It might sound odd, but it’s a very important thing to do
Gardeners are being encouraged to sprinkle chilli powder in their gardens this October. The spicy seasoning can serve a crucial role in your outdoor space as autumn commences.
It’s the perfect time of year to assist in feeding birds before they hibernate or migrate for winter, and chilli powder can help safeguard food left out for the birds from being stolen by other less deserving creatures. Bird populations have suffered this year. Gardeners have reported seeing fewer birds than usual, a claim supported by RSPB data – over the past four decades, one in six birds has disappeared.
The significant decrease in insect numbers – down by up to 80% in the last 20 years due to habitat loss and climate change – is believed to be impacting the entire food chain, with birds having far less to eat, putting them at risk of starvation. This is why gardeners are being urged to do their bit for birds and leave bird food out. However, leaving bird food out can attract other animals like squirrels or foxes who may try to steal it, reports the Express.
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This is where the chilli powder comes into play. If you have a birdbath or bird table, or a place where you leave bird food for the birds (and if you don’t, consider getting one), then you can leave a mix of peanuts, seeds, mealworms and slices of fruit like apple out for birds to eat.
Bruised apples, pears and scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs can tempt birds into your garden yet the RSPB warns against using too much of these. They have a clever tip to keep other animals at bay: mix in some chilli powder, which birds happily tolerate but squirrels and foxes despise.
The RSPB suggests for those keen to attract feathered visitors that a varied diet is key. They said: “When buying bird food, try to get a good mix of peanuts, seeds and live food like mealworms and waxworms.”
To cater specifically to thrushes and Blackbirds, they recommend fruit like bruised apples and pears while advising moderation with household leftovers. They added: “Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and Blackbirds. Household scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs should only be offered in small amounts occasionally.”
To ensure the food you leave out remains the preserve of the birds, the RSPB shares an insiders tip: “Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food. Birds aren’t bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can’t put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone.”
