Garden bird feeders are attracting almost 50% more species than when your parents were kids, according to the British Trust for Ornithology.

Bird feeders are helping attract species such as long-tailed tits, wood pigeons and greater spotted woodpeckers. The BTO has been carrying out its bird research for the past 41 years.

Other species that are visiting gardens more than they used to are the magpie and goldfinch.

But it’s not all good news. Some types of bird are on the decline in Britain, including the sparrow, starling and song thrush.

Back in the 1970s, the average garden was visited by around 16 different types of bird. That has risen to 23.

The BTO says the increase is due to people putting out more bird food, and also a greater variety of treats for different birds.

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