Monty Don, the BBC Gardeners' World host, has warned gardeners against adding grain to bird feeders, as it primarily attracts rats, squirrels, and pigeons rather than the intended birds. In an issue of Gardeners' World magazine, Don stated: 'No grain as this primarily attracts pigeons, sparrows, squirrels and rats, and is rarely eaten by other birds.'
Recommended Bird Feeder Mix
Don shared his own carefully curated bird feeder mix, which includes sunflower seeds and hearts, peanut pieces, suet pellets, dried mealworms, and nijer seed. He stores this mixture in a dustbin outside his back door at Longmeadow, his garden in Ivington, Herefordshire.
Best Placement and Vigilance
The horticulture expert also advised on the optimal placement of bird feeders, using Longmeadow as an example. He hangs peanut feeders, fat balls, and suet balls from the branches of a large fig tree in the corner of his backyard. Each morning, he sprinkles the seed mix onto logs and along the top of a stone wall backed by thick brambles. However, he cautioned gardeners to stay vigilant for sparrow hawks, which may swoop in to prey on smaller birds attracted to the feeders.
Seasonal Food Scarcity
Don emphasized the importance of supplementing natural food supplies as seasons change, particularly from summer to winter. He noted that birds greedily feed on seeds and berries in the garden, but these are quickly depleted. Providing additional food helps birds and offers gardeners a chance to observe them. He recommended high-calorie foods such as seeds, nuts, and fat, as well as leftover pastry, bread, rice, and fruit, which are especially good for blackbirds and thrushes.
