Robins, often seen as winter visitors, are present year-round but face challenges in summer when dry soil forces earthworms deep underground, their primary food source. This can lead to hunger or heatstroke while foraging. Rachel Hoskins from the Woodland Trust offers a simple solution: provide the right foods.
What food do robins prefer?
Hoskins advises: "Make a mixture of bird seed, sunflower hearts and mealworms, place it outside and wait for the robins to arrive." Many well-meaning people leave out bread or stale leftovers, but these offer no nutritional value and can cause young chicks to choke due to their hard texture.
Why mealworms are ideal
Mealworms are the best summer food for robins, packed with protein to fuel adults and chicks. They are available in pet aisles at supermarkets. For added hydration, soak dried mealworms in water before offering them. This helps keep the birds hydrated during hot weather.
Other suitable foods and tips
If you prefer a cost-free option, leave out soft fruits such as apples, pears, bananas, or raisins. Chop them into small pieces and soak them in water to soften. Robins have slender beaks, so they favour soft foods and small seeds like sunflower hearts. Avoid suet lard balls in summer, as they melt quickly and can spread disease. Additionally, provide fresh water and clean bird feeders weekly to prevent disease. Proper feeding can make a significant difference in helping these cherished birds thrive throughout the year.
