Feeding Garden Birds in Summer – A Little Advice from Laverock Hall
We’ve had quite a few of you asking about the latest guidance from the RSPB on feeding birds during the summer months, so we thought we’d clear a few things up.
First of all—there’s no need to worry. The RSPB aren’t saying we should stop feeding birds altogether. In fact, their advice is very much in line with what we’ve always recommended here at Laverock Hall. Much of it is common sense, with a few helpful reminders that are worth keeping in mind.
One of the key points is not to overload feeders or bird tables. Putting out too much food can lead to waste, encourage disease, and sometimes attract unwanted visitors (you know the furry kind!). It’s usually best to offer just enough food for the day so it stays fresh and appealing for the birds.
With our lovely British weather, food can quickly become wet, stale, or even start to sprout. This is when contamination can occur, so it’s something to keep an eye on—even if it’s not always easy to manage.
Cleaning feeders regularly is also really important. Droppings can build up and spread disease, so a good clean now and then makes a big difference. We stock Virkon S in-store, which is widely regarded as a “gold standard” disinfectant and is ideal for keeping feeders hygienic.
Another helpful tip is to move feeders around your garden from time to time. This helps prevent a build-up of food and droppings underneath. We know this isn’t always possible, but even a small change in position can help.
Don’t forget about water, especially in the warmer months. A bird bath is perfect, but even a shallow tray will do the job. Just make sure it’s kept clean and topped up with fresh water—birds rely on this just as much as food.
Finally, if you have the space, consider planting bird-friendly plants or leaving a little area of your garden to grow wild. Plants like thistles are fantastic for attracting finches, as they love the seeds. Niger seed is also a great alternative (and yes, we do have it in stock!).
Most importantly, please don’t let the recent RSPB advice put you off feeding your garden birds. They really do benefit from our support, and there’s nothing better than watching them visit your garden, happy and thriving.
If you ever have any questions, we’re always here to help.
— The Laverock Hall Team 🐦