Gardeners urged to put chilli powder in their garden this August
Gardeners are being urged to scatter chilli powder around their garden this August for one important reason. It might sound strange but chilli powder is the perfect aid if you leave food out for hungry birds, as it doesn't get stolen by other animals.
Birds in the UK are still struggling to find enough food, with declining availability putting many species at risk. Insect populations have dropped by as much as 60% over the past two decades due to habitat loss and climate change, causing ripple effects throughout the food chain.
With significantly less natural food available, birds face an increased risk of starvation - particularly during spring and summer when they're nesting and feeding their young. As a result, gardeners are being encouraged to support local birdlife by putting out bird food, the Express reports.
Peckish, a bird feed firm, states that although August is a quieter month for garden birds, gardeners should still leave out food and water, which can be hard for the birds to find in August.
Peckish states: "August is well known as a quiet month for garden birds. Many birds are done with breeding for the year and the abundance of wild food in the form of seeds, fruits, and insects means our garden feeders are in less demand. Common birds, such as Robin and Blackbirds, will also begin to moult at this time of year."
"Moulting allows birds to get rid of the worn feathers from a busy breeding season and prepare for migration and the cooler months ahead. Like us, they prefer to change their outfits in a private and safe space, so they slink about in the undergrowth as their ability to fly is reduced," they continue.
The bird feed firm, urges: "Water is the most valuable commodity for birds in summer. Be sure to leave shallow trays of water out for birds, particularly during dry spells. Even better are ponds, which won't need to be topped up as often, and will also provide insects for birds to eat."
The issue with leaving bird food out is that other animals such as squirrels, will attempt to steal the food. This is where the chilli powder comes in.
If you have a birdbath or bird table, or any spot where you leave food for birds (and if you don't, it's worth considering adding one) you can provide a mix of chopped peanuts, seeds, mealworms and fruit slices like apples. Soaking the food in water also helps ensure birds have access to essential hydration.
Birds really enjoy bruised apples and pears, as well as scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs. However the RSPB says you should avoid using too much of these carbs.
You should lace it all with scattering of chilli powder or chilli flakes, including water and the birds will have the food and water supplies all to themselves due to them being unable to taste the spicy from the chilli. Whereas squirrels and foxes can taste it and know when to avoid it.
The RSPB says: "When buying bird food, try to get a good mix of peanuts, seeds and live food like mealworms and waxworms."
"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."
"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," they conclude.
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