As Snow Falls...

In my life before retirement I was lucky enough to be included on the RSPB list to receive their informative and helpful Press Releases – that courtesy has continued and I’d like to pass on part of one of their latest releases which has an urgency as the current harsh weather is predicted to last on for a considerable time:

As snow falls so does a bird’s chance of survival, says RSPB

With snow, ice and cold weather spreading across the country this week, the RSPB is asking people to remember the birds that need our help to endure these severe weather conditions.

Despite a mild start to the winter, it now seems as though wild birds will face a test in finding enough of the right kind of foods to give them energy and warmth, meaning the food and water we supply could ensure their survival into spring.

Richard James, one of the RSPB’s wildlife experts, said: “During cold snaps, such as this one, birds become more vulnerable and are more likely to come into our gardens to seek refuge. When temperatures drop below freezing, birds struggle to find the natural food they need to stay alive so we can really help them out.”

To encourage the survival of our birds, people should provide food like mealworms, fat-balls, sunflower hearts, crushed peanuts, dried fruit, seeds and grain to compensate for birds’ natural food which is covered in snow and ice and impossible to get to.

Kitchen leftovers like grated cheese, porridge oats, soft fruit, unsalted bacon, cooked rice, pasta and the insides of cooked potatoes are also a good source of energy for garden birds, and unfrozen water for both drinking and bathing is vital.

Richard continued: “With this week’s harsh and wintry conditions, the wild birds in our gardens will need a little TLC. The insects, berries and seeds garden birds usually feast on will become off-limits thanks to frost and snow, so taking the time to provide some nutritious food and water for them is important for their survival.”

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. The chilly conditions will mean that birds will visit our gardens in greater numbers.

“There’ll be more visits from garden regulars like starlings, tits, finches and thrushes, plus appearances from less-common garden birds such as countryside-dwelling fieldfare and redwing. If the cold weather prolongs, some lucky people may even catch a glimpse of the unusual-looking woodcock, with its long bill,” added Richard.

We may not be lucky enough to spot that woodcock. But it could be a bumper time for those with well stocked bird tables!