Feeding Birds in Summer: A Complete Guide to Supporting Wildlife During Warm Months

Feeding Birds in Summer: A Complete Guide to Supporting Wildlife During Warm Months

Introduction

Feeding birds in summer is just as important as during colder months. While natural food sources are more abundant, summer brings its own challenges, such as heat, dehydration, and the demands of raising chicks. By providing supplemental food, fresh water, and a safe feeding environment, you can support birds during this busy season and enjoy the activity and beauty they bring to your garden.

This guide will explore the best practices for feeding birds in summer, the types of food they need, and tips for maintaining a bird-friendly environment.

Why Feed Birds in Summer?

1. Supports Breeding Birds

Parent birds need extra energy to care for their chicks.

2. Helps During Droughts

Extended dry periods can make it difficult for birds to find water and moist food.

3. Encourages Garden Activity

Feeding birds attracts a variety of species, adding life and movement to your garden.

4. Reduces Competition

Supplemental feeding helps reduce competition for natural food sources.

5. Provides Nutritional Variety

Birds benefit from the variety and reliability of food provided in feeders.

The Best Foods for Birds in Summer

1. Protein-Rich Foods

Mealworms: Perfect for insect-eating birds like robins and starlings.
Insects: Dried or live insects provide essential nutrients for growing chicks.

2. Seeds and Grains

Sunflower Seeds: High in oil and energy, suitable for many species.
Nyjer Seeds: Great for finches and other small birds.

3. Fruits

Options: Apples, pears, oranges, and berries provide natural sugars for energy.

4. Soft Foods

Examples: Oatmeal, soaked raisins, and chopped fruit for easy digestion.

5. Unsalted Nuts

Best For: Larger birds like woodpeckers and jays.

Tips for Feeding Birds in Summer

1. Provide Fresh Water

Offer clean, cool water for drinking and bathing.
Refill birdbaths daily to prevent stagnation and contamination.

2. Avoid Spoiling Food

Avoid suet and fat-based foods that can melt in the heat.
Provide smaller quantities of food to reduce waste and spoilage.

3. Use the Right Feeders

Choose feeders with good ventilation to keep food fresh.
Opt for shaded areas to protect food from direct sunlight.

4. Feed Early in the Day

Offer food in the morning when birds are most active.

5. Keep Feeding Areas Clean

Regularly clean feeders and remove leftover food to prevent disease.

Common Birds You’ll See in Summer

Robins

Diet: Mealworms, fruits, and seeds.
Behavior: Active in gardens and often seen hunting for insects.

Blackbirds

Diet: Berries, worms, and soft fruits.
Behavior: Ground feeders that forage near shrubs.

Finches

Diet: Nyjer seeds and sunflower hearts.
Behavior: Often seen flocking to seed feeders.

Sparrows

Diet: Mixed seeds, grains, and insects.
Behavior: Social birds that enjoy both feeders and ground food.

Tits (Blue Tits, Great Tits)

Diet: Peanuts, seeds, and insects.
Behavior: Agile and often spotted clinging to feeders.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden in Summer

1. Plant Native Flora

Grow plants that produce seeds, berries, and nectar for natural bird food.

2. Add Water Features

Install a birdbath, small pond, or fountain to provide fresh water.

3. Provide Shelter

Create shady areas with trees, shrubs, or climbing plants.

4. Offer Nesting Materials

Place twigs, grass, and soft materials in safe spots for nesting birds.

5. Keep Cats Away

Use barriers or motion-activated devices to protect birds from predators.

Benefits of Feeding Birds in Summer

1. Supports Breeding Success

Helps parent birds meet the nutritional demands of raising chicks.

2. Encourages Biodiversity

Attracts a variety of bird species, enriching your garden’s ecosystem.

3. Promotes Pest Control

Insect-eating birds reduce garden pests like caterpillars and aphids.

4. Provides Entertainment

Watching birds in summer adds joy and activity to your outdoor space.

5. Fosters Connection with Nature

Feeding birds strengthens your relationship with wildlife and the environment.

Mistakes to Avoid When Feeding Birds in Summer

1. Using Suet in Hot Weather

Fat-based foods melt and spoil, attracting pests and causing mess.

2. Offering Moldy Food

Spoiled food can harm birds and spread disease.

3. Neglecting Water

Birds need fresh water as much as food, especially during hot weather.

4. Overfilling Feeders

Provide smaller amounts to avoid waste and spoilage.

5. Ignoring Feeder Placement

Place feeders in shaded, safe locations to protect birds and food.

DIY Summer Bird Feeding Projects

1. Fruit Feeders

Hang skewered fruits like apples, oranges, and berries on hooks or trees.

2. Homemade Mealworm Dishes

Use shallow trays to offer mealworms in a clean, accessible way.

3. Water Stations

Set up small bowls of fresh water in shaded areas for easy bird access.

Conclusion

Feeding birds in summer is a rewarding way to support wildlife while enjoying their vibrant activity in your garden. By providing protein-rich foods, fresh water, and a safe environment, you can help birds thrive during the busy breeding season and beyond. With these tips and practices, your garden will become a summer haven for feathered visitors, fostering biodiversity and natural beauty.