Our Winter Neighbours

As winter arrives, so will the hard times for many of our wildlife neighbours. And as we are all aware, a regular winter can be a test for all animals and a long winter can be a disaster.

However, before we all rush out with scraps of food, wildlife biologists warn that such acts of kindness may result in unintended but often fatal results. Their reasons being; that congregating animals are susceptible to disease just as we are in close quarters, mouldy and wet food may cause illness, the old and young often do not get their fair share and predators are more likely to lurk in every corner.

Remember all those signs, ‘do not feed the animals’! But, if we combine a well balanced diet (in moderation, warn our wildlife experts) with a few other simple gardening tasks, we can all help in providing a winter haven throughout the cold months ahead. Also, what better way to watch our wildlife at close quarters?

Helping birds

Fat blocks in wire cages or feeders can help to provide extra winter food for our feathered friends. But, variety is important as different recipes will help to entice a greater selection of birds. Although, fat is important a well balanced diet should also include a grain mix, seeds or nuts. Over-ripe apples and raisins will help to attract thrushes and blackbirds.

By topping up you feeders on a regular basis this will help to ensure that birds do not waste vital energy visiting your garden when there is no food. Also, keep you feeders clean by wiping down every 2 -3 days with a very mild solution of bleach and warm water.

If you want to go even further, you could also plant berry and fruit trees such as Malus, Cotoneaster and Pyracantha.

Other Wildlife

Below is a list of simple tasks that will help to turn your garden into a wildlife haven;

Always check bonfires before they are lit in case there are sheltering and hibernating animals, often a favourite for hedgehogs, toads and frogs.

1. If you have a pond with ice, then melt it to allow the wildlife to drink and enter and leave the water. Do not hit or crack the ice as this can send shockwaves through the water that harms wildlife. Alternatively, leaving a ball on the surface will help to stop ice forming.
2. If you have a compost heap, again be careful if you turn it. The warmth of the compost can be a winter resort for frogs, toads and other animals.
3. Providing a shallow dish or container with water at ground level will benefit a range of wildlife that need to drink, as well as our feathered friends.
4. If you have bird boxes, then clean then out in late winter so they are ready for new nests in spring.