Experts have issued warnings to anyone who has blackbirds and robins in their gardens in the month of February. They say that feeding is a good way to attract birds to your garden, particularly this month when the chill is still in the air.
However, if you often see blackbirds, dunnocks or robins in your outdoor space, you might be feeding them incorrectly, it has been warned. While hanging feeders are a common choice among garden enthusiasts, they aren't suitable for all bird species. Blackbirds, dunnocks and robins find it challenging to cling to these suspended feeders, making it hard for them to eat enough food.
Especially during the colder months, birds can struggle to get enough nutrition due to increased competition from migratory species and scarce resources. To ensure these birds are well-fed, it's better to use a flat surface like a bird table, a patch of trimmed grass, or a patio area to spread out suet or seeds. Just scatter the food and watch as your winged visitors hop over to enjoy their meal in tranquillity.
Naturally, it's crucial to clean the area after feeding birds. If you're using a flat feeder, ensure it's washed with a disinfectant solution, reports the Mirror. If you're scattering food on a patio or lawn, wash away any leftovers with a hose or bucket and sponge. It's not just about maintaining a tidy garden.
Bird feeders can facilitate the spread of serious diseases among bird species, such as trichomoniasis, a parasite that causes lesions in a bird's mouth, preventing them from eating. The best way to avoid this is by regularly cleaning the feeders and changing the location of the feed.
Gardener's World suggests: "While tits and finches are adept at clinging to feeders, blackbirds, dunnocks and robins prefer foraging on a flat surface, like a bird table, short grass or paving. This also makes it easier for you to clean up any spillage. Indeed, good hygiene is essential.
"A bird-feeding area can be a breeding ground for disease, so clean your feeders weekly with a weak disinfectant solution, rinse thoroughly before allowing them to dry and then refill. It's also important to rotate the position of feeders every month, to prevent bacteria accumulation in one spot."
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