Summer is a very exciting season for bird fanatics. Spring migration brought a variety of birds that we don't see during the winter back into the area for us to enjoy during the warmer months. Additionally, birds have been nesting since March which means a lot of interesting courtship behaviors can be seen among pairs. And of course we can't forget the babies! All of this  means you should keep your eyes peeled and your feeders filled. You never know what might come through your yard . Here are a few cool birds to look out for:

The Gray Catbird is a member of the mockingbird family, meaning you can sometimes hear them imitating other bird songs in addition to their own unique sounds. Their distinctive catlike "mew" call is what gives them their name. Like the Baltimore Orioles below, they enjoy fruit. Put out some fresh orange halves in a treat feeder or a tray to bring these guys around.

Baltimore Orioles are beautiful, boldly colored birds that we tend to only see during migration seasons. They pass through on their way to and from their breeding grounds further north of us. However you can make your yard an inviting rest stop for them by putting out fresh fruit, jelly, nectar, and mealworms. Planting fruiting and flowering plants in your yard is also a great way to attract these cool birds.

A croud favorite: the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird! Ruby throated Hummingbirds are the only species of hummingbird we see here on the east coast. Nevertheless they continue to fascinate us all with their bright plumage, quick movements, and adorable size. The first hummers of the season begin arriving around mid-April and will remain all summer long. A hummingbird feeder full of tasty nectar is the easiest way to attract these fascinating little birds. Adding flowering plants to your yard helps as well.

A beautiful bird indeed, the Indigo Bunting is very striking with its bright blue plumage. Sometimes I wonder why they don't call these guys bluebirds instead of our year-round bluebirds. Like other finch species, Indigo Buntings enjoy nyjer and especially sunflower chips. This means your finch feeders and your no-mess blends will be attractive for them. You can also put out live mealworms for them since they eat a large amount of insects as well.

These are just a handful of the many species of birds that will be migrating through the area this spring. On top of the excitement of seeing new species in your yard and at your feeders, we also have baby birds to look forward to seeing as well, like this baby wren in the photo above. You may see parents bringing back food from your feeders to nests elswhere in your yard to feed their young. Once the young fledge, the parents will sometimes even bring their babies to the feeder with them to show them where food can be found. Watching the parents feed the young and knowing you are helping to support the next generation of birds is a super rewarding part of the hobby. So make sure to keep your feeders filled with a variety of foods for all the different species to choose from. Adding a birdbath to your yard will also help to bring in birds that may not be as excited about seed. After all, everyone needs a drink of water every once in a while!

You can stop in and ask any of our staff about migration and options for bringing in a wider variety of birds to your yard! We're always happy to help!