Wild birds are becoming an ever more popular sight within our gardens and daily lives. Blue Tits, Great Tits, Robins and Chaffinches are some examples of beautiful species that visit our gardens. This means that a lot of us have now taken it upon ourselves to feed our little feathered friends when they visit us.

Here at Polhill Garden Centre we have a wide range of wild bird care, ranging from various types of food through to bird tables.

Whatever you are looking for, you’ll be sure to find it here at Polhill.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Birds require high-energy, thus high fat foods during the cold winter weather in order to maintain their fat reserves which helps them survive cold and frosty nights. Only high quality food and scraps are recommended. Here at Polhill, you will be able to find a vast selection of high quality seeds and feedings.

Always adjust the quantity given to the demand, and don’t allow for uneaten food to accumulate around the bird feeders. Once a routine of feeding has been established, it is recommended that it isn’t changed as birds become accustomed to it and time their visits to your garden accordingly.

REGULAR CLEANING

Cleanliness is paramount in helping to prevent diseases for birds. Feeding surfaces should be cleaned on a daily basis in order to get rid of old food and droppings. The use of bacterial disinfectants are ideal for the job.

FEEDING AREAS

Feeding tables/areas should be moved around the garden every two weeks, so that birds do not become too accustomed to the same location. Splitting feeding areas is also recommended as a method of prevention of large number of birds feeding at one location.

FOOD SHORTAGES

Winter feeding benefits birds most, but food shortages can occur at any stage during the year. Through continuous feeding throughout the year, you would help to give them a better chance of surviving through food shortages. Here at Polhill, we have an extensive range of bird feeding products that will assist you.

AUTUMN AND WINTER FEEDING

During this time of year, you should put food and water out for the birds on a regular basis. During extensive periods of poor weather and snow, you should try to feed daily: in the morning and early in the afternoon. We have an extensive bird food and caring range, click here to see our range!

SPRING AND SUMMER FEEDING

During hotter months, birds require more high protein diets, especially whilst they are moulting. Hygiene is pivotal otherwise feeding could actually cause more harm than good.

Foods could include:

• Black sunflower seeds
• Pinhead oatmeal
• Soaked sultanas
• Mealworms
• Seed mixture
• Fruit- Apples and pears which have been cut

HOW TO STORE BIRD FOOD

A cool and dry environment is usually best, with garages being a typical choice. Venim-proof metal containers are highly recommended over plastic containers, as plastic can become vulnerable to rodents.

Regarding shelf life, it is highly recommended that seed mixes are not kept for longer than 3-4 months. This is an important element to consider when contemplating a purchase.

HOW TO SPOT AN ILL BIRD

Puffed up feathers, lesions and scaly patches are all signs of illness or diseases among birds. Birds lingering around your garden for longer than usual and birds who are lethargic, are other signs to look out for.