Over
half the adults in Britain feed birds in their garden. It’s especially important
at this time of year when food sources are dwindling. However, some food can do
more harm than good.
For
instance, fat from cooking is bad for birds, because the meat juices have
blended with the fat and when allowed to set, this consistency makes it prone to
smearing which is not good for birds’ feathers. It is a breeding ground for
bacteria and so it potentially bad for birds’ health. Lard and beef suet on
their own are fine, though, since they re-solidify after warming, and as they
are pure fat they are not so suitable for bacteria to breed
on.
This
advice comes from the RSPB website, where you can find more advice on what food
to give the birds in your garden.
Don’t forget to provide water for them in freezing
conditions.
http://www.rspb.org.uk/advice/helpingbirds/