FEEDING the birds this winter could help prevent homes flooding, an animal welfare charity said yesterday.

Residents are being urged not to pour kitchen grease down the sink and instead use it to produce bird cakes.

The cakes are made by mixing solidified grease with bird seed, raisins, chopped peanuts or grated cheese. They can be hung from trees or crumbled on bird tables.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and Northumbrian Water have teamed up to urge residents to help keep grease out of the water system and feed birds.

David Hirst, RSPB regional information officer, said: "We are working together to ensure food is available for birds in the winter so they survive the cold months.

"Garden birds which feed on grease-related bird cakes include the blackbird, robin, great tit, blue tit, chaffinch, greenfinch, goldfinch and maybe even great spotted woodpeckers.

"Winter is a difficult time for many birds. By providing food, water and shelter you can really help them and turn your yard or garden into a wildlife haven for you to enjoy."

Birds also enjoy kitchen scraps such as pastry, cooked potatoes, raisins, sultanas and apples. Leftover bread can be soaked in cooking oil.

Northumbrian Water last month launched a campaign led by mascot Chips the Grease Monkey, urging residents not to pour fat down drains, where it can cause blockages.

Chips said: "Disposing of grease correctly prevents homes and gardens being flooded and damage being made to the environment."

For further details about how to make bird cakes, visit the website, www.nwl.co.uk