Blackbirds are a well-loved species in the UK, but the British Trust for Ornithology has issued a warning about a decline in blackbird populations – here’s how you can help
UK gardeners are being urged to help feed blackbirds this winter by scattering sultanas in their gardens.
The British Trust for Ornithology has warned of a decline in the population of these beloved birds, which are often seen foraging in gardens during the colder months as they do not migrate south, reports Birmingham Live.
The Trust said: “Blackbirds are a common bird in gardens across the UK, from rural areas to the hearts of cities. However, in recent years and particularly since 2020, birdwatchers have reported fewer birds being seen in their gardens, especially in London.”
A RSPB forum member suggested using sultanas to feed the birds, saying: “Along with the robin I would say they are the friendliest of the garden birds and can become quite tame – although they are also quite fickle in that they can be your ‘best friend’ when they’re particularly hungry but when the sun is shining and there are berries on the bush they do tend to blow a little cool.
“During winter and when they are breeding I always have a pocketful of sultanas/raisins, which they absolutely love. I find that the males are friendlier than the females, who tend to be more ‘careful’.
“The males often follow me around the garden, staying just a couple of feet away – but if my hand goes into my pocket they often run and stand at my feet. As the starlings often crowd the feeders, and the blackbirds can be wussies, the regular blackbirds always come to the patio doors and look beseechingly through the glass – they also sunbathe in that spot so that they are close when the doors open and sultanas fly out to where they are.
“All in all – I would say that if you want to foster a closer relationship with these birds the advice would be the same as any woman would give her daughter ‘the way to his heart is through his stomach’.”