Scotland’s gardeners can help the nation’s birds this winter as our feathered friends are exposed to January’s nasty cold snap. Experts at bird feeder app FeatherSnap said sudden drops in temperature pose major risks to birds with frozen water sources, dwindling food and strong winds all impacting on populations.
But green-fingered Scots out braving the cold in their gardens can help birds this winter by following a series of simple tips. Maria Kincaid, head ornithologist at FeatherSnap, has the lowdown – from offering food sources and shelter to creating foraging spots.
Provide food sources
Maria said: “In winter, food may become scarce for birds in the UK. Many insects, which are the primary food source for common British birds such as robins, blue tits, and sparrows, become less active during colder months.
“To help them out, consider putting out bird feeders filled with energy-rich foods such as suet, peanuts, mealworms, and sunflower seeds. These foods provide the sustenance birds need to keep warm and are well-suited to a variety of species struggling to find food this winter.
“When placing out bird feeders, be sure to clean them regularly. Washing them with warm water and soap once a week is the best way to avoid the spread of diseases.”
Provide multiple bird baths
Maria said: “Birds require plenty of water, particularly during a cold snap. As many of their natural water sources are likely to freeze over, it’s important that they are still able to drink and bathe.
“Installing multiple bird baths and keeping them filled with clean water is a simple yet effective way to help birds stay hydrated. You don’t need a fancy bird bath – everyday items like old oven dishes, metal bin lids, or shallow containers can work well as makeshift baths.
“If you’re concerned about them freezing over, place them in an area of your garden where sunlight hits. Regularly refilling and cleaning these baths is crucial to prevent bacteria build-up, which can be harmful to birds.”
Provide shelter
Offering birds a sheltered area is one of the best ways to support them at this time of year, the expert explains. Maria said: “Shelter helps birds shield themselves from snow, strong winds, or rain, which can be particularly detrimental to smaller species.
“Species such as goldfinches, wrens, and robins have smaller feathers and less mass, making them less equipped to withstand harsher weather conditions. A great way to create shelter is by setting up a wild corner.
“Instead of raking autumn leaves and discarding them, place them in a pile in the corner of your garden. This not only gives birds a place to rest, but it also encourages the activity of invertebrates, which birds can then feed on.”
Place leftover logs and festive food scraps
Maria suggests that instead of throwing away festive leftovers or unused materials, they can be put to good use by birds. She said: “Like wild corners, unused logs from bonfires can be piled and used as a foraging spot for birds.
“These logs attract insects and other small creatures that birds feed on. Leftover festive food scraps, such as unsalted nuts, dried fruit, and cooked potatoes, can also be left out to lend a helping hand to birds this year.
“Just make sure that the food is free of salt, sugar, and other additives that could be harmful to them.”
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