An honest attempt at making use of an old cake saw a member of the public advised via Guernsey People Have Your Say that chocolate is in fact poisonous to birds.
The cake was subsequently cleaned up and the GSPCA has now published a list of foods that shouldn’t be fed to birds.
“Chocolate and potentially other ingredients in cake is likely to be toxic and potentially fatal to birds, as it is to many species of animals,” said GSPCA Manager, Steve Byrne.
“Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are methylxanthines that can cause heart rate and rhythm changes, hyperactivity, seizures, and death. In general, the darker the chocolate, the higher the amount of toxins.
“It is wonderful to hear of those helping wildlife and it is always best to feed the appropriate wild bird feeds you can purchase from garden centres and pet stores. It is really important to help our bird life at this time of year and the GSPCA would encourage islanders to put out bird food and water on a regular basis through autumn and winter.
“In severe weather, you may find you need to feed twice daily. Birds need high-energy, high-fat foods during cold weather which you can buy locally. Always adjust the quantity given to the demand, and never allow uneaten foods to build up.
“Once you have a feeding routine, try not to change it as birds will become used to it. It is also important to disinfect the feeders regularly to help prevent the spread of any illnesses.”
The public are being advised not to not feed birds the follow;
Avocado
Caffeine
Chocolate
Salt
Fat
Fruit pits and apple seeds
Onions and garlic
Xylitol