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Feeding the birds – advice from the RSPB
When to feed wild birds?
Although winter feeding benefits birds most, food shortages can occur at any time of the year. By feeding year round, we are giving birds a better chance to survive the periods of food shortage whenever they may occur.
Spring and summer
Good hygiene is vital, or feeding may do more harm than good.
Autumn and winter
Put out food and water on a regular basis. In severe weather, feed twice daily if possible: in the morning and in the early afternoon. Birds require high energy (high fat) foods during the cold winter weather. They need to maintain their body reserves to survive the frosty nights. Use only good quality food and scraps. Always adjust the quantity given to the demand, and never allow uneaten foods to accumulate around the feeders. Once you establish a feeding routine, try not to change it.
Hygiene – Vital Precautions:
- Monitor your food supply carefully. If the food takes days to clear either from containers or the ground, reduce the amount of food offered
- Use a birdtable or hanging feeders. A ground feeding tray is preferable to putting food directly on the ground, since it is easier to keep clean. Food on the ground should all be eaten before nightfall. Rats are attracted to leftover food and often carry diseases, which can affect birds or humans
- Keep birdtables and surrounding areas clean and free from droppings or mouldy food