Plummeting temperatures present challenges for birds as supplies become scarce, but the experts have revealed the one food mistake that could drive robins away from your garden this October.
According to Jaymi Heimbuch, a specialist from Better with Birds, feeding robins bread gives them a false sense of fullness and can cause digestive issues.
“It’s basically junk food for birds — fills them up with no nutritional value,” Jaymi told The Express.
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Like ducks, bread contains no necessary proteins and won’t provide birds with the varied diet they need to survive harsh winters. Throwing a slice of bread on the lawn might seem like an easy bird-feeding win, but it can actually cause more harm than good.
High-energy foods you should offer instead include suet, sunflower hearts and peanuts, which are particularly valuable for garden favourites like tits, finches and starlings.
Maria Saifutdinova//Getty Images
“Autumn is an important time for feeding wild birds, as some species will prepare for long migrations and need extra calories to fuel their journey, while others stay behind and depend on reliable food sources as natural supplies start to run low,” says Richard Green from Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies.
“Feeding birds with high-energy foods now gives all birds the best chance of staying healthy through the colder months.”
As well as monitoring the food you serve, it’s also worth cleaning bird feeders to prevent a grime build-up.
“Using hot, soapy water or a wildlife-safe disinfectant helps remove mould or spoiled food left over from summer,” adds Richard.
And don’t forget: “Position feeders in sheltered spots to protect against wet and windy weather, and consider adding extra feeders to spread out visiting birds and reduce crowding.”
You’ll keep your feathered friends happy in no time.
15 bird feeders to buy right now
Eva Solo Window Bird FeederCredit: RSPB
Perfect for garden owners or flat-dwellers alike, this small feeder can perch on a window pane, and is ideal for small birds. An easy way to watch the birds, this feeder is an attractive – and rewarding – piece for the home.
I love Robins feederCredit: RSPB
A feeder great for multiple birds to eat from at once and lightweight enough to hang off small branches. It has a domed roof providing protection from the elements, and a smaller base for the food to keep it dry.
The Natural Wood Company Oak ‘Applecore’ Bird Feeder
Now 29% Off
Credit: The Natural Wood Company
This oak bird feeder from The Natural Wood Company is lovely. The varnished oak with hanging chain will fit perfectly into both a vibrant and minimalist garden.
Garden Locker Cast Iron Wall Mounted Bird Feeder
Try this cast iron, wall mounted bird feeder. Its decorative fixing will work especially well with a fountain or small pond nearby. The base grants a lot of room for feeding birds.
Gardman Aura Small Bird FeederCredit: Gardman
A lantern-style feeder designed for small birds only. Its contemporary style will fit well into any modern garden.
Eva Solo Bird Feeder, Set of 2Credit: John Lewis
The set of bird feeders allows each bird its personal space. Their simple dome and ball shape will suit almost any garden, and works best sheltered under hanging trees.
Gardman Heavy Duty Squirrel Safe Peanut FeederCredit: Gardman
Want a bird feeder but tired of the squirrels getting there first? This heavy duty, squirrel proof feeder is a perfect solution.
Meripac Limited Meripac Window FeederCredit: Amazon
This window feeder comes with practical suction pads to easily stick onto windows and smooth surfaces.
Garden Selections Vintage Cast Iron Heart Shaped Bird Seed Feeder
Now 43% Off
This vintage bird feeder is a great housewarming gift. Its deep bowl allows for an array of different snacks and treats for the local birds.
Dewdrop Window FeederCredit: Gardening Direct
This raindrop feeder is a pretty edition to any outdoor space. Fitted with both suction pads and a hanging string, this feeder is handsome and versatile.
John Lewis & Partners Bird Feeder
Now 60% Off
Credit: John Lewis
This feeder from John Lewis is great for an array of positions and types of food. Hang it on a tree, a balcony or a wall. Attach an apple for the birds using the handy spike.
Tree hanging fat ball feederCredit: Crocus
These feeders at Crocus are designed to hold fat or suet balls – high energy food for little birds. You can arrange multiple feeders in and around the same tree, as shown here, to create a bird gathering.
Thompson Morgan Kingfisher Hanging Mealworm Bird Feeder With Plastic Canopy
Now 72% Off
Credit: Thompson & Morgan
You’ll have regular customers in no time with this generous one-stop-shop, with the dome-shaped roof of this feeder perfect for protecting the birds, and a large base to fit a good amount of food.
Lutyens Swing Seat FeederCredit: Gardening Direct
Shaped in the style of a park bench, this piece will complement any garden.
Garden Locker Twin Copper Bronze Bird Feeder
This tall feeder fits two types of bird feed, to satisfy a variety of different feathered friends. Hang this on a tree in the garden or nearby perch, and you’ll have them flocking to you in no time.
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she’s busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
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