Everyone loves birds enjoying their gardens, especially in the winter months when they tend to struggle the most. However, it can be tricky to know how to attract birds like robins into your garden. Luckily, a head gardener has shared exactly how to do so, as well as how to help other animals, too.
David Glass, head gardener at Bowood House & Gardens, said: “Winter often feels like a quiet time in the garden, but it still brings plenty of important jobs.” One of these jobs involves inviting and caring for wildlife, including birds, which often face food scarcity during the winter.
Feed the birds
The expert said: “As gardeners, we have a connection not only to the plants, but also the animals that live within our gardens, and during the winter, they could benefit from a helping hand.
“Things that we can do to help our garden wildlife include feeding the birds. It’s worth considering how some birds prefer traditional feeders, while others feed from the ground or flat surfaces.
“Make sure not to overfeed on the ground, as this can attract rats and mice. It is a good idea to have a mix of feeds to suit a bigger selection of birds.
“When tidying your beds and borders, leave any plants with seeds and berries for as long as possible. This will also provide a mix of food for the birds.”
Provide a bird bath
A bird bath is also a crucial source of water for birds, especially on cold, frosty days. If you have a pond, it’s also important to tend to this during the winter months. On frosty days, gently break a small area of ice to allow oxygen in and let wildlife out or in if needed.
Keep it tidy
David said: “As gardeners, we are generally very tidy. However, this is not always best for our wildlife. If possible, leave an area of the garden with a pile of sticks for hedgehogs to shelter, or a pile of leaves for insects to find a home.
“If you have the time, make a bug hotel out of sticks, old roof tiles, and any other materials you can find that would provide shelter.”
When tidying beds and borders, leave any plants with seeds and berries for as long as possible. This will also provide a mix of food for birds.
Homemade compost
The gardening pro continued: “It’s commonplace to spread homemade compost on the garden during the winter months, but by leaving a small amount in a pile you can provide a home for animals like slow worms, frogs and toads.” A good compost can also help to attract birds to the garden.
