RSPB Feed the birds day

coal tit - a frequent visitor to British gardensWe’ve been feeding the birds more recently, and our garden is a hive of activity. Cattus Green is rapidly approaching 16 years and no longer provides a threat to our feathered friends, so they happily feed from the floor while she stretches out in the sun.

RSPB Feed the birds day takes place every year on the third weekend of October. The general advise now is to feed birds all the year around; for energy during the summer and warmth during the winter. We’ve certainly noticed more visitors since the temperature has been dropping at night.

We’ve also noticed that their preferred food is changing. Now they want to max out on the high protein seed mix and leave most other offerings. Don’t forget to provide water too just in case we get a frost at night time.

Feed the birds day coincides with the clocks going back, to remind us that our wildlife friends need a little more help from us to keep warm, safe and healthy.

Over the weekend of 25 and 26 October, the RSPB is organising events across the country, including arts and crafts, walks and activities. To find out what is happening near you, check out their events finder.

Which birds visit your garden?

3 Comments

  1. Maureen on October 16, 2008 at 10:25 am

    I feed the birds all the year around but it’s funny you mention that your garden is “a hive of activity” because I’ve noticed the presence of birds in my garden has dropped considerably lately. I get a few sparrows but the usual birds such as the blackbirds, blue tits, goldfinches or greenfinches seemed to have disappeared. I do hope they come back soon. It’s very strange (and worrying) not seeing lots of birds.



  2. Paul @ Green Pepper on October 24, 2008 at 8:00 pm

    Happy Feed the Birds Day! Great post. Glad to hear that Cattus Green no longer provides a threat to our feathered friends. I had a major problem with squirrels stealing food I put out for the birds – see my post here. I’m sure Little Miss Green will find the photos most amusing!

    Maureen, I hope the birds come back to your garden soon too.



  3. Mrs Green on October 26, 2008 at 3:01 pm

    Hey Maureen; why is that do you think? Are your feathered friends more prolific since you commented? We have the hugest, fattest blue tit you ever saw – he is an endearing thing that just waddles about eating the seed. I think he has an eating disorder……

    We loved your post and photos, Paul and have the same issue with squirrels in our neighbours garden. But as long as they all share, we don’t mind too much. A few hedgehogs come for their pickings too 🙂