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RSPB Issues New Guidance For Feeding Garden Birds Following Big Garden Birdwatch

  • Writer: Dominic Kureen
    Dominic Kureen
  • 1 day ago
  • 2 min read
(c) Ben Andrew
(c) Ben Andrew

The RSPB has released updated advice on feeding garden birds after this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch highlighted the health challenges some species face.


Over 650,000 people across the UK took part in the annual survey, including around 2,000 participants on the Isle of Wight, counting more than nine million birds of over 80 species.


Nationally, the House Sparrow remained the most recorded species, followed by Blue Tit and Starling.


On the Isle of Wight, Blue Tit was spotted most often, followed by Wood Pigeon and House Sparrow.


While the top of the rankings shows stable populations, the survey also revealed worrying declines further down the list.


The Greenfinch, ranked 18th, has seen a 67% drop in average numbers since the survey began in 1979, largely due to disease such as trichomonosis, which spreads more easily when birds gather at feeders.


Greenfinches are now on the UK Red List because of these declines.


RSPB scientists emphasise that feeding garden birds is still hugely beneficial, but it must be done safely and seasonally to protect bird health.


Key Advice From The RSPB

Feed Seasonally:

  • Pause filling feeders with seed and peanuts between 1 May and 31 October to prevent overcrowding and reduce disease spread.

  • It is still safe to offer mealworms, fat balls, or suet year-round.

Feed Safely:

  • Clean and move feeders weekly and clear any debris underneath.

  • Change water daily and use tap water; clean bird baths weekly.

  • Avoid flat-surfaced feeders like traditional bird tables, where disease can spread more easily.


The RSPB also encourages bird-friendly planting — such as sunflowers, teasels, and ivy — to provide natural, safer food sources and encourage insects.


Beccy Speight, RSPB Chief Executive, said:

“We’re not asking people to stop feeding, just to feed in a way that protects birds’ long-term health.
"By making small changes together, we can ensure garden feeding continues to be a positive force for nature.”

The Big Garden Birdwatch, which began in 1979, is the world’s largest citizen science survey, providing valuable insights into how UK garden birds are faring.

For more information on safe feeding and to get involved, visit www.rspb.org.uk.

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