RSPB says gardeners should leave out a variety of foods for different birds at various times of year
Gardeners are being urged to leave two fruits out on bird tables.(Image: Getty)
September marks the start of the end of peak season for garden birds as sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, robins and numerous other British species watch their offspring leave the nest and begin foraging independently before winter arrives.
To support these young birds throughout the late summer period, gardening enthusiasts are being encouraged to place two specific fruits on their lawns and bird feeding stations.
The RSPB recommends that gardeners provide a diverse range of foods for different bird species throughout the year, from sunflower seeds to raw oats, suet and mealworms.
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Additional garden wildlife specialists emphasise the crucial importance of summer bird feeding.
CJ Wildlife explains that birds require extra energy during summer months to nourish their offspring, dispelling the outdated notion that feeding should only occur during winter or spring, reports the Express.
The specialists explained: “Not long ago, many believed that garden birds should only be fed during the winter months. However, long-term studies have shown that offering food to garden birds year-round is beneficial, supporting declining species and allowing you to learn more about your garden visitors.
“Feeding wild birds during the summer helps busy parents top up feeders and provide all the natural food their young need. Well-stocked bird feeders can be a lifeline for young birds as they learn how and where to find food locally.
“Bird populations are at their highest in the summer, so a regular supply of quality food helps birds get the energy they need amid increased competition for natural foods.”
If you’re looking for an easy and cost-effective way to support our feathered friends, consider leaving out two types of fruit – apples and pears. Simply slice them up and scatter them on your lawn or place them on a bird table or feeder.
The RSPB advises: “You can put out leftovers such as dried fruit, or fruit such as apples and pears. Don’t use anything mouldy or salty, though, and if you have a dog, don’t put out dried fruit – vine fruits, such as raisins, can be toxic to them.
“Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and blackbirds.”
Different species of birds have different feeding habits – some prefer to feed on the ground rather than visiting a bird table.
The RSPB explains: “Blackbirds are too large to access most hanging bird feeders. To attract them to your garden, it’s best to put out food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground.”
This is also true for sparrows, dunnocks and doves, which also favour ground feeding, although they typically consume seeds.
Peckish Bird Food suggests that, in addition to fruit, you could leave out peanuts in September, which are beneficial for certain birds that aren’t migrating.
The report states: “Many of our summer migrants will have gone or be on their way out, but by the end of September, our winter migrants will start to arrive back. The first redwings, fieldfares and bramblings will be seen, particularly along the east coast. Numbers will become more noticeable by October but if we see strong north-easterly winds, more may be pushed through earlier.
“While some birds are preparing to migrate, more sedentary species are getting ready in different ways. Coal tits and jays create stores of food, mainly nuts and seeds, for the cold months ahead. This is when jays are easiest to observe as they can make constant journeys between sources of acorns and a preferred site for hiding them. In lean years with few acorns on the trees, they will often turn their attention to garden peanuts instead.”
If you’re leaving food out for the birds, ensure it’s in an open area, away from hedges or potential cat hiding spots. Birds won’t feed where they feel threatened by predators like cats, or where they could be at risk near feline hiding places.
If you’re using a bird table, remember to clean it regularly with hot, soapy water if it’s flat. This comes after the RSPB recently withdrew flat, open bird tables from sale while it investigates whether these types of feeders could be contributing to the spread of disease.
The RSPB stated: “Bird feeder hygiene is very important. Brush off debris every time you put out fresh food and scrub feeders with mild disinfectant solution weekly.”
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