Feed the birds: Ensure your garden is the pick of the perches

From birdhouses to feed types, here's how to host your feathered friends this winter in outdoor spaces of all sizes 

Some of the best deals in seed are in multi-buys online. Nyjer seed regularly attracts goldfinches, siskins and redpolls. File picture

There are plenty of devoted bird lovers who know more than I do about coaxing a chiffchaff or winding in a woodpecker to the garden. You ornithological veterans are most likely feeding our vulnerable native birds year-round. So, in this feature, I’m talking to all those fledgling bird enthusiasts who wish to set up something simple this autumn, suited to your budget and in whatever outside space you have available.

From November to March the natural food sources of fruit, berries, nuts and seeds have been depleted, and there are few invertebrates active and available, Birdwatch Ireland tells us.