Helping our Wild Birds this Winter

Britain's wild birds are beautiful to watch in our gardens, parks, woods and forests. However many wild birds that we are familiar with - 70 of the UK's bird species - are now deemed at risk according to the British Trust for Ornithology's 'Red List'. Feeding wild birds all year round gives them the best chance to thrive and survive food shortages, which can occur at any time. In winter though it is even more difficult for them; their natural food sources are not so readily available and they need extra energy to survive the frosty nights. 

Britten & James has a range of high quality wild bird food to help the smallest wren to the largest swan to thrive this winter. Right now we also offer 15% off when you buy 2 or more products from our Wild Bird Food range, including sunflower seeds as recommended by the RSPB for a wide range of birds this time of year. Your discount will automatically appear at checkout when you buy 2 or more wild bird products. 

Tips to help wild birds

1. Choose a high energy bird food  It is particularly difficult for wild birds to make it through winter, and to store up enough energy during the day to make it through the longer, colder nights. Choosing a special wild bird seed mix that will give them the nutrients and energy they need

2. Only give the birds what they can manage to eat in one day  This is important so that birds have fresh food each day, and no scavengers are attracted. It is better to put out a moderate amount of high-energy bird food and add to it if needed, than overfill the feeder/table.

3. Give clean, fresh drinking water every day  Especially important when other water sources may be frozen. Birds need clean water to drink every day, just as we do.

4. Clean your feeders and feeding area  Taking care of your feeding areas will avoid any avian illnesses passing between birds. You can choose a specially formulated ‘no mess’ bird food to reduce the husks and natural waste birds would leave behind them. Clean under your feeders and feeding areas to remove any waste food, and wash your feeders weekly with soapy water. This will all help to keep the birds' food sources clean and help to keep the birds healthy. 

For more ways that you can help wild birds, here are the RSPB's guide to creating a wildlife friendly garden, and details from the British Trust for Ornithology about the Garden Birdwatch.

Picture: 4 of Britain's 70 endangered birds, the Fieldfare, the Bullfinch, the Linnet and the Wren