Gardeners told to sprinkle chilli powder on their lawns in August
Gardeners are being encouraged to sprinkle chilli powder in their gardens this month. The seemingly odd method is an ideal way to provide food for hungry birds without it being snatched by other creatures.
Bird populations have suffered this year, with gardeners noting a significant decrease in sightings. A drastic reduction in insect numbers - down by as much as 80 per cent over the past two decades due to habitat loss and climate change - is believed to be impacting the entire food chain, leaving birds at risk of starvation.
This is why gardeners are being asked to help out by leaving bird food available. However, one major issue with leaving bird food out is that other animals, such as squirrels, will attempt to nick it. In other related news, gardeners can vanish patio weeds in 24 hours using a common kitchen item.
This is where the chilli powder comes into play. If you have a birdbath or bird table, or any platform where you leave bird food (and if you don't have one, consider getting one), then you can leave a mix of peanuts, seeds, mealworms and slices of fruit like apple for birds to eat, reports the Express.
Bruised apples and pears are particularly appealing to birds, and household scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs can also be used - although the RSPB advises against using too much of these.
However, sprinkle all of it with chilli powder, and the birds will have the food entirely to themselves. That's because birds aren't affected whatsoever by chilli powder, whilst squirrels and foxes detest it. This means the food remains exclusively for the birds.
The RSPB states: "When buying bird food, try to get a good mix of peanuts, seeds and live food like mealworms and waxworms. Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and Blackbirds. Household scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs should only be offered in small amounts occasionally."
The site added: "Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food. Birds aren't bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can't put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone."
By employing this common trick, gardeners can ensure that birds benefit from all the nutrients provided for them. It's also crucial to maintain good hygiene on the bird tables and bird feeders by cleaning them regularly to avoid the spread of illnesses and other diseases.
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