Bird Feed Alternatives

Baked Goods: Stale bread, cakes and cookies are all attractive to wild birds. Remember to crumble them into small pieces and soak in water before placing outside. 
 
Cheese: Avoid soft or mouldy cheeses – stick to stale, hard cheeses like mild cheddar. You can use a cheese grater to make small and easy-to-digest bites.
 
Pasta and Rice: Plain cooked pasta or rice is a great source of carbohydrates for birds. Wash thoroughly to remove any oil or salt and cut into small pieces. 
 
Vegetables: Scrap vegetables such as baked potatoes and leftover vegetables from canned soups are a great offering for birds – you can also mix them with sunflower seeds. 
 
Meat: As with cheese, no mouldy or rotten meat should be given to birds. Try beef fat trimmings and meat bones, but be aware of other pests that may be after these treats – think about placing the meat in a bird feeder out of reach from other wildlife. 
 
Pet Food: Wet pet food for cats and dogs offers all the necessary nutrients, so can be a great offering for birds too. Dry pet food is also an option, but be sure to add water beforehand. A small amount can go a long way. 

Cereal: Stick to cereal with little or no sugar content and avoid artificial dyes. Add water and leave to soak for a wholesome bird treat. 
 
Eggs: Cooked eggs are a source of nutrients for birds, whilst the egg shell itself can be a great source of calcium, especially for nesting birds, and can help aid digestion. Egg shells are great throughout the changing weather and do not attract vermin like other produce can.