☀️🐦 Summer Feeding During Drought

How to Support Birds in the Finger Lakes When Rain Is Scarce

Summer in the Finger Lakes is usually lush.

Green vineyards.Full gardens.Songbirds in every hedgerow.

But during drought conditions, everything changes.

Grass dries out.Insects decline.Natural water sources shrink.

And birds feel it fast. Here’s how to support backyard birds safely and responsibly during a dry Upstate NY summer.

🌾 Why Drought Is Hard on Birds

When rainfall drops off:

• Insect populations decline

• Native plants produce fewer seeds

• Berries dry out

• Small puddles and shallow streams disappear

Adult birds can forage farther if needed.

Nestlings cannot.

Drought during nesting season is especially difficult because baby birds rely heavily on soft insects for protein and hydration.

💧 Water Is More Important Than Food

During drought, water matters more than seed.

Even in lakefront areas, calm shallow water isn’t always accessible — especially when shorelines recede.

Provide:

✔ A shallow birdbath (1–2 inches deep)✔ Fresh water daily✔ A textured bottom for footing✔ Shade placement to reduce evaporation

If possible, add a small dripper or fountain. Moving water attracts birds quickly.

In drought, water can be life-saving.

🌻 Should You Continue Feeding Seed?

Yes — but thoughtfully.

During drought:

• Natural seeds may be scarce

• Insect populations may drop

• Birds expend more energy searching for food

Black oil sunflower and safflower are excellent summer staples.

Offer smaller amounts more frequently to prevent spoilage in heat.

🐛 Consider Adding Mealworms

Mealworms provide protein when insects are less abundant.

Especially helpful for:

• Bluebirds

• Wrens

• Chickadees

Offer in small trays and refresh daily.

🧈 Be Careful with Suet

Summer heat can cause suet to:

• Melt

• Turn rancid

• Attract unwanted pests

If temperatures stay high:

✔ Use no-melt suet blends✔ Hang in shaded areas✔ Remove if consistently above 80–85°F

During extreme heat waves, seed and water may be more appropriate than suet.

🌬 Finger Lakes Summer Conditions

In drought years, the region can experience:

• Dry lake winds

• Hard soil

• Reduced vegetation

• High UV exposure

Place feeders:

• In partial shade

• Near shrubs for shelter

• Away from reflective glass

Heat + reflection increases stress for birds.

🧼 Clean Feeders More Often

Heat accelerates bacterial growth.

In summer drought:

• Clean feeders weekly

• Rinse birdbaths daily

• Discard any wet or moldy seed

Disease spreads faster in hot conditions when birds congregate at limited water sources.

🌿 Leave Native Plants Standing

Even in drought, native plants outperform ornamental lawns.

If possible:

• Avoid mowing everything short

• Allow native flowers to seed

• Skip chemical pesticides

Native landscapes hold moisture better and support insect life — even during dry spells.

🦅 Watch for Signs of Stress

During drought, you may notice:

• Birds panting (open beak breathing)

• Increased bathing

• Less singing

• Congregating at water sources

These are signs that water access is critical.

🌅 Final Thought

Summer feeding during drought isn’t about overdoing it.

It’s about awareness.

When rain is scarce, small acts matter:

• Fresh water

• Clean feeders

• Protein support

• Thoughtful placement

In the Finger Lakes, birds are part of what makes summer feel alive.

During dry stretches, your yard can become a refuge.

And sometimes, a shallow bowl of water in the shade is the most important thing you offer all season.

🌲 Lakes Eleven Trading Co.

Rooted in the Finger Lakes. Inspired by the wildlife around us.

From feeders to birdhouses to thoughtful outdoor living, we believe every season — even the dry ones — deserves care.