CHRISTMAS is coming and the goose is getting fat.

But the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is warning that fat from Christmas poultry could be dangerous if eaten by some birds.

While other fats like lard and suet are beneficial to the animals, cooked turkey fat can seriously harm birds and, in extreme cases, cause death.

Sophie McCallum, from RSPB south east, said: “It’s understandable that people think it will give the birds an energy boost and provide them with the nutrients they need.

“But the juices mixed in roasting tins will go off very quickly and could cause disease on bird tables. Birds are very susceptible at this time of year. Turkey fat could also damage birds’ feathers and during winter they need to be in tip top condition to help keep them warm.”

The RSPB instead recommends feeding the birds scraps of Christmas cake, mince pie pastry and biscuit crumbs during the festive period.