How to help wildlife in your garden over winter
The UK’s wildlife is in decline, with more than 16 per cent of assessed species at risk of being lost (read the full report here).
Our gardens play a vital role in supporting wildlife, and there are some simple steps you can take in your garden during the colder months to support nature, and protect and enhance biodiversity.
Here’s some simple tips:
- Leave seedheads standing: instead of tidying up your garden completely, leave seedheads intact. They provide food for birds and other creatures during the colder months.
- Plant late-flowering plants and evergreen shrubs: these provide vital food sources, and can serve as shelter, nesting spots, and food sources. Consider planting holly, ivy, Cotoneaster, Viburnum tinus, Viburnum opulus, winter flowering honeysuckle, Pyracantha and Hamamelis.
- Early spring flowering bulbs offer excellent nectar sources for pollinators – try snowdrops, Crocus and early flowering single daffodils
- Create habitat piles: Gather logs, twigs, leaves, and other garden debris to create habitat piles. These cosy nooks become winter homes for insects, mammals, and amphibians. Find an out-of-the-way spot that won’t be disturbed.
- Thaw icy waters: If you have a bird bath or a small pond, make sure to thaw any ice that forms on the surface. Birds and other wildlife need access to water even in winter.
- Provide food for birds: birds burn more calories to stay warm during the cold months. Offer calorie-rich foods like suet, sunflower hearts, peanuts, and fallen fruit. Keep your bird feeders well-stocked and well cleaned too.
- Consider toad abodes: Toads and other amphibians appreciate sheltered spots. You can create a simple “toad abode” by placing a large, overturned flowerpot or a pile of rocks in a quiet corner of your garden.
Remember, every little effort counts. By not tidying up your outdoor space too much over winter, your garden can become a cosy and much needed haven for wildlife.
