Dogwood trees, recognized for their distinctive blooms, produce bright red, oval-shaped berries, botanically known as drupes. These fruits often prompt curiosity about their role in the natural world, particularly concerning birds and whether they are a suitable food source.
Which Birds Consume Dogwood Berries
Birds consume dogwood berries, with over 60 species known to include them in their diet. These berries are a valuable food source for a variety of avian species due to their widespread availability and nutritional content. Common backyard birds such as the American Robin, Northern Mockingbird, Eastern Bluebird, and Cedar Waxwing frequently feed on them. Other species, including the Northern Flicker, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Gray Catbird, and various woodpeckers like Downy, Hairy, Pileated, and Red-bellied, also seek out these fruits.
Nutritional Benefits for Birds
Dogwood berries offer nutritional benefits for birds. They are rich in fats and calcium, providing a concentrated source of energy. For instance, flowering dogwood berries can contain approximately 24% fat, while Gray Dogwood berries may have a fat content as high as 39%. This high caloric density is particularly beneficial for migratory birds, supplying the necessary fuel for their long journeys, and for resident birds facing colder months when other food sources become scarce. These berries are considered safe and non-toxic for birds.
When Birds Eat Dogwood Berries
Dogwood berries typically mature and ripen in late summer to early fall, generally between September and October. Once ripe, these berries can persist on the tree for up to two months, and sometimes even into the winter season. This extended availability makes them an important late-season and cold-weather food source. As other natural food supplies diminish with the onset of colder temperatures, dogwood berries become an important resource, helping birds sustain themselves during periods of scarcity.
Enhancing Your Yard for Birds
Planting dogwood trees, such as the native Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) or Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum), can enhance your property’s appeal to birds. These trees provide not only a consistent food source through their berries but also offer shelter and nesting sites. Beyond just the fruit, dogwoods contribute to a healthy ecosystem by providing habitat for pollinators and supporting soil health. Creating a bird-friendly habitat involves integrating a variety of native plants that offer diverse food options and protective cover, with dogwood trees serving as a valuable addition to this environment.