Feeding Garden Birds Through Autumn and Winter: A UK Guide

UK bird-feeding advice changed in 2026. Before buying feed or a feeder, check the current RSPB guidance rather than following an old year-round seed routine.

Seasonal feeding: the current RSPB advice

• 1 May–31 October: pause seeds and peanuts. Small amounts of mealworms, fatballs or suet may be offered.
• 1 November–30 April: a wider range, including seeds and peanuts, may be offered.

Make cleaning part of the plan

The RSPB recommends hanging feeders instead of flat feeding surfaces, including tables, window feeders and trays. Clean feeders and water baths at least weekly, move feeders weekly and clear old food and debris. Keep food dry, offer only what is needed, and refresh drinking water daily. Follow the RSPB's full guidance for cleaning and local water considerations.

Choose a feeder you can maintain

Before ordering, work through a practical checklist: can you reach the hanging point, take the feeder apart, clean its corners and reassemble it without tools you do not have? Check the maker's intended food type and the dimensions of any replaceable food holder. Large capacity is not a reason to fill it completely.

Browse Bird Feeders with these criteria in mind. The range includes different formats; inclusion in the collection is not an endorsement of every design for current UK feeding advice. For related equipment, explore Wild Bird Supplies.

Revisit the linked RSPB advice when changing your seasonal routine, as recommendations may be updated.

Sources and further reading

• RSPB: current seasonal feeding advice

Guidance checked 17 September 2026. Follow the instructions supplied with your specific product.