In an online blog for November 2024, the BBC Gardeners' World expert said this actually includes certain types of nuts. While walnuts, peanuts, and various others are generally fine, any that have been salted are a big no-no.
Beyond this, he wrote: "Pastry, bread and rice always get eaten fast and fruit is good, especially for blackbirds and thrushes. Grated cheese is popular as well as cooked (but not raw) potatoes. Avoid anything salty such as crisps, salted peanuts or bacon. I buy dried mealworms too which robins , tits and wrens gobble up greedily."
Although Monty did not explain why salty foods should be avoided, the RSPB states that they generally cause dehydration in birds. Poor-quality peanuts may also contain the aflatoxin fungus, which can kill birds if ingested, so it is important to ensure any bought are from a reputable supplier.
Figures from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) reveal that over 140 bird species have been sighted in British gardens, but only 30 are frequent visitors. Like Monty, experts at the gardening charity also explain that each species has individual preferences, so knowing their favourite treats can help make your garden more attractive.
"Use different foods and recipes to entice a range of birds," experts at the RHS explain online."Although fat is important, particularly in winter, also provide a grain mix or nuts to maintain a balanced diet.
"No-mess seed mixes are more expensive, but the inclusion of de-husked sunflower hearts means there is less waste and debris under the feeder. Inferior mixes are often padded out with lentils and wheat."
While there are many preferences to consider, the specialists have highlighted the following key points:
If you are eager to stop pigeons and other large birds from gobbling up all the food, Monty also recommended using an old log as a kind of bird feeding table. By pouring seeds onto it, smaller birds can access and extract every bit from the tiny crevices that others can't reach.
In the case of squirrels, it's worth using 'anti-pest' feeders and placing them away from overhanging branches and other easy access points. According to the Express, Jean Vernon, of Richard Jackson Garden, has previously recommended: "Squirrels are rather partial to a lot of things in our gardens, especially the bird food. But they will also dig up tulip bulbs and eat them.
"They love apples, squash and sweet corn and collect masses of acorns, conkers and nuts. Why not feed the squirrels with a special feeder full of hazelnuts, then you get the best of both worlds, you can watch the birds and the squirrels too."
Meanwhile, experts at the RHS add: "A good population of birds in the garden is part of a healthy garden ecosystem, helping to keep caterpillars and aphids in check, which can damage garden plants."
In his November 2024 blog, Monty advised bird enthusiasts to avoid certain foods. Although not an exhaustive list, it should give you a good idea of what is best for our garden visitors: