COOKING fat from Christmas dinner should not be left out for garden birds, the RSPB has warned.
The charity said cooked turkey fat can damage birds' feathers and interfere with their waterproofing and insulation.
Birds can happily eat leftover Christmas cake or biscuit and mince pie crumbs.
But poultry fat or anything too salty can harm them.
RSPB Wildlife Advisor Charlotte Ambrose said fat left in a warm kitchen before being put out for birds provides the "perfect conditions for breeding bacteria".
"Only hard fats such as lard and suet should be used to make homemade fat balls which will give birds the energy and nutrients to survive the cold winter months," she said.
Ms Ambrose said treats including mince pie crumbs, mild grated cheese and leftover alcohol-free Christmas cake will encourage blackbirds, robins and wrens into your garden.
Unsalted bacon rind, ripe apples and pears, and pastry made with real fat are ideal for birds.
However, bird lovers should not leave out cooking fat, cooked porridge oats, milk or dried coconut.
Birds also need water to drink and clean their feathers.
The charity said birds can find it harder to find water in the winter as ponds start to freeze.
Garden birds will make good use of a birdbath, even one made from a dustbin lid with some stones at the bottom for grip.
The RSPB is hosting its annual Big Garden Birdwatch next month. For more information visit?www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.
