American Redstart in February
Where American redstarts are in February, whether they are nesting, and the best foods to offer right now.
February in the American Redstart's year
February still feels like deep winter, but days are lengthening and the first stirrings of the breeding season begin — resident birds start singing on mild mornings and some early nesters are already claiming territories. Late-winter storms can be the hardest feeding days of the year.
For the American Redstart specifically, February is a winter 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 February
- Southern states
- absent
- Mid-latitudes
- winter visitor
- Northern states & Canada
- absent
In February, American redstarts are absent in the South, winter visitor 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 February
American redstarts are not nesting in February. The season runs May–July at mid-latitudes.
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 February
- Migrates to the tropics
Fans its bright tail to flush insects. A common migrant at birdbaths in wooded yards.
Don't let feeders run empty during late-winter storms; birds burn enormous energy staying warm. This is also the month to clean and repair nest boxes before early nesters move in.
Full American Redstart diet guide → · Best feeder for American redstarts →
Watching American redstarts this month
American redstarts are settled and predictable in February, 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 February?
In February, American redstarts are absent in the South, winter visitor across mid-latitudes and absent in the North.
Do American redstarts nest in February?
No — American redstarts typically nest May through July at mid-latitudes.
What do American redstarts eat in February?
Migrates to the tropics.
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.