Many people think of garden feeding as a way to help birds through the winter months. In fact, feeding throughout the year can be beneficial if you choose the right foods to feed (especially during the breeding season). In order to attract a range of bird species (and to reduce competition) try and provide a range of different food in a number of different bird feeders spread around the garden.

Put some food near to cover and some in a more open situatiojn, watching out for cats. Distract larger birds with food on the lawn, while secreting grated cheese and nyger seed under shrubs for Dunnocks and Robins. Place feeders right inside bushes and trees if Sparrowhawks are a regular visitor to your garden.

Provide good quality bird food, like black sunflower seed, premium peanuts and sunflower hearts in hanging feeders. These will attract finches, tits and sparrows.

There are a number of things to remember when providing food for birds in your garden, one of the most important of which is hygiene.

Click here to find out more about hygiene.

There are also a number of tips that are well-worth following to help you provide the best opportunities for birds. These can be viewed by clicking here.

Water is just as important as providing food, so why not add a bird bath to your garden.