Extreme weather, breeding ground destruction, unsympathetic agricultural practices and an increase in the use of pesticides… it’s not hard to see why there’s been a gradual, but serious decline in the number of many bird species, according to the RSPB.
Fortunately, there is plenty we can do to help out, including providing nestboxes, gardening proactively with wildlife in mind and caring for the birds that visit our gardens.
If you want to do something creative, these bird treats are straightforward to make and don’t require a mountain of ingredients. Kids will love getting involved too.
Make a pine cone bird feeder
You will need…
- Pine cones
- String
- Smooth peanut butter – no added salt
- Wild bird seed
- Scissors
Instructions…
- Loop the string around the top of a pine cone and tie a knot.
- Spread peanut butter over the pine cone – if you’re making these with children, craft sticks work well for this.
- Sprinkle the bird seeds on the peanut butter covered pine cone.
- Hang your bird treats in the branches of trees or shrubs.
Pros: unlike bird treats that include suet, these are vegan friendly.
Cons: not suitable for nut allergy sufferers.
These bird treats are straightforward to make and don’t require a mountain of ingredients
Top bird care tips from the RSPB
To prevent the spread of diseases, keep bird baths and feeding stations clean.
Don’t put out salted peanuts or crisps for birds – they can’t process salt and it can kill them.
Don’t put out whole peanuts during spring or summer when they pose a choking hazard to young birds.
To protect birds and their nests, wait until autumn before cutting back shrubs and hedges.
There are many more practical tips on the RSPB website.
- Join the many thousands of nature lovers who help the RSPB to monitor how the UK bird population is faring by taking part in the Big Garden Birdwatch (January 26-28).
