August is a month of transformation in the birdwatching world. As the summer heat reaches its peak, many backyard birds are busy raising their final broods of the year or growing a fresh set of Feathers. In this guide, we will explore what is happening in your yard right now. Additionally, we’ll provide tips on how to keep your feeders safe, clean, and bustling with activity.
Which Backyard Birds Are Still Nesting in August?
In August, you might still spot parent birds diligently feeding their young. This is a fascinating time, as some species time their breeding to coincide with the abundance of late summer food, while others are busy raising a second or even third brood.
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Top Birds That Nest in Late Summer
Several bird species delay their breeding until mid or late summer, taking advantage of the availability of their preferred foods. Here are some notable examples:
- American Goldfinch: Known as one of the latest nesters, they wait for thistle, aster, and other seeds to mature. Nesting peaks from July through September, and the young are fed regurgitated seeds.
- Cedar Waxwing: Their breeding is perfectly timed with the ripening of summer fruits, including cherries and blackberries.
- Red Crossbill: Nesting for this species depends on the development of conifer cones, which provide essential food for their young.
Which Birds Raise Multiple Broods?
When food is abundant and the season stretches long, some bird species are capable of producing two or three broods. Here are a few you might encounter:
- Mourning Dove: Their breeding season extends from February through October, making it common to see fledglings and nestlings in August.
- American Robin, Gray Catbird, and Northern Cardinal: These familiar backyard birds typically raise two or three broods each year, with fledglings often appearing in late summer.
- Acorn Woodpecker: In years with a robust acorn crop, they may experience a second breeding peak in late summer or early fall.
Which Birds Renest After Nest Failure?
Some bird species will attempt a replacement brood if their first nest fails due to predators or severe weather. For instance, the Tufted Titmouse usually completes its breeding by early July, but if they experience a failed attempt, you might still see them carrying insects to a second nest in August.
Why Are Bald Birds at Feeders? Understanding Summer Molt and Energy Demands
During the months of July through September, many common backyard birds undergo their annual molt. This natural process can lead to a temporary decrease in activity and a patchy or dull appearance. Understanding this phase is crucial for bird watchers, as it is a normal part of their life cycle.
Blue Jay: A Dramatic Molt Pattern
Blue Jays are particularly known for their striking molt pattern. Interestingly, they sometimes shed all their head Feathers simultaneously, resulting in a completely bald appearance for about a week. This transformation can be surprising to those observing them at feeders.
Northern Cardinal: The August Bald Look
Northern Cardinals also frequently lose all their head Feathers at once, creating a noticeable bald look, especially in August. This change can be quite striking and is a common sight for bird enthusiasts during this time of year.
American Goldfinch: From Bright to Dull
After completing their late breeding season, American Goldfinches undergo a complete molt. Males transition from their vibrant lemon yellow plumage to a more muted olive brown and dull yellow for the winter months. This change marks a significant shift in their appearance.
Other Finches: Hidden During Late Summer
In addition to Goldfinches, House Finches and similar species also experience molting in late summer. As Feather gaps can impair their flight ability, these birds often remain hidden and prefer to visit feeders during the early morning or late evening. To catch a glimpse of them, check the shrubs near your feeders during these times.
Five Safe and Effective Bird Foods for August
As summer reaches its peak, high-protein and high-energy foods are essential for supporting busy parent birds and those undergoing molting. In the sweltering heat of August, it's crucial to select foods that resist spoilage, ensuring your Feathered friends stay nourished.
1. Mealworms
Mealworms are an excellent protein source during the critical nesting and molting periods. Live mealworms not only provide moisture but are especially beneficial in hot weather. For convenience, dried mealworms serve as a great alternative. These tasty treats attract a variety of birds, including bluebirds, wrens, robins, chickadees, and woodpeckers.
2. Black Oil Sunflower Seed
Black oil sunflower seeds are the gold standard for summer feeding. Rich in fat and protein, these seeds help birds meet the increased energy demands of molting and parenting. Additionally, the shell offers some protection against spoilage. This food attracts Northern Cardinals, Blue Jays, chickadees, finches, and many other common backyard visitors.
3. Peanuts
Peanuts are a high-energy food that supports Feather growth during this vital time. To reduce the choking risk for young birds, offer shelled, broken pieces. These nutritious snacks attract chickadees, nuthatches, woodpeckers, and Blue Jays.
4. Nyjer Seed
Nyjer seed is essential for attracting American Goldfinches, especially at their nesting peak. This food is particularly favored by American Goldfinches and Pine Siskins, making it a must-have in your bird feeding arsenal.
5. Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit provides both water and essential vitamins on hot days. Consider offering orange halves, grapes, or apple slices to entice your Feathered friends. This delicious option attracts orioles, robins, and other fruit-loving species.
A Note on Suet in Hot Weather
It's important to note that raw suet can melt and turn rancid quickly in the August heat. Melted fat may coat Feathers, negatively impacting flight and insulation. Therefore, raw suet is generally not recommended for summer use.
If your feeder station is particularly active and food is consumed quickly, you may consider offering commercially prepared no-melt suet cakes formulated for summer. Even with these products, be sure to place the suet feeder in the shade, provide only an amount that birds will finish within a day, and promptly clean up any fallen residue.
