Wild Bird Food

Start by deciding between mixes and straights. A mixed seed brings a wide range of visitors, and no-mess mixes made from hulled seed leave no husks under the feeder, which suits patios and lawns. Straights target particular birds: sunflower hearts and black sunflower seed suit many species, nyjer is a small oily seed favoured by goldfinches that needs a feeder with fine ports, and peanuts should be fed from a mesh feeder.

Fat-based foods are the winter staple. Suet balls, cakes, blocks and pellets give birds concentrated energy when it is cold, and versions with mealworms or insects appeal to tits, robins and starlings. Bird butters spread into logs and bark feeders. Seasonal blends such as spring and summer mixes differ from winter energy mixes, so check the label for the time of year, and look for wheat-free recipes if you want less filler.

Match the food to your feeder and keep both clean. Ready-to-use feeders are handy for a first set-up, while larger bags suit a regular routine. Store seed in a dry, sealed container to keep damp and rodents out, and wash feeders regularly with fresh water on offer nearby. This aisle also stocks hedgehog and squirrel food: hedgehogs should never be given bread or milk.