Welcome 2026 by Starting a Backyard Bird Feeding Routine
A new year is the perfect opportunity to build habits that bring more connection, learning, and enjoyment into everyday life. As we welcome 2026, bird feeding stands out as a simple yet meaningful hobby—one that supports local wildlife while offering moments of calm, observation, and discovery right outside your window.
During winter and early spring, natural food sources become scarce for birds. Providing a consistent supply of high-quality seed and suet helps birds maintain the energy they need to stay warm, forage, and survive harsh weather conditions. A dependable feeding routine can make a noticeable difference, especially during extended cold spells and snowy periods.
At Spikes & Houles, we’re especially proud to offer Meadow Ridge Farms, our own in-house brand of wild bird seed, pigeon feeds, and suet. These mixes are blended and packaged daily at the Historic Delano Mill in downtown Delano, Minnesota. This iconic 1800s elevator mill—standing more than 70 feet tall along the railroad—has been a part of the community for generations and continues to play a vital role in how we deliver fresh, dependable feed to our customers.
With six internal grain storage bins and eleven external bins holding raw materials in bulk, our material handling system allows us to efficiently blend and produce natural feed seeds and grains while maintaining consistent quality and freshness. Because we control the process from sourcing to packaging, we’re able to provide cost-effective, top-quality mixes without cutting corners.
Our Meadow Ridge Farms bird feed recipes have been handed down through generations and carefully refined by our team to meet the nutritional needs of birds today. Each blend is designed to be both nutritious and attractive, drawing a wide variety of wild birds while minimizing excess fillers and waste. In addition to wild bird feed, Meadow Ridge Farms also produces high-quality nutritional feeds for racing pigeons—another way we support bird enthusiasts of all kinds.
You’ll notice the quality right on the shelf. Meadow Ridge Farms packaging features a clear plastic window so you can see the consistent blending and ingredient quality in every bag size. When displayed upright, the bold colors, imagery, and variety create an inviting experience—whether you’re a seasoned birder or looking for a fun and educational backyard activity for the whole family.
To get the most out of your feed, pairing it with a reliable feeder is key. That’s why we recommend Brome bird feeders, known for their durable construction and effective squirrel-resistant designs. By keeping seed fresh, dry, and accessible only to birds, Brome feeders help reduce waste and create a more successful feeding station.
Bird feeding is more than just a winter activity—it’s a hobby that encourages observation, learning, and connection to the natural world. Over time, you’ll begin to recognize different species, understand their feeding preferences, and notice seasonal patterns that make every visit to your feeder something to look forward to.
Whether you’re new to bird feeding or refining your setup, Spikes & Houles is here to help you start 2026 with confidence. From our proudly mixed Meadow Ridge Farms bird feed to trusted Brome feeders and expert advice, we’re committed to helping you create a backyard that birds—and bird lovers—can enjoy all year long.
