Preparing Your Backyard for Fall Bird Migration

Each fall, millions of birds travel thousands of miles across North America, heading to warmer climates for the winter. For many of these species, backyard feeders and habitats provide crucial stopovers along their journey. By preparing your feeders and yard, you can help support migrating birds — and enjoy an unforgettable season of birdwatching.

At Trail Optics, we’re passionate about making birdwatching smarter and more rewarding. Here’s how to get your backyard ready for migration season.

Why Fall Migration Matters for Backyard Birdwatchers

Migration is one of the most dynamic times of year for birdwatching. In just a few weeks, your feeders may see birds that never appear in other seasons. Supporting these species ensures they have the energy to continue their journey, and it gives you a chance to witness unique visitors up close.

The Best Foods for Migrating Birds

Migrating birds need calorie-dense foods to fuel long flights. Stock your feeders with:

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds – A universal staple for sparrows, cardinals, chickadees, and grosbeaks.
• Nyjer Seed – Attracts finches, redpolls, and siskins passing through.
• Suet – Provides high-energy fat, perfect for woodpeckers and nuthatches.
• Fruits – Apples, oranges, and berries attract robins, waxwings, and thrushes.

Create a Bird-Friendly Stopover

Food isn’t the only thing migrating birds need. Help them feel secure with:

• Fresh Water: Keep birdbaths filled and clean. A heated bath ensures water doesn’t freeze as temperatures drop.
• Shelter: Dense shrubs and native plants provide safe cover and natural food sources.
• Multiple Feeders: Different feeder types attract a wider variety of birds while reducing crowding.

Don't forget, check maps to see what types of birds might be flying over your area. We love using the Bird Migration Explorer from the National Audubon Society.

Smart Feeding During Migration

Fall migration can be fast-paced, with flocks appearing one day and gone the next. Trail Optics smart feeders help you keep up by:

• Sending real-time notifications when new birds visit.
• Capturing photos and videos so you can identify species you may miss in person.
• Providing a consistent food supply with durable, weather-resistant designs that keep seed fresh.

With smart technology, you’ll never miss the excitement of migration season.

Fall bird migration is a fleeting but magical time for backyard birdwatchers. By preparing your feeders with the right foods, offering fresh water and shelter, and keeping up with maintenance, you’ll turn your yard into a reliable stopover for weary travelers.

At Trail Optics, our smart bird feeders make it easier than ever to enjoy migration season, giving you a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest spectacles.