Gardeners told to leave two fruits out on the lawn during August

Daily Mirror

8 hours ago

The RSPB and other experts say gardeners should leave a variety of foods out for birds at different times of year as the fledglings grow and start finding food for themselves
As August heralds the tail end of peak season for garden birds, species like sparrows, starlings, blackbirds and robins witness their fledglings take flight and start fending for themselves. Gardeners are encouraged to support these young birds through the summer by leaving out a couple of fruits on the lawn or bird tables.
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The RSPB advises that gardeners should offer a variety of foods suitable for different birds throughout the year, ranging from sunflower seeds and uncooked oats to suet and mealworms. Other gardening experts also stress the significance of feeding birds in the summer months.
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CJ Wildlife points out that birds require extra energy during this period to feed their offspring, debunking the old notion that birds only need feeding in winter or spring. In other related news, Brits are told to never put one banned item in garden bins as you could face punishment.
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The specialists have noted: "Not long ago, many believed that garden birds should only be fed during the winter months. However, long-term studies have shown that offering food to garden birds year-round is beneficial, supporting declining species and allowing you to learn more about your garden visitors."
They further explain the importance of summer feeding: "Feeding wild birds during the summer helps busy parents top up feeders and provide all the natural food their young need. Well-stocked bird feeders can be a lifeline for young birds as they learn how and where to find food locally."
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"Bird populations are at their highest in the summer, so a regular supply of quality food helps birds get the energy they need amid increased competition for natural foods." For those looking to support our feathered friends without breaking the bank, two fruits - apples and pears - can be sliced up and left out on the lawn or a bird table or feeder, reports the Express.
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The RSPB advises: "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."
They add that "Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and blackbirds." Birds have different feeding preferences - some favour ground feeding over visiting a bird table.
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The RSPB explains: "Blackbirds are too large to access most hanging bird feeders. To attract them to your garden, it's best to put out food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground." This is also true for sparrows, dunnocks and doves, which typically prefer ground feeding, although they usually consume seeds.
However, when leaving food on the ground, ensure it's in an open location, away from hedges or potential hiding spots for cats. Birds won't feed where they feel threatened by predators like cats, or could be exposed to danger if forced to feed near cat hiding places.
For those utilising a bird table, it's crucial to maintain cleanliness by washing it regularly with hot, soapy water, especially if it's flat. This advice comes as the RSPB has temporarily halted sales of flat, open bird tables while they explore the possibility that such feeders might be aiding in the transmission of diseases.
The RSPB emphasised the significance of keeping bird feeders clean, stating: "Bird feeder hygiene is very important. Brush off debris every time you put out fresh food and scrub feeders with mild disinfectant solution weekly."