Robins will flock to gardens this autumn if bruised or soft fruit such as apples and pears is left outside, according to the RSPB.
Unlike many other birds, robins do not migrate south for the colder months, leaving them at the mercy of chilly British weather. With safe, warm habitats in short supply during winter, feeding robins certain fruits they love can supplement their diet and add to whatever they forage off the ground themselves.
Which Fruits Attract Robins
Bird feeding experts Birdify recommend leaving out soft fruits like apple slices, berries such as blueberries and strawberries, or soaked raisins to attract robins to gardens. They state that autumn and winter are the perfect seasons to lay out these fruits.
Ark Wildlife explains why it is so easy to feed robins: “They are omnivores so will eat a wide range of food, giving you plenty of options when it comes to feeding them. Robins can lose up to 10% of their body weight just staying warm on a single winter’s night, so making sure its fat reserves are sufficiently topped up really can save a robin’s life.”
Natural Fruits and How to Serve
For natural fruits found growing outside, robins enjoy various small fruits found on garden trees and bushes. The bird food experts share: “Robins enjoy eating various small fruits that they find on garden trees and bushes. Berries such as sloes, hawthorn and holly are particular favourites of robins — along with other tree fruits including cherries and grapes from vines.”
Food can be placed on the ground, a flat tray or small dish, or on a low bird table situated near shrubs or trees, allowing robins to retreat quickly if they sense danger. Ground bird feeders and adjustable bird feeders provide easy access, as long as they are kept at a safe distance from cats and other predators.
Foods to Avoid
RSPB guidance states to avoid putting out all salted foods, cooked food, loose peanuts, dry or hard foods, and bread for robins. Milk is a big no-no as per the Woodland Trust, as it can make them really ill. If putting out unsalted peanuts, make sure they are aflatoxin-free and from a reputable supplier, as poor quality peanuts can carry the aflatoxin fungus, which kills birds if consumed.
Latest RSPB guidance states: “Between beginning of May and end of October, pause filling your bird feeders with seeds and peanuts. There’s an increased risk of the disease spreading in the summer and autumn months.” The RSPB also recommends cleaning and moving bird feeders weekly, and changing the water in water baths every single day, to avoid the rapid spread of disease.
