Garden birds are getting hungry but it won’t cost the earth to feed them, says the RSPB.

The wildlife charity is urging everyone to get their aprons on and their leftovers out ready for its annual Feed the Birds Day on Saturday.

You don’t need to be a wildlife expert or a top chef to provide a nutritious meal for your garden birds and most ingredients can be found in your kitchen cupboards.

The RSPB’s Feed the Birds Day is a reminder that garden wildlife needs extra help during the chillier months to come.

As the clocks go back and lush green leaves turn golden brown, the extra food, water and shelter we provide for birds and other garden wildlife could be the difference between life and death.

Birds appreciate your help with extra food all year round, but now is the prime time to step up the feeding in back gardens in time for the cold snap.

The RSPB suggests throwing diets out the window when it comes to feeding your garden visitors.

Calorie-rich foods like mixed seeds, nyjer seed and peanuts as well as kitchen scraps like mild grated cheese, cooked rice and pasta, unsalted bacon and cooked potatoes are great for birds, and provide them with energy in the winter months.

A supply of water is essential for bathing and preening.

Birds need to keep their feathers in top condition to ensure they insulate effectively and a dip in a clean bird bath will ensure no debris or dirt prevents this. Spruce up your garden too. A few inexpensive garden plants can be a real investment for wildlife and the appearance of your outside space.

A simple climber such as honeysuckle, or bushes rich in fruit like rowan and hawthorn will provide extra food and shelter.

RSPB spokesman Andy Waters said: “You don’t need to spend lots of time and money to provide a slap-up meal for garden birds — in fact, providing them with tasty, beneficial food couldn’t be easier.

“A mixture of seeds, some leftover kitchen scraps and some water is our equivalent to a three-course meal and it’s a lifeline when the seasons change and food becomes scarce.”

  • For more information visit www.rspb.org.uk/feedthebirds