Households across the UK are being advised to leave two common fruits on their lawns or bird tables this summer to help birds during a critical period. July is one of the most significant months for garden birds, with species such as sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, robins, and many others feeding their newly hatched young.
To assist birds through the peak summer season, gardeners are encouraged to place sliced apples and pears on lawns, bird tables, or feeders, alongside fresh water. The RSPB recommends putting out a variety of foods for different birds at different times of year, though seeds are no longer recommended during summer, and flat bird tables should be avoided. However, suet, mealworms, and fresh fruit remain suitable options.
Why Summer Feeding Matters
According to CJ Wildlife, birds require greater energy in summer to nourish their young, challenging the old belief that feeding should only occur in winter or spring. The experts stated: "Not long ago, many believed that garden birds should only be fed during the winter months. However, long-term studies have shown that offering food to garden birds year-round is beneficial, supporting declining species and allowing you to learn more about your garden visitors."
They added: "Feeding wild birds during the summer helps busy parents top up feeders and provide all the natural food their young need. Well-stocked bird feeders can be a lifeline for young birds as they learn how and where to find food locally. Bird populations are at their highest in the summer, so a regular supply of quality food helps birds get the energy they need amid increased competition for natural foods."
Recommended Fruits and Feeding Tips
The RSPB advises: "You can put out leftovers such as dried fruit, or fruit such as apples and pears. Don't use anything mouldy or salty, though, and if you have a dog, don't put out dried fruit - vine fruits, such as raisins, can be toxic to them. Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and blackbirds."
Different birds prefer different feeding spots. Blackbirds, for example, are too large for most hanging feeders, so food should be placed on a bird table or scattered on the ground. The RSPB notes: "Blackbirds are too large to access most hanging bird feeders. To attract them to your garden, it's best to put out food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground." Similarly, sparrows, dunnocks, and doves favour ground feeding, though they tend to eat seeds.
Safety and Hygiene
If placing food on the ground, ensure it is in an open area away from hedges or potential cat hiding spots. Birds will avoid spots where they feel exposed to predators. For bird tables, clean them regularly with hot, soapy water if they have a flat surface. The RSPB recently withdrew flat, open bird tables from sale while examining whether such feeders might contribute to disease transmission.
The RSPB added: "Bird feeder hygiene is very important. Brush off debris every time you put out fresh food and scrub feeders with mild disinfectant solution weekly."
