches and heaps of leaves make excellent shelters for hares, hedgehogs, and small mammals;
• Nesting boxes and feeders are especially helpful for birds that winter in Poland, such as tits, sparrows, or blackbirds;
• Avoid pruning trees and shrubs in winter, as dense thickets provide natural shelter for many species.

Help wild animals in winter with organizations

Foresters and environmental organizations have extensive knowledge about the needs of wild animals and birds. It’s worth consulting your local forestry office before starting to feed wildlife to ensure your actions align with conservation principles. Many forestry offices organize their own winter campaigns, where you can participate by providing food or helping distribute it.

Collaborating with nature organizations also offers opportunities for financial support. Donations can be used to purchase food, build feeders, or buy equipment to maintain open water bodies.