Warning issued to anyone with robins in garden

A warning has been issued to anyone leaving food out for robins in their garden - because you could actually end up hurting or killing them if you get it wrong.

Leaving food out for birds is one of the most popular pastimes for British families, particularly if you have a garden.

And at a time when nature is struggling with the challenges of climate change, loss of habitats and the great insect die-off, it's arguably never been more important to give the birds a bit of a boost.

Robins are the UK's favourite bird, so it's natural that amateur bird watchers would target robins with their food support. But while helping the robins is always well intentioned, garden experts at Love The Garden warn households not to make some crucial mistakes with what you leave out.

Its expert guidance says: "Robins are small birds, which means they cannot consume anything too large. Avoid putting out seed mixes that contain dried peas, beans, rice, lentils, wheat or barley, as these are inappropriate for robins and can only be eaten by larger birds.

"It's also a bad idea to leave out bread. Birds will eat it, but it does not contain the right nutrients that they require during the cold winter months.

"Lastly, you should never leave out milk for birds as they are unable to digest it. Fermented dairy products such as mild cheese are fine in small amounts."

It also warns bird feeding folk not to let the food get wet - as this can be outright dangerous too, adding: "Robins don't tend to use hanging feeders, as they prefer to have somewhere to perch while they eat. Whether you're using a table or a ground feeding tray, it's vital that you don't let the food get wet - soggy, mouldy food can be dangerous for birds, which is why a covered tray or table is ideal."

If you want something safe and supportive for robins, you should focus on fruit, seeds and suet.

Sunflower seeds are popular with robins, says Love The Garden, while unsalted, crushed or grated peanuts, as well as raisins and live or dried mealworms will all attract robins back to your garden safely.