Spring brings more wildlife into gardens, prompting many people to put out food for birds during nesting season.Alex Evans and Ambarish Awale Trainee Trends, Showbiz and Lifestyle Writer
21:05, 04 May 2026
Experts have urged people to scatter chilli powder in their gardens for one particular reason
As gardens come to life in late spring, wildlife activity begins to surge, with birds, insects and small mammals all competing for space and food. Many households take the opportunity to support nature during this busy seasonal period, particularly as nesting gets underway.
Gardeners are being encouraged to try an unusual but effective method this May to help protect bird food from being taken by other animals.
The advice centres on adding chilli powder to food left out for birds, a step that experts say can deter opportunistic visitors such as squirrels while ensuring birds still have access to vital nutrition during nesting season, Express reports.
At this time of year, birds rely heavily on a steady food supply as they raise their young. However, increasing pressures in recent years have made that more difficult. Habitat loss and a decline in natural food sources have contributed to noticeable drops in bird numbers, with many gardeners reporting fewer sightings than in the past.
As spring brings more wildlife into gardens, experts are urging people to try a simple method to stop other animals stealing bird food.(Image: Getty Images)
Data from the RSPB has highlighted this trend through its Big Garden Birdwatch, which tracks bird populations in gardens across the UK.
One major factor is the sharp fall in insect numbers, with some estimates suggesting a decline of up to 80 percent over the past two decades.
This reduction has a direct impact on birds, which depend on insects as a key food source, particularly during breeding periods.
As a result, many households are stepping in to provide supplementary food. Common options include mealworms, suet, fat balls and fruit such as apples, all of which can attract a wide variety of garden birds.
Bruised apples and pears are especially appealing, while small amounts of household leftovers like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs can also be used, although these should be given sparingly.
According to the RSPB, adding chilli powder to bird food can deter other animals without affecting birds.(Image: Getty Images)
The difficulty comes when other animals move in. Squirrels in particular are known to raid feeders, often consuming large quantities of food intended for birds. This not only limits what is available but can also discourage birds from returning.
According to guidance from the RSPB, chilli powder offers a simple solution. When added to bird food, it creates a barrier that deters mammals without affecting birds themselves.
The organisation explains: “Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food. Birds aren’t bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can’t put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone.”
This works because birds lack the receptors that detect the heat from chilli, meaning they can eat the food without discomfort. Mammals such as squirrels and foxes, however, are sensitive to the compound and will typically avoid it after a brief encounter.
The approach allows gardeners to continue supporting bird populations during a critical period while reducing the likelihood of food being taken by other wildlife.
As nesting season reaches its peak, ensuring birds have reliable access to food is seen as increasingly important, particularly in light of the broader environmental challenges affecting their natural diet.
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