As the winter chill sets in, many Brits eagerly await the cheerful sight of robins visiting their gardens. These iconic birds, strongly associated with the festive season, become more visible during the colder months, and there's a remarkably simple way to encourage their return.
The Secret to Welcoming Winter Robins
According to bird feeder manufacturer Kingsyard Official, placing one common fruit in your garden can work wonders. The key is to add apple slices to your bird feeders or platform feeders. This straightforward method is highly effective, especially since you likely already have this fruit at home. Caring for wildlife is crucial during winter, and this small act can significantly aid robins when natural food is scarce.
Why Are Robins More Visible in Winter?
Robins become much more noticeable in UK gardens throughout winter for several key reasons. Natural food sources like insects become scarcer, forcing them to seek alternative sustenance in our gardens. Furthermore, the absence of thick foliage on trees and bushes makes these little birds easier to spot. An interesting fact boosting local numbers is that some robins from continental Europe migrate to the UK for the winter.
During autumn, their natural food supplies diminish, and they begin establishing winter territories. This explains why you might already hear their distinctive 'autumn song' and see them reappearing. Their association with Christmas dates back to Victorian-era postmen, who wore bright red uniforms and were nicknamed 'robins', creating a lasting festive connection.
What Else Can You Offer Robins?
While apples are a favourite, robins have a varied diet. Their diet changes from insects to fruits and berries in the colder months. To successfully attract them, ensure any fruit you provide is fresh and replaced if it becomes mouldy. Beyond apple slices, you can also offer:
- Dried fruits like raisins
- Suet and mealworms
- Peanut hearts or chopped-up peanuts
- Pear slices
Experts suggest avoiding high-sugar fruits like grapes. Additionally, as winter approaches, robins will be looking for fresh water. Consider setting up a heated bird bath to provide a vital resource during the colder months, making your garden an even more attractive haven for these beautiful birds.
