Leaving shallow trays of water out for birds, particularly during dry spells, is the simple action experts say will keep robins and blackbirds returning to gardens. Early autumn is an ideal time for watching garden birds, with numerous species visible, and specialists insist birds need support throughout summer to rear their young and sustain their own vitality, not just in winter.
Why water is essential for garden birds
The avian experts at Peckish, a provider of bird food and accessories, advise: "Water is the most valuable commodity for birds in summer. Be sure to leave shallow trays of water out for birds, particularly during dry spells. Even better are ponds, which won't need to be topped up as often, and will also provide insects for birds to eat."
The RHS confirms that the UK's birds "are in trouble, and they need our help". A 2023 State of Nature report disclosed that 43% of all UK bird species face the risk of vanishing completely over the next few decades.
How to make your water source safe
Peckish also provides advice on how to make your water source as safe as possible for birds. They recommend placing it two metres from cover like trees or shrubs so that it is both visible and provides a safe place to retreat. Gardeners should also make sure garden birds have plenty of fresh clean water for drinking and bathing, and clean feeding and drinking areas regularly with a mild disinfectant.
A water source for birds is particularly crucial at present owing to the extended period of hot and dry conditions, which means water can be especially challenging for birds to find and will also evaporate more rapidly.
Birds to spot and what to feed them
Throughout the month, robins - immediately identifiable by their characteristic red breasts - can regularly be observed searching for insects and worms. Similarly, blackbirds are a common presence in our gardens, seeking out insects and worms on lawns or under shrubs. Additional birds frequently encountered include wood pigeons, blue tits and house sparrows.
The specialists at Gardeners' World say: "Feeding birds used to be a winter activity, but birds need our help in the summer months too, to ensure they have enough energy to survive leaner times ahead. Just as in winter, high-energy food is the key to summer feeding. Live food is also recommended to supplement the food they can find in the wild."
They recommend foods like sunflower hearts, mealworms, fruit and other leftover foods like cooked pasta and rice and rind from unsalted meat or cooked veg, which are all high in energy. Peanuts are also recommended, though the pack should be checked to make sure the nuts have been tested for aflatoxin, a fungal infection that can be lethal to birds.
The RHS also proposes the following methods to care for birds in your garden during the summer: avoid using pesticides, as insects are a crucial food source for birds; minimise use of mains water, as this has a knock-on effect on wetland habitats; and delay hedge-cutting until late August when nesting season is safely out of the way.
