Feeding birds in summer: mythbusting (RSPB) (1 Viewer)

Ever heard that birds don't need feeding in summer? Or that peanuts aren't suitable for them? Or that fruit is a no no?These are just some of the questions the RSPB is asked at this time of year and the wildlife charity wants to clear them up once and for all.

Read More...

I cant beleve the RSPB is recomending the use of peanuts as bird food in summer
( admittedly not when young nestlings are about without crushing. Two or three days of damp , humid and warm conditions encourage the growth of fungus on peanuts ( treated or not )which posion song birds. Peanuts are fine if the feeder is emptyed by the birds on a daily basis , but otherwise a big no no in warm damp weather.

To be fair the article does say

Peanuts can be fed to birds but with caution at some times of year. They are often difficult for young birds to digest because of the size, so the RSPB suggests alternative food like sunflower hearts and live food during the breeding season, or crushing them into smaller pieces.

Peanuts can be high in a natural toxin, which can kill birds, so buy from a reputable dealer to guarantee freedom from aflatoxin.


I was a little surprised that the RSPB gets asked if fruit is bad for birds, since many birds eat berries which are fruit.