Gardening for birds

Biodiversity is the variety of life on earth and our outdoor spaces have a big part to play. Everyone and anyone with a garden no matter how big or small, can make a difference.

Over the last 15 years, we have seen a big decline in the number of birds visiting our gardens. But we want to encourage them back. So, in return for some shelter, food and a place to nest, you’ll be rewarded with colour and song in your outdoor space.

The plants in your garden provide birds with a place to hide, find food and if you are lucky, to build a nest. The more varied your garden, the better it will be for wildlife. Remember that birds can be gardeners’ allies – many species, such as the blue tit, feed on greenfly and other insects.

• Lawns are good for thrushes looking for worms
• Densely packed borders provide cover and insects for shy birds
• Shrubs and trees provide safe perches and fruit to eat
• Ponds and marshy areas are a magnet for wildlife of all kinds

There are lots of simple ways that you can make your garden more welcoming to birds all year round.

Bird tables and bird feeders – these provide a welcome source of food for many birds, especially during the colder months.

Nest boxes – put up boxes in sheltered places. A sheltered spot will offer protection from the elements i.e., strong winds, heavy rain, and direct sunlight. This can help to prevent damage to the bird box and provide a more comfortable living environment for the birds.

Additionally, birds prefer to nest in quiet and secure areas where they are protected from predators and disturbances. By providing a sense of privacy and security for the birds, it will make them more likely to choose the bird box as a nesting site.

A sheltered area can help to regulate the temperature inside the bird box. For example, a north-facing location can help to keep the box cooler in hot weather, while a south-facing location can provide more warmth in cooler weather.

Bird baths – birds always need a source of water so a bird bath or any sort of drinking vessel will be well received! As well as a place to drink, it’s an ideal place to cool down on a hot day.

Provide perches – Birds need perches to rest and survey their surroundings. Install birdhouses and perches around your garden.

Remember by attracting birds to your garden, you can also attract other wildlife:

Pollinators – Birds that feed on nectar also help to pollinate flowers in your garden. This can attract other pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, that are attracted to the same nectar-rich flowers.

Insects – Birds that feed on insects can help to control insect populations in your garden.

Amphibians – Birds that feed on insects that breed in water, such as swallows and martins, can help to control insect populations in your garden. This can attract other wildlife, such as frogs and toads, that depend on these insects for food.

Overall, by attracting birds to your garden, you can create a more diverse and thriving ecosystem that benefits a wide range of wildlife.

But be patient! It may take some time for birds to discover your garden, so be patient and persistent with your efforts.

Remember to let us know what birds are in your garden!