Fall is typically the time when birdfeeding activity slows down at feeders. Plants produce their seeds, so there is an abundance of natural foods for the birds to eat.

Birdfeeding slows down each fall. Some fall slowdowns are more exaggerated than others. The fall and winter of 2016-2017 was the slowest we have seen since 2006-2007 because of all the rain during the summer. Birdfeeding in the fall of 2011 never slowed down because of the drought and no plants survived to produce seed. Typically the slowdown begins in September and lasts through November.

Plants produce seeds cyclically. One year they produce a lot, the next year they don’t produce as much. Other contributing factors are the amount of summer rainfall we get and how quickly cooler weather sets in for the fall months.

During this slower season, take advantage of the time to clean and repair your feeders to have them ready when the birds return. It is also a good time to examine your poles to see if any rusted pieces need to be replaced.