Households in the UK urged to put peanuts in the garden in September

Households in the UK have been urged to put peanuts in their garden in September if they want to see some beautiful birds chirping around the green area during the autumn season.

A colourful mix of blue, yellow, white and green, the Blue Tit is one of the most attractive and most recognisable garden visitors in the UK. Blue tits are known for raising large broods and often choose garden nest boxes as their nesting sites, leading to a lively and bustling period of family life.

To give these birds the best chance of success, it's important to position the nest box thoughtfully. Placing it in a north-easterly direction helps shield the chicks from harsh afternoon sunlight and prevailing wet winds, creating a more stable and comfortable environment for their development.

Experts from the bird food site Ark Wildlife explained how autumn is a vital time of transition for the birds.

They explained: "Birds hatched in late summer have less time to develop independent survival skills than their spring counterparts. As days shorten and temperatures drop, their survival rates decrease significantly.

"By providing reliable food sources during autumn, you can help these vulnerable fledglings prepare for winter rather than succumb to harsh conditions."

According to the experts, peanuts are an excellent source of autumn food filled with protein and energy.

They said: "Peanuts are another excellent autumn food. They are rich in protein and energy, particularly appealing to tits, nuthatches, and great spotted woodpeckers.

"Always use peanuts from a trusted wildlife supplier, which have been tested free from dangerous aflatoxin, and never feed salted or roasted peanuts, which can harm birds."

One can also put some sunflower seeds as they are a favourite for many species, including goldfinches, greenfinches, sparrows, and tits.

The experts continued: "They are easy to eat, high in calories, and perfect for topping up fat reserves. Black sunflower seeds are equally nutritious, though birds have to crack the husk themselves."