The weather has gotten warmer, meaning that it’s time to do some gardening tasks. Not just that, it’s a crucial time for all sorts of birds coming into our outdoor spaces as they enter breeding and nesting season. During April and May, gardeners are getting told to leave two fruits out on lawns, as well as on bird tables, The Express reported.
According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), gardeners should leave foods for different birds depending on the season, such as sunflower seeds, uncooked oats, mealworms and suet. However, there’s a cheaper alternative to feed birds, using apples and pears. To do so, slice them and leave them on the law or the table.
The site explained: “You can put out leftovers such as dried fruit, or fruit such as apples and pears. Don’t use anything mouldy or salty, though, and if you have a dog don’t put out dried fruit – vine fruits, such as raisins, can be toxic to them. Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and blackbirds.”
Apples and pears are the most accessible fruits, with all UK supermarkets having them all stocked up right at the entrance. Retailers like Morrissons are selling loose green apples and red apples for 50p each, as well as loose conference pears for the same price.
Alternatively, supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Aldi sell different types of apples and pears, which birds will eat for less than a pound.
However, different birds feed in different locations, as they might prefer ground feed’ instead of coming to a bird table. The RSPB added: “Blackbirds are too large to access most hanging bird feeders. To attract them, it’s best to put food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground.”
This also applies to sparrows, dunnocks and doves, as they also prefer ground feeding, though they usually eat seeds. If left on the ground, gardeners should ensure to leave it in an open location, away from hedges and anywhere other pets can hide.
This is because birds won’t feed in places where they don’t feel safe from predators, like cats or areas near cat hiding places, where they could easily become a target.
When using a bird table, clean it regularly with soap and hot water. As per the RSPB, this is to determine whether these types of feeders are the reason for the spread of bird diseases. Nonetheless, it’s a fun way to learn about birds and connect with the nature!
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