Spring is an exciting time for backyard birders. Migration is underway, birds are singing again, and feeders suddenly feel alive after a long winter.
But there’s one common spring mistake I see well meaning bird lovers make every year and it can actually harm the birds they’re trying to help.
The #1 Mistake: Leaving Feeders and Yards “On Winter Mode”
In spring, many backyard birders continue doing exactly what they did all winter:
- Same seed blends
- Same feeder placement
- Same cleaning schedule (or lack of one)
While this works in winter, spring is a completely different season for birds.
Why This Is a Problem in Spring
Spring brings:
- Warmer temperatures
- Increased bird activity
- Breeding and nesting behavior
- Higher risk of disease spread
When feeders aren’t adjusted for spring conditions, they can:
- Spread illnesses like salmonella
- Attract predators during nesting season
- Disrupt natural foraging and nesting behavior
And most people don’t even realize it’s happening.
What Birds Actually Need in Spring
Spring is about energy, safety, and clean resources.
1. Cleaner Feeders (This Is Non-Negotiable)
Birds crowd feeders more in spring especially during migration.
👉 Fix it:
- Clean feeders every 1–2 weeks
- Use a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water)
- Let feeders fully dry before refilling
This alone can make a huge difference.
2. Rethinking Seed Choices
Spring birds rely more on natural food sources:
- Insects
- Buds
- Early berries
Heavy seed mixes with fillers aren’t always helpful now.
👉 Fix it:
- Offer high quality seed (sunflower, nyjer, peanuts)
- Reduce low value fillers like milo
- Consider mealworms for insect eating birds like bluebirds and wrens
3. Smarter Feeder Placement During Nesting Season
Spring is nesting season, which means:
- Vulnerable eggs and chicks
- Increased predator activity
Feeders placed too close to shrubs or trees can unintentionally lead predators straight to nests.
👉 Fix it:
- Move feeders away from dense nesting cover
- Avoid hanging feeders directly over nesting areas
- Keep cats indoors (this is one of the biggest ways to protect birds)
4. Forgetting About Water (The Most Overlooked Resource)
Many backyard birders focus on food but water is critical in spring.
Birds need water for:
- Drinking
- Bathing
- Feather maintenance during breeding
👉 Fix it:
- Add a bird bath or shallow water source
- Change water daily or every other day
- Clean baths weekly to prevent algae and bacteria
This is often more beneficial than adding another feeder.
A Better Spring Birding Mindset
Spring backyard birding isn’t about feeding more it’s about feeding smarter.
Ask yourself:
- Is my yard clean and safe?
- Am I supporting natural behaviors?
- Am I helping birds thrive, not just survive?
Small seasonal adjustments can make your backyard a true refuge for birds during one of the most important times of year.
Final Thoughts
If you remember one thing this spring, let it be this:
What helps birds in winter isn’t always what helps them in spring.
By cleaning feeders, adjusting food, offering fresh water, and being mindful of nesting season, you’re doing more than attracting birds you’re actively protecting them.
And that’s what responsible backyard birding is all about.
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