Birds need feeding in icy weather

The RSPB has issued an appeal for people to feed birds in their gardens after sub-zero temperatures are expected to hit this week.

As the UK braces itself for the big chill, with temperatures expected to plunge to 10C, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is encouraging all residents to ensure birds don't go without food and water this Christmas.

Margaret Overend, of the RSPB, said: 'Winter can be a challenge for many of our best-loved garden birds, such as the robin, house sparrow and song thrush.

'People can give a little help to the birds in their gardens by providing food, water and shelter.'

During hard weather, some of the UK's most eye-catching winter visiting birds, such as redwings or fieldfares, may be attracted to the borough and by putting out bruised apples or pears, cut in half the RSPB say these birds could be here for the winter. These will also be enjoyed by the more familiar blackbird and song thrush too.

The RSPB is asking people to follow a five-point winter survival plan that will help wild birds.

Put out food regularly, especially in severe weather. Set up a bird table and use high calorie seed mixes or kitchen scraps such as animal fats, grated cheese and soaked dried fruit.

Put out hanging feeders filled with black sunflower seeds, sunflower hearts, sunflower-rich mixes or unsalted peanuts.

Supply fresh water every day. If it is very cold use tepid water but do not use anti-freeze products.

Put out fruit, such as apples and pears, for blackbirds, song thrushes and other members of the thrush family.

Food bars or fat hung up or rubbed into the bark of trees is a great help for treecreepers, goldcrest and many other species.