Spring is a crucial time for many garden birds in the UK. Sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, robins, and other common species are busy breeding and nesting from March through May.
To support these birds during this important period, gardeners are being advised to leave out two types of fruit—apples and pears—on lawns and bird tables. This simple action can provide essential food for birds without much effort or cost.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) recommends offering a variety of foods throughout the year. These include sunflower seeds, uncooked oats, suet, and mealworms. However, for a quick and easy way to help birds in spring, sliced apples and pears are highly effective.
The RSPB explains, “You can put out leftovers like dried fruit or fresh fruit such as apples and pears. Avoid anything mouldy or salty. Also, if you have a dog, do not put out dried fruit like raisins, as they can be toxic to dogs.”
Bruised apples and pears are especially popular with thrushes and blackbirds. These birds tend to feed on the ground rather than at hanging feeders.
“Blackbirds are too large to use most hanging feeders,” the RSPB notes. “To attract them, it’s best to place food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground.”
By following these simple tips, gardeners can play a key role in helping British garden birds thrive during their breeding season.
