Two essential bird feeder tasks all gardeners must do NOW before winter

WITH winter fast approaching, birds in your garden will soon struggle with the plummeting temperatures.

So if you like having the winged visitors in your outdoor space, there’s two essential tasks you must do now.

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Gardeners must do two essential bird box tasks before winterCredit: Getty

From October 1, it’s legal to remove old nesting material and unhatched eggs from nest boxes.

Any eggs removed, however, must be destroyed as it is illegal to keep them.

This window runs until January 31, and it is the only time of year when the law permits it.

And it provides the perfect opportunity to prepare the small space for any birds seeking refuge over winter.

Richard Green, a bird feeding specialist from bird food supplier Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, says: “Cleaning in October or November is ideal because birds have usually finished breeding, and it avoids disturbing any late nesters.

“It also means the box is ready to provide shelter during cold winter nights, when species like wrens and tits use them for roosting.”

Here, Richard reveals his expert cleaning and removal tips that ensure your boxes are ready for birds to roost safely – and give next year’s chicks the healthiest possible start.

He says: “Even if a box wasn’t used for nesting this year, a clean bird box can still be useful as small birds will often use them for warmth on freezing winter nights.

“Adding clean nesting material like dry leaves or wood shavings after cleaning can make them even more inviting for roosting.

“Cleaning out a nest box after the breeding season also helps protect next year’s chicks.

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“Old nests can harbour fleas, mites, droppings, and even dead young, all of which increase the risk of disease and parasites for the next brood.

“By giving boxes a proper clean, you’re giving future chicks the healthiest possible start.”

Richard revealed that the safest way to clean a nest box is to remove all materials and rinse the box with boiling water to kill off parasites and their eggs.

Once dry, the box can be put straight back up.

A bird-safe disinfectant can also be used, but insecticides and flea powders should be avoided as they are harmful to birds.

The bird expert concludes: “Many garden birds will happily reuse a nest box, but they are much more likely to return if it’s been cleaned.

“Annual cleaning removes dirt and old nesting debris, while also improving the box’s insulation and lifespan.”