The provision of food and the use of bird feeders in suburban gardens

We surveyed the extent to which householders in two suburbs of Cardiff provide food for birds. Up to 75% of households put out food in winter, but only 40% in summer. There is no significant difference in the types of food provided in winter and summer. Bread was the commonest item, being provided by 90% of households in both seasons. Food is usually thrown on the ground, although 25-30% of homes use bird-tables and peanut holders. We observed the attendance of birds at a peanut feeder over the course of a year. Female House Sparrows fed there more than males in early spring. House Sparrows, Great Tits and Blue Tits, especially juveniles, used it most in late summer. We suggest that those interested in the welfare of garden birds should provide more food in August and September.