As autumn approaches, gardeners are encouraged to use an unusual but effective trick to protect bird food: sprinkle chilli powder. This vibrant spice not only adds a unique touch to your garden but also serves a practical purpose during this critical time of year.
Why Chilli Powder?
September is an ideal month for preparing our gardens to support birds as they prepare for winter. Birds face increasing challenges, with a significant decline in insect populations over recent decades. Insects have diminished by up to 80% due to habitat loss and climate change, affecting the food supply for many bird species. With fewer insects around, birds are struggling to find enough nourishment.
To help mitigate this issue, gardeners are advised to provide additional food for birds. However, one major challenge is ensuring that this food isn’t consumed by other animals such as squirrels and foxes. Chilli powder offers a simple solution to this problem.
How to Use Chilli Powder
The application of chilli powder is straightforward. Begin by preparing a bird-friendly feast, which can include a mix of peanuts, seeds, mealworms, and slices of fruit like apples. Place these goodies on bird tables or in birdbaths.
To keep the food accessible to birds but not to other creatures, sprinkle a layer of chilli powder over the top. Unlike squirrels and foxes, birds are unaffected by the spice, but the chilli’s heat will deter these pests. The strong sensation from the chilli powder will make the food unappealing to them, ensuring that the treats are left for their intended recipients.
Bird-Friendly Tips
For the best results, use fresh ingredients. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) recommends a varied mix of bird food. Ideal options include peanuts, seeds, and live food like mealworms and waxworms. Bruised apples and pears are particularly popular with thrushes and blackbirds.
While household scraps like pastry, cooked rice, and breadcrumbs can be a supplementary treat, they should be offered in moderation to avoid upsetting the birds’ nutritional balance.
Conclusion
Using chilli powder to protect bird food is a clever and effective method to ensure that our feathered friends receive the nourishment they need as they prepare for winter. By incorporating this simple trick, gardeners can make a significant difference in supporting local bird populations during a challenging time of year.
