As autumn turns to winter, many UK gardeners enjoy the sight of robins, blue tits, and finches visiting their outdoor spaces. However, this peaceful scene is often disrupted by the arrival of larger, more aggressive birds that dominate feeders and intimidate smaller species.
The Problem with Bully Birds
Known as 'bully birds', species including magpies, pigeons, crows, and jackdaws become particularly problematic during the colder months. These clever but greedy birds congregate in gardens as natural food sources become scarce, according to experts at Chirp for Birds.
"Nobody likes a bully. They're aggressive, they take what they want without regard for others, and they don't fight fair," the specialists told the Express. "The bully birds at your feeders are no different: they hog the feeder, preventing other, smaller birds from feeding, and even start fights in the process."
Effective Solutions for Gardeners
The experts recommend two main strategies to protect smaller birds while still feeding your garden visitors. The first involves switching to specialised feeders that physically exclude larger birds.
A caged feeder features metal surrounds with openings large enough for small birds like blue tits or finches, but too small for pigeons, magpies, or jackdaws to access the food.
Alternatively, a weight-activated perch feeder uses a clever mechanism that closes access to food when heavier birds land on it. This system also effectively deters squirrels from raiding your bird food supplies.
"When larger bully birds can't get to the food in your feeders, they'll give up and look for food elsewhere," the experts confirmed. "The upside is that these types of feeders also work to keep the squirrels out! Win-win!"
Creating Harmony in Your Garden
For those who don't want to completely exclude larger birds, there's an alternative approach that accommodates all species while reducing conflict.
Position a robust tray or ground feeder in an open area specifically for larger birds such as pigeons, magpies, or crows. These species prefer feeding on flat, open surfaces and will typically remain at their designated feeding station if provided with easier pickings.
"Keep bird aggression at bay while feeding a variety of local birds in your yard - including the 'bullies' - by putting out more than one feeder," advised the specialists.
Your best strategy involves placing a 'bully-free' feeder that larger birds cannot access, with another platform or tray feeder positioned across your garden specifically for larger species. Ensure sufficient distance between feeders to prevent territorial disputes.
The main bully birds identified in UK gardens include magpies, European starlings, house sparrows, carrion crows, jackdaws, woodpigeons, feral pigeons, jays, and rooks.
