Putting out unsalted peanuts in November can attract robins and woodpeckers to your garden, according to bird food specialists Haith's. As temperatures drop and insects become less active, gardens can provide a vital source of nourishment for birds during the winter months.
Robins are a familiar sight in British gardens at this time of year, actively searching for both food and shelter. Offering food to robins can help them survive the harsh winter while giving you a view of winter wildlife from home.
Why peanuts are recommended
Haith's advised: "Offer unsalted peanuts as these are loved by robins and woodpeckers." Peanuts have long been a popular treat for garden birds, packed with fats, oils and protein that boost their health and wellbeing.
However, sharing peanuts from your kitchen cupboard is strongly discouraged. Most peanuts intended for human consumption are coated in salt and flavourings that can prove extremely harmful to birds. Bird-friendly varieties should always be sourced instead.
The RSPB previously advised gardeners to stop feeding birds peanuts, but this guidance only applied between 1st May and 31st October.
How to offer peanuts safely
One of the greatest worries when feeding peanuts is choking. Adult birds can typically handle small pieces, but whole peanuts can pose a real danger. Whole peanuts should always be placed inside a wire or mesh feeder, allowing birds to peck off tiny pieces rather than carrying off large chunks. Crushed peanuts are an alternative option.
Positioning is also important. Experts at Brinvale suggest placing peanut feeders somewhere birds can reach with ease while still having nearby cover from predators, such as by trees and shrubs. This gives birds a quick getaway should danger come their way.
Keeping peanuts and feeders safe
Fresh peanuts should have a clean, pleasant nutty aroma. Any peanuts that appear mouldy, feel damp, or show signs of discolouration should be discarded immediately. Peanuts shouldn't be left out for extended periods, particularly during wet weather, as they can turn mouldy quickly and trigger respiratory infections in birds that consume them.
Keeping bird feeders clean is vital for the health of feathered visitors. Peanut feeders tend to gather dust, moisture, and bird droppings over time. Regular cleaning can help prevent the spread of disease between birds. The most effective method is to thoroughly wash feeders with warm water, ensuring they are completely dry before refilling them.
