For the past two years, I purchased a cut Christmas tree with a higher motive than just being festive. First, I knew my cats would enjoy it while it was indoors – and they did, for a little while. I knew they would get bored of it quickly, so they were not the main reason for getting a tree – I mostly do it for the birds. After Christmas is over, I like to move the tree outside on the deck that I feed my birds from. I place it between my feeder poles to give them protection while feeding. When winter is over and the tree starts to turn brown, I will bring it to my yard (aka the woods) and add it to my brush pile. This won’t happen for a while though – Fraser Firs stay green for a long time after cut.
Last year (left) and this year (right)
A variety of my backyard visitors use the tree as a perch while waiting in line at the feeders and also as protection from the weather elements.
Dark-eyed Junco
American Goldfinch
Pine Siskin
Tufted Titmouse
Carolina Wren
The birds love using the tree, especially in poor weather.
Dark-eyed Junco
Pine Siskin
Last week, we had very high winds with extremely cold temperatures. My tree was tipped over and I noticed that the birds were huddled close to it. I went out, adjusted the tree for optimal wind protection and poured some seed in and around it. The birds approved.
Using the tipped tree as protection from the wind
I often pour some millet on top of the tree. A lot of it ends up sticking on the branches and the Juncos go crazy for it.
Dark-eyed Junco eating millet
They also use the tree as protection when danger lurks nearby.
This Sharp-shinned Hawk was trying to pick off finches, some hid in my tree
If you don’t do this already, I highly recommend using your tree for the birds. You will get the most out of it and so will they!
Dark-eyed Junco