When is it allowed to feed birds?
When you think of feeding birds, people mostly think of colder periods and hibernation. However, additional feeding of birds is allowed throughout the year because research has shown that feeding does not cause birds to become dependent or lazy. If you stop feeding and the birds have to look elsewhere for food, they will independently gather their food again.
nFeed all year round
nAlthough many people feed birds in the winter, it is also welcome for birds if they get help in the spring and during the summer months. Because birds lay eggs in the spring and are therefore busy raising their young, they use a lot of energy. Besides, the young need protein-rich food. Offering extra food during the breeding season, therefore, also means a greater chance of survival for young birds.
nFeeding in winter
Birds have a body temperature of 40 degrees Celsius. When it is colder, it takes extra effort for the birds to maintain their body temperature. When it freezes, they may even lose up to 10 per cent of their body weight. An additional feeding in winter is therefore very welcome.
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Fat balls
Fat balls are perfect energy sources for birds. Fat balls consist of high-quality fat, nominated with seeds, hulled sun kernels and peanut flour. Insects are also processed in the fat balls of Vogelbescherming Nederland (VBN). This means that in addition to energy, proteins are also supplemented. Tits in particular – what’s in a name – and robins love that. The fat also has the function of keeping the bulb soft in severe cold. The fat balls can also be used in the summer, provided they are placed in the shade or hung.
nMarvy Green sells VBN’s fat balls in bulk packs and without a net. This prevents unnecessary litter and prevents small birds from becoming entangled.
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