Don’t Miss Spring’s Biggest Backyard Bird Show!
Spring is here, and for backyard bird watchers, it's one of the most exciting and colorful times of the year. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of taking down their feeders too early — right when the action is just getting good!
If you’ve ever thought, “The weather’s warm, the bugs are back, the birds don’t need me anymore,” I encourage you to think again. Not only are many of your favorite birds still relying on your feeders, but you’re also on the verge of missing the most beautiful and entertaining show your backyard will host all year.
Let’s break down why spring is not the time to stop feeding birds — and what you’ll get to see if you keep your feeders up.
Migrants Are Arriving — And They're Hungry
Many birds are returning from long migrations, and when they get to your yard, they don’t know where to find food or water yet. Your feeders help them refuel before continuing north or settling down to nest.
Some species, like goldfinches, don’t nest until later in the summer and are strictly seed eaters. Others are still making their way to northern breeding grounds and stop by your feeders on the way. You can provide critical support during this transition — and get to enjoy their dazzling breeding plumage at the same time.
Goldfinches: From Drab to Dazzling
You may think your goldfinches “left for the winter” and just came back, but in much of the country, they’ve been around all along — just in their olive drab winter coats. Now, male goldfinches are molting into their brilliant yellow breeding plumage, and it's a transformation worth watching. Keep those finch feeders filled with Nyjer and sunflower chips — they’ll be feeding all spring and well into summer.
Bonus fact: Goldfinches nest late in the season (usually July) and feed only seeds to their young — no insects needed!
More information on Goldfinch Here
Harris’s Sparrows & Native Sparrows
Winter residents like Harris’s sparrows are also putting on their finest attire before heading north to nest. These striking birds shift from streaky brown-and-black winter plumage to sharp black-and-silver breeding feathers. Keep millet and sunflower seeds available — it’s your last chance to enjoy them before they head out.
You’ll also see brightening colors in white-throated and white-crowned sparrows. Spring is when these often-overlooked sparrows look their best!
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
These flying gems are arriving now! The males usually appear first, and putting out nectar early can help attract them to establish territory in your yard.
- Sugar water recipe: 4 parts water to 1 part sugar. No dye needed!
- Change the nectar regularly, especially in warm weather — think of it like a pitcher of Kool-Aid. Would you drink it after a few days in the sun?
More information on Here
Baltimore & Orchard Orioles
Another showstopper of spring: orioles. Baltimore orioles bring their brilliant orange and black colors, while their smaller cousin, the Orchard oriole, features a burnt-orange chest and a black hood. Both can be attracted with:
- Grape jelly
- Sliced oranges
- Nectar (6 parts water to 1 part sugar)
Look closely — young males can be mottled and hard to distinguish from females.
Summer & Scarlet Tanagers
Summer tanagers glow bright red, while their first-year males sport a mix of mustard yellow and red as they transition into adulthood. They love insects (especially bees), but will often visit oriole feeders for jelly and fruit.
Scarlet tanagers are a breathtaking red with black wings, and though less likely at feeders, they may visit suet or show up nearby if you’re lucky. Watch for the yellowish-green females — the contrast is striking.
Rose-breasted and Blue Grosbeaks
If you’re feeding sunflower and safflower seeds (like you would for cardinals), you’re likely to attract grosbeaks.
- Rose-breasted grosbeaks: Males are black and white with a bold red chest, while females resemble large sparrows.
- Blue grosbeaks: Males take years to reach full color, so you may see them in various stages of brown and blue.
These birds often stop over for a few weeks before continuing north, so don’t miss their visit!
Indigo Buntings
Last but not least — indigo buntings. The males are a deep electric blue, and the females are a subtle brown. Like the blue grosbeak, they love sunflower and safflower seeds. Their beauty under sunlight is unmatched, and catching sight of one is a real treat.
More information on Indigo Buntings Here
Final Thoughts
Spring migration is one of the most magical times at the bird feeder. With vibrant colors, lively courtship, and new arrivals nearly every week, it’s not a time to pack up — it’s a time to lean in.
Keep your feeders stocked, your nectar fresh, and your camera ready. The prettiest time of year at your feeder station is now — don’t miss the show!
Want to stay up to date with what birds to watch for next month? Subscribe to my YouTube Channel and sign up for my newsletter to get monthly bird updates right to your inbox.
Happy birding!
— Mark
YouTube video here
