Wildlife Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Bird Feed for British Wildlife

Introduction

Providing bird feed is a simple yet crucial way to support British wildlife. Birds play a vital role in our ecosystem, helping to control pests, pollinate plants, and spread seeds. By offering them food, we can help them thrive and enjoy the beauty and benefits they bring to our gardens.

Types of Bird Feed

There are many different types of bird feed available, each designed to meet the specific needs of different bird species. Some of the most common types include:

• Insects: Dried mealworms, waxworms, earthworms, and crickets are all excellent sources of protein for birds.
• High-protein sources: Sunflower hearts, suet, and nuts are high in energy and protein, which helps birds build muscle mass and body fat.
• Seeds and grains: Seeds and grains are a good all-around food source for birds and can be offered year-round.
• Berries: Birds love berries, which provide them with essential vitamins and nutrients.

Choosing the Right Bird Feed

When choosing bird feed, it’s important to consider the types of birds you want to attract to your garden. Some birds, like insectivores, prefer insects, while others, like omnivores, will eat a variety of foods. It’s also important to choose a feed that is appropriate for the season. In winter, birds need high-energy foods to help them stay warm, while in summer they can benefit from lighter foods like oats and millet.

Where to Put Bird Feeders

Bird feeders should be placed in a quiet, sheltered spot, away from predators like cats and larger birds. The feeder should also be protected from the weather, so that the food doesn’t get wet or spoiled.

When to Feed Birds

It’s a good idea to leave bird food out year-round, but their needs change with the seasons. In winter and spring, birds need high-protein foods like suet to help them stay warm and feed their chicks. In summer and autumn, they can benefit from lighter foods like oats and millet.

What Not to Feed Wild Birds

While some foods from our kitchens are safe for birds, others should be avoided. Here are some foods that you should never feed to wild birds:

• Large chunks of food: Birds can choke on large pieces of food, so always chop up food into small pieces before offering it to them.
• Junk food: Junk food like crisps and biscuit crumbs are unhealthy for birds and can contain dangerous additives.
• Salty food: Salty foods like bacon rinds can be harmful to birds, as they can’t process high levels of salt.
• Dairy products: Milk can cause gut problems in birds, so it’s best to avoid giving them dairy products.
• Mouldy food: Mouldy food can make birds sick, so make sure to store bird food in a dry place and clean out your bird feeder regularly.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden

In addition to providing bird feeders, there are other things you can do to create a bird-friendly garden. Planting native plants that provide food and shelter for birds is a great way to attract them to your yard. You can also create a bird bath or pond, which will provide them with a place to drink and bathe.

By following these tips, you can help to support British wildlife and enjoy the beauty and benefits that birds bring to our gardens.

Conclusion

Bird feed is an essential part of supporting British wildlife. By providing birds with the right food, in the right place, and at the right time, we can help them to thrive and enjoy the beauty and benefits they bring to our gardens.