Why feed birds in summer?

That question is often asked. There is plenty of seed and insects during the summer months. Conventional wisdom has it that we should feed birds when natural food is scarce.

But keep in mind that birds will visit feeders all year long, and summertime is the best season to watch their antics from your deck or patio as you sip a beverage or relax in comfort.

Some of the best moments can occur when overworked parent birds bring their fledglings to feeders and baths. Summer is the best time to spot birds not seen here during the winter. It's also the time to see brilliant breeding plumage such as those of bright yellow male goldfinches (Their feathers turn a dull olive color in the winter.) 

And who hasn't thrilled as chickadees and Downy Woodpeckers let you come so close—within a few feet—as they feed on seed or suet.

During breeding season, insects are a main food source. Many gardens today contain non-native species that lack the numbers and diversity of caterpillars—which makes it harder for parent birds to locate food for their chicks. Suet and mealworms provide a handy substitutes.

Summer is a great time to offer birds a place to drink or bath. You'll see a variety of birds, including those that don't usually come to feeders. It's a delight watching robins run along the ground, their heads cocked, looking for earthworms and grubs. After they eat, they'll head to your bath to drink or splash around.

Keeping feeders and baths clean during the summer is very important. Wet seed can easily get moldy in hot summer days. The mold can sicken birds. Throw out contaminated seed and replace with fresh seed.

Change the water in baths daily to provide fresh water for the birds and prevent mosquito larvae from hatching.

Naturalist George H. Harrison says it best: "Perhaps the greatest advantage of summer bird feeding is that the warmer temperatures encourage up-close feeding. Birds become accustomed to your presence and will eat and bathe only a few feet way while your enjoy the calls and songs ... To me there is no better way to enjoy a summer day."