Feed the birds without attracting pests this winter

Feeding the birds through the cold winter months is something we are often encouraged to do – and with good reason.

Seeing wild birds in the garden is one of life’s pleasures and, of course, by feeding them we are helping to protect the natural world.

At Christmas in particular bird feeding gifts become popular, with festive designs available and even bird food ‘wreaths’.

However, when feeding the birds it pays to consider how to avoid attracting pests into your garden, such as rats or infestations of pigeons.

The right food

Investing in the right food is important. Fat balls are a good winter option, along with mixed bird seed, meal worm and peanuts.

Many household leftovers can also be eaten by birds including bread, cheese, fruit, rice and potatoes. However, mouldy food should be kept away from birds as it can make them ill, while salt can also be toxic to them.

It’s all about presentation

The major factor in avoiding attracting pests to the garden by feeding birds is where the food is put and how much is left out. The RSPB recommends just leaving enough out for one day as any leftover food on the floor could possibly attracts rats.

In the same vein it is wise to avoid throwing food for birds on the floor as this attracts pests. Seed trays at the bottom of feeders help to stop waste being spilt on the floor while hulled seeds also cut down the possibility of food reaching the floor.

Pigeons can be problematic when it comes to feeding birds as they not only take the lion’s share of food, they also dominate the area and deter other birds. The worst scenario is that larger groups of pigeons flock to the garden causing a nuisance.

As pigeons are so much bigger than most wild birds, smaller feeders can prevent them accessing food. Hanging feeders with smaller mesh should work to prevent pigeons – just be aware of what falls on the floor and, if necessary, put a secondary measure in place.

While it is harder to keep pigeons off bird tables, using pieces of string or garden cane as a deterrent works as they do not like to feel as though they are being touched. Spacing the string/ canes out to allow smaller birds in but so that they cause an obstacle for pigeons should help to keep them away.

Don’t let the prospect of attracting pests put you off feeding the birds this winter, a bit of planning should be all it takes.

Testimonials

Total Bird Control were selected to supply and fit some netting to our rear service yard. It was such a complex job we were worried if it could be done, however when it was completed it was amazing …

Wickes

Total Bird Control have carried out several bird Proofing works for our company…our clients have been extremely pleased with the efficiency and quality of works completed.

Woodbridge Facilities

I would like to thank you for your prompt and efficient service provided…All visits are attended on time and reported thoroughly.

Holder Site Management

Pestbusters have supplied some bird proofing works to our buildings and all works were carried out in an efficient and effective way, with little or no effect to our visitors.

Virgin Active

We are always impressed with their professionalism and attention to detail…I have no hesitation in recommending the Busters Group to anyone.

Mettis Aerospace

They have provided a very professional service to us…..they communicate everything back to us we require.

Molls Bacon

‘May I mention to you as a company that you pass on my thanks to Mike Nash and colleague for his professional and efficient netting of our roof yesterday. I have also expressed my satisfaction to my M…

The Square, BristolEMCOR UK

We just wanted to say, firstly, how pleased we were with the work done and, secondly, how impressed both our housesitters and our neighbours were with Michael Nash, the young man who did the work. Bot…

David & Shauna

‘Thanks to Ashley and his team for a swift and efficient job in our garden.
Great results achieved and everything left tidy all cuttings removed in addition to taking away some old fencing we had.
…

One Of Our Sister Companies, Gardenbusters LtdV Ashford

We have always found your operatives to be pro-active and knowledgeable…on several occasions you have gone far beyond what would be considered “your remit”