Essential Bird Feeder Cleaning Rules for Extreme Heat
When it comes to Summer Bird Feeding, the guidelines are straightforward: offer small amounts, refill frequently, and prioritize the safety of your Feathered friends.
Photo by Bryan Hanson on Unsplash
During warm and humid weather, damp seed can mold quickly. This mold can lead to aspergillosis, a serious respiratory infection that can be fatal for birds. Therefore, it’s crucial to take preventive measures.
To avoid this issue, only put out as much seed as birds will consume within one or two days. If you notice that the seed at the bottom of the feeder appears swollen or soft, discard it immediately and thoroughly clean the feeder.
How to Effectively Clean Seed Feeders
To maintain a healthy feeding environment, clean your feeders at least once a week. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water, or opt for hot soapy water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow the feeder to dry completely before refilling. Additionally, regularly sweep up seed shells and droppings from the ground beneath the feeders to prevent ground mold from forming.
How to Keep Hummingbird Nectar Safe in Hot Weather
Hummingbird feeders require even more frequent care. In hot conditions, aim to change the sugar water and clean the feeder daily if possible. If you notice cloudy nectar, it has likely begun to ferment and should be replaced immediately.
If maintaining a daily cleaning routine feels overwhelming, consider investing in a dishwasher-safe Smart Hummingbird Feeder. This can significantly reduce your workload while ensuring the nectar remains safe. For instance, the BirdSnap Smart Hummingbird Feeder is designed for easy cleaning and reliable operation throughout the summer months.
https://birdsnap.com/products/smart-hummingbird-feeder
Have your feeder cameras captured a bald Blue Jay or a patchy Northern Cardinal during their molt? Share your late summer snapshots and connect with other bird enthusiasts documenting these fleeting yet remarkable changes in August.
FAQ
What Should I Feed Birds During the August Molt?
During the molt, providing high protein and high energy foods is crucial for birds. Offer mealworms, black oil sunflower seeds, shelled peanut pieces, and nyjer seed. These foods not only support Feather growth but also help birds meet the high energy demands of replacing worn plumage.
Photo by Dulcey Lima on Unsplash
Why Do Blue Jays and Northern Cardinals Look Bald in Late Summer?
Have You Ever noticed Blue Jays and Northern Cardinals appearing bald in late summer? This is due to their annual molt, during which they sometimes lose all their head Feathers at once. This bald appearance typically lasts about a week and is a normal part of the molting process. Rest assured, new feathers will grow in soon.
When Do American Goldfinches Nest and Why Is It So Late?
American Goldfinches have a unique nesting schedule, breeding from July through September, much later than most backyard birds. They time their breeding to coincide with the peak availability of seeds from thistle, aster, and other late summer plants. This strategy ensures that there is enough food for their young.
How Often Should I Clean Bird Feeders in Hot Weather?
In hot, humid weather, it’s essential to clean seed feeders at least once a week. Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water or hot soapy water. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and allow the feeder to dry completely before refilling. This practice helps prevent mold growth.
Can I Put Out Suet for Birds in August?
While you might be tempted to offer suet, raw suet is not recommended for August. It melts quickly in the heat, turns rancid, and can coat Feathers. If you want to provide suet, opt for a commercially prepared no-melt suet cake designed for summer. Be sure to place it in the shade and offer only what birds will eat in one day.
How Often Should I Change Hummingbird Nectar in Summer Heat?
In the summer heat, it's best to change hummingbird nectar daily if possible. High temperatures can cause sugar water to ferment and grow bacteria quickly. If the nectar appears cloudy, it has already spoiled and must be replaced immediately to ensure the health of the birds.
Are Any Birds Still Nesting in August?
Yes, several species continue to nest in August. American Goldfinches, Cedar Waxwings, and Red Crossbills are known as late-season nesters. Additionally, Mourning Doves, American Robins, Gray Catbirds, and Northern Cardinals often raise second or third broods that fledge in late summer.
How Can I Attract American Goldfinches to My Feeder in Late Summer?
To attract American Goldfinches to your feeder during late summer, offer nyjer seed in a specialized nyjer feeder. August is the peak nesting season for these birds, and fresh nyjer seed is the most effective food for drawing them to your yard at this time.
How Do I Prevent Seeds from Getting Moldy in My Bird Feeder During Humid Weather?
To prevent seeds from becoming moldy, put out only enough seeds for birds to eat in one or two days. Regularly check the feeder and remove any seed that looks swollen or feels soft. Additionally, clean the feeder weekly and sweep up debris under the feeder to prevent ground mold from spreading.
Do Birds Need Protein?
Absolutely! Protein is essential for birds, especially during both nesting and molting periods. Parent birds require it to feed their growing young, and all birds need it to produce new Feathers during the molt. Mealworms and shelled peanuts are two excellent high-protein options for feeding in August.
References for Backyard Bird Nesting in August
For those looking to deepen their understanding of backyard bird nesting habits, the following resources provide valuable insights and information:
Safe Summer Bird Feeding Q&A with David Bonter
Should I Take My Feeder Down When the Weather Starts to Warm Up?
Bird Feeding 101: Clean Bird Feeders to Keep Birds Healthy
Late Summer Birding in Your Woodlands
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