Overview

• Begin supplemental feeding only after the first frost or a persistent snow cover, then continue reliably through winter.
• Match food to groups: seed-eaters like sparrows and finches take sunflower seeds, hemp/linseed and peanuts, while soft-food eaters like blackbirds and robins need fruit, dried berries and oats.
• Use separate stations for different foods, and place whole apples or pears on open ground near cover to aid ground-feeding species.
• Site feeders in visible, sheltered locations away from windows to reduce collisions, clean frequently, and offer small portions to limit disease and vermin.
• Choose high-quality or organic mixes and consider homemade fat balls; bolster support with native plants, fallen leaves and seasonal garden care now that hedge cutting is allowed again from October 1.