The Ridges Sanctuary Land Manager Matt Peter says putting out seeds for resident birds is okay despite a recent Canadian study. According to University of Alberta professor Erin Bayne, bird enthusiasts need to understand the trade-off of keeping feed out. While the feeders provide an important food source when the ground is covered under inches of snow, it also could invite some birds to stick around longer than they should and make them vulnerable to urban dangers like windows and house cats. Peter says people should not worry too much about possibly affecting migratory patterns with their feeders since many of their avian visitors are resident birds.

Peter advises people with bird feeders to make sure they keep them clean as they could attract salmonella and other sources of diseases.