Feeding Garden Birds Safely This Summer

Many of us love feeding garden birds, but new guidance from the RSPB highlights an important seasonal change. During the warmer months, birds are more vulnerable to the spread of disease at feeding stations - particularly from seeds and peanuts, which can encourage large numbers of birds to gather closely together.

The good news is that you can still support your garden birds - just with a few simple adjustments.

Switch to safer summer foods
Instead of seeds and peanuts, offer small amounts of protein-rich foods such as mealworms or suet products. These are especially helpful for adult birds feeding their young and are less likely to contribute to overcrowding.

Keep feeding areas clean

Good hygiene is essential to keep garden birds healthy. Clean feeders regularly, move them around the garden to prevent the build-up of bacteria, and refresh water daily. This helps reduce the risk of disease spreading between birds.

Cleaning Schedule

• Bird baths: Change the water every day with fresh tap water to prevent mosquito larvae and disease build-up. Give them a thorough scrub once a week.
• Feeders: Scrub and disinfect them at least once a week. If you have many birds visiting, you may need to clean them more frequently. 
• Rotation System: Use two sets of feeders. While one set is being cleaned and dried, the other can be in use, so your birds aren't left without food.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Work Outside: Always clean equipment outdoors and wear waterproof gloves to protect yourself from bird diseases that can infect humans.
2. Dismantle and Empty: Take feeders apart completely. Dispose of any old, damp, or uneaten food in a household bin - do not compost it, as it can spread infection.
3. Scrub Thoroughly: Use a bucket of hot, soapy water and a dedicated brush. Brushes with long handles or natural bristles are helpful for reaching awkward spots in tube feeders.
4. Disinfect: Use a non-toxic, wildlife-safe disinfectant. Alternatively, a very weak solution of domestic bleach (5% sodium hypochlorite) is acceptable if rinsed thoroughly.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse everything with clean water to remove all traces of soap or disinfectant. Air-dry completely before refilling; damp feeders encourage harmful mould growth. 

Offer natural food sources
Summer is a time when natural food is more abundant, so consider planting wildlife-friendly flowers, shrubs, and seed-bearing plants. These provide a steady, natural diet and attract a wide variety of species.

Feed little and often
If you do provide food, only put out small quantities that will be eaten quickly. This prevents food from spoiling in warm weather and keeps feeding areas fresh.

A seasonal approach to bird care
Feeding birds is still a wonderful way to connect with nature—but in summer, it’s all about feeding responsibly. By making a few simple changes, you can continue to enjoy your garden visitors while helping to protect their health for the future. Peanut and seed feeders can be reintroduced during the cooler winter months - November to April.