Summer is a critical time for garden birds in the UK. Species like sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, and robins are busy feeding their young. Gardeners can help by providing food to support these birds.
Recommended Foods:
Fresh Fruits: Offer apples, pears, and soft fruits.
Seeds and Grains: Provide seed mixes, sunflower seeds, and nyjer seeds.
Insects: Mealworms and other insect-based foods are great.
Suet and Fat-Based Foods: These are excellent energy sources.
Feeding Guidelines:
Feeding All Year Round: Feeding during spring and summer helps birds raise chicks.
Avoid Certain Foods: Do not offer salted foods, cooked items, or bread.
Use Appropriate Feeders: Opt for hanging feeders to prevent disease spread.
Additional Considerations:
The RSPB has suspended the sale of flat bird feeders due to disease concerns. Allowing lawns to grow longer can provide better foraging opportunities. Following these guidelines helps support garden birds during summer.