Finches are tiny bursts of color and song, making them a joy to have in your backyard. But if you want them to stick around, you need to know when (and how) to feed them.
So, when should you put out finch feeders? The answer depends on a few factors: your location, the type of finches you want to attract, and when they migrate. Some bird lovers keep their feeders up year-round, while others time them for peak finch activity.
Best Times to Put Out Finch Feeders
Finches move around depending on the season, so the best time to hang your feeder depends on your region and the species you want to attract.
Spring & Early Summer – Peak Finch Season
Spring is an excellent time to put out finch feeders. As the weather warms up, finches become more active, looking for food and nesting spots. Migratory species are passing through, and resident finches are eager for an easy meal.
If you put out a finch feeder in early spring, you’re more likely to attract bright-colored males as they search for mates.
Late Summer & Fall – A Finch Slowdown
As summer progresses, natural food sources increase. Plants and flowers provide an abundance of seeds, so finches may visit feeders less frequently. But don’t worry—once fall arrives and plants start dying back, finches will be back looking for food.
Winter – A Lifeline for Hungry Birds
Winter can be a tough time for finches. Many species migrate, but some (like Goldfinches) stick around. With fewer insects and seeds available, a stocked finch feeder can be a lifesaver. If you want finches in your yard all year long, keeping your feeder up through the winter is a great idea!
When to Put Out Finch Feeders Based on Your Location
Your region plays a big role in when finches arrive and how long they stay.
- If you live in the southern U.S. – Finches migrate through in mid-to-late winter. Putting out a feeder during this time gives them a much-needed energy boost for their journey north.
- If you live in the northern U.S. or Canada – Many finches stay year-round. Late winter and early spring are the best times to put out feeders, as birds start nesting and need extra food.
How to Attract More Finches to Your Yard
Putting out a feeder is just the first step, here’s how to make your backyard irresistible to finches.
1. Use the Right Seeds
Finches are picky eaters! They prefer small, high-energy seeds like:
- Nyjer (Thistle) Seeds – Their absolute favorite!
- Black Oil Sunflower Seeds – Packed with nutrients.
Make sure seeds are fresh, finches will ignore stale or moldy ones.
2. Pick the Perfect Feeder Spot
Finches like feeling safe while they eat. Place your feeder:
- Near trees or shrubs for cover.
- Away from windows to prevent collisions.
- High enough to keep squirrels away.
3. Keep It Clean
Rain and humidity can make seeds clump together, making them hard to eat. Clean your feeder every couple of weeks and replace old seeds.
4. Add Color to Your Yard
Finches love bright colors! Planting flowers like coneflowers, sunflowers, and zinnias will attract them naturally.
5. Be Patient
Finches can take a while to discover new feeders. If you’re not seeing birds right away, don’t worry! Removing other feeders temporarily or adding colorful ribbons nearby can help draw them in.
Finch FAQs
Yes, simply use a large soda bottle with holes cut in the side. Use dowel rods through the holes for the birds to stand on and then hang them in your garden.
Eye level is good, between 5 and 6 feet high. That is a natural feeding height for the birds and you can see it as well.
Final Thoughts
So, when should you put out finch feeders? The best time is early spring, but it depends on your location and which finches you want to attract. If you keep your feeder up year-round, you’ll likely have finches visiting every season. With the right seeds, a safe feeder location, and a little patience, your backyard will soon be filled with these cheerful, colorful birds.
