Seeds and nuts recommended for winter bird-feeding
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The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has recommended that bird-lovers put seeds and nuts in bird feeders from November onwards.
It says that adhering to the updated advice will be essential to protect garden birds against the spread of disease in the winter months.
The guidance follows different advice that was shared in April, as the charity sought to tackle the threat of trichomonosis. The advice was informed by a review from conservation scientists, which examined how the practice of garden bird-feeding might be spreading the disease.
Trichomonosis is spread by contaminated food and water, and is particularly prevalent in summer and autumn. The disease affects the throat of a bird, making it hard for them to swallow food.
The RSPB said the risk was higher at feeding spots where numerous birds gather, on flat surfaces such as bird tables, and in places where contaminated food builds up.
The charity’s new guidance was to feed seasonally, which includes not putting out seeds and nuts between May 1 and October 31. Birdfeeders must also be cleaned thoroughly at least weekly.
The charity is now reminding people that, from November 1, they can offer seeds and nuts again. These feeds provide valuable food sources as natural supplies become harder to find.
Meanwhile, small amounts of mealworms, fat balls or suet can be offered year-round.
Adrian Thomas, the RSPB’s wildlife gardening expert, said: “Winter is one of the hardest times for birds to find food, so the food we put out can literally be a lifeline. The trichomonosis parasite struggles to survive in colder temperatures, so it is much safer to resume feeding nuts and seeds now, which will hopefully give our birds a much-needed boost.”
He added: “Our message is to feed seasonally and feed safely. I also can’t stress enough how important it is to clean feeders thoroughly at least once a week,
“We’re thankful to the many people we know have taken our advice on board and adjusted how they feed garden birds to help protect them from disease. The weather has presented many challenges this summer, so supporting birds now and through the winter is more important than ever.”
Image © RSPB/Ben Andrew
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