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Wildlife

What to Feed Birds All Year Round: A Guide for Bird Lovers

by Gregory June 19, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

What to Feed Birds All Year Round

Introduction

Birds need our help, especially in winter when food is scarce. But did you know that feeding birds year-round can make a big difference in their survival?

What to Feed Birds

Birds need a balanced diet of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. They find most of their food in nature, but supplementary food can help, especially when natural food sources are limited.

Sunflower hearts: These are a great all-around option, packed with calories and easy to eat.
Seed mix: This provides a variety of seeds and grains that birds enjoy.
Fat-based products: Suet treats and fat balls provide energy and insulation.
Mealworms: These are a good source of protein, especially for chicks.
Berries: Birds love berries, which are full of antioxidants and vitamins.
Nuts: Nuts are a good source of fat and protein, but some birds may have trouble eating them.

Where to Feed Birds

You can feed birds in a variety of places:

Bird feeders: These are popular options, but make sure to clean them regularly to prevent disease.
Bird tables: These provide a flat surface for birds to feed on, which is especially helpful for ground-feeding birds.
Short grass or paving: These areas are easy for birds to access and clean up.

How to Feed Birds in Different Seasons

Winter: Birds need extra calories in winter to stay warm. Offer a variety of high-calorie foods, such as sunflower seeds, suet treats, and nuts.
Spring: Birds need to build up their strength for breeding. Offer calorie-rich foods, such as sunflower seeds and mealworms, and provide oyster shell grit for females to form eggs.
Summer: Birds are busy raising chicks in summer. Offer live food, such as rehydrated mealworms, to supplement their natural diet. Avoid fat-based foods, which can go bad in the heat.
Autumn: As berries and nuts ripen, birds will naturally eat more of these foods. Gradually increase the amount of food you offer as temperatures start to drop.

Tips for Feeding Birds

Always buy quality bird food from a reputable supplier.
Choose a variety of foods to attract a wider range of birds.
Clean your feeders regularly to prevent disease.
Move the location of feeders every month to prevent bacteria buildup.
Provide water for birds to drink and bathe in.
Grow bird-friendly plants in your garden to provide natural food sources.

Gardening

November Gardening: Essential Tips and Tricks for a Thriving Winter Garden

by Gregory June 19, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Gardening in November: Tips and Tricks for the Season

Introduction

November is a great time to get your garden ready for winter. With the right care, your plants can thrive even in the colder months. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your November garden.

Trees for Small Gardens

If you have a small garden, don’t despair! There are plenty of trees that can fit into even the most compact spaces. Some good options include:

Japanese maple: This deciduous tree has beautiful foliage that turns brilliant shades of red and orange in the fall.
Dogwood: Another deciduous tree with stunning fall foliage, dogwood also produces clusters of white or pink flowers in the spring.
Crape myrtle: This small tree is known for its showy clusters of flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.

Pruning in November

Pruning is an important part of garden maintenance, and November is a good time to do it. Pruning helps to remove dead or diseased branches, encourage new growth, and improve the shape of your plants.

Some tips for pruning in November:

Use sharp, clean pruning shears.
Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle.
Remove any dead or diseased branches first.
Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Shape your plants to the desired size and shape.

Growing Spring Bulbs

Spring bulbs are a great way to add color and beauty to your garden in the spring. To get the best results, plant your bulbs in the fall.

Here are some tips for growing spring bulbs:

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Plant the bulbs pointy side up, about 6 inches deep.
Water the bulbs well after planting.
Mulch around the bulbs to help keep them warm and moist.

Wildlife in November

November is a great time to observe wildlife in your garden. Many animals are preparing for winter, and you may see them foraging for food or building nests.

Some common wildlife you might see in November include:

Birds: Many birds migrate south for the winter, but some stay year-round. Look for chickadees, cardinals, and blue jays.
Squirrels: Squirrels are busy gathering nuts and seeds for the winter. You may see them burying their food in the ground or storing it in their nests.
Rabbits: Rabbits are also preparing for winter by building nests and gathering food. You may see them hopping around your garden or hiding in the bushes.

Indoor Plants

If you’re looking to add some greenery to your home during the winter months, indoor plants are a great option. Many houseplants are easy to care for, and they can add a touch of life to any room.

Some popular indoor plants include:

Snake plant: This low-maintenance plant is known for its long, slender leaves. It’s a great choice for beginners.
Peace lily: This plant is known for its beautiful white flowers and its ability to purify the air.
Pothos: This trailing plant is easy to grow and can tolerate a variety of conditions.

