Feeding Garden Birds in May: What You Need to Know

As spring reaches its peak in May, our gardens burst into life with colour, fragrance, and sound.

Do Birds Nest in May?

Absolutely – May is right in the heart of the nesting season for many UK and European garden birds. By this time of year, many species have already paired up and started building their nests, while others may be laying eggs or even feeding newly hatched chicks.

Species like robins, blackbirds, blue tits, great tits, house sparrows, and starlings are commonly seen nesting in gardens during May. Some early nesters, like long-tailed tits or wrens, may already be on their second brood.

Nesting is a time of intense activity for birds. Both males and females (depending on the species) are involved in collecting nesting materials, incubating eggs, and sourcing food for their
hungry chicks. In this crucial period, having easy access to nutritious food close to their nests can make a real difference.

What Do Birds Do in May?

May is one of the busiest months in the avian calendar. Here’s a quick overview of what birds are typically doing at this time:

  • birds nest in trunk

    Nesting and Breeding

    As mentioned, most garden birds are either nesting or feeding chicks. Some may be laying eggs or incubating them.

  • robin singing sat on a tree branch

    Singing

    Birdsong reaches its peak in May. Males sing to attract mates and defend their territories. The dawn chorus, especially, is a wonder to behold.

  • nesting birds sat in a nest

    Feeding Young

    Once chicks hatch, parent birds are constantly on the move, looking for soft, protein-rich foods like caterpillars, spiders, and insects.

  • chaffinch moulting sat in a tree

    Moulting (for some species)

    Although less common in May, some birds may start their post-breeding moult, replacing worn feathers with fresh ones.

  • Swallow on the nest in a barn

    Migrants Arrive

    Migratory species like swallows, house martins, and warblers have mostly arrived by May, ready to breed and raise their families here.

All this activity makes May a vital time for birds. Whether they’re raising young or building up strength after a long migration, they need plenty of energy - and that’s where garden feeding can help.

  • Fledge Mix showing ingredients and coloured seeds
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Fledge™ Mix - Energy Boost for Fledglings

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Dried Mealworms for Haiths cage birds which are full of protein.

Live or Dried Mealworms

Mealworms are a favourite of many garden birds, especially robins, blackbirds, and song thrushes. Rich in protein, they’re ideal for feeding growing chicks.

If you use dried mealworms, be sure to soak them in water first - this makes them easier to digest and safer for
fledglings.

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Sunflower Hearts (Premium Quality) - Haith's

Sunflower Hearts

Packed with energy and easy to eat, sunflower hearts are perfect for May. Unlike black sunflower seeds, they don’t require birds to crack open a shell, which saves valuable energy.

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Soft Suet Pellets or Fat Balls (Without Nets)

High in calories and fats, suet products give birds a quick energy boost. Choose versions with added insects or berries for extra appeal, and always remove plastic nets, which can be dangerous to both adult birds and chicks.

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Raisins - Haith's

Fruit

Soft fruits like chopped apples, pears, and even raisins (soaked in water) can attract a variety of birds. Blackbirds, in particular, love fruit, and it’s a gentle food source for their young.

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Spring - Summer Seed Mix - New Recipe for 2025 - Haith's

Spring-Summer Mix

Some bird food brands offer special spring/summer blends designed for the breeding season. These often contain smaller, softer ingredients and added protein to support chick growth.

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Haith's Soft Food Selection

Just perfect for spring & summer bird feeding

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What to Avoid Feeding Birds in May

While it’s tempting to put out all kinds of scraps for the birds, some foods can be harmful during the breeding season:

  • Whole peanuts: These can be a choking hazard for chicks. If you want to offer peanuts, use a proper mesh feeder that allows birds to peck small bits at a time.
  • Hard, dry foods: Foods like uncooked rice or dry bread can swell in a chick’s stomach and cause harm.
  • Fatty human leftovers: Processed or salty foods, such as bacon fat, should never be offered to birds.

Top Tips for Feeding Birds in May

  • birds feeding from a bird table

    Keep feeders and bird tables clean

    Hygiene is especially important during the breeding season. Regularly wash feeders with a mild disinfectant to prevent the spread of disease.

  • robin sat on a bird bath

    Provide fresh water

    Birds need clean water for drinking and bathing. Refill bird baths daily, and keep them free of algae.

  • Don’t prune hedges or disturb nest sites

    If you suspect birds are nesting in your garden, give them space and avoid heavy gardening near their habitat.

  • birds eating from a bird feeder

    Feed little and often

    During spring and summer, it’s better to provide smaller amounts of food more frequently, ensuring it stays fresh and is eaten before it spoils.
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