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Bird Feeding in the Summer Some people only like to feed the birds in the winter and some only in the summer. There is no wrong way to do it but by only feeding during one season you may be missing a variety of beautiful bird species that are only around during your 'off' season. Here in Ohio there are many species that are around only in the summer months and many that are only here for the winter. By feeding year round you will see a wider variety of the 400 species of birds we have here in Ohio. While birds do have a wider variety of natural food sources in the summer they will still come to your feeder. Some year round birds, like the American Goldfinch (Featured in May's Newsletter), are much more attractive in the summer months and can be fun to watch change colors. Remember, throughout the year birds acquire the greater part of their nourishment from natural sources not from us!
Not only do you see different bird species in the summer but you will see birds in different parts of their life cycle. Your chance of seeing baby or juvenile birds increases if you feed the birds in the spring and summer.
Some changes to your food in the summer are necessary. If you like to feed suet you need to be conscious of it going bad or spoiling in the heat. Look for 'No-Melt' suet's or switch to seed cakes in the summer. Many people also like to feed fruits or jellies in the summer. If you do that keep in mind insects enjoy these too-so keep a watchful eye out for yellow jackets and ants. It is important to remember to be extra careful that the food you offer is fresh, only offer what can be consumed in a day or two, and keep feeders clean. In doing so, you can help ensure this delightful added dimension to your backyard wildlife enjoyment is a healthy pleasure for the birds too!
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American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch, also called the wild canary, is a favorite bird among Ohioans. It is a year round resident but it may be a little harder to recognize in the winter time. That is because it molts into a duller, greenish-yellowish-brownish color in the winter time. The males also lose there black cap and in general look more like their female counter parts in the winter. However, come spring time the males molt again and get their beautiful bright yellow coloration back.
This species is nests very late in the season, typically not starting until late June or early July, when most other songbirds are finishing with breeding. The late timing is thought to be due to the availability of suitable nesting materials and seeds for feeding young. Goldfinches are known to eat weed speeds, which are typically more readily available in late summer.
Human activity has generally benefited the American Goldfinch. Deforestation by humans creates open meadow areas which are the preferred habitat of the American Goldfinch. It is often found in residential areas, attracted to bird feeders installed by humans, which increases its survival rate in these areas.
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Hummingbird Migration Map WBC Mason eNewsletters View past issues of the WBC of Mason eNewsletters here. Or sign up to receive them---
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