Feeding garden birds: What to feed and when?

Written by Indy | July 29, 2025

It is recommended to feed garden birds all year round. Birds need energy throughout the entire year. In winter, they use energy to keep themselves warm; in spring, they need it for nesting, laying eggs, and raising their young. In autumn, they build up reserves to prepare for the winter. Birds stop eating once they are full. It is also a myth that birds forget how to find food for themselves.

What do garden birds need in winter?

In winter, birds use a lot of energy to maintain their body temperature. A bird’s body temperature is much higher than that of humans and other pets — around 40 degrees Celsius. Some small bird species can lose up to 10% of their body weight in a single night due to energy expenditure.

As an additional energy source, you can feed birds fat balls and peanuts during the winter.

Since temperatures can drop below freezing at night, it’s also helpful to offer water. Birds can drink it and bathe in it. The natural oils in their feathers cause the water to roll right off.

Suitable products to feed:

What do garden birds need in spring?

In spring, birds are busy preparing to breed. During this period, they need a high intake of protein. Insects, caterpillars, and worms are excellent sources. In bird-friendly gardens, these are usually available in sufficient quantities. However, when it rains heavily or the wind blows for a couple of days, insects can be scarce. So even in spring, extra feeding is beneficial. Unlike winter, where fat is essential, spring requires protein and calcium, which birds typically get from insects.

Suitable products to feed include:

What do garden birds need in summer?

In summer, protein-rich food remains important. Birds start moulting and need to grow a new set of feathers that will protect them during winter. Other birds require energy to migrate south. Worms and insects are still crucial sources of protein. Flowering plants help attract insects, supporting birds naturally. Sprinkling your garden or lawn can also bring worms to the surface.

Suitable products to feed include:

What do garden birds need in autumn?

As temperatures drop, birds tend to move closer to human homes. They actively seek out reliable food sources for winter. If you start feeding them now, they are likely to return regularly throughout the colder months. During this time, birds often eat vitamin-rich berries. Fat balls and peanuts are also excellent options in autumn.

Suitable products to feed include:

You can find more information on the websites of Versele-Laga.