June in Your Backyard: Attracting and Supporting Nesting Birds in Ontario

June is a busy month for backyard birds in Ontario. Many species are deep into their nesting season, with fledglings making their first flights and parents working tirelessly to feed their young. If you’re lucky enough to have a yard, garden, or even a balcony, you can become an important part of this story — and enjoy an up-close look at nature in action.

Why June Matters for Birds

This month marks the height of nesting season for many familiar species including chickadees, robins, cardinals, wrens, and more. Birds are actively searching for food, shelter, and safe places to raise their young. Your backyard can provide exactly what they need to succeed.

American Robin nest. Photo by Heather Kerrison.

How to Attract and Support Nesting Birds

• Offer High-Protein Foods: Parents need energy-rich, protein-packed foods to feed their young. Live or dried mealworms are a favorite of species like bluebirds and chickadees. WBU Barrie offers high-quality mealworms here. You can also consider our Nesting SuperBlend, specifically formulated to support nesting birds. 

• Provide Clean Water: A bird bath with fresh water is essential during warm June days. Moving water, like that from a dripper or fountain, is especially attractive. Check out bird baths and water accessories.

• Install Nesting Boxes: Many birds will take advantage of man-made nest boxes — especially if natural cavities are limited. Wren, chickadee, and bluebird houses should be placed in quiet, sheltered spots. Explore nesting boxes at WBU.

• Guard Against Predators: Use baffles on poles and predator guards on nest boxes to keep eggs and chicks safe from raccoons, squirrels, and outdoor cats (and please keep your cats indoors!). 

• Limit Pesticides and Lawn Chemicals: Insects are a major food source for nestlings, and healthy insect populations depend on a chemical-free environment.

Chickadee parent feeding mealworm to a fledgling. Photo by Kristen Martyn. 

Watch and Enjoy

Birdwatching in June can be especially rewarding. Look for young birds fluttering their wings and begging for food, or adults making frequent trips to and from hidden nests. Keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing active nests. 

With a few simple additions to your outdoor space, you can make a real difference for Ontario’s nesting birds this season and enjoy their beauty and behavior right from your window.

Enjoy!! 

Warmly, 

Heather