Winter Gardening

Even though it’s getting colder outside, there’s still plenty you can do in your garden in November. Here are a few tips for winter gardening:

Plant hardy vegetables like kale, spinach, and carrots.
Protect your plants from the cold by mulching around them or covering them with row covers.
Water your plants regularly, especially if there’s no rain or snow.
Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and treat them promptly.

Conclusion

November is a great time to get your garden ready for winter and plan for the spring. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy your garden all year round.

Trees

The Alder Tree: A Versatile Tree for Wet Soil and Wildlife

by Donna June 14, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

The Alder Tree: A Versatile Tree for Wet Soil and Wildlife

Introduction

The alder tree, also known as Alnus glutinosa, is a deciduous tree native to Britain. It is a member of the birch family and is known for its rounded, bright green leaves and red-brown catkins. The alder tree is a versatile tree that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including wet soil, and is a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.

Characteristics of the Alder Tree

The alder tree is a medium-sized tree, typically growing to a height of 25 meters (80 feet) with a spread of 8 meters (26 feet). It has a rounded crown and a straight trunk with smooth, gray bark. The leaves of the alder tree are rounded and have serrated edges. They are a bright green color in the spring and summer, and turn yellow in the fall. The alder tree produces red-brown catkins in the spring, which are followed by small, winged seeds.

Growing Conditions for the Alder Tree

The alder tree is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers moist soil, but can also tolerate dry soil and even poor soil. The alder tree is also tolerant of shade, but it will grow best in full sun.

Benefits of the Alder Tree

The alder tree is a valuable tree for a number of reasons. It is a nitrogen-fixing tree, which means that it can convert nitrogen from the air into a form that can be used by plants. This makes the alder tree a good choice for planting in areas with poor soil. The alder tree is also a good choice for planting in wet areas, as it can help to drain the soil and prevent flooding.

In addition to its benefits for the soil, the alder tree is also a valuable tree for wildlife. The alder tree is a host plant for many moths, including the alder moth, which has a vibrant black-and-yellow striped caterpillar. The seeds of the alder tree are also eaten by birds.

Planting and Care for the Alder Tree

The alder tree can be planted in the spring or fall. When planting an alder tree, choose a location with moist soil and full sun to partial shade. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree and just as deep. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first growing season.

Uses for the Alder Tree

The alder tree is a versatile tree that can be used for a variety of purposes. It is a popular choice for planting in wet areas, as it can help to drain the soil and prevent flooding. The alder tree is also a good choice for planting in areas with poor soil, as it can help to improve the soil quality.

In addition to its practical uses, the alder tree is also a beautiful tree that can add beauty to any landscape. The alder tree is a popular choice for planting in parks, gardens, and along streams and rivers.

Conclusion

The alder tree is a versatile and valuable tree that is a great choice for a variety of landscaping needs. It is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, and it is a beneficial tree for both the soil and wildlife. The alder tree is also a beautiful tree that can add beauty to any landscape.

Gardening

Late-Summer Shrubs for Beauty and Wildlife | Easy-Care Plants for August Color

by Donna June 11, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Shrubs for a Beautiful August Garden

August is a great time to enjoy the beauty of shrubs in your garden. They provide structure, color, scent, and wildlife value, making them a valuable addition to any landscape.

Evergreen Shrubs for Year-Round Interest

If you’re looking for an evergreen shrub that will add beauty to your garden all year round, consider common myrtle (Myrtus communis). This Mediterranean native has stunning, scented flowers and aromatic foliage.

Late-Blooming Beauties

For a burst of color in late summer, plant hardy hibiscus (Hibiscus syriacus). These shrubs come into leaf around June and bloom from July to August. They’re easy to grow and come in a variety of colors, including ‘Woodbridge’ (blue), ‘Blue Bird’ (lilac), and ‘Lilac Queen’ (lilac with rust centers).

Mediterranean Charm

Cotton lavender (Santolina) is another great choice for a late-summer blooming shrub. It has gray-green foliage and produces yellow flowers from July to August. Plant it in a hot, sunny spot for best results.

Classic and Fragrant: Roses

Roses are a classic choice for any garden, and there are many varieties that bloom in August. Deadheading (removing spent blooms) will encourage more flowers.

Pollinator Paradise: Bluebeard

Also known as Caryopteris, bluebeard is an attractive and well-behaved shrub that blooms in late summer and August. Its blue flowers and silvery foliage make it a standout in the garden, and it’s a favorite of bees and butterflies.

Planting and Care Tips

While summer is not the ideal time to plant shrubs, you can do so in late autumn to mid-spring. Choose a spot with well-drained soil and water regularly, especially during dry periods. Prune shrubs after they bloom to maintain their shape and encourage new growth.

