As summer warms fade and autumn hues begin to appear, our garden birds also undergo a change. The season ushers in cooler temperatures and altered food availability, signaling the need for a shift in their diet. With careful planning and the right feed from Walter Products, we can support their health and resilience through this natural transition.
Why Autumn Feed Changes Matter
With the arrival of autumn, insects and nectar sources become less abundant. Young birds and adults still feeding fledglings need easily digested, high-energy food sources. Fat-rich seeds and nuts provide the calories and nutrients required to build reserves — exactly what garden birds instinctively seek as the season changes.
Recommended Walter Products for Autumn Feeding
1. Swap from Mealworms and Calci Worms to Fat-Rich Seeds and Nuts
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Summer: Mealworms and Calci Worms deliver essential protein for nesting and developing chicks.
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Autumn: Introduce sunflower hearts, mixed seed blends, and unsalted peanuts to provide the energy needed as the diet shifts.
2. Net-Free Fat Balls
These are excellent during cooler weather. They do not contain plastic netting and therefore pose less risk to wildlife, and they also hold their shape better in lower temperatures.
3. Mixed Seed Blends
A thoughtfully chosen blend of millet, nyjer, maize, and sunflower hearts can attract a broad range of species such as sparrows, tits, finches, and thrushes.
How to Set Up Feed Stations
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Location: Position feeders near bushes or hedges so birds can quickly seek cover if needed.
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Height Variety: Use ground feeders for robins and tray feeders for tit or finch species.
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Water Access: Always maintain a shallow water source. Clean it regularly and refill, as hydration is critical when natural puddles dry up.
- Add extra: Offering a variety of feed helps each bird adapt to the changing food availability and helps build the resilience they’ll rely on during migratory journeys or winter months.
Tips for Smooth Transition
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Interested in changing feed gradually: Reduce worms and increase seed amounts over two to three weeks.
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Offer smaller amounts more frequently during the day to maintain energy.
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Observe bird visitation and leftover food to fine-tune portion sizes.
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Provide fresh water daily, especially as ambient water sources begin to freeze or disappear.
Why Walter Products Makes It Easier
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Freshness You Can Trust: All feeds are made to order with carefully sourced ingredients for freshness and nutritional value.
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Wildlife Friendly: Our net-free fat balls and unsalted peanuts minimise risk.
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Full Support: Each product is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and our team is here to advise on feeding for the birds in your garden.
Autumn is a time of change - but also preparation. By choosing high-quality feed options from Walter Products, you’re giving garden birds the best chance to thrive through the season. A little planning today supports their strength and vitality for the months ahead.