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How to feed garden birds in winter and get a nature fix at home with the RSPB

06:00, 15 December 2020

updated: 08:15, 19 January 2021

Attract nature into your garden this winter and get a "nature fix" from your window, the RSPB is urging people in Kent.

As people have abandoned their daily commutes and switched to working at home, many have discovered the wonder of birds they can spot from their desks.

A Robin flies in to enjoy a bird feeder Picture: RSPB Images
A Robin flies in to enjoy a bird feeder Picture: RSPB Images

But, with winter closing in the RSPB is reminding people how they can feed their garden birds with leftovers, and enjoy seeing more of them visiting too,

More than 60% of the UK population regularly feed their garden birds, the charity estimates.

According to the RSPB, fruits like apples and pears, even when they’re past their best, can

be snapped up by blackbirds and thrushes.

Grated cheese can also be a good source of energy and protein for a range of birds.

House sparrows visit a garden for breakfast
House sparrows visit a garden for breakfast

Cooked pastry, defrosted peas or unsalted bacon leftovers are also good options, as well as cooked rice, pasta and the inside of potatoes.

A house sparrow has a bath Picture: RSPB Images
A house sparrow has a bath Picture: RSPB Images

Taking an hour to watch which feathered friends make use of your food scraps can often help to reduce stress and restore calm.

For this reason, the RSPB encourages its Breakfast Birdwatch every weekday between 8am and 9am, to encourage people to connect with the nature on their doorsteps.

Goldfinches enjoy a feed in a garden Picture: RSPB Images
Goldfinches enjoy a feed in a garden Picture: RSPB Images

You can also make your own bird cake by pouring melted fat (suet or lard) onto a mixture of ingredients such as seeds, nuts, dried fruit, oatmeal, cheese and cake. Use about one - third fat to two-thirds mixture. Stir well in a bowl and allow it to set in a container of your choice. An empty coconut shell or plastic cup makes an ideal bird cake ‘feeder’. Alternatively, you can turn it out onto your bird table when solid.

The RSPB is the UK’s largest nature conservation charity, inspiring everyone to give nature a home and protecting threatened birds and wildlife.

For more ways to invite wildlife into your garden, visit rspb.org.uk

For more nature and gardens news across Kent click here.

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