Households urged to leave out one stale 88p breakfast item for birds

If you’ve got a box of cereal going stale at the back of your cupboard, don’t throw it out just yet. Experts are urging households to consider sharing it with their , as long as they follow a few key guidelines.

Stale, dry cereal can make a welcome snack for many common bird species, particularly during the warmer months when their natural food sources can fluctuate. And with boxes of own-brand cereal available for as little as 88p, it’s a budget-friendly way to give nature a helping hand. But while the idea of sprinkling leftover breakfast cereal outside may seem straightforward, there are a few important dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

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The main rule is to only offer plain, unsweetened cereal that doesn’t contain added salt, sugar, or artificial flavourings. Birds’ systems are not equipped to handle high-salt or sugary foods, and these can do more harm than good.

Popular cereals such as cornflakes, bran flakes or puffed rice, provided they are unsweetened, are among the safest choices. Even if they’re past their best, birds will happily peck away at the dry flakes.

However, cereal that has been soaked in milk or served with dairy products is a no-go. Birds are lactose intolerant, and wet cereal can quickly go mouldy in the heat, leading to bacterial growth that’s harmful to wildlife.

The best way to offer cereal is by scattering a small handful in a shallow dish or directly onto a bird table. Placing it somewhere dry and sheltered from rain will help keep the cereal crisp and safe to eat.

As with all bird feeding, it’s important to clear away any uneaten food each day to prevent attracting pests or encouraging the growth of mould. Fresh water should also be provided, especially during warmer spells.

Feeding birds in summer is often overlooked, but it can make a real difference. After the nesting season, adult birds are tired and in need of easy nourishment, while fledglings are just learning to find food for themselves.

Stale cereal offers a light, high-energy snack that can support birds through this busy time, and it’s a great way to cut down on food waste, too. While it won’t replace a complete diet of insects, seeds and berries, it can certainly provide an extra boost when needed.

So before tossing that box of cornflakes in the bin, consider offering it to your feathered visitors, they may reward you with a cheerful morning chorus.