Gardeners should leave two 50p fruits out for birds right now

It's a crucial time for our in the garden - with species like sparrows, starlings, blackbirds, robins and other British favourites entering their breeding and nesting season. are being encouraged to support birds during these essential spring months of April and May by leaving out two types of fruit on their lawns and bird tables.

The advises offering a range of foods throughout the year to cater to various birds, including sunflower seeds, uncooked oats, suet and mealworms. However, for an easy and affordable way to help, apples and pears can be sliced and left out for the birds, costing around 50p per piece of fruit.

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The RSPB warns: "You can put out leftovers such as dried fruit, or fruit such as apples and pears. Don't use anything mouldy or salty, though, and if you have a dog don't put out dried fruit – vine fruits, such as raisins, can be toxic to them.

"Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and blackbirds."

Currently, offers loose green and red apples for 50p each, and also has loose conference pears available at the same price. Other major like , , , and also stock a variety of apples and pears that birds will enjoy without breaking the bank, reports .

Remember, different birds have different feeding preferences, with some opting to feed on the ground rather than visiting a bird table.

The RSPB has shared some top tips for bird enthusiasts looking to welcome blackbirds into their gardens. They suggest: "Blackbirds are too large to access most hanging bird feeders. To attract them to your garden, it's best to put out food on a bird table or scatter it on the ground."

It turns out that sparrows, dunnocks, and doves share similar dining preferences, as they also favour ground feeding and typically feast on seeds.

However, if you're planning to leave out a snack on the lawn, make sure to place it in an open area, well away from hedges or potential feline ambush spots.

Our feathered friends won't risk a meal if it means putting themselves in danger around known predator hideouts like where cats might be lurking.

For those using a bird table, remember, cleanliness is next to godliness. Regular washing with hot soapy water is recommended, especially for flat-topped varieties.

In fact, the RSPB has halted sales of these types of tables amid concerns they might help spread diseases among our winged pals.

Further advice from the RSPB includes maintaining good feeder hygiene to prevent illness: "Bird feeder hygiene is very important.

"Brush off debris every time you put out fresh food and scrub feeders with mild disinfectant solution weekly."