Gardeners are being urged to try an unusual but highly effective method to help birds this August, by sprinkling chilli powder and even pouring Tabasco sauce in their gardens. It might sound strange, but the trick is actually a safe and simple way to protect bird food from being stolen by other animals.
Birds across the UK have had a tough time over the last few years. Many gardeners have reported seeing fewer birds than usual, and experts say a drop in insect populations is partly to blame. The decline in insects, thought to be as much as 80% over the last two decades, is leaving birds with far less to eat.
That’s why wildlife experts are encouraging people to support local birdlife by putting out extra food in their gardens, especially during late summer when natural food sources can be scarce.
But there’s one big problem: squirrels and foxes often get to the food first.
According to advice from the RSPB, chilli powder and pepper sauce are simple tools to stop this from happening.
While these spicy ingredients are completely harmless to birds, most mammals hate the smell and taste and will stay away.
The charity says: “Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food.
“Birds aren’t bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can’t put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone.”
To help garden birds, try putting out a mix of peanuts, seeds, mealworms or waxworms on a bird table or feeder.
Soft fruits like apples and pears (especially ones that are bruised) are popular with blackbirds and thrushes.
You can also add small amounts of pastry, cooked rice or breadcrumbs, but the RSPB advises keeping household scraps to a minimum.
Once your food is ready, sprinkle a generous amount of chilli powder over it or add a few drops of Tabasco sauce.
The birds won’t notice the heat, but squirrels and foxes definitely will.
This natural method allows birds to feed safely without being disturbed and avoids the need for any harmful repellents or traps.