As springtime blooms and makes a welcome comeback, keen are doing their bit to support as they care for their fledglings. The season is crucial for many songbirds such as robins, finches, and blackbirds, which face declining population numbers due to climate change and loss of food sources.

While putting out food on bird tables and feeders is beneficial in aiding their survival, it's important to note that certain mistakes with bird food can lead to legal trouble if the birds are harmed. expert Neil McKenzie from Halton Stairlifts has cautioned that some foods might actually make birds sick or worse.

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He warned: "It's easy to assume birds can eat the same things we do, but the truth is, a lot of it just isn't safe for them. We've all done it – thrown out some leftover bread or scraps thinking it's a treat, but in many cases, it's the opposite."

McKenzie continued with a warning for gardeners about certain foods often wrongly considered safe for birds. One of these is bread, which only fills birds without providing essential nutrients, reports .

Also on the list are potatoes laced with added salt or fat. Excess salt can wreak havoc on a bird's digestion and fats from cooking can coat their feathers, impairing their waterproofing ability.

Bird lovers, take heed: Salty and processed snacks could be fatal for our feathered friends, as they can't handle salt like humans do.

Feeding them such foods might not only harm the birds but also land you in legal trouble with a potential fine.

Neil warned: "The advice isn't just about protecting wildlife. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, anyone who harms wild birds – even by accident – could face fines of up to £5,000 or a prison sentence of up to six months."

For those with green fingers looking to support their local bird population, there are plenty of safe alternatives.

Gardeners can offer unsalted bird seed mixes, sunflower seeds, Nyjer seeds, slices of fresh fruit like apples, mealworms, oats, and cooked rice.

Neil advises: "If you're unsure, it's always best to stick to proper bird feed from a trusted supplier. A small change in what you put out can make a big difference to local wildlife."