With these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of shrubs in your garden all season long!

Gardening

7 Creative Ways to Recycle Your Christmas Tree | Easy and Eco-Friendly

by Gregory June 11, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

7 Ways to Recycle Your Christmas Tree

What to Do with a Cut Tree

When the holidays are over, don’t throw away your Christmas tree! There are many creative ways to reuse it.

Make mulch: Shred the tree and use it to cover the soil around your plants. This will help keep the soil moist and suppress weeds.
Use as a frame for climbers: Plant the bare tree in your garden and let climbing plants, like sweet peas, grow over it.
Create a wildlife shelter: Trim the branches and tie them into bundles. Hang them in bushes for bugs to hide in. Or, chop the trunk into pieces and stack them to create a mini refuge for small animals.
Use as insulation: Chop large branches and lay them over tender plants to protect them from frost.
Give it to your local council or nature reserve: Many councils collect Christmas trees and chip them to make compost or mulch. You can also donate your tree to a nature reserve, where it may be used to stabilize sand dunes.

What to Do with a Potted Tree

Most Christmas trees sold in pots can be kept alive if they are kept cool. You can plant it in your garden after Christmas, or repot it into a larger pot until next year.

Other Ways to Recycle Christmas

Natural decorations: Hang out holly and other greenery for birds to eat. Stuff foliage inside a flower pot for bees and other insects to nest in.
Peelings and leftovers: Compost raw vegetable and fruit peels. Use leftover fat or oil to make high-energy bird food.

Birdwatching and Conservation

Rare British Garden Birds: Identification and Attraction Guide

by Gregory June 7, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Rare British Garden Birds

How to Identify and Attract Them

Have you ever spotted an unusual bird in your garden? If so, you may have been lucky enough to see one of Britain’s rare garden birds. These birds are not often seen, but they can be a delight to observe.

How to Identify Rare British Garden Birds

If you see a bird that you don’t recognize, there are a few things you can do to identify it:

Observe its size and shape. Is it larger or smaller than a blackbird? Does it have a long tail or a short tail?
Note its colors and markings. What color is its body? Does it have any stripes, spots, or other distinctive features?
Listen to its song or call. Birds have unique songs and calls that can help you identify them.
Take a photo or sketch. This can be helpful for later identification.

You can also use a field guide or website to help you identify birds.

Common Rare British Garden Birds

Some of the most common rare British garden birds include:

Waxwing: A striking bird with a bright orange crest and black eye stripe.
Tree sparrow: A small bird with a chestnut cap and black cheek spots.
Brambling: A winter visitor from Scandinavia with a rusty orange breast and white rump.
Fieldfare: A winter visitor with a light grey head and chestnut-brown wings.
Goldcrest: Britain’s smallest breeding bird with a bright yellow stripe on its head.
Bullfinch: A stout finch with a black cap and bright rose-red breast (in males).
Nuthatch: A small bird with a long, straight bill and blue-grey wings.
Jay: A brightly-colored bird with a black moustache and blue and white wing bars.
Grey wagtail: A bird with a long, black and white tail that bobs constantly.
Green woodpecker: Britain’s largest breeding woodpecker with a green back and red cap.

How to Attract Rare British Garden Birds

There are a few things you can do to attract rare birds to your garden:

Provide a variety of food sources. Birds have different dietary needs, so offer a variety of foods such as seeds, nuts, fruit, and insects.
Create a bird-friendly habitat. Plant trees and shrubs that provide food and shelter for birds.
Provide a water source. Birds need water to drink and bathe.
Avoid using pesticides. Pesticides can harm birds and their food sources.

By following these tips, you can help rare British garden birds thrive and enjoy their beauty in your own backyard.

Wildlife Gardening

The Ultimate Guide to Bird Feed for British Wildlife: Support Our Feathered Friends

by Gregory June 4, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

The Ultimate Guide to Bird Feed for British Wildlife

Introduction

Providing bird feed is a simple yet crucial way to support British wildlife. Birds play a vital role in our ecosystem, helping to control pests, pollinate plants, and spread seeds. By offering them food, we can help them thrive and enjoy the beauty and benefits they bring to our gardens.

Types of Bird Feed

There are many different types of bird feed available, each designed to meet the specific needs of different bird species. Some of the most common types include:

Insects: Dried mealworms, waxworms, earthworms, and crickets are all excellent sources of protein for birds.
High-protein sources: Sunflower hearts, suet, and nuts are high in energy and protein, which helps birds build muscle mass and body fat.
Seeds and grains: Seeds and grains are a good all-around food source for birds and can be offered year-round.
Berries: Birds love berries, which provide them with essential vitamins and nutrients.

