Summer is the perfect time for bird watching. Perhaps you have extra time now that the school year is out, or maybe you just tend to be outdoors more often given the warmer weather. The more relaxed pace of this time of year inspires many to revisit some of their hobbies that may have fallen by the wayside, bird watching included. Make the most of your bird watching endeavors this summer with these tips.

Start Early

The best time to spot active birds either in flight or flitting around is in the morning, ranging from just before dawn until 10 am. Once summer is in full swing, you’ll also find that this is when the weather tends to be the coolest, making it more  hospitable for birds and bird watching.

Bring out the Binoculars

Many people think summer isn’t ideal for birding because of the heat, but they’d be surprised to learn that many wild songbirds actually stick around. The key is to know where to spot them. For this, you’ll have to solicit the help of your trusty binoculars. There are plenty of binoculars for birders, with budget-friendly models priced at under $200 to premium binoculars in the $2,000 plus range. Top brands include Nikon, Leica, Athlon Optics, Bushnell, Occer, and Vortex Optics among many others.

Stay Still

You know how moving around in the heat tends to make you even hotter? The same is true for birds. They like to find a nice shady area and stay put. Adopting the same strategy could be beneficial for you if you’re looking to spot a few songbirds this summer season. Park yourself in the shade and be patient; the birds will make their way to you.

Welcome Them With Water

It’s important to stay hydrated at all times of the year, but especially when temperatures tip upwards in the summer. Create a little oasis in your backyard with a water feeder for birds. Put birdbaths in an easy-to-access place, perhaps near a bird feeder. This will encourage the birds to eat, hydrate, and visit your backyard.

Know Their Tactics

Summer is prime time for wing molting for certain birds. Sporting new flight feathers may make them less powerful at times, which could compromise their ability to avoid predators. This often causes birds like sparrows, warblers, and thrushes to hide in the vegetation until they feel more confident in their ability to take flight.

Valley Farms Wild Finch Mix Wild Bird Food

$19.50

Bluebird & Oriole Buffet Bird Feeder

$22.80

Valley Farms Fruit Nut & Berry Wild Bird Food

$18.40

There’s never a bad time to bird watch and there’s certainly never a bad time to feed the birds! Keep them well nourished with clean bird seed and mixes from Valley Farms ®!