Gardeners' World has advised gardeners to put out one essential food to attract robins to their gardens throughout winter. Robins can struggle in colder months as insects become scarcer and they need extra calories to stay warm before their breeding season.
The gardening publication suggests that British gardeners can turn their lawns into a haven for the red-breasted birds by offering the right kind of nourishment.
Calorie-Rich Foods Recommended for Robins
Gardeners' World said: "We should feed the birds all year round, but in winter garden birds need extra calories, to provide them with the energy they need to survive the cold nights."
The advice highlights the importance of choosing foods rich in healthy fats. It said: "Choose calorie-rich peanuts, sunflower hearts and suet products, and keep the feeders topped up as the birds will come to rely on them."
One suggested option is making fat cakes for birds. These are simple to prepare by mixing melted lard or beef suet with unsalted peanuts, currants, sultanas, spare breadcrumbs and cheese.
Feeder Hygiene and Maintenance Tips
Additional recommendations for keeping robins protected include cleaning and repositioning feeders weekly and maintaining careful hygiene standards. Feeders should be moved to a new position after each clean to avoid the accumulation of contaminated debris beneath them.
Changing bird water daily is also vital to prevent the spread of bird disease. The experts advise steering clear of flat-surfaced feeders, as there is a greater risk of disease transmission on flat surfaces where contaminated food can gather.
The experts added: "You can leave some food out for birds year-round, but their needs and the risk of disease changes with the seasons. In Autumn and Winter - the best bird food for winter and spring is heavy, protein-rich food like suet. In the colder seasons it's crucial that birds find high-energy snacks to feed themselves and their chicks. Seeds and peanuts should only be used between November and April."
