When winter sets in and temperatures drop, our feathered friends face a tougher time finding food, water, and shelter. By making a few simple changes in your garden, you can create a welcoming haven for birds that not only helps them survive the colder months but also brings life and activity to your outdoor space. Here’s how:
1. Provide a Reliable Food Source
Food scarcity is a major challenge for birds in winter, so offering nutritious meals can make all the difference.
- High-Energy Foods: Fill feeders with high-energy options like suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. These foods help birds maintain body heat.
- Mixed Seed Blends: Offer a variety of seeds to attract different species—finches love nyjer seeds while robins prefer mealworms or soft fruits.
- Ground-Feeding Trays: Some birds prefer to feed at ground level. Keep this area clear of snow and debris.
Pro Tip: Position feeders near shrubs or hedges so birds can quickly seek cover if they sense danger.
2. Offer Fresh Water
Birds need clean, unfrozen water for drinking and bathing, even in winter.
- Bird Baths: Use a shallow, wide bird bath with a rough surface for traction.
- Prevent Freezing: Break the ice daily or invest in a bird bath heater if the weather is consistently below freezing.
- Regular Cleaning: Change the water often to avoid contamination.
Pro Tip: Place a small rock or branch in the bath for birds to perch on while drinking.
3. Create Shelter and Nesting Spots
Shelter is vital for birds seeking refuge from harsh weather and predators.
- Hedgerows and Dense Shrubs: Thick foliage provides natural hiding spots.
- Birdhouses: Install nest boxes or roosting pouches to offer winter shelter (and potential nesting sites in spring).
- Untidy Corners: Leave piles of fallen leaves or brush in a secluded area to mimic natural cover.
Pro Tip: Install birdhouses away from prevailing winds and in quiet areas of your garden to encourage occupancy.
4. Plant for Year-Round Interest
Plants that produce berries or seeds are a natural food source and habitat.
- Berry-Producing Shrubs: Hollies, hawthorns, and cotoneasters keep berries into winter.
- Seed Heads: Leave seed heads on plants like coneflowers and sunflowers—goldfinches and other seed-eating birds will thank you.
- Evergreens: These not only provide shelter but also maintain greenery when other plants have dropped their leaves.
Pro Tip: Plant native species to support local bird populations more effectively.
5. Keep Predators at Bay
Birds are more vulnerable in winter when food sources are scarce.
- Safe Feeding Stations: Position feeders where birds can spot predators easily—avoid dense undergrowth.
- Cat Deterrents: If cats frequently visit your garden, consider using motion-activated sprinklers or sonic repellents.
- Tree Pruning: Well-pruned trees allow birds to keep a watchful eye for lurking predators.
Pro Tip: A few well-placed thorny shrubs can offer an extra layer of protection.
6. Maintain a Clean Feeding Environment
A dirty feeder can spread diseases among your feathered visitors.
- Regular Feeder Cleaning: Wash feeders and tables with warm soapy water or a sanitising solution every couple of weeks.
- Rotate Feeding Spots: Move ground-feeding trays around to avoid build-up of droppings.
- Dispose of Mouldy Food: Replace old seed or suet promptly to prevent contamination.
Pro Tip: Use feeders with drainage holes or covers to keep seeds dry and fresh.
7. Make It a Family Activity
Inviting birds into your garden can be a fun and educational experience for everyone.
- DIY Feeder Projects: Create simple homemade feeders using pinecones, peanut butter, and seeds—a great activity for kids.
- Bird Identification: Keep a list of species you spot and challenge family members to identify new arrivals.
- Nature Journaling: Take photos or notes throughout winter to track bird behaviour and garden changes.
Pro Tip: Join community events like the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, which usually takes place in late January. You’ll help gather data on bird populations—and it’s a fantastic way to connect with fellow bird lovers!
Conclusion
Attracting winter birds not only supports your local wildlife but also brings colour and movement to an otherwise quiet garden. With nutritious food, clean water, safe shelter, and a few thoughtful plant choices, you can make your outdoor space a sanctuary for birds throughout the colder months.
How We Can Help
If you need assistance setting up feeders, choosing the right plants, or making your garden more wildlife-friendly, Project Garden is here to help. From planting berry-laden shrubs to planning natural hedges and installing bird boxes, we offer tailored advice and services to keep your garden vibrant—even in the dead of winter.
Get in Touch:
- 📞 Call us today on 07795 800 772 or 📧 email us at info@projectgarden.co.uk
- For more information click here
Let us help you create a winter haven for birds—and a garden you’ll enjoy all year round!