As birds enter their critical nesting season, garden enthusiasts have an opportunity to make a significant impact by offering food. The RSPCA has highlighted that anyone can support birds during this period without having to buy expensive specialist food. Many everyday kitchen ingredients are already available in your pantry, making it easy to provide essential nourishment for these birds at a low cost.
The Importance of Feeding Birds in June
Many bird species are facing threats due to habitat loss, the reduction of insect numbers, climate change, and pollution. During the nesting season, birds need extra support as they are caring for their young, making it vital for gardeners to step in and help. This is especially important in June, when birds are still tending to their hatched chicks in the nest. By placing food on bird tables, gardeners can assist in providing crucial nutrients for the birds, helping them thrive through this busy period.
Safe Foods for Birds
The RSPCA encourages gardeners to offer simple, safe foods such as cooked pasta, rice, potatoes, and cheese. These items are readily available and cost-effective, making it easy for anyone to help out. However, it’s very important to ensure that the pasta is cooked thoroughly before placing it on the bird table. Raw pasta can be harmful to birds, so always make sure it is properly boiled.
In addition to these foods, gardeners can also offer fruits like apples, pears, and soft fruits, as well as seeds such as nyjer, millet, oats, and sunflower seeds. Unsalted chopped peanuts are also a good option but should be placed in feeders with smaller mesh to avoid choking hazards for young chicks. Cooked food scraps, like boiled potatoes or uncooked bacon rind (unsalted), can also be added.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Bird Tables
It’s important to ensure the bird table is kept clean. The RSPCA advises that any uneaten food should be discarded at the end of each day to prevent any health risks to the birds. Regular cleaning of the bird table and nesting boxes is necessary to avoid the spread of diseases, particularly as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has stopped selling flat bird tables due to concerns about diseases being transmitted through exposed leftover food. Keeping the feeding areas clean will help protect the birds and keep them safe while they feed.
Providing food for birds during their nesting period is a simple yet impactful way for gardeners to help wildlife. Using everyday kitchen ingredients such as cooked pasta, rice, fruits, and seeds is an affordable and effective way to support these birds. Regular cleaning and ensuring safe food options will also help maintain healthy bird populations. By following these guidelines, gardeners can contribute to the survival and well-being of birds, particularly during their critical nesting season.
FAQs
Why is feeding birds important during June?
Feeding birds in June is vital because many species are caring for their young. During this time, they need extra support to find food. The challenges they face, such as habitat loss and a decrease in insect numbers, make it difficult for them to find enough nourishment.
What foods can I safely feed birds in June?
You can safely feed birds simple foods like cooked pasta, rice, potatoes, cheese, apples, pears, soft fruits, and seeds such as sunflower seeds and millet. Make sure any pasta is cooked thoroughly and avoid giving birds raw pasta.
How should I maintain my bird table for hygiene?
To keep your bird table safe and hygienic, discard any uneaten food daily and regularly clean the table. This helps prevent disease and keeps the feeding area healthy for birds.
