Leave it on the grass every morning. Look how nature repays
Spring is a key period for birds living in gardens, parks and city squares. In May, when the intensive nesting and raising time of young begins, any support can be of great importance. Experts call for gardeners and nature lovers to help birds – in a simple but very effective way.
Specialists from the British RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) encourage that in May – and in the preceding months – leave two fruits a day, preferably broken apples and pears, in the garden on the lawn or feeder.
This is a natural source of energy that supports many species of birds, such as scythes, reds, starlings and sparrows.
However, there is an important reservation – do not use moldy, salted fruit or with the addition of sugar. RSPB also warns that dried fruit, especially raisins, can be dangerous to dogs, so they should not be left in open if pets have access to them.
Not all birds eat in the same way
Not all birds use suspended feeders. Some – for example, scythes, pigeons, sparrows – prefer feeding directly from the ground. For this reason, it is also worth spreading the fruit on the grass or special bird feeding tables. “The scythes are too big to get to most hanging bird feeders. To attract them to the garden, it’s best to put food in an easily accessible place,” says RSPB.
Open space increases safety, because birds avoid places where they can be easily attacked by cats or other predators.
Safe feeding. Hygiene is the basis
If you use feeders, especially open or low suspended, remember to clean them regularly. Lack of hygiene can lead to the spread of diseases among birds. RSPB recommends to clean the feeders once a week with hot water with a mild disinfectant and remove food residues and impurities on an ongoing basis.
In connection with fears about the health of birds, flat, open feeders were temporarily withdrawn from sales in British stores. Now scientists are conducting research on their potential impact on the spread of diseases.
