Dates

[Tinkerbell]

I know some birds enjoy eating fruit, so when I found a box of dates which hadn't been eaten I decided to put a couple of them out on the bird table. The blackbrids especially seem to find them irresistible.

I also have some of that mixed fruit which you buy by the scoop, but which I find too sugary. It contains coconut as well as pineapple etc.

Any problems if I share it with the birds?

[henrya]

This sort of stuff might be a bit dry (especially perhaps the coconut) - but if you soak it well before putting it out, there should be no problems.

henrya

[Pat]

Apparently dessicated coconut is poisinous to birds

[Imaginos]

I think it's more a swelling issue with the coconut than poisonous, thus soaking it well should avoid the problem, although it may be safer to not put it out.

[Pat]

Originally Posted by Imaginos

I think it's more a swelling issue with the coconut than poisonous, thus soaking it well should avoid the problem, although it may be safer to not put it out.

I read on the R.S.P.B site that dessicated coconut is coated with something that prevents it sticking and it is that substance that is poisonous, ordinary coconut from the shell is okay, hope this helps.

[Tinkerbell]

Thanks folks - I'll just stick to the dates.

Tink