RSPB charity officials are asking you to be careful this winter when feeding the birds, and are also offering some helpful advice in how to look after your garden visitors as the big freeze sets in.
At this time of year, it is very common for birds to become entangled in the wire mesh netting of their feeders, which can be a potential death trap. As natural food sources become scarce, many birds depend on the food that we provide to survive, so please remove seeds carefully from their packaging and transfer to a suitable feeder.
The RSPB is suggesting that calorie rich food is the perfect christmas presents to leave out for the birds, and suggest –
- Mixed seed
- Suet sprinkles
- Sunflower seeds
- Peanuts
- Mild grated cheese
- Rice
- Porridge oats
Offering a fresh supply of water is also essential for birds during winter, as much of theirs is frozen solid overnight, leaving nothing for bathing and preening. A great way to do this is to leave a small ball, like a ping pong ball, in the bowl. This will then be moved by the breeze and ensure that not all the water is frozen over. Also, pouring hot water on the ice first thing in the morning will provide birds water for the rest of the day. You could make it a morning ritual with your cup!
Head of RSPB wildlife enquiries, Val Osborne, said –
Surprisingly, the netting that surrounds fat balls, peanuts and seed sold for bird food is one of the most dangerous things that can be put out in our gardens. Despite suggesting they must be safe to wildlife because of the way they’re sold, the mesh and netting can easily trap birds’ feet and beaks, causing severe injury or even death. Many suppliers of bird food now stock products without these potential death traps, but unfortunately, some have not followed suit and are still using these dangerous and unnecessary plastic mesh wrappers. Not only can they cause injury or worse to wild birds but they are just one more hazardous item of plastic to go into landfill. As the harsh weather arrives, the extra food, water and shelter we provide for birds and other creatures could be the difference between life and death for many species.
If you would like to learn more about the amazing work of the RSPB, or would like to order some delicious treats for the wildlife in your garden this winter, check out our dedicated charity page for more information.
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