6 out of 10 Households Feed Wild Birds

Bird feeding isn't just a hobby for older people - more than half of the UK are feeding the birds, and as a result benefitting from the pleasure of watching and supporting wildlife in the garden.

Nicole Paley, Deputy Chief Executive of the PFMA comments: “We are delighted to see that well over a half of the UK are feeding the birds and as a result benefitting from the pleasure of watching and supporting wildlife in the garden”.

A survey by the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) has highlighted that almost six in ten households in the UK are feeding wild birds suggesting that we are appreciating wildlife and connecting more with nature after two years of restrictions.

In 2022, of those with outdoor space, 58% feed the birds with this becoming more common with age, peaking at 71% for those aged 65-74.

Pet owners (even cat owners!) are slightly more likely to feed wild birds than non pet owners with this figure at 62%, rising to 72% among those who own an indoor bird. Households without children are more likely to feed the birds (59%) than households with children (55%).

– We are delighted to see that well over a half of the UK are feeding the birds and as a result benefitting from the pleasure of watching and supporting wildlife in the garden. Bird feeding has traditionally been a hobby for older generations but our survey highlighted that 43% of 16-24 year olds and 50% of 25-34 year olds feed the birds, which is wonderful, sais Nicole Paley, Deputy Chief Executive of the PFMA in a press release from the organization.

Over three quarters (78%) explained that enjoyment was the main reason for feeding the birds and just over half (54%) claimed a general desire to support local wildlife. Luckily almost half (48%) were aware of the need to supplement a bird’s diet in the winter.