Gardeners are being urged to leave eggshells on bird tables throughout March to support local wildlife. According to Maureen Eiger, the director of Help Wild Birds, these often-discarded shells are rich in calcium, a vital nutrient for birds during the spring nesting season. Eiger emphasized that eggshells can significantly benefit female birds as they prepare to lay eggs, which require strong shells for the best chance of survival.
As the winter months give way to spring, birds have varying dietary needs. During colder periods, they typically require high-fat foods to build energy reserves. In contrast, as nesting season approaches, calcium becomes essential for female birds. Eiger noted, “We throw eggshells in the garbage almost every day, but they are full of calcium and minerals. Birds need additional calcium, especially after nesting season.”
Birds, such as blue tits, sparrows, blackbirds, chaffinches, and robins, can particularly benefit from the crushed eggshells. These shells help ensure that hatchlings are healthier and more robust. Nevertheless, it is crucial to prepare the eggshells correctly before offering them to birds. Raw eggs can harbor bacteria like salmonella, which can harm birds and pose a risk of spreading diseases to chicks.
Proper Preparation for Bird Feeding
To safely use eggshells as bird feed, gardeners should take a few simple steps. First, collect the empty eggshells in the carton after cooking. Once the carton is full, rinse the shells under running water to remove any residual egg yolk, which can attract pests like rats. It is important to avoid using soap during this process, as it can be harmful to birds.
Next, place the cleaned eggshells on a tray and bake them in the oven at 120°C for approximately 10 minutes. This step helps eliminate any remaining bacteria and sterilizes the shells. Once cooled, the shells should feel brittle and can be crushed into small, gritty pieces resembling sand or gravel. To prevent any choking hazards, ensure the pieces are small enough for birds to easily pick up.
While feeding birds, it is advisable to scatter the crushed eggshells around the garden or place them on bird tables. This method promotes healthy foraging behavior among birds and minimizes the risk of them associating eggs with food sources, which could lead to them pecking at other nests.
Eiger’s initiative invites gardeners to make a meaningful contribution to their local ecosystems. By leaving out eggshells, they can create a supportive environment for birds during this critical time of year. As March progresses, residents who participate can expect to see an increase in bird activity in their gardens, enhancing the natural beauty and vitality of their surroundings.
