Is it okay to leave bird feeders outside in the summer? This is what you need to know

Bird feeders are a common sight in many backyards, whether you enjoy bird watching in your yard or simply want to support local wildlife by providing healthy food. However, when the seasons change, you may be wondering if giving it up is a smart idea. The answer is not as simple as yes or no; It depends on your own taste and the environment you live in, taking into account factors such as climate and other species in the area.

In general, it is not dangerous or necessary to leave bird feeders year-round. Having a bird feeder in your yard is beneficial for the birds as well as you as a bird watcher, no matter the season. It makes sense to try to bird as much as possible during the summer months because the good weather means spending more time outside. However, there are some disadvantages to take into account. This is all the information you need to determine whether to leave feeders in the summer.

Read more: Humane Ways To Keep Critters Out Of Your Yard

Pros And Cons Of Bird Feeders In The Summer

Most of the benefits of placing bird feeders outside in the summer are more beneficial to the observer than to the birds. Because natural food supply for birds is abundant in summer. If you’re prone to mosquito bites, you know that insects come out in large numbers whenever the weather warms, providing birds with an ever-available source of protein.

A bird’s diet should of course be varied, so adding a little extra seeds and nuts to the feeder can help. The primary benefit of having a feeder is that more birds will visit your property. This can include species that you can only see in summer and you can also get an introduction to cute birds to eating from a feeder.

But this feeder will also attract other organisms. If you live in an area where bears are frequently seen, your chances of encountering them cannot be reduced, as they can harm nearby birds. The feeder may discourage birds from foraging for food on their own, as some people fear, but there is not enough reliable data to support this theory. Birds eat a wide variety of foods and will be happy to collect seeds from your feeders and plenty of insects from the ground.

Ways To Support The Bird Population During The Summer

Birds benefit most from a well-stocked bird feeder during the winter and early spring when natural food supplies are limited, but summer offers plenty of opportunities to help your feathered friends. If you decide to leave a bird feeder on, it is imperative to keep it clean. Food spoils more quickly in the hot months, making birds very sick. Until the temperature drops, stick to dry birdseed and stay away from suits, which tend to spoil more quickly in hot weather. Adding seasonal food to the feeder will help provide the birds with the nutrition they need.

Providing avian cooling solutions is one of the most important things you can do. A birdbath will have a place for them to restore and regulate their body temperature. If you have a feature that includes moving water, that’s even better. Another strategy to keep birds cool is to provide shade, so be sure to locate any feeders in an area that receives plenty of shade throughout the day. Whether you leave your feeder outside or not, you can incorporate some of these ideas into your yard to turn your home into a summertime bird sanctuary.

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