Guidelines for winter bird feeding in gardens

Experts provide guidance on the appropriate timing and methods for feeding wild birds during the winter months to support species facing food shortages due to climate change and intensive agriculture.

According to the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU), feeding should typically begin in November, or at the latest when ice and snow appear. Once started, feeding should continue regularly until the end of February. It is important to maintain consistency, as birds may rely on established feeding stations for survival.

To ensure bird health, feeders must be kept clean. Experts distinguish between seed-eaters, such as sparrows and finches, which prefer sunflower seeds, grains, and peanuts, and soft-food eaters, such as blackbirds and robins, which prefer fruit, berries, and insect larvae. Natural, unroasted, and unsalted foods are essential, while items like bread should be avoided to prevent harm to the animals.