There are some dishes I couldn't even contemplate eating without seasoning - who would want egg and soldiers without a sprinkle of salt on the runny yolk for example? Ooooh I'm salivating at the thought...
But salt could kill some garden birds and the RSPB is urging people not to use it as a de-icer in bird baths as the weather gets chilly again.
Salt is toxic to garden birds, even in tiny amounts, as their bodies can't process it and it affects their nervous systems. If they ingest salt they get very dehydrated and thirsty which simply makes them take in more, potentially making the problem worse. Salt also causes kidney disfunction so its imperative that we leave it out of our feeding efforts.
Keeping bird baths unfrozen in this sort of weather could be a full-time job and try as you might you can almost guarantee that when you nip outside in the morning in your dressing gown to check it will be solid! There is no scientific answer to this and when temperatures really plummet is a case of patience! But you can take measures to keep the water moving for as long as possible, such as placing a small floating item like a cork or twig in it. Alternatively, when you do fill your bath, try using tepid water to keep it unfrozen that bit longer.
Please also avoid food that contains lots of salt. Salted crisps and peanuts, processed cheese and leftover frozen meals are all likely to contain dangerous levels , even if soaked. More suitable leftovers include garted mild cheese, porridge oats, cooked rice, unslated bacon, cooked potatoes and pastry.