American Redstart in September
Where American redstarts are in September, whether they are nesting, and the best foods to offer right now.
September in the American Redstart's year
September is the peak of fall migration. Huge numbers of birds move south on cold fronts, mixed flocks form, and summer residents slip away almost unnoticed. Young birds making their first migration appear in places the species rarely visits.
For the American Redstart specifically, September is a fall 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 September
- Southern states
- absent
- Mid-latitudes
- mostly absent (migration only)
- Northern states & Canada
- absent
In September, American redstarts are absent in the South, mostly absent (migration only) 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 September
American redstarts are not nesting in September. 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 September
- Leafhoppers, caterpillars, flies and beetles
Fans its bright tail to flush insects. A common migrant at birdbaths in wooded yards.
Migrants passing through may stop at feeders for a day and never return — September rewards watching closely. Natural seed and fruit crops are abundant, so feeder traffic can be uneven.
Full American Redstart diet guide → · Best feeder for American redstarts →
Watching American redstarts this month
American redstarts are settled and predictable in September, 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 September?
In September, American redstarts are absent in the South, mostly absent (migration only) across mid-latitudes and absent in the North.
Do American redstarts nest in September?
No — American redstarts typically nest May through July at mid-latitudes.
What do American redstarts eat in September?
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.