As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, many Britons are looking for ways to support the wildlife in their gardens. Experts have revealed a remarkably simple method to encourage one of the UK's most common garden visitors, the blackbird, to become a regular fixture in your outdoor space this November.
The Simple Secret to Attracting Blackbirds
According to specialists, the key to attracting these feathered friends lies in their diet. Blackbirds have a particular fondness for berries and soft fruits, which become a crucial part of their sustenance during the autumn and winter months. While cultivating specific plants like ivy, holly, or hawthorn is beneficial, a straightforward alternative is readily available.
You can easily replicate this natural food source by leaving out appropriate fruits. Apples and pears are excellent choices to leave in your garden, providing the nourishment blackbirds seek. They are also known to enjoy raisins, sultanas, currants, and soft fruits like blackberries and strawberries, offering plenty of options for any gardener.
Essential Guidance from Cambridge University Botanic Garden
In a recent Instagram post, the experts at Cambridge University Botanic Garden offered clear advice for those wanting to aid local wildlife. They emphasised the value of berry-bearing plants for a range of birds.
The post explained: "Berry-bearing plants provide a valuable food source for wildlife - rowan, hawthorn, viburnum and cotoneaster attract waxwings, while blackbirds, bullfinches, and redwings love ivy berries and holly berries are a favourite with greenfinches."
For those without these specific plants, leaving out the recommended fruits is a highly effective substitute. The specialists also recommend one easy daily action—ensuring a fresh supply of these foods is available—to keep blackbirds properly nourished.
What to Avoid When Feeding Garden Birds
While it's beneficial to provide food, it is equally critical to know what not to leave out. When feeding blackbirds, you should never offer salted products, milk, or uncooked hard grains, as these can be harmful to their health.
It is also vital to avoid avocado, which is toxic to birds, and any hard, stale foods that could pose a choking hazard. Spoiled or mouldy food should never be put out for wildlife.
If you use a bird feeder, regular cleaning is essential to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, avoid feeding birds bread, as it often lacks the necessary nutrients they require to survive the winter.
Why Your Help is Crucial in November
November is a pivotal time to support garden birds. The colder weather and shorter days mean birds need extra energy to survive the long winter nights. Providing high-energy foods helps them build vital fat reserves at a time when natural food sources are becoming scarce.
By taking these simple steps, you can do more than just attract beautiful blackbirds to your garden; you can play a direct role in supporting the health and survival of UK wildlife during its most challenging season.
