The cold temperatures and wintry conditions make having bird baths and feeders in your garden extremely necessary for the health of wildlife. Fresh water and foods high in fat are particularly beneficial for birds as they help to keep them warm throughout the colder seasons.

However, experts have warned gardeners that it is essential to be aware of where they place the bird feeders for this particular reason.

Gardeners' World advises that the placement of feeders should be carefully considered to deter pests. They suggest that bird feeders should be hung near roses to attract hungry birds, which will also help eliminate "overwintering pests".

Total Bird Control warns that pests like rats and pigeons often invade gardens in search of food that is left for birds, reports The Mirror.

It explained: "Seeing wild birds in the garden is one of life's pleasures and, of course, by feeding them we are helping to protect the natural world. At Christmas in particular bird feeding gifts become popular, with festive designs available and even bird food 'wreaths'.

"However, when feeding the birds, it pays to consider how to avoid attracting pests into your garden, such as rats or infestations of pigeons."

To achieve the perfect balance between having a bird feeder and tackling pests, the RSPB advises people to only put out enough food for one day. This will help to prevent other animals from accessing any leftover food. It also recommends keeping bird food off the ground.

It added: "In the same vein it is wise to avoid throwing food for birds on the floor as this attracts pests. Seed trays at the bottom of feeders help to stop waste being spilt on the floor while hulled seeds also cut down the possibility of food reaching the floor."

Gardeners have also been warned about the issue of pigeons accessing bird feeders. However, they have been advised that "smaller feeders can prevent them from accessing food," while "hanging feeders with smaller mesh" can also help prevent the bully birds from getting into the feeders.

If you're not even sure what to put in your bird feeders to begin with, then it is recommended that during the winter time bird feeders are packed with foods high in fat, such as cheese or balls of cooked rice.