Why feed garden birds?
Some of our most popular and once common garden birds are under threat. Numbers of House Sparrow, Song Thrush, Starling and Bullfinch have declined by over 50% over the last 30 years and have now been placed on the Red List*.
Two major factors contributing to this decline have been identified
- Loss of habitat:
New roads, houses and commercial estates have used up precious acres of countryside previously inhabited by wild birds and wildlife. - Intensive farming methods:
Miles of hedgerows and rough corners that once afforded essential cover, food and nesting areas have been given over to more efficient, but less wildlife-friendly production. Added to which, the use of effective pesticides and herbicides has removed many of the insects and invertebrates in the fields that previously offered birds and wildlife a rich source of food.
You can help!
Our private gardens span over 1 million acres of land, providing a welcome resource for wild birds and other wildlife. Putting out supplementary foods, providing a source of fresh water and suitable nesting sites can make a real difference to their survival. Not to mention giving us all the excitement of a wildlife safari on our own doorsteps.
* The Population Status of Birds in the UK Birds of Conservation Concern: 2002 - 2007
Food preferences of popular garden birds
Use this quick reference chart to discover the food preferences of common garden birds and when their demand for this food is at its highest.
As a general rule, the more varieties of foods you offer in feeders, on tables and simply scattered on the ground, the more species you are likely to attract.
Recommended products to get you started
As you can see from the chart, we offer a vast range of bird foods. However, some are more widely enjoyed than others and are excellent to get you started.
These are available from selected retailers nationwide or via www.birdfood.co.uk.
Peanut cakes
These are inexpensive and great for the colder months, particularly attracting the "clinging" species such as Blue Tits and Great Tits.
Sunflower Seeds
These are available in a number of forms and either with or without husks - without makes them easier for small and young birds to eat. Whole Black Sunflowers are a good basic food with husks and Sunflower Hearts have had the husk removed, making them the highest energy food per 100g and are enjoyed by the most species.
Mealworms
These are a lifeline for many species. With declining natural insect populations the birds really need our help to ensure they get enough protein and this is particularly true for hungry, growing chicks.
Finally, a few expert tips:
- Think like a bird! Site feeding areas close to cover to protect against Sparrowhawk attack, but beware of low cover that may shelter a cat intent on ambush.
- Feeding sensibly all year round is believed to be beneficial to our garden birds, but avoid having whole peanuts available other than in wire mesh containers as these can choke chicks.
- Garden with nature; include plants that encourage insects, provide nest sites or berries. Try to include native species if you can.