Feeding wild birds in your garden is a rewarding way to connect with nature while providing essential support to local bird populations. By offering a variety of food, fresh water, and a safe feeding environment, you can attract a diverse range of birds and help them thrive throughout the year.
Providing the Right Food
Offer a variety of foods, including seeds, nuts, suet, and fruit, to attract different bird species.
Use pre-mixed seed blends to ensure birds receive a balanced diet.
Provide soft fruits like plums, oranges, and pears, which are loved by many birds.
Plant natural food sources such as berry-producing shrubs and seed-bearing plants.
Ensuring a Fresh Water Supply
Install a bird bath or shallow bowl to provide clean drinking and bathing water.
Keep the water source clean to prevent the spread of diseases.
Place water bowls in a safe, open area where birds can spot predators.
Maintaining Cleanliness
Regularly clean feeders to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Store bird food in a cool, dry, and rodent-proof container.
Clear fallen seeds and debris from feeding areas to prevent mould and pests.
Choosing the Best Feeder Location
Position feeders high enough to keep them out of reach of predators like cats.
Keep feeders near shrubs or trees for birds to take shelter if needed.
Rotate feeder locations to prevent waste build-up and deter rodents.
What Not to Feed Birds
Avoid salted foods, as they can dehydrate birds.
Do not offer cooked food, which can attract unwanted pests.
Avoid loose peanuts—use a mesh feeder to prevent choking hazards.
Refrain from giving dry bread, as it lacks nutrition and can pose a choking risk.
When to Feed Birds
Provide food year-round but adjust the quantity based on seasonal needs.
Feed birds more in winter when natural food sources are scarce.
Offer protein-rich foods like mealworms in spring to help birds raise their chicks.
Keeping Your Feeders Safe and Hygienic
Wash feeders with a mild disinfectant and rinse thoroughly before refilling.
Keep food supplies fresh and stored in airtight containers.
Regularly clean under feeders to discourage rodents and mould growth.
By following these tips, you can create a bird-friendly environment in your garden that provides essential nourishment and safety for wild birds all year long.
