| How we can help the birds this winter | |
|  | Goldfinch enjoying a good meal on a feeder
Photos: RSPB |
| | With the number of garden birds in decline, it's vital they get help to survive the winter months. Here, the RSPB gives advice on how homeowners can contribute to the recovery of our struggling bird species. |
| | | People in Devon are being urged to do their bit to help our ailing bird population - by making sure they are well fed during the winter months.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has launched a Feed the Birds campaign.
It follows worrying statistics which suggest a rapid decline in the numbers of previously common species, such as the house sparrow, tree sparrow, and starling.
 | | A blue tit has some coconut |
House sparrow numbers have more than halved in the past 30 years, and starlings have declined by two-thirds during that time.
The birds prefer natural foods, but seeds and berries are in short supply during winter.
Homeowners with gardens can help by putting out a bird feeder. They can also give the birds peanuts, seeds, cheese and bacon rind.
And gardeners can provide the birds with shelter - as well as natural food - by growing a variety of plants and shrubs.
Tony Whitehead of the South West branch of the RSPB, said: "Winter can be a struggle for many of the nation's birds.
"So a little food, water and shelter can go a long way to helping them through the cold snap and keep them healthy for breeding next year."
Article published: 25th October 2003
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