Hi Karen,

Thanks so much for reaching out to UNH Extension with your inquiry about when it is safe to put out your bird feeder 24/7.

You should be good to go!

According to NH Fish and Game, bird feeders can be out from December 1 to April 1 to avoid problems with bears.

It may take a while for birds to locate feeders and be drawn away from
natural food sources, but cold temperatures and winter storms will bring them in.

I'm including links to a few useful fact sheets for you.

Fact sheet about winter bird feeding: https://extension.unh.edu/resource/winter-bird-feeding-fact-sheet

Fact sheet to avoid problems with bears: https://extension.unh.edu/resource/winter-bird-feeding-fact-sheet

I am also including a link to the NH Audubon as they are the true experts on all things birds! https://nhaudubon.org/

Enjoy watching the birds in your yard!