American Redstart in August
Where American redstarts are in August, whether they are nesting, and the best foods to offer right now.
August in the American Redstart's year
August feels like summer but the year has turned. Southbound migration is quietly underway, many adults are molting into fresh plumage, and family groups are breaking up. Late nesters are still feeding young in the North while southern birds are already drifting toward wintering grounds.
For the American Redstart specifically, August is a summer month of relative routine, with the species settled into its seasonal pattern across its range. Across the 56 states and provinces where American redstarts occur, what the bird is doing this month depends heavily on latitude — the details below break it down by band.
Where American redstarts are in August
- Southern states
- absent
- Mid-latitudes
- summer breeder
- Northern states & Canada
- absent
In August, American redstarts are absent in the South, summer breeder across the mid-latitudes, and absent in the northern states and Canada. That north–south split is the defining feature of this month: where you live changes which version of this bird you're looking at.
Nesting in August
American redstarts are not nesting in August. The season runs May–July at mid-latitudes, and up to a month later in the North.
Outside the nesting season, American redstarts put their energy into feeding and flocking rather than territory and young — which is exactly what makes them easier to watch and attract this month.
What to feed in August
- Leafhoppers, caterpillars, flies and beetles
Fans its bright tail to flush insects. A common migrant at birdbaths in wooded yards.
Molting birds look scruffy and often skulk — don't be surprised if familiar visitors briefly vanish. Keep water fresh in the heat.
Full American Redstart diet guide → · Best feeder for American redstarts →
Watching American redstarts this month
American redstarts are settled and predictable in August, which makes this a good month to learn the bird's routine — same feeders, same perches, same times of day.
The state guides below show exactly where in your region American redstarts are expected this month and which native plants hold them in a yard.
American Redstart month by month
American Redstart by state
Frequently asked
Where are American redstarts in August?
In August, American redstarts are absent in the South, summer breeder across mid-latitudes and absent in the North.
Do American redstarts nest in August?
No — American redstarts typically nest May through July at mid-latitudes.
What do American redstarts eat in August?
Leafhoppers, caterpillars, flies and beetles.
Sources
- American Redstart — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- American Redstart life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- American Redstart — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.