Looking out of my kitchen window over Christmas, the back garden was looking a bit forlorn and devoid of life, without a green shoot or buzzing bee in sight. However, a stocking filler booklet from the RSPB about making your garden more bird and wildlife friendly (thanks mum) assured me that there are is still plenty of life out there, but it’s tough going at the moment for them.
So first project of the year is going to be to give all those little critters a helping hand during these chillier months, and hopefully be rewarded by observing them at much closer quarters.
First things first, I have set up a bird feeder that sticks to the window out of reach of any passing cats. Not that there’s much risk of that at the moment, as my two furry felines have been disinclined to do any exercise during the cold snap, preferring instead to lounge around indoors or sit expectantly by their food bowls! However, I’m not taking any chances with the location of the bird feeder for now. Birds especially need help in winter as the frost and snow covers over their food sources, and their usual water supplies may also become frozen.
Secondly, am leaving the compost heap well alone. Apparently their warmth makes them safe havens for frogs, toads, hedgehogs and slow worms in winter. Similarly, any bonfires or piles of wood offer shelter for hibernating animals so check them before getting the matches out.
Lastly, I’m leaving my herbaceous and hollow-stemmed plants in the ground until early spring. They look a bit untidy, but provide homes for overwintering insects and to be honest, it’s the perfect excuse for not having to do any pruning or weeding for a couple of months!
So the New Year widlife project is officially underway. Watch this space to see who I get flitting, waddling or crawling into my garden…
photo credit: fishhawk
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Hi and welcome. I'm a freelance travel and lifestyle copywriter and editor, with a passion for the great outdoors. This is my personal blog all about getting out in the fresh air and reconnecting with our green spaces and countryside.
