Wild Bird Food
Feeding wild British birds can help support them, especially in the colder months when natural food is scarce. Here are some of the best foods to offer:
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Seeds and Grains:
- Black Sunflower Seeds: High in fat and energy, great for most garden birds.
- Nyjer Seeds: Tiny seeds that are particularly attractive to finches.
- Mixed Bird Seed: Look for high-quality mixes without too much filler (like dried peas or lentils).
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Peanuts: Whole or broken peanuts are a favorite, but always provide unsalted, and avoid feeding them during nesting season in whole form to prevent choking in chicks.
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Fat Balls and Suet Pellets: These provide essential fats, especially in winter. Look for fat balls that don’t contain mesh netting, which can entangle birds.
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Mealworms: These offer high protein and are loved by robins and blackbirds. Both dried and live mealworms are good options.
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Fruit: Apples, pears, and berries attract thrushes, blackbirds, and robins. Scatter chopped fruit or hang it on branches.
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Kitchen Scraps: Small amounts of grated cheese, porridge oats, and bits of cooked potato or rice can be offered occasionally but avoid salty foods.
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Water: Fresh water for drinking and bathing is crucial, especially in frosty weather.
By providing a variety of these foods, you'll help attract a range of species to your garden while supporting their nutrition throughout the year.
