Winter in Poznań is a season of cosy evenings, snow-draped streets, and… bird feeders. Many of us enjoy the sight of sparrows, robins, and blue tits fluttering around our gardens, eagerly pecking at seeds we’ve lovingly provided. Feeding birds has become a cherished tradition during the cold months, but recent research reveals it’s not as straightforward as it seems. Are we truly helping our feathered friends, or could our efforts be causing unintended harm?
Feeding Birds: A Common Winter Ritual
As temperatures plummet and food becomes scarce, feeding birds seems like an act of kindness. In Poznań and other cities across Poland, people fill bird feeders with seeds, nuts, and suet to help birds survive harsh winters. It’s heart-warming to watch these tiny creatures gather for a meal. However, recent studies led by Professor Piotr Tryjanowski from the University of Life Sciences in Poznań suggest that our well-intentioned actions might also attract predators, turning feeders into dangerous traps.
When Feeders Attract Predators
Professor Tryjanowski’s research highlights a surprising problem: bird feeders don’t just draw in small, hungry birds—they also lure their predators. Conducted in 52 urban and rural locations in western Poland, the study revealed that feeders, whether full or empty, attract more birds, which in turn act as beacons for predators like sparrowhawks and domestic cats.
Urban bird feeders seemed somewhat safer, with fewer predators spotted nearby. However, in rural areas, where feeders are less common, birds flock to these food sources, inadvertently increasing the risk of predation. For Poznań’s residents, this serves as a reminder to think carefully about where and how we set up feeders.
The Complexity of Helping Wildlife
Feeding birds may seem like a simple, noble gesture, but it’s intertwined with the delicate balance of ecosystems. Besides the increased risk of predation, there’s another issue: birds that grow too reliant on human-provided food may lose their foraging instincts. Additionally, placing bird feeders in unsafe locations—such as near windows, dense shrubs, or on ground level—can expose birds to unnecessary dangers.
Feeding birds is a wonderful tradition, but we need to do it responsibly. By placing feeders away from areas easily accessible to predators, we can minimise the risks and maximise the benefits.
emphasises Professor Tryjanowski.
Five Golden Rules for Safe Winter Feeding
To ensure we’re genuinely helping birds, Poznań residents can follow these simple guidelines:
- Be Consistent: Once you start feeding birds, don’t stop suddenly. Birds become reliant on this food source, especially during severe weather.
- Choose the Right Food: Avoid bread, which is harmful to birds. Instead, opt for seeds (sunflower seeds are a favourite), nuts, dried fruit, or specialised fat balls.
- Ensure Fresh Water: Birds need water even in winter, so provide a shallow dish and refill it regularly. Warm water can prevent freezing.
- Keep Feeders Clean: Dirty bird feeders can harbour bacteria and parasites, so clean them regularly and remove leftover food.
- Encourage Natural Food Sources: Planting fruit-bearing shrubs like rowan, elderberry, and hawthorn provides birds with a sustainable food source year-round.
Beyond Feeders: Creating a Bird-Friendly Poznań
Poznań has many parks and green spaces, but urban development continues to shrink natural habitats. By planting native shrubs in gardens or on balconies, we can help birds find food and shelter throughout the year. Public spaces can also play a role: supporting citizen-led initiatives like tree-planting projects in the city can help maintain biodiversity.
A Careful Balance
Feeding birds isn’t inherently harmful, but it requires mindfulness and responsibility. Poznań residents have an opportunity to make their city a haven for wildlife, but it starts with understanding the impact of our actions. By providing safe feeding environments and encouraging natural food sources, we can support birds without disrupting the delicate balance of nature.
So, as you enjoy winter’s charm and the cheerful chirping of garden visitors, remember: your choices matter. With just a little thought, we can ensure our feathered neighbours thrive through the cold months—and beyond.
