Summer Bird Food

Why feed birds in summer?

Many people assume that birds don’t need extra food during summer, since natural sources like insects, seeds, and berries are more abundant. However, the warmer months bring unique challenges. Parent birds are working hard to feed their chicks, and many species begin their annual molt, which demands extra protein and energy. By offering carefully selected summer bird food, you can support local wildlife and enjoy more birds visiting your garden.

Feeding birds is often associated with winter, but there are several reasons why it’s just as important to provide food in the summer:

• Extra energy for nesting birds – Summer is a peak breeding season. Birds need high-protein foods to feed their young and sustain themselves.
• Support during molting – Birds shed and regrow feathers after breeding. A protein-rich diet supports healthy feather development.
• Hydration and nutrition – Hot weather can dry up natural food sources. High-energy food and access to water help birds stay nourished.
• Encouraging birds to stay – Reliable food sources attract a greater variety of species, giving you more opportunities to observe them up close.

Best summer bird food options

Not all bird food is suited for warm weather. The best summer bird food is high in protein, easy to digest, and resistant to spoiling in the heat.

Protein-rich foods:

• Mealworms for birds – A favourite among insect-eaters like robins, blue tits, and blackbirds. Rich in protein and energy.
• Sunflower hearts – No husks, just nutritious seed. Easy for all birds to eat, especially fledglings.
• Suet pellets – A clean, no-melt energy source that’s safer in summer than traditional suet blocks.

Seeds and nuts:

• Seeds – Blends rich in millet, sunflower hearts, and other favourites keep birds healthy and active.
• Peanuts – Crushed or small-sized peanuts are ideal for adult birds feeding chicks.
• Nyjer seeds – A hit with goldfinches and siskins. Packed with oil and easy to digest.
• Millet – Loved by sparrows and other small birds. Light, nutritious, and perfect for summer feeding.

What to avoid feeding birds in summer

• Fatty suet blocks – These can melt in the heat, becoming greasy and potentially harmful to feathers. Use suet pellets instead.
• Stale or moldy food – Spoils quickly in warm conditions and can be dangerous to birds. Always check food freshness.
• Large seeds or whole peanuts – Difficult for chicks to eat safely. Opt for crushed or small options during nesting season.

Tips for feeding birds in summer

1. Use the right feeders – Mesh feeders for peanuts, tube feeders for seeds, and trays for mealworms.
2. Clean feeders often – Bacteria thrive in heat. Clean weekly to ensure a safe feeding environment.
3. Provide fresh water – Offer shallow dishes or birdbaths, ideally in shaded spots. Refill daily.
4. Feed early or late – Morning or evening feeding avoids midday heat and spoilage.
5. Keep feeders shaded – Helps prevent food deterioration and keeps feeding spots cooler for birds.

Create a bird-friendly garden this summer

By offering suitable food and maintaining clean feeders, you help garden birds stay healthy during their most active season. A well-fed bird is a thriving bird — and with the right summer food, you can attract robins, tits, finches, and many others to your garden.

At CJ Wildlife, we’ve selected the best bird food for summer to meet the needs of nesting, molting, and young birds. Explore our summer bird food range today and turn your garden into a haven for wildlife.