Gardeners are being urged to add chilli powder to bird food in August to stop squirrels and foxes from stealing it, because birds are not affected by the spice. The tip comes as gardeners report seeing far fewer birds, with the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch tracking a decline in garden bird populations over recent decades.
The loss of habitats and a scarcity of food are thought to be behind the trend. Insect numbers have fallen by as much as 80% in the last 20 years owing to habitat loss and climate change, which is believed to be having knock-on effects up the food chain and putting birds at risk of starvation.
What to feed garden birds
Gardeners with a birdbath or bird feeder can leave out mealworms, suet, fat balls and slices of fruit such as apples. The RSPB warns against leaving seeds out. Bruised apples and pears are highly attractive to birds, and household scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs can also be used, although the RSPB advises not to use too much of these.
Why chilli powder works
The problem with putting out bird food is that other animals, such as squirrels, will try to steal it. Sprinkling chilli powder on the food solves that, because birds are unaffected by it while squirrels and foxes dislike it.
The RSPB says: "Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food. Birds aren't bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can't put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone."
Bird tables and seeds
Flat bird tables should no longer be used, as they were pulled from sale by the RSPB in 2024 over fears they were spreading disease. Seeds and peanuts should not be left out between May 1 and October 31 either, as the RSPB suspects they may be spreading a disease that is killing birds.
