Feeding Wild Birds In Late Summer: Tips For Attracting Feathered Friends
As summer winds down, feeding wild birds can be a fun way to enjoy the last few warm months while helping our feathered friends out. Late summer is an interesting time for birds—some are getting ready for migration, while others are sticking around, preparing for the cooler weather. This makes your backyard a great pit stop for them, especially as natural food sources start to dry up. With a little effort, you can keep a variety of birds visiting your yard, and it's a rewarding way to enjoy nature right at home.
When it comes to food, offering the right snacks is key. Natural options like insects and berries are starting to fade, so birds will appreciate the boost. Black-oil sunflower seeds and Peanuts (Shelled or Unshelled) are a big hit with a wide range of birds, like chickadees and cardinals, while nyjer (or thistle) seed is perfect for goldfinches. Don't forget about suet—it’s a high-energy option that woodpeckers and other insect-loving birds go crazy for. Keep your feeders stocked with a good variety, and you'll have birds flocking to your yard in no time.
Water is another big draw for birds in late summer. They need it for both drinking and bathing, especially when it's hot out. If you don’t have a birdbath yet, it’s worth setting one up. If you already do, just make sure it stays clean and full. Adding a small fountain or dripper can be a game changer—the sound and movement catch birds' attention from far away. Just remember to keep an eye on the water level because it can evaporate quickly in the heat. This will also help the birds when they do their yearly molting in the fall!!
Creating a bird-friendly environment is also about providing shelter. The heat can be tough on birds, so they’ll be looking for shady spots to cool off. You can help by planting native shrubs and trees, which offer not only shade but also seeds, fruits, and even insects for them to snack on. Plants like coneflowers and sunflowers are great for this—they look pretty and offer food. Having dense plants or bushes around also gives birds a safe place to hide from predators.
Finally, keep things clean. Dirty feeders or birdbaths can lead to illness among birds, so it's worth the extra effort to wash everything every few weeks. Get rid of any old food that looks moldy or spoiled, and you’ll also keep pests like squirrels and rodents from hanging around. A clean space means happy, healthy birds, and it keeps them coming back for more. My favorite cleaning solution is Very Hot Water and Dawn Dishsoap. If you need something stronger you can add some bleach to the hot water and let it soak.
- Crinda Williams