Helping garden birds the right way
A more thoughtful approach to feeding, caring and supporting UK wildlife.
There has been a great deal of discussion recently around feeding garden birds, and as guidance continues to evolve, it is important to take a clear and considered view. At Hagens, we believe in understanding the detail behind the headlines, and this is what we have learned from the latest advice and research. For many of us, feeding garden birds remains one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to connect with nature. It brings wildlife closer to home and has long played an important role in supporting bird populations, particularly during the colder months when natural food is limited. However, as our understanding of bird health develops, so too must our approach, with current guidance from organisations such as the RSPB encouraging a more thoughtful, seasonal way of feeding that supports birds while reducing the risk of disease.
Feeding birds remains beneficial, but it must be done responsibly and with care. Research has shown that while supplementary feeding can help birds during periods of food shortage, it can also contribute to the spread of disease when birds gather in high numbers, particularly at feeding stations. One of the most significant concerns is trichomonosis, a disease that has affected species such as greenfinches and chaffinches and spreads more easily where birds feed in close proximity.
In response to this, the RSPB now advises a seasonal adjustment in feeding practices. Between May and October, when natural food sources such as insects are widely available and disease risk is higher, it is recommended to pause the use of seed and peanut feeders. This helps reduce the congregation of birds, particularly finches, which are most vulnerable to this disease. Importantly, this is not a complete stop to feeding, but a shift in approach.
During this period, small quantities of alternative foods, such as insect-based options or suet, may still be offered, provided they are consumed quickly and do not accumulate. The emphasis is on offering only what birds will eat within a short period, typically one to two days, encouraging a “little and often” approach rather than leaving large quantities out. This helps avoid overcrowding at feeding stations and reduces the likelihood of contamination.
Gardens themselves can play a far greater role than many realise. By planting seeds and flowers that attract insects, you are naturally providing birds with one of their most important food sources, particularly during the breeding season when protein-rich insects are essential for feeding young. Soft fruits such as berries can also be a valuable and natural addition to the garden, offering seasonal nutrition while encouraging birds to forage more naturally.
Hygiene is central to this approach. Feeding equipment should be cleaned regularly, ideally at least once a week, using appropriate methods to remove droppings and residue. Feeders should also be moved periodically to prevent a build-up of waste beneath them, and any uneaten food should be cleared away promptly. If sick birds are observed, feeding should be stopped immediately and all equipment thoroughly cleaned before feeding resumes.
The type of feeding setup is equally important. Flat-surface feeders, such as bird tables or trays, should be avoided, as they allow droppings and contaminated food to accumulate, increasing the risk of disease transmission. Hanging feeders are considered a safer option when used correctly, as they help keep food cleaner and reduce direct contact between birds.
Water provision should also be managed carefully. Fresh, clean water is essential for drinking and bathing, but it must be changed daily to prevent contamination. Bird baths should be cleaned regularly, and where possible, natural water sources such as ponds can provide a safer alternative, as they are less likely to concentrate contamination in one place.
Beyond feeding, creating a balanced garden environment is one of the most effective ways to support birds. Allowing space for natural growth, planting native species and encouraging biodiversity all contribute to a healthier ecosystem.
In many cases, a garden that provides natural food sources, shelter and nesting opportunities offers far greater long-term benefit than feeding alone.
During autumn and winter, when natural food becomes scarce and energy demands increase, supplementary feeding becomes more important again. At this time, providing appropriate high-energy foods can support birds through harsher conditions and improve survival rates. By adjusting feeding practices throughout the year, we ensure that support is given when it is most needed, without creating unnecessary risks.
This approach reflects a broader shift in how we support wildlife. It is not about feeding more or less, but about feeding in a way that aligns with natural behaviours and promotes long-term health. By pausing seed and peanut feeding during higher-risk months, maintaining high standards of hygiene, avoiding high-risk feeding setups, and supporting natural food sources, we create a more balanced and sustainable environment for garden birds.
At Hagens, we believe that caring for wildlife begins with understanding it. Whether we are supporting pollinators, encouraging birds into our gardens or simply observing the natural world, our role is to work with nature, not against it. Helping garden birds is not just about attracting them, but about creating conditions in which they can thrive safely and naturally.
In doing so, we move beyond simple feeding and towards a more thoughtful and responsible way of supporting the wildlife around us.