Two fruits you should leave out in July to help birds in your garden

It's a crucial time for an array of birds in our gardens - as popular British birds like sparrows, starlings, blackbirds and robins, feed their newly hatched chicks during the sunlit summer.

Gardeners are being called upon to assist feathered friends throughout the summer by leaving out two types of fruits on both lawns and bird tables. The RSPB advises offering a diverse selection of food, catering to the varied diets of different birds as the seasons change, from sunflower seeds to raw oats, suet and mealworms.

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Other gardening experts echo the significance of feeding our avian allies in the warmer months. CJ Wildlife points out that birds require extra energy in the summer for rearing their young, debunking the misconception that feeding should stop after winter or spring.

The specialists remarked: "Not long ago, many believed that garden birds should only be fed during the winter months; however, long-term studies have shown that offering food to garden birds year-round is beneficial, supporting declining species and allowing you to learn more about your garden visitors."

They added: "Feeding wild birds during the summer helps busy parents top up feeders and provide all the natural food their young need. Well-stocked bird feeders can be a lifeline for young birds as they learn how and where to find food locally.

"Bird populations are at their highest in the summer, so a regular supply of quality food helps birds get the energy they need amid increased competition for natural foods."

For those seeking a simple and cost-effective way to assist birds, consider leaving out two types of fruit - apples and pears, reports the Express. Simply slice them up and place them on your lawn, bird table or feeder.

The RSPB advises: "You can put out leftovers such as dried fruit, or fruit such as apples and pears. Don't use anything mouldy or salty, though, and if you have a dog don't put out dried fruit - vine fruits, such as raisins, can be toxic to them.

"Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and blackbirds." Birds have different feeding preferences - some opt for 'ground feeding' rather than visiting a bird table.

The RSPB explains: "Blackbirds are too large to access most hanging bird feeders. To attract them to your garden, it's best to put out food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground."

This is also true for sparrows, dunnocks and doves, which typically prefer ground feeding, although they usually consume seeds. If you choose to leave food on the ground, ensure it's in a wide-open area, away from hedges or potential hiding spots for cats.

Birds won't feed in areas where they feel threatened by predators like cats, or where they could be exposed to danger if forced to feed near cat hiding places.

Should you opt for a bird table, it's crucial to maintain its cleanliness, especially if it has a flat surface. The RSPB has temporarily halted the sale of flat, open bird tables as they conduct an inquiry into whether such feeders might be facilitating the transmission of diseases.

The RSPB emphasised: "Bird feeder hygiene is very important. Brush off debris every time you put out fresh food and scrub feeders with mild disinfectant solution weekly."