Gardeners issued brutal bird feed warning over scraps falling on lawns

across the UK are being urged to take greater care when feeding , as leftover scraps may posing a huge danger to wildlife. Experts have warned that dropped seeds and uneaten food can quickly rot, putting wildlife at serious risk.

While it’s common to see bits of seed or suet beneath bird feeders, many don't realise how dangerous these scraps can become. As they decompose, the food attracts harmful bacteria and poses a risk of disease to any birds that forage there. Lucy Taylor of Vine House Farm Bird Foods explains: “The dropped food might be eaten by species such as Wood pigeon or even House sparrow”. She adds: “But more often than not it will just sit on the ground and start to rot.”

This rot isn’t just messy, it’s deadly. Birds pecking through decomposing seed risk contracting several diseases, many of which prove fatal. Trichomonosis and salmonella are two particularly dangerous examples, both capable of spreading rapidly between birds. Once infected, even common species like finches and sparrows can die within days.

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Gardeners are advised to clean up fallen food regularly and monitor what’s being eaten. If large amounts of seed are going untouched, it might be time to switch to a better mix.

How to prevent this from happening

Cheap seed blends often contain filler ingredients like wheat or red dari, which are rejected by most small garden birds. These are the types of mixes most likely to end up on the ground, untouched. By investing in higher-quality feed, bird lovers can reduce waste and support bird health. Options like sunflower hearts, nyjer seed, and suet pellets are not only more nutritious but also less likely to be discarded.

Feeders should also be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of mould and bacteria. Experts recommend doing this every couple of weeks, using hot water and a mild disinfectant.

Placing trays or seed catchers beneath feeders can also help stop scraps from hitting the ground. This not only prevents rot but also deters pests like rats and squirrels.

Ultimately, bird feeding is about more than just scattering seeds – it’s about responsibility. With a few small changes, gardeners can help keep their feathered visitors safe and healthy.

So, next time you top up the feeder, take a moment to check what’s fallen underneath. A cleaner feeding station could mean the difference between life and death for the birds in your garden.