Feed the Birds

Tuppence a bag? Well actually no, this isn't a reference to that famous Mary Poppins song, but it's a great idea as feeding the birds is always a worthwhile activity.

Every October the RSPB hold ‘Feed the Birds Day' and run events around the UK to give people the opportunity to get involved with feeding our feathered friends and for anyone, anywhere, to get information on the birds in their garden and what to feed and when. Many of these events are free (mine will be) or have a small charge and are normally for the whole family. This year's events will be held on the weekend of 25th and 26th October.

So why do we feed the birds? Well in addition to helping the birds survive, particularly through the colder and wetter months, it might also help you to turn your garden into the wildlife haven you've always wanted. We started feeding the birds in our garden 22 years ago and to date we have had 33 different species of bird in, over or just by our garden. Not bad eh? Just from putting out some seed and peanuts, oh and water of course.

Feeding the birds isn't just a winter pastime though, but it's certainly a great time to start. So why not check out the RSPB's website and see what's going on near you? If you are worried about the cost of feeding the birds or won't have time to fill feeders and water dishes, then there are plenty of ideas on the website about plants that will supply food so you can still help and have these lovely little friends in your garden.

If anyone is in the Neath Port Talbot area on Sunday 26th October then please join me at Afan Forest Park in the afternoon. The event is free but there is a small charge for parking. See you there.

For information about Feed the Birds day:
www.rspb.org.uk/feedthebirds/about.asp

For information on feeding birds:
www.rspb.org.uk/advice/helpingbirds/feeding

For information on plants:
www.rspb.org.uk/advice/gardening/

By Fiona Sharp