🌨️ As winter sets in, many of us are eager to help our feathered friends by putting out some extra food. But, did you know that some popular choices might be doing more harm than good? 🐦
Lucy Taylor, a bird expert from Vine House Farm Bird Foods, warns against offering certain household foods to garden birds. Here are a few to watch out for:
🛑 **Bread** – Although it seems harmless, bread provides little nutritional value and fills birds up, stopping them from eating more beneficial foods.
🛑 **Salty Foods** – Salt is toxic to birds, so avoid processed foods like bacon.
🛑 **Liquid Fats** – Unlike solid suet balls, loose fats from leftover roasts can coat feathers, affecting a bird’s ability to fly.
🛑 **Desiccated Coconut** – This can swell in birds’ stomachs, leading to severe harm or even death.
🛑 **Chocolate, Milk, and Avocado** – These might be delicious for us, but they’re toxic to our bird buddies.
🛑 **Mouldy Foods** – Just like with us, anything spoiled or mouldy can be dangerous.
Instead, stick to bird-friendly treats like sunflower hearts, seed mixes, and suet products. Apples can be a wonderful choice too, attracting species like Blackbirds and Fieldfares.
Remember, when in doubt, choose products specifically designed for garden birds to ensure you’re helping and not harming! 🐤✨ Keep your garden a safe haven this winter. 🌿❤️ #WildlifeCare #BirdLovers #WinterBirds