Choosing the Right Bird Feed

When choosing bird feed, it’s important to consider the types of birds you want to attract to your garden. Some birds, like insectivores, prefer insects, while others, like omnivores, will eat a variety of foods. It’s also important to choose a feed that is appropriate for the season. In winter, birds need high-energy foods to help them stay warm, while in summer they can benefit from lighter foods like oats and millet.

Where to Put Bird Feeders

Bird feeders should be placed in a quiet, sheltered spot, away from predators like cats and larger birds. The feeder should also be protected from the weather, so that the food doesn’t get wet or spoiled.

When to Feed Birds

It’s a good idea to leave bird food out year-round, but their needs change with the seasons. In winter and spring, birds need high-protein foods like suet to help them stay warm and feed their chicks. In summer and autumn, they can benefit from lighter foods like oats and millet.

What Not to Feed Wild Birds

While some foods from our kitchens are safe for birds, others should be avoided. Here are some foods that you should never feed to wild birds:

Large chunks of food: Birds can choke on large pieces of food, so always chop up food into small pieces before offering it to them.
Junk food: Junk food like crisps and biscuit crumbs are unhealthy for birds and can contain dangerous additives.
Salty food: Salty foods like bacon rinds can be harmful to birds, as they can’t process high levels of salt.
Dairy products: Milk can cause gut problems in birds, so it’s best to avoid giving them dairy products.
Mouldy food: Mouldy food can make birds sick, so make sure to store bird food in a dry place and clean out your bird feeder regularly.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden

In addition to providing bird feeders, there are other things you can do to create a bird-friendly garden. Planting native plants that provide food and shelter for birds is a great way to attract them to your yard. You can also create a bird bath or pond, which will provide them with a place to drink and bathe.

By following these tips, you can help to support British wildlife and enjoy the beauty and benefits that birds bring to our gardens.

Conclusion

Bird feed is an essential part of supporting British wildlife. By providing birds with the right food, in the right place, and at the right time, we can help them to thrive and enjoy the beauty and benefits they bring to our gardens.

Wildlife Gardening

Hedgehogs in the Garden: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Wildlife Enthusiasts

by Gregory June 2, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Hedgehogs in the Garden: A Guide for Young Wildlife Enthusiasts

Introduction

Hedgehogs are fascinating creatures that can often be found in gardens, especially in rural and suburban areas. They are known for their spiky coats and their ability to curl up into a ball when threatened. Hedgehogs are beneficial to gardens because they eat pests like slugs and snails. However, their numbers are in decline due to habitat loss, pesticides, and other human-related factors.

Creating a Hedgehog-Friendly Garden

If you want to attract hedgehogs to your garden, there are a few things you can do to make it more welcoming.

Create access holes: Hedgehogs need to be able to move freely between gardens. Cut a hole in your fence that is at least 13cm x 13cm (about the size of a CD) to allow hedgehogs to pass through.
Plant a hedge: Hedges provide food and shelter for hedgehogs. Choose native plants like hawthorn and hazel, which attract egg-laying moths and increase the number of caterpillars available for hedgehogs to eat.
Make ponds safe: If you have a pond in your garden, make sure it has sloping sides or a ramp so that hedgehogs can enter and exit safely.
Check before strimming: Before using a strimmer, check long grass for hedgehogs. If you find any, move them to a safe location.
Avoid using slug pellets: Conventional slug pellets contain metaldehyde, which is poisonous to hedgehogs. Use wildlife-friendly slug pellets instead, which contain less toxic ingredients.

Signs of Hedgehogs in the Garden

There are several signs that may indicate that hedgehogs are visiting your garden.

Hedgehog poo: Hedgehog droppings are dark and may contain the wing cases of beetles and other insects.
Hedgehog footprints: Hedgehog footprints are unique and unmistakable. Look for them in the mud or create a hedgehog footprint tunnel.
Snuffling noises: Hedgehogs make snuffling noises as they explore their surroundings. You may be able to hear them at night if you leave your windows open.
Stick or bedding material: Leave a stick in front of a hedgehog feeding station or nest box, or place bedding material like straw or leaves nearby. Hedgehogs may use these to make a cozy bed.

What to Do If You Find a Hedgehog

If you see a hedgehog in your garden, the best thing to do is nothing. Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals and they will usually go about their business without bothering you. However, there are some situations when you may need to intervene.

