Gardening expert Monty Don has urged people to keep feeding birds using flakes of cheese and breadcrumbs if conventional bird food isn’t available
Sophie Buchan Money and Lifestyle Writer and Ben Lyons Content Editor
06:00, 29 Mar 2026
Monty Don (Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for The Stroke Association)
Gardening authority Monty Don has encouraged the public to “keep putting out food” throughout the spring months. The well-known presenter highlighted that purchasing specialised bird food isn’t necessary, as households probably already possess appropriate alternatives.
The broadcaster and horticultural expert noted in his April 2024 blog: “Most birds will be nesting and laying eggs and hatching young over the course of the month. Keep putting out food if you have any.
“Flakes of cheese and breadcrumbs are good if you do not have access to conventional bird food.”
In his March 2024 blog, he also indicated that additional foodstuffs can be sourced to support local wildlife.
He stated: “Most birds are nesting and laying eggs this month, and many will start rearing young. So this is a time that puts great demands on their energy when there is not much natural food around. So keep feeding the birds all month, concentrating on high-energy items such as fat, peanuts and sunflower seeds.”
Where should bird feeders be positioned in gardens?, reports the Express.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) advises that bird feeders can be situated virtually anywhere, though selecting a peaceful area with minimal foot traffic where birds remain undisturbed is preferable. The chosen site should also offer protection from harsh weather conditions.
The organisation notes: “Not too close to bushes where predators could hide in wait, but close enough to cover so that birds can easily dart away. Birds like to have a view all around them while feeding. ” The advice continued: “Wherever you place your feeder, make sure you can see it when you’re indoors so you can get the most pleasure from it!. Bear in mind, it can take a little bit of time for the birds to get used to a new feeder, so don’t be disappointed if not many birds visit at first.”
Are you using bird feeders or a bird bath?
Keeping bird feeders clean is important for the health of visiting birds. The RSPB suggests remembering the following:
Brush off any debris each time you refill feedersOnce a week, scrub feeders using a mild disinfectant solutionMove feeders occasionally to prevent droppings from building up underneathRinse water containers daily, especially in warm weather – let them dry before refilling
If You See a Sick Bird
Stop feeding immediatelyClean feeders thoroughlyStore them away (e.g. in a garage or shed)Wait 2-4 weeks before feeding againIf you see another sick bird, repeat the process
Safety for People
Some bird diseases can affect humans, though the risk is lowWear gloves when cleaning feeders or bird bathsWash your hands thoroughly afterwards
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