PEOPLE across Hampshire are being urged to save their table scraps in a bid to help the county’s bird population, which faces going hungry this winter due to the credit crunch.

Bird tables are being left empty as people tighten the purse strings and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is asking everyone with a garden to put out bird-friendly scraps to help Hampshire’s familiar feathered residents such as robins, blackbirds and finches thrive in the colder months.

The charity is hoping more people will be encouraged to provide food with Feed the Birds Day today.

RSPB spokesman Richard Bashford said: “Birds feast on natural foods such as berries, fallen fruits and insects during autumn.

“Supplies of these are not limitless, however, and birds are increasingly reliant on us to provide food to get them through the cold winter nights.

“Garden favourites such as robins, blackbirds and finches have come to rely on feeders and tables as fast and easy food. Birds use most of their energy just surviving the cold nights. Our support is essential in making sure they stay alive.

Richard added: “Providing good quality bird food is the best way of helping.When money is tight you can put out kitchen scraps that are high in nutritional value.

“These are much better for the birds than cheap seed mixes, which have little energy content. Birds won’t eat any old rubbish so you’ll find lots of waste underneath feeders and tables. However, leftovers from last night’s dinner will be gratefully received.”

The charity said that anyone worried about attracting rats or other pests to their garden should put food out in the morning and see how much is left at night in case they are putting out too much.

“Putting out seed, peanuts or kitchen scraps will help your birds on a day-to-day basis. A clean supply of fresh water is also essential,” said Richard.

The charity is also advising people about helping other garden wildlife with food and shelter.

■ To join up to Homes forWildlife visit rspb.org.uk/hfw or call 0870 240 1001.