Hedgehog out during the day in summer: This could be a mother hedgehog foraging for food or water. Stand back and observe the hedgehog for a while. If it is walking in a straight line and with purpose, you can leave it alone. If it is walking in circles or seems disoriented, you should contact a hedgehog rescue center.
Hedgehog out during the day in autumn or winter: This could indicate a problem such as being too small to hibernate, lungworm, or organ failure. Contact a hedgehog rescue center immediately.
Sick or injured hedgehog: If you find a hedgehog that is sick or injured, wear gloves and place it in a high-sided box with a warm hot water bottle and a towel. Contact a hedgehog rescue center right away.

Conclusion

Hedgehogs are fascinating and beneficial creatures that deserve our protection. By creating a hedgehog-friendly garden and knowing what to do if you find a hedgehog in need, you can help these amazing animals thrive.

Wildlife Gardening

Great Tits: A Comprehensive Guide for Young Wildlife Enthusiasts

by Gregory May 28, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Great Tits: A Guide for Young Wildlife Enthusiasts

Introduction

Great tits are fascinating birds that are a common sight in gardens and woodlands. They are the largest of the tit family in North America, and they have a distinctive black head with white cheeks, a green-yellow breast and belly, and a black stripe running down the center. Male great tits have a broader black stripe than females, which is a sign of status and indicates that he will be a good father.

Habitat and Diet

Great tits are woodland birds, but they have adapted well to garden habitats. They nest in holes in trees, and they eat a variety of foods, including insects, seeds, and nuts. During nesting season, they feed their chicks mainly caterpillars and other juicy insects, which provide them with essential protein and moisture.

Nesting and Breeding

Great tits typically mate in April or May, and the female lays up to nine eggs. Both parents feed the chicks, and the chicks fledge (leave the nest) after two to three weeks. In winter, great tits join other tits to form roaming flocks that search for food together.

How to Help Great Tits

There are several things that gardeners and wildlife enthusiasts can do to help great tits and other birds.

Provide Natural Food Sources

The best way to help great tits is to provide them with natural food sources. Caterpillars are their primary food source during nesting season, so it is important to grow caterpillar food plants in your garden. These plants include native shrubs like hawthorn, hazel, and ivy, as well as so-called “weeds” like dandelions, nettles, docks, and grasses.

Water Your Plants

Watering your plants, even the ones that are considered weeds, can help to keep supplies of natural food alive for great tits and other birds. Caterpillars and other insects need moisture to survive, so watering your plants can help to ensure that there is a steady supply of food for them.

Provide Supplementary Food

In addition to providing natural food sources, you can also provide supplementary food for great tits. This is especially important during the winter months when natural food sources are scarce. You can offer seedheads, hanging feeders, and dried mealworms in a dish of water.

Hang Bird Boxes

Hanging bird boxes in your garden can encourage great tits to nest. Place the bird boxes 2-4 meters off the ground in a north-easterly direction.

Keep Bird Baths Clean

Keeping bird baths clean and topped up is essential for providing great tits and other birds with fresh water. Birds need water to drink and bathe, so it is important to make sure that there is always a supply of clean water available.

Conclusion

Great tits are beautiful and fascinating birds that can bring joy to any garden. By providing them with natural food sources, supplementary food, and nesting boxes, you can help them to thrive and enjoy their presence in your garden for years to come.

Wildlife Gardening

Chiff Chaffs: A Delightful Migrant Visitor to Your Garden

by Donna May 3, 2024

written by Donna 2 minutes read

Chiff Chaffs: A Delightful Migrant

Introduction

Have you ever noticed a small, brown bird with a cheerful song? That’s likely a chiff chaff, a migratory bird that visits the UK in the spring and summer.

Identifying Chiff Chaffs

Small, brown bird
Distinctive “chiff chaff, chiff chaff” song
“Hweet, hweet” contact call

Migration and Habitat

Summer migrants from the Mediterranean and West Africa
Found in woodlands, scrub, parks, and gardens
Overwintering populations increasing in the UK due to milder winters

Nesting and Diet

Nest on or near the ground in dense vegetation
Lay up to six eggs in May or June
Chicks hatch after two weeks and fledge two weeks later
Feed on insects, including aphids, flies, and caterpillars

Attracting Chiff Chaffs to Your Garden

Chiff chaffs may visit gardens in spring and autumn as “passage migrants”
Provide a large garden with a wild patch for nesting
Allow areas to become overgrown
Leave aphids and other insects on plants for food

Benefits of Chiff Chaffs

Control aphids and other pests in your garden
Add a touch of wildlife to your outdoor space
Bring joy with their cheerful song

Conclusion

Chiff chaffs are small but delightful birds that can bring both beauty and benefits to your garden. By understanding their habits and providing them with a suitable habitat, you can help these charming migrants thrive.

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