Outdoor Living · Accessories & Add-ons
Bird & Wildlife Products: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-092 min read
Our pick: the Peckish Natural Balance Energy Suet Fat Balls for Wild Birds, 50 Tub — the best Bird & Wildlife Products we tested, from £10.38.
Setting up a haven for your feathered friends and local wildlife requires more than just feeders – it’s about providing the right support and ongoing care to ensure they thrive. This guide explores the often-overlooked accessories and consumables that enhance any bird and wildlife product, from secure mounting solutions and protective cases to essential feeding supplies. Considering these supplementary items alongside your main purchase will significantly improve the longevity and enjoyment of your outdoor space for both you and your visitors.
See the full range in Bird & Wildlife Products.
Planning ahead? Try our free Bird Feeder Seed Calculator →
#1 Pick
Peckish Natural Balance Energy Suet Fat Balls for Wild Birds, 50 Tub- Suet
£10.38
Pros
- Blend of natural seeds and suet attracts a wide range of garden birds
- Recyclable cardboard tub with no single-use plastic
- Can be fed year-round from a feeder or on the ground
Cons
- Tub size means frequent reordering for a busy feeding station
£9.99
Pros
- Sturdy mesh design for goldfinches and tits
- Well-established RSPB range with thousands of reviews
- Easy end-cap fill and clean
Cons
- Peanuts sold separately
#3 Pick
Gardman Heavy Duty Squirrel Proof Bird Seed Feeder, 12.75kg Capacity- Metal
£19.14
Pros
- Die-cast metal cage keeps squirrels and pigeons off the seed ports
- FeedSafe biocidal coating helps reduce bacteria build-up
- Large hanging handle makes it easy to site and refill
Cons
- Heavier than mesh feeders — needs a sturdy bracket or branch
#4 Pick
Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder for Seeds - Jacobi Jayne Squirrel Buster Bird Feeder, Metal Hanging Station for Garden Birds- Metal
£39.99
Pros
- Perches close automatically under a squirrel's weight
- Pigeon-resistant design leaves seed for smaller birds
- Easy to take apart and clean
Cons
- Higher price than basic mesh feeders
FAQ
I've just bought a bird feeder; what extra things do I need to make it work properly?
You’ll likely want some suitable seed – sunflower seeds are popular with many birds, but research which varieties your local species prefer. Don’t forget a base or pole to mount the feeder securely, and consider a small brush for cleaning afterwards.
My bird table arrived, but it doesn't include a base. What should I add?
Most bird tables require a separate base for stability; check the manufacturer's instructions carefully as bases vary in design and size to suit different table dimensions.
What kind of cleaning supplies are essential for maintaining my wildlife products?
A small brush, a wire or plastic hook for clearing blockages, and mild disinfectant (suitable for bird use) are all highly recommended for regular maintenance – check the product manufacturer's recommendations.
I’ve purchased a pond pump; is there anything I need to supplement its water supply?
Pond pumps often require an initial fill of water, and you may need extra tubing or connectors to extend the delivery distance from the pump to your pond feature.
My bird bath doesn't have a shallow end. What can I do?
Create a gentle slope in the base using gravel or pebbles to provide a safe entry point for smaller birds, preventing them from struggling to get in.
What type of food should I use in my hedgehog house?
Hedgehogs primarily eat insects, so mealworms and wax worms are excellent additions alongside suitable dry cat food – always check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
I've bought a bird box; does it come with any mounting hardware?
Bird boxes typically require separate brackets or fixings for attaching them to trees or posts, so ensure you purchase these separately based on your chosen mounting method.
What kind of maintenance is needed for my wildlife cameras?
Wildlife cameras need regular cleaning with a soft cloth and lens cleaner, and the SD card needs to be replaced periodically as storage fills up – always refer to the camera's manual.
My bird table needs a cover; what are the best materials?
Consider a waterproof but breathable fabric cover to protect your bird table from rain and sun while still allowing ventilation, preventing mould growth.
What’s the best way to deal with potential damage or issues if something arrives broken?
Please refer to Amazon's standard returns policy for information on reporting damaged items and requesting a replacement or refund – check the product page for details.
In depth
Expanding your birdwatching setup often involves more than just the initial purchase of binoculars or a spotting scope. Alongside these core items, there’s a range of accessories and consumables that significantly enhance the experience – particularly for those truly interested in observing and documenting wildlife. These supplementary elements frequently get overlooked during the initial budget planning, representing an ongoing investment to fully realise the potential of your chosen activity.
Consideration should be given to protective measures. While high-quality optics are a primary purchase, safeguarding them from environmental factors is crucial. This encompasses items such as lens cleaning kits – including microfiber cloths and lens cleaning solutions – for maintaining optical clarity. Similarly, carrying cases or robust storage bags offer vital protection against accidental damage during transport and storage. A good quality neck strap with padding is essential to reduce strain when using binoculars for extended periods.
Accessory additions can significantly improve the overall experience. Field guides are indispensable resources, providing crucial information on identification – regional variations in plumage, behaviour patterns, and habitat preferences. Notebooks and pencils or pens allow for detailed observations and sketching, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Binocular harnesses or neck supports, particularly useful for heavier binoculars, help distribute weight and reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
Then there are consumables directly related to observation – sighting blocks or tripods offer stability when setting up for extended viewing, while a selection of coloured flagging tape can be used to mark interesting locations or behaviour patterns for later reference. A small first-aid kit is sensible, covering minor cuts and scrapes that may occur during fieldwork.
Furthermore, the pursuit of quality imagery often involves additional investment. If you intend to photograph birds, consider purchasing a range of camera accessories – external flashes for improved lighting, remote shutter releases to minimise camera shake, and memory cards with sufficient capacity to capture high-resolution images. Polarising filters can be very useful when photographing waterbirds or in bright sunlight.
Finally, don’t underestimate the value of organisation and comfort. Waterproof bags or pouches are essential for protecting sensitive equipment from rain or humidity. A comfortable backpack allows you to carry all your essentials with ease, distributing weight effectively. And, depending on the duration of your outings, a thermos for hot drinks can be invaluable for maintaining energy levels in cooler conditions – although always ensure any food items are properly stored and disposed of responsibly within the environment.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.