Summer Birds You Want to Attract to Your Backyard

Why Summer is the Best Time for Backyard Birding

Summer is a magical time in the backyard garden. As the days grow longer and the weather warms, a vibrant array of migratory birds returns to our neighborhoods, bringing flashes of brilliant color and cheerful songs. Attracting these summer visitors is about creating a welcoming habitat that provides food, water, and shelter during their busiest season.

1. The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

Perhaps no bird is more synonymous with summer gardens than the hummingbird. These tiny, iridescent acrobats hover from flower to flower with astonishing speed. Plant tubular, nectar-rich flowers like trumpet vine, bee balm, and cardinal flowers to attract them. They are especially drawn to the color red.

In addition to native plants, hang a clean nectar feeder filled with a simple sugar-water solution (four parts water to one part white sugar). Change the nectar frequently in the summer heat to keep it fresh and safe for your visitors.

2. The American Goldfinch: Summer’s Golden Charm

Often called the “wild canary,” the male American Goldfinch sports brilliant yellow plumage with black wings during summer. These cheerful birds are strict vegetarians and love seeds — especially sunflowers, coneflowers, and asters. Leave seed heads on your flowers as they dry out in late summer for a natural food source.

Offer Nyjer (thistle) seed or black oil sunflower seeds in specialized tube feeders. Their bouncy flight pattern and sweet, twittering calls are a quintessential part of the summer garden experience.

3. The Northern Cardinal: A Bold Splash of Red

While cardinals are year-round residents in many areas, their striking red plumage looks especially beautiful against the lush green backdrop of a summer yard. Cardinals prefer platform feeders or hopper feeders filled with black oil sunflower seeds and safflower seeds. Providing dense shrubs for nesting and a reliable birdbath will keep cardinals visiting daily.

4. The Importance of Water: Your Summer Birdbath

During the hot summer months, fresh water is just as important as food. A birdbath is a magnet for all types of birds — including robins, orioles, and warblers that might not visit your seed feeders. Keep the water shallow (no more than two inches deep) and add flat stones for birds to stand on. Moving water, such as a small fountain or dripper, is even more attractive as the sound draws birds in from a distance.

Create Your Summer Bird Oasis Today

By offering native plants, the right seeds, and fresh water, your backyard can become a thriving hub of avian activity this summer. Grab your morning coffee, sit back, and enjoy the colorful show right outside your window!