The surprising reason gardeners are being urged to put Tabasco in their plots this October
GARDENERS are being urged to put Tabasco in their gardens this October for a rather surprising reason.
With temperatures dropping now is a good time to help out local wildlife as food supplies dwindle.
Birds in particular are at risk of starvation due to dwindling insect numbers.
According to the Express, insect population has decreased by up to 80 percent in the last 20 years thanks to habitat loss and climate change.
While leaving food out for birds can be really helpful, it can be hard to keep foxes and squirrels from stealing the food which is where our hot sauce comes in.
The RSPB explains: “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.”
When it comes to what food to lay out, the RSPB suggests, “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.”
It is also important to include hydration stations around the garden.
The RSPB advises that when choosing a bird table, wood may look great, but metal, plastic and polycarbonate are easier to clean.
The smoother and straighter the post, the harder it is for cats and squirrels to climb.
Finally, remember that all bird nests and eggs are protected by the Wildlife & Countryside Act of 1981.
It’s illegal to deliberately damage, or destroy the nest of any wild bird while it is in use or being built – or to take or destroy their eggs.
So check before you prune that no birds are nesting there.
KEEP IT CLEAN
Bird Feeder experts Finches Friend’s top tips to prevent spreading disease include
- Keep food dry – Bird seed that is exposed to rain and becomes wet is a more suitable environment for disease transmission.
- Birds don’t wash their feet! Don’t allow them to walk in their food. Dirty feet spread droppings and therefore disease.
- Wash water stations weekly – dirty, stagnant water increases the risk of disease transmission. Avoid clay, cement or corroded iron birdbaths as they can contaminate the water.
- Garden Hygiene – scrub tables and feeders with a weak bleach solution, and clean the areas surrounding and below your feeders and tables, wear gloves and empty old food.
- Provide several feeding stations to reduce the number of birds in any one spot. Rotate the position to minimise droppings and food waste in areas underneath them.