Exactly what to feed birds in winter and it's not the same all year round
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Keeping bird feeders topped up all winter is a great way of doing your bit for your garden's eco-system. But birds will be seeking extra nutrition as temperatures drop in order to survive. Along with a sub-zero mercury on occasion, the ground also hardens in winter which makes it too difficult for birds to dig for worms and other wildlife living above and below the surface. Many creatures also take to hibernation over the winter, and the lack of daylight hours makes it hard for birds to hunt out their prey. This is why birds are especially important to feed in winter as they fight for survival.
Experts at Love the Garden have listed all the items that can be placed into feeders and bird boxes throughout the colder months. These include sunflower and Nyer seeds. Black sunflower seeds are the preferred option because of their higher oil content. "Sunflower hearts and crushed seeds are great in winter as the birds do not need to waste energy removing the husks, with the added benefit of leaving less mess behind," according to Love the Garden who said tits and greenfinches are renowned for favouring these seeds.
Nyer seeds are small and black and are rich in fat and oil. As they are especially tiny, it is recommended that they are mixed with other seeds in a plastic feeder. These seeds are a favourite of goldfinches and siskins, the experts said. Peanuts, a firm favourite among humans, are also on the list; but they come with caution. Salted or dry roasted variations could harm birds, so it's best to leave those in the kitchen cupboard. Peanuts that are fresh and from feed shops are best - with an array of birds taking fancy to them, especially when crushed up.
