We keep the peanuts out twelve months of the year. The birds don't take as much in the summer but it tops up their feeding. It is said that small pieces of peanut can stick in the throat of baby birds but I don't see any evidence of our birds flying away with a mouthfull of peanut to feed them with.

its the whole nut that can get stuck. if they have to peck bits off that is not a problem.

From the RSPB site - Peanuts are rich in fat and are popular with tits, greenfinches, house sparrows, nuthatches, great spotted woodpeckers and siskins. Crushed or grated nuts attract robins, dunnocks and even wrens. Nuthatches and coal tits may hoard peanuts. Salted or dry roasted peanuts should not be used. Peanuts can be high in a natural toxin, which can kill birds, so buy from a reputable dealer, such as our online shop, to guarantee freedom from aflatoxin.
However under Spring and Summer they say - Avoid using peanuts, fat and bread at this time, since these can be harmful if adult birds feed them to their nestlings. If you feel you must put out peanuts, only do so in suitable wire mesh feeders that will not allow sizeable pieces of peanuts to be removed and provide a choking risk.