A ground-feeding bird is one that prefers to forage or eat directly from the ground rather than from hanging feeders. In the UK, common ground-feeding birds include blackbirds, robins, dunnocks, thrushes, and collared doves.
These birds naturally seek out insects, seeds, and worms in the soil, leaf litter, or under bushes. In your garden, they’ll often be seen hopping around on the lawn or beneath bird feeders, picking up dropped food.
To help ground-feeding birds, use ground trays or scatter food like suet pellets, mealworms, or soft fruit on open patches. Place food near shrubs or hedges to offer cover from predators. Avoid putting food directly on wet soil or where it may attract rats—use a dedicated tray or paving instead.
Supporting ground-feeders adds variety to your garden bird population and ensures you’re catering to the natural habits of all your feathered visitors.
