Gardeners are putting pasta in bird feeders this spring – but there is one important warning you need to know before following suit

It's a joy for us gardeners to see so many birds visit our backyards as the weather warms up. To continue welcoming feathered friends, many of us use bird feeders. But, have you ever tried using unconventional fillers for your feeder, like pasta?

You can actually put plain, cooked pasta in a bird feeder to help garden birds in summer, or at any other time of year, as a nutritious treat. Just like feeding birds potato, pasta is a good occasional snack for birds for a boost of nutrients. But, it is very important pasta is prepared in a particular way to avoid harm to birds.

Here, we take a closer look at putting pasta in a bird feeder and how to do it correctly to ensure the birds in your yard stay safe.

Why should you put pasta in a bird feeder?

There are plenty of things you shouldn't feed birds, but cooked, plain pasta is not one of them. Rich in carbohydrates, pasta is a particularly beneficial treat for feeding birds in winter, providing plenty of energy for the toughest time of year.

However, there is a word of warning that comes with giving birds this snack:

Only put plain, cooked pasta in a bird feeder

'Giving birds an occasional treat can provide an extra source of nutrition, including carbohydrates in pasta. However, it has to be cooked and plain,' says Homes & Gardens' Content Editor Thomas Rutter.

Uncooked pasta is dangerous for birds because it's difficult for them to digest. In particular, uncooked dried, cupboard-stored pasta should be avoided.

Not only this, but uncooked pasta is unlikely to be as effective at providing birds with the nutrients cooked, digestible pasta can.

Likewise, seasoning of any kind is on the list of what not to feed wild birds because it can upset a bird's diet, cause them gastronomical issues, and may even cause pain.

To avoid wildlife garden mistakes, Thom notes: 'It is recommended to only give birds cooked pasta sparingly - you shouldn’t use it as the main supply in your bird feeder.

'Instead, opt for bird food like suet balls and seed mixes which provide a healthy balance of essential nutrients,' he adds.

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Thom Rutter

Thom is a Content Editor within the Gardens Team at Homes and Gardens. He has been working as a gardener and garden writer for several years. Whilst completing his Horticultural Traineeship at the Garden Museum, London, he was able to gain experience at many of the UK's world-famous gardens, including Sissinghurst, Lowther Castle, and Iford Manor. Following this, he worked for two private estates in Tuscany, Italy.

FAQs

Which type of pasta is best for birds?

There is no specific type of pasta that is best for birds. The important thing is for the pasta you put in a bird feeder to be unseasoned and cooked. It can also be helpful to cut up larger types of cooked pasta into small pieces so it's easier for birds to eat.

Giving birds occasional treats like cooked pasta is a great way to support their energy levels and health throughout the year. However, if you're feeling a little uncertain about putting pasta in a bird feeder, you can try a different initiative, like incorporating bird feeder alternatives in your yard.