Gardeners are being encouraged to leave eggshells out for birds during the month of March as a cost-effective way to support local wildlife. According to Maureen Eiger, the director of Help Wild Birds, these shells are an excellent source of calcium, especially vital for birds as they prepare for the spring nesting season.
Eggshells, often discarded as waste, are rich in calcium and other minerals beneficial for birds. Eiger emphasized that many people throw away these shells without realizing their potential benefits. She stated, “Birds need additional calcium, especially after nesting season.” As female birds lay eggs in spring, providing this nutrient can significantly enhance the health of their offspring.
Birds have varying dietary needs throughout the year. During winter, they require high-fat foods to maintain energy levels. In contrast, spring brings the necessity for calcium-rich food, as it helps female birds produce strong eggs that are more likely to hatch successfully.
While providing eggshells is beneficial, caution is necessary to prevent health risks. Raw eggs can carry bacteria like salmonella, which poses a danger to birds and can lead to the spread of diseases among their chicks. To safely prepare eggshells for bird feeding, Eiger recommends a simple baking process.
First, save the empty eggshells in their carton after cooking. Once the carton is full, rinse the shells with water to remove any remaining egg residue, ensuring no soap is used, as it can be harmful to birds. Next, place the shells on a tray and bake them at 120°C for approximately 10 minutes. This process eliminates any harmful bacteria. After baking, allow the shells to cool before crushing them into small, gritty pieces that resemble sand or gravel.
Larger pieces can be difficult for birds to consume and may pose choking hazards. Additionally, there is a risk that birds may associate eggs with food, leading them to peck at other nests. Therefore, it is best to offer eggshells in small pieces to minimize this risk.
Once prepared, gardeners can place the crushed eggshells on bird tables or scatter them around their gardens. This practice supports various bird species, including blue tits, sparrows, blackbirds, chaffinches, and robins, during the crucial spring months. By leaving out eggshells, gardeners can contribute to healthier bird populations, ensuring that baby chicks have a strong start in life.
As March progresses, those participating can expect to see an increase in bird activity in their gardens. Encouraging these small acts of kindness not only benefits local wildlife but also enhances the joy of gardening.
