I've been feeding seeds and peanuts from feeders for a while, but I want to supplement this with insects where possible... I'm going to order some mealworms, but I thought in the meantime I could just collect some insects from the garden... We've got woodpiles, which are great for earthworms and slugs, and pots on the patio tend to reveal woodlice...
Any idea what they'll like best? Slugs? Earthworms? Woodlice? Centipedes? It's very difficult to get them ants because they can climb out of the plastic pot too easily...
I've given it a go a few times, but the pidgeons and doves knock the pot over and I can't easily tell what was eaten... it'll be best if i can just give them the best stuff straight off :)
"Watch with glittering eyes the world around you, because the best secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it."
Hi Woodsi - i don't think you need to go to the bother of collecting insects and other invertebrates for the birds, they're much better adapted at doing it for themselves! The best thing you can do with regards to this is to create environments where insects can flourish, and the birds will forage for them naturally. You're already off to a good start with the woodpile but there's a few other things you could try....
"Insect hotels" or wildlife stacks can be easily made from cheaply sourced materials such as old bricks and tiles - instructions for building them here - they offer the ideal environment for insects to live and breed
Planting native species that will encourage insects is also easily done and very rewarding - advice on the right types of plants can be found here
I'd also recommendthat you register for our Homes for Wildlife project - for free, tailored advice on how to create a garden that attracts birds and other wildlife.
I hope that gives you some inspiration!
Help swifts by letting us know what they're up to - fill in the 2010 survey
Wow, I'm loving the Homes for Wildlife- i'd seen some stuff about it but didn't get directed to this page, it's really awesome! Seems to have LOADS of stuff I can get doing this summer holidays!
Unfortunately quite a few things require planting and things, so they won't get done, my parents will never get around to it and i'm leaving for university in september so i won't be around to do it for them :(
I love this website so much I'm going to get about advertising it- my local Wildlife Trust will help me out- but some of these things only take a few minutes and if we all planted one or two pots with some nice flowers, the whole island will be supporting bees and things! :)