Debunking Bird Food Myths 

There are many myths surrounding bird food out there - ever heard that ducks will explode if you feed them bread? This blog aims to debunk all bird food myths, no matter how crazy (like the duck one) they are! 

Feeding birds can be a difficult find to navigate anyway, without silly myths getting in the way of things. At Kennedy Wild Bird Food we pride ourselves on not only offering quality bird seed but also quality knowledge and advice. Here we will share some of the most common misconceptions surrounding bird food and the truths beneath them.

Common Myths About Bird Food

Sure, not all of the bird food myths are as far-fetched as ducks exploding, however, there are a number of misconceptions surrounding birds and what they eat and it could actually cause a number of disadvantages if they are widely believed!

Feeding Wild Birds Causes Dependency

One of the most commonly believed myths surrounding birds and their feeding patterning is that feeding wild birds in your garden will cause them to become dependent. Although we understand where this comes from, it isn’t true. 

Birds don’t develop an ‘addiction’ to food in your garden over natural food sources. At the root of it, they just need feeding! Wild birds could become dependent on humans for their feeding routines, however, using bird feeders in your garden will not cause a dependency. Birds usually source only 25% of their food intake from the wild and so need their nutrients to be topped up by bird seeds they can find in local gardens.

This doesn’t however mean that they don’t forage in the wild. In warmer months when natural food sources are in abundance, birds can still find their food in the wild and visit your garden for an extra tasty treat.

Bird Seed Doesn’t Go Bad

This is yet another misconception that people believe and one that can in fact cause harmful consequences for birds. Despite bird seeds being dry, when outside it is exposed to a number of factors that can cause mould, mildew, and pests.

Leaving water out for long periods of time causes stagnation and increases the likelihood of contamination passing from one bird to another. A similar thing applies to bird seed, when left to fester in bacteria, bird seed can, in fact, go bad and carry infections which can harm and in some instances kill birds.

It is essential that bird seed is frequently changed and feeders are cleaned regularly to ensure the health of your garden visitors.

Mixed Bird Seeds Are A Bad Choice

Many people believe that bird feeders should consist of a singular ingredient. At Kennedy, we believe quite the opposite. There’s no better choice for your garden than quality mixed bird seed! This way a variety of bird seeds can attract a variety of birds!

Limiting your feeders to only one ingredient will only limit the number of flying visitors you get in your garden.

Shop our range of mixed bird seeds here!

Bird Food Facts

Let us counteract these myths with some important facts that are important to mention when discussing bird feed. These are the main conclusions from this blog. Debunk the myths and listen to the truths!

1. Birds need a lot of calories to survive and so offering them different seeds in your garden will only add to what they find in the wild and benefit their health.
2. Continuously replacing bird seeds and cleaning feeders is key to avoiding contamination.
3. The more seeds, the more birds - it’s really that simple!

Kennedy Wild Bird Food Can Help You Debunk Bird Food Myths!

At Kennedy Wild Bird Food, we pride ourselves on offering not only high-quality bird seed but also high-quality knowledge and advice. Our team of experts are on hand to answer any queries you may have surrounding bird feeding.

Let us debunk those bird food myths and clear up what is required for successful bird feeding!

Give us a call today on 01778 342665

Or email us at info@kennedywildbirdfood.co.uk

Remember: If you are lucky enough to spot some flying visitors in your garden, be sure to log it in the Birdspotter App!