As the weather gets colder, it’s important to keep our feathered friends fed and watered – but a quick check of your bird feeder could save you a lot of hassle.
Nicola Roy Spare Time writer
03:00, 19 Nov 2025
Gardening fans will understand the importance of making birds have access to food and water throughout the colder season. During this period, naturally occurring food becomes harder to find, making it vital to provide food that helps birds maintain their energy levels.
However, those with bird feeders should carry out an urgent check to prevent potential problems. This guidance comes from Richard Green, an expert in bird feeding from Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies.
He has warned that feeders can rapidly turn into a ‘hidden hazard’ when conditions are cold and damp.
He’s calling on gardeners to head outdoors and clear away any bird seed or food that has become damp or started to spoil. Richard warned: “Once damp, within 24 to 48 hours, seed can harbour moulds, bacteria and parasites that spread illness among birds sharing the same feeding space.”
Any wet bird seed should be removed from the feeder immediately(Image: Getty)
Signs that bird seed has spoiled include clumping, discolouration, or a musty odour. He continued: “Any black, green or white fuzz on the food means it should be discarded immediately.”
After clearing contaminated seed from the feeder, it must be thrown away straight away. It should never be dried and put back out, as harmful mould spores and bacteria can survive the drying process, reports the Express.
Richard continued: “Birds will sometimes eat damp seed naturally, but feeders concentrate the risk. Cleanliness is what makes garden feeding safe.”
What to feed birds during winter
As the weather turns icy and cold in winter, birds require a significant amount of energy to survive – so it’s vital to feed them the right food.
Nuts and seeds, fat balls, suet and mealworms are all fantastic choices that will attract birds back to your garden. Berries and other fruits, like raisins, are also favoured due to their high sugar content which provides much-needed energy, as per Ark Wildlife.
It’s important to maintain a consistent feeding schedule, as birds will become accustomed to it and keep returning for more.
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