In the winter months, natural food sources for birds and wildlife grow more scarce. If you have enjoyed Christmas dinner, and have plenty leftover, you can put some of it into the garden to help out robins and other birds as their winters can be harsh.
However, there are some parts of Christmas dinner that should never be donated to animals as it can make them sick. Richard Green, a bird feeding specialist from bird food supplier Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies has shared his top tips for keeping birds happy and healthy over winter. Christmas dinner leftovers are a great way to do this – as long as you’re careful.
Richard said: “Christmas dinner leftovers can be a great alternative way to support robins during the winter.
“Meat scraps such as small pieces of turkey or chicken can provide the protein they need to stay strong.
“In addition, milder foods like cake or biscuit crumbs are a good option, as they are easy for robins to eat and provide extra calories during cold spells.”
If you decide to give your leftovers to the birds, make sure you leave some items off the menu. Richard said: “Foods like fatty or salted meats, gravy, and anything sugary or chocolate-based are harmful to birds.
“Too much salt can cause dehydration, and sugar can disrupt their natural diet. Always make sure you’re feeding leftovers in moderation, and steer clear of anything that may be too rich or processed.”
To make sure the birds can make the best of the food you’re giving, make sure it’s in small enough pieces for them to pick up. You can put crumbs on a small tray near shrubbery which is where robins usually forage naturally.
If you want to avoid other pests like rats and mice making your garden their home, clear away any uneaten scraps within a couple of hours.
Richard said: “Foods like mild cheese, dried fruit, and cake crumbs can be a delightful treat, but always make sure to avoid large, inedible chunks. If you’re unsure about something, it’s always safer to stick to simple, natural foods like mealworms or suet pellets.”
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