Robins remain in Britain throughout the winter, so leaving out the right fruits can keep them returning to your garden all autumn. Soft fruits such as apples, pears, blueberries, strawberries, and soaked raisins are recommended by the RSPB and bird feeding specialists Birdify to tempt these red-breasted birds.
Why Robins Need Extra Food in Autumn
Unlike many other species, robins do not migrate south for the winter, meaning they must endure the harsh British climate. With safe, warm habitats for birds in short supply across the UK during the colder months, providing food helps supplement whatever they manage to forage from the ground.
Ark Wildlife explains why feeding robins is straightforward: "They are omnivores so will eat a wide range of food, giving you plenty of options when it comes to feeding them. Robins can lose up to 10% of their body weight just staying warm on a single winter's night, so making sure its fat reserves are sufficiently topped up really can save a robin's life."
Fruits Robins Prefer and How to Offer Them
Birdify suggests leaving out soft fruits such as apple slices, blueberries, strawberries, or soaked raisins, noting that autumn and winter are the best times to put out these fruits. Natural berries found on garden trees and bushes are also favourites, including sloes, hawthorn, and holly, along with cherries and grapes from vines.
Food can be placed straight on the ground, a flat tray or small dish, or on a low bird table positioned near shrubs or trees. Ground-level and height-adjustable feeders work well, provided they are at a safe distance from cats and other predators, allowing robins a quick getaway if danger appears.
What to Avoid and Feeder Hygiene
RSPB guidance warns against offering salted foods, cooked food, loose peanuts, dry or hard foods, and bread to robins. Milk is strictly off-limits according to the Woodland Trust, as it can lead to serious illness in birds.
When offering unsalted peanuts, ensure they are aflatoxin-free and sourced from a reputable supplier, as poor quality peanuts can contain the aflatoxin fungus, which is deadly to birds. Current RSPB guidance advises: "Between beginning of May and end of October, pause filling your bird feeders with seeds and peanuts. There's an increased risk of the disease spreading in the summer and autumn months." The RSPB also recommends cleaning and moving bird feeders weekly and changing bird bath water daily to prevent the spread of disease.
