Supporting Birds During Fall Migration: Why Feeding Matters

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, a remarkable journey is taking place above us. Each fall, millions of birds begin their migration south, traveling hundreds or even thousands of miles to reach their wintering grounds. This seasonal migration is one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events, but it’s also one of the most challenging times of the year for our feathered friends.

Migration requires enormous amounts of energy. Tiny birds like warblers and hummingbirds often fly for hours or even days at a time, sometimes crossing vast stretches of land and water without rest. To fuel these journeys, birds need to consume food rich in fat and calories think of it as stocking up on high-octane fuel for their long-distance flights. Without reliable food sources, many birds may struggle to complete their migration.

This is where backyard bird feeding plays an important role. By offering food during the fall months, you provide migrating birds with the fuel they need to successfully continue their journey. Bird feeders act like convenient rest stops along a highway—safe, dependable, and energy-rich.

At Wild Birds Unlimited, we specialize in providing the highest-quality bird foods to meet these needs. Our exclusive seed blends, suet, and cylinders are formulated to deliver the energy birds need most during migration. Whether it’s black oil sunflower seeds for finches and chickadees, suet for woodpeckers, or nectar for hummingbirds, we have the right foods to support birds in this demanding season.

Birds also rely on clean water for drinking and bathing, which helps them maintain healthy feathers for flight. Wild Birds Unlimited offers a variety of heated bird baths and easy-to-clean designs, making it simple to provide this essential resource as the weather cools.

It’s not only migrants that benefit. Local year-round birds also appreciate the extra nourishment as they prepare for colder months. By keeping feeders full in fall, you’re helping them build fat reserves that will keep them warm and healthy when winter arrives.

Feeding birds in the fall isn’t just about helping them survive, it’s also an incredible opportunity to observe migration up close. You may spot species that only pass through your area for a few weeks each year, making your backyard a front-row seat to one of the greatest spectacles in nature. Wild Birds Unlimited store owners and team members love helping customers identify these seasonal visitors and choose the best foods and feeders to attract them.

By partnering with nature and keeping your feeders stocked this season, you’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of migrating and resident birds alike. At Wild Birds Unlimited, we’re passionate about bringing people and nature together and fall migration is the perfect time to make your backyard a safe haven for birds on their incredible journeys.

 


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