Every garden should have at least one bird-feeding station. A table will accommodate larger and less agile birds, while swinging seed and peanut containers will attract the more agile species. Siskins, for some reason, like their peanuts in red mesh bags or red plastic feeders. Site all feeding depots near to areas of cover where birds can perch safely and fly out when they feel comfortable, but don't place them within cat-jumping distance of thick shrubs; cats are terrors for lurking by bird-tables.
Dick Coombes of BirdWatch Ireland says that good hygiene is important, and that feeders should be hosed out frequently to remove any sodden or rotting seeds and nuts. If you have not had a feeder in your garden before, he suggests just partially filling it (until you have regular visitors) to avoid food going rancid. Increase the bird species in your garden by feeding a variety of food besides seed and nuts: grated cheese, bread, rice, fat balls , meat scraps and chopped-up fruit scattered on the lawn. Never feed crisps, salted peanuts or salty ham.