Bird survival during winter is essential for our feathered friends that bring joy to our garden. Did you know that nearly 60% of garden birds struggle to find enough food in colder months? The harsh weather brings challenges like snow and freezing temperatures, which make food scarce. This is where British Garden Centres come in, providing everything you need to create a welcoming and nourishing environment for our feathered friends.
Winter can be a harsh time for birds, so providing them with the right resources is crucial. High-calorie foods like nyger seeds, sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet cakes are essential for maintaining body temperature and energy levels. Remember, birds need about 30% of their body weight in food daily during winter. Sunflower seeds are great for larger birds like finches, while nyjer seeds are perfect for smaller birds like goldfinches. Mealworms are a great addition for insect-eating birds, especially during colder months.
British Garden Centres offers a wide range of bird feeders and tables to cater to various bird species and garden styles. You can find everything from classic tube feeders for small seeds to spacious bird tables for larger birds. It's important to keep feeders clean to prevent mould and bacteria. To keep birds safe from larger garden wildlife, place feeders and shelters at least 10 feet away from hiding spots.
Water is just as vital as food, even in winter as birds need water for hydration and digestion. Bird baths are a fantastic way to ensure fresh water is always available, even in colder temperatures. Remember to change the water daily to keep it fresh and stop it from freezing over. Place your bird bath in safe, sheltered spots away from predators.
Natural shelters like evergreen shrubs and trees provide excellent protection from wind and snow, and planting native plants like hollies and rowan trees will provide valuable berries for birds. Incorporating natural garden debris like logs and stones offers foraging opportunities and makes your garden a more attractive space for birds.
Nest boxes are a fantastic way to attract a diverse range of bird species to your garden. can also offer much-needed warmth and protection. There are two main types of nest boxes: holed and open-fronted. Holed boxes are ideal for smaller birds like tits and sparrows, with the size of the entrance hole determining which species can access it. Open-fronted boxes are preferred by ground-nesting birds like robins and song thrushes.
Creating a winter wonderland for garden birds is achievable with a few simple steps. By providing food, water, and shelter, you'll support local wildlife throughout the chilly months. Visit your local British Garden Centres store to find supplies and expert advice on making your garden a haven for birds all winter long.
