Households across the UK are being urged to leave peanuts in their gardens this month to get the birds chirping this autumn. It’s that time of the year when the leaves turn brown and various species of bird start to migrate south to warmer climates.
For those that do stick around, however, it’s important they are looked after and well fed. But it’s important you think carefully about what you’re leaving out for them, especially as they prepare for the harsher and colder months ahead. You can’t just give them anything to eat, like leftover fast food or what’s left of your weekly Sunday roast, it has to be something that keeps them healthy and gives them boatloads of energy.
Peanuts are a good source of nutrients like fiber, vitamins B and E, and antioxidants, along with promoting heart health, lowering the risk of diabetes, and helping reduce inflammation.
They’re also a great source of energy thanks to being high in healthy fats. A perfect snack for birds who require a high calorie intake, especially in winter.
Experts at Kennedy Wild Bird Food said: “In September, the birds in your garden will benefit from peanuts as part of their daily feeding.
“We recommend our peanuts for birds, loved by tits, finches, starlings and many more of your favourite garden birds.”
Don’t just put them anywhere in your garden. Build a nest and put an assortment of peanuts there, but make sure it has been positioned thoughtfully, ideally placing it in a north-easterly direction which helps shield the chicks from the harsh afternoon sunlight and wet winds.
Ark Wildlife explained why autumn is a pivotal month for birds: “Birds hatched in late summer have less time to develop independent survival skills than their spring counterparts. As days shorten and temperatures drop, their survival rates decrease significantly.
“By providing reliable food sources during autumn, you can help these vulnerable fledglings prepare for winter rather than succumb to harsh conditions.
“Peanuts are another excellent autumn food. They are rich in protein and energy, particularly appealing to tits, nuthatches, and great spotted woodpeckers.
“Always use peanuts from a trusted wildlife supplier, which have been tested free from dangerous aflatoxin, and never feed salted or roasted peanuts, which can harm birds.”