People told to put chilli powder in their gardens this month

It might sound odd, but the spicy seasoning can serve a really important purpose as autumn begins

Garden enthusiasts are being encouraged to scatter chilli powder in their gardens this October. While it may seem peculiar, the fiery orange spice can play a crucial role in your outdoor area as autumn commences.

This is the prime time of year to assist in feeding birds before they either hibernate or migrate for the winter season, and chilli powder can aid in safeguarding food left out for our feathered friends from being pilfered and consumed by other, less deserving creatures.

Bird populations have faced challenges this year. Gardeners have informally reported observing significantly fewer birds than usual, a claim supported by concrete data from the RSPB - over the past forty years, one in six birds has disappeared.

Moreover, the drastic decrease in insect numbers - down by as much as 80% in the last two decades due to habitat loss and climate change - is believed to be causing ripple effects throughout the food chain, as birds have considerably less to feed on, thereby increasing their risk of starvation, reports the Express.

Hence, gardeners are being requested to do their bit for birdlife and leave out bird food. However, a significant issue with leaving bird food out is that other animals - such as squirrels or foxes - will attempt to snatch it.

This is where the chilli powder proves useful. If you have a birdbath or bird table, or any platform where you leave bird food (and if you don't own one, you could consider getting one), then you can leave a combination of peanuts, seeds, mealworms and slices of fruit like apple for birds to feast on.

Bruised apples and pears, the RSPB suggests, are exceptionally alluring to birds; moreover, common kitchen leftovers such as pastry, cooked rice, and breadcrumbs can be beneficial, although it's advisable not to overdo these offerings.

However, by infusing all food items with chilli powder, you're essentially setting up a birds-only banquet. This clever trick works because birds are completely immune to the fiery taste of chilli powder, but pesky squirrels and foxes can't stand it, ensuring your feathered friends get all the treats.

The RSPB said: "When buying bird food, try to get a good mix of peanuts, seeds and live food like mealworms and waxworms. Fruit, especially bruised apples and pears, will be popular with thrushes and Blackbirds. Household scraps like pastry, cooked rice and breadcrumbs should only be offered in small amounts occasionally.

"Strong chilli powder or pepper sauce (like Tabasco) can be shaken onto bird food. Birds aren't bothered by the chilli, but most squirrels can't put up with the burning sensation and will leave the food alone."