Gardening

Wildlife watch

Feeding station maintenance

Nuthatch

Once a bird feeding station is up and running, it is just a case of sitting back and enjoying the birds that come to use it. Here are five top tips to get the best out of your feeding station from the BTO's Paul Stancliffe

  • Provide a daily supply of fresh water, and experiment with different types of food and different types of feeders.
  • Keep your feeding station clean to prevent the spread of disease; ideally bird tables and the ground beneath should be swept clean daily to remove droppings and any uneaten food.
  • Store your bird food in a clean, dry and cool environment, this will minimise the risk of fungal or bacterial contamination.
  • Buy your food from a reputable source, this way you can be sure that you are giving the birds the right type of food.
  • Always wash your hands after stocking up or cleaning a bird feeding station.

For a free leaflet on Garden Birds, Hygiene and Disease write to, GBW, The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2PU, or telephone 01842-750050.

British Trust for Ornithology: www.bto.org

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