Encyclopaedia of Birdcare

Summer Feeding

Until recent years it was considered unnecessary to feed birds in summer, and it was even said to be harmful in that parents might offer unsuitable foods from feeding stations to their young. As a result of scientific research, however, feeding birds other than in winter is now acceptable, and is thought to be actually beneficial at certain periods. The latter situation applies particularly in spring and early summer, when the demands of the breeding season, often combined with inclement weather such as drought, heavy rain and cold, cause difficulties for some species. The same foods for birds as are used in winter feeding may be fed in summer, but certain precautions need to be taken. Uneaten food should be quickly cleared up, and inexperienced young birds should not be lured into places where cats might approach them unawares. If whole peanuts are provided, they should be fed in mesh-type feeders, as chicks can choke on them.

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