Gardeners should avoid leaving out one common snack for birds that can be deadly – “even in small amounts”. Garden birds are an important part of any garden, partly because they make your plot feel full of life.
They’re also vitally important for the health of your plants and flowers, targeting pests that can cause damage and disease. However, they tend to have a tough time during autumn and winter, when food sources are more scarce, with the frozen ground often stopping them from getting to the creatures they love to eat.
During these challenging periods, you can still keep birds coming back by leaving out high energy foods to keep them going through the colder months weeks ahead.
But Richard Green, a bird-feeding specialist at Kennedy Wild Bird Food & Pet Supplies, says giving them a common snack can have dire consequences.
Peanuts are often recommended as a food to feed them, due to their high protein and calorie content. But Richard warns that not all of them are safe for birds to consume, and could even prove deadly.
He said: “It’s important to use only peanuts from trusted wildlife suppliers, as these are tested to make sure they’re free from aflatoxin, a natural mould toxin that can be fatal to birds even in small amounts.
“Avoid salted or roasted peanuts altogether, as these can cause real harm.
“Sticking to safe, specialist foods means birds get the nutrition they need without unnecessary risks.”
Richard says sunflower hearts are one of the best options to offer them, as they provide a “high-calorie boost that helps birds prepare for the colder months”.
He also recommends incorporating protein and fat they need, saying: “Mealworms, whether dried or live, are invaluable during autumn. They provide the protein birds need as they grow new feathers and recover from the demands of the breeding season.
“Suet is another key food to introduce now, helping birds stock up on fat reserves before winter sets in,” he added. “Even though many people associate suet with frost, it’s just as important in the run-up to winter.”
“Autumn hedgerows naturally provide berries and fruit, and you can echo that in the garden. Chopped apples, pears, or soaked raisins are excellent for species that feed on the ground.
“These simple additions mimic natural diets at a time when birds are looking to refuel quickly and efficiently.”
Richard reassures gardeners not to be surprised if feeders don’t see as many visitors in early autumn.
“Natural food sources are still abundant, so birds spread out to forage,” he said.
“The most important thing is to keep feeders topped up as gardens with reliable food will quickly become a lifeline.”