When it comes to feeding birds in the summer, it’s easy to underestimate the significance of this activity. While winter bird feeding is more commonly acknowledged, providing food for our feathered friends in the warmer months is equally vital. In summer, birds expend a tremendous amount of energy nesting, breeding, and caring for their young, making a consistent food source crucial for their survival.
Diverse Seed Options for Summer
When selecting the best summer bird feed, diversity is key. Offering a variety of seeds ensures that you attract a wide range of bird species to your feeders. Black oil sunflower seeds are a popular choice, as they are high in energy and appeal to various birds, including finches, cardinals, and chickadees. Additionally, nyjer seeds are ideal for attracting finches, while safflower seeds appeal to cardinals and other songbirds. Mixing seeds allows you to cater to different bird preferences and attract a more diverse avian population to your yard.
The Benefits of Suet for Summer Feeding
During the summer months, suet can be a valuable addition to your bird feeding regimen. Suet, which is a mixture of fat and other ingredients, provides birds with a concentrated source of energy, making it an excellent food choice for nesting and fledgling birds. In warm weather, opt for no-melt suet cakes to prevent spoilage and ensure that birds have access to a nutritious food source throughout the season.
Feeding Fruit to Summer Birds
Incorporating fresh fruit into your bird feeding routine can attract a diverse array of bird species to your yard. Birds such as orioles, thrushes, and tanagers are particularly fond of fruit, making it a delightful and nutritious option for summer feeding. Offer sliced oranges, apples, or even bananas in platform feeders to entice fruit-loving birds to visit your feeding station.
Attracting Hummingbirds with Nectar
For bird enthusiasts keen on attracting hummingbirds during the summer months, nectar is a must-have on the menu. Homemade nectar, made from a simple mixture of water and sugar, can be provided in hummingbird feeders to entice these tiny, iridescent birds to your yard. Remember to change the nectar regularly to prevent spoilage and keep your feeder clean to ensure the health of visiting hummingbirds.
The Appeal of Mealworms for Summer Birds
Mealworms are a protein-rich treat that many bird species, including bluebirds, chickadees, and nuthatches, eagerly consume. These versatile insects can be offered live, freeze-dried, or roasted to cater to the preferences of different bird species. Mealworms are especially beneficial during the summer months when birds require extra protein to support breeding and molting activities.
Adding Seeds with Shells to Your Feeder
While shelled seeds are a popular choice for bird feeders, incorporating seeds with shells can also benefit summer birds. Birds such as sparrows, juncos, and jays are skilled at cracking open seed shells to access the nutritious contents inside. Including seeds like cracked corn, peanuts, and sunflower seeds with shells can provide essential nutrients while offering birds a stimulating foraging experience.
The Role of Water in Summer Bird Feeding
Alongside providing a diverse array of foods, offering a clean and accessible water source is crucial for attracting birds to your yard during the summer months. Birds require water for drinking and bathing, especially in hot weather when hydration is essential. Consider installing a birdbath or a water feature in your yard to create a welcoming oasis for feathered visitors seeking refreshment.
Shade and Shelter for Summer Feeding
When setting up your bird feeding station for the summer, ensure that it offers ample shade and shelter for visiting birds. Providing shade helps to keep feeders cool and prevents food from spoiling quickly in the sun. Additionally, offering nearby trees or shrubs where birds can perch and seek refuge from predators enhances the safety and comfort of birds frequenting your feeding area.
Regular Maintenance of Feeders in Summer
To ensure the health and well-being of summer birds, regular maintenance of feeders is essential. Clean feeders regularly to prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria that can harm birds. Additionally, keep seed and suet offerings fresh by replacing them frequently to maintain their nutritional value and appeal to visiting birds.
Supporting Native Birds Through Summer Feeding
By choosing the best summer bird feed options and creating a bird-friendly environment in your yard, you can play a vital role in supporting native bird populations. Feeding birds during the summer months not only provides them with essential nutrients but also fosters a deeper connection with the natural world and cultivates a sense of stewardship for avian species in your local ecosystem.
Enjoying the Beauty of Summer Bird Watching
Ultimately, feeding birds in the summer is a rewarding and enriching activity that allows you to observe the beauty of these winged creatures up close. Whether you’re mesmerized by the vibrant plumage of a hummingbird or charmed by the melodious songs of finches, summer bird watching offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the wonders of nature and create lasting memories in your own backyard.
