Do you know your backyard birds? I bet you know many of them like the cardinal (red bird), Blue Jay, Bluebird, Dove, Goldfinch, and Brown Thrasher (State Bird). These are a few of the most common birds in your backyard, but every Fall (and Spring) we get an influx of migratory birds that are completely fascinating.
Fall Migration starts in late August and usually lasts through October. However, September is usually the peak migration. Many of the birds that go further north like the Baltimore Oriole or the Rose-breasted Grosbeak spend their nesting summer in the north-to-middle U.S. but pass through our area every Fall and Spring heading to Florida, Central and South America. If you want to attract a Baltimore Oriole put out jelly, orange halves, and even live mealworms. If you want to attract Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, include fruit and seeds in your feeder like a seed cylinder or stackable.
Photo By John Harrison.
Other birds spend their summer here and head further south for the winter like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. The scouting hummingbirds start arriving in mid-to-late March and most hummingbirds have gone to Central or South America by November 1. If you want to attract hummingbirds, put out nectar (mix of 4 parts water to 1 part sugar). If you have a hummingbird that does not migrate south which is unusual but does happen, continue to put out nectar as this does not entice them to stay and they may need the additional food support.
Some birds prefer the cold and spend their winter in our areas like the White-throated Sparrow or Junco. They head further north during the summer months and come back to Athens in the fall. They like to eat millet and sunflower chips and will even come to the tray or hopper feeder.
Photo By Cephas.
While I enjoy watching birds year-round, migration season is especially interesting. I am always watching and waiting for that new bird that I haven’t seen to come to my feeder or area. If you are interested in attracting birds or learning more about birds, like and follow us @wbuofathensga or stop by the Wild Birds Unlimited store at 1850 Epps Bridge Pkwy, Ste. 203. We can help you find the perfect feeder, nesting box, and bird food to attract and enjoy birds in your yard without a lot of mess.
Wild Birds Unlimited of Athens
Susan Van Houten, Owner