Gardeners Advised to Support Birds in March with Fruits, Avoid Common Mistakes
As British birds enter the breeding and nesting season, it is crucial for gardeners to support them during this period. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is encouraging gardeners across the UK to help birds like sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, and robins by providing specific fruits on their lawns and bird tables in March, April, and May. While the RSPB recommends offering a variety of foods throughout the year, including sunflower seeds, uncooked oats, suet, and mealworms, leaving out sliced apples and pears can be an easy and cost-effective way to support these birds.
The charity advises against using mouldy or salty fruits, and cautions dog owners not to put out dried fruit as vine fruits like raisins can be toxic to dogs. Thrushes and blackbirds particularly enjoy bruised apples and pears. Bird feeding habits vary, with some birds preferring to feed on the ground rather than from bird tables, such as blackbirds, sparrows, dunnocks, and doves. To attract these ground-feeding birds, it is best to place food on bird tables or scatter it on the ground in an open location away from hedges and potential cat hiding spots.
Birds tend to avoid areas where they feel vulnerable to predators like cats, so it is essential to create a safe feeding environment. For those using bird tables, especially flat ones, regular cleaning with hot, soapy water is crucial for bird feeder hygiene. The RSPB has temporarily withdrawn flat, open bird tables from sale to investigate their role in potentially spreading disease. Regularly brushing off debris and scrubbing feeders with a mild disinfectant solution can help maintain a healthy feeding environment for the birds.
It is important to note that different birds have different feeding habits and preferences, and providing a variety of foods can cater to their diverse needs throughout the year. By supporting British birds during the breeding and nesting season, gardeners play a vital role in preserving local bird populations and biodiversity. The RSPB’s guidance offers practical tips for gardeners to create a bird-friendly environment in their outdoor spaces, fostering a closer connection with nature and contributing to wildlife conservation efforts.
As gardeners embrace these simple yet effective practices, they not only enhance their own outdoor spaces but also play a significant role in supporting the health and well-being of British birds. By providing essential food sources and maintaining a safe feeding environment, gardeners can contribute to the conservation of bird species and promote biodiversity in their local ecosystems. With a little effort and care, gardeners can make a positive impact on the lives of feathered friends and enjoy the sights and sounds of birds thriving in their gardens.