American robins are often a lot less spotted in domestic gardens in winter. This is because at this time of year, their diets switch from being seed-heavy to fruit-centric, so they're less likely to go for seed mixes in bird feeders. But, there is one food you can add to your bird feeder to attract these charming birds to your yard: raisins.
It's actually one of the easiest ways to care for robins in winter. I've personally used this sort of product in my bird feeder and watched so many robins come and visit – though it should be noted they're European robins in my UK garden, but they have very similar needs and diets to American robins, also seeking fruit in the winter months.
Why Put Out Raisins for American Robins?
You should offer raisins for American robins for the same reason why you should consider putting pasta in a bird feeder – it's a high-energy food.
You can make it even easier by using specific fruit bird feed mixes that include raisins (such as this one from Amazon).
'Feeding birds in winter is all about the food that are rich in natural sugars, fat, and carbohydrates,' says Homes & Gardens' Head of Gardens, Rachel Bull.
'These are nutritious food sources that provide quick energy to keep birds warm and fuelled for the coldest, iciest seasons,' she explains.
At this time of year, other natural food sources are also scarce, including insects. That's why fruit is a fundamental part of garden birds' diet.
'They’re especially helpful to put out in the winter because native fruit sources like chokecherry, mulberry, and sumac can be hard to source,' says Maria Kincaid, an ornithologist from FeatherSnap.
American robins in particular are attracted to raisins (you can simply use raisins you purchase from Walmart) because they're small, soft, and palatable.
Having said that, you can make raisins for American robins even more accessible by first soaking them in warm water.
'You can soak your raisins in a bit of warm water for a few minutes prior to setting them out for the birds, which makes them softer and easier to eat, but they can consume raisins right out of the package,' explains Maria.
This is particularly beneficial when there is frost in the garden, making it hard for the birds to look for insects in the frozen ground and offering a more palatable option than frozen berries on shrubs.
You can either lay your raisins out on a bird feeding tray (like this from Amazon) or another surface, or simply add them to your bird feeder. Pair them with mealworms (available at Amazon) for the ultimate American robin winter feast.
'Robins are often ground feeders, so placing a tray feeder with raisins or other fruits on or near the ground is a great idea,' Maria advises.
Just like European robins, American robins are territorial and will make repeat visits to your yard once they spot raisins are on offer. That's why it's a sure way to attract these beautiful birds throughout the winter season.
'Don't forget to clean your bird feeder frequently to inhibit mold growth as well as the spread of infectious diseases in birds,' says Maria.
Rachel is a gardening editor, floral designer, flower grower and gardener. Her journalism career began on Country Living magazine, sparking a love of container gardening and wild planting. After more than a decade writing for and editing a range of consumer, business and special interest titles, Rachel became editor of floral art magazine The Flower Arranger. She then trained and worked professionally as a floral designer. She joined the Homes & Gardens team in 2023, where she heads up the Gardens section, and presents the weekly social series Petals & Roots.
Maria Kincaid is the ornithology research specialist at FeatherSnap, or as she refers to it, the team 'bird nerd'. Originally from New Orleans and having lived all over the country, Maria studied Natural Resource Ecology and Management at Louisiana State University. With a lifelong love of animals and the outdoors, it was easy for her to fall in love with birds, birdwatching, and the science behind it all.
FAQs
Which Garden Birds Like Raisins?
As well as American robins, cardinals, cedar waxwing, and gray catbird enjoy raisins put out in the yard. Adding raisins to your bird feeding station is likely to bring these feathered visitors to your garden throughout the winter season, as this is the time of year they particularly seek berries and fruit.
There are some other tricks you can use to attract these beautiful birds to your yard, including planting one particular shrub to attract American robins.
Shop Winter Bird Care Essentials
Use this bird bath heater to stop your bird bath freezing this winter. It's submersible to keep the water from freezing over.
Keeping a bird feeder fully stocked in winter provides a vital resource. This feeder has a 2.2 lb capacity for bird seed and lots of perching space.
This fruit and nut bird seed contains raisins, ideal for American robins and other garden birds during winter.
