Grip part at sub-zero temperatures Europeand even cold weather As predicted in parts of the UK in the coming weeks, we humans are not the only ones feeling the effects.
Robin and other natives bird are increasingly endangered by unpredictable weather pattern. Hardy, but not invincible.
Up to half the garden during the cold winter bird It can be lost in cold and hunger.red list in the UK endangered species Bird species have more than doubled in the last 25 years. The country’s national bird, the robin, is particularly vulnerable because it remains loyal to the garden regardless of the weather.
A robin can use up to 10% of its body weight to maintain one body temperature. winter night. Cold snaps can be deadly if you don’t replenish your supplies daily.Hedges are declining, natural foods are scarce, supplements are in short supply bird While feeding in the garden, many robins die of cold and hunger.
Abnormal weather The pattern sweeps across Europe, with record summer heatwaves, unseasonably warm October and November, and harsh winters underway. This causes confusion and does not synchronize the natural cycles of certain species.
So how can we help bird Survive inclement weather?
Wildlife experts tell the general public garden It will be a safe haven for birds this winter. Among them is Sean McMenemy, director of garden supply supplier Ark Wildlife. Here are his tips on how to support your feathery friend during the colder months.
How to prepare your garden for birds this winter
Provide food, water and shelter bird Visiting your garden can make a big difference in survival.
According to Sean, the best foods for robins are mealworms and calcium. EarthwormFatty foods such as , sweat pellets, meaty food scraps, mild cheeses, cake and biscuit crumbs, dried fruit, and crushed peanuts.
Robins prefer to forage and feed from the ground. Place a small tray near the shrub, wood Or perch and you may soon find they are confident enough to feed from your hand.
Some other species prefer hanging feeders. park Contains a variety of seeds.
your park Not too pristine and uncluttered also helps. Wild undergrowth encourages insect breeding and helps robins find food. Dead leaves, piles of logs, and twigs can also help insects breed.
Alongside food, the garden should have plenty of water sources. bird Tables can make a big difference to robin survival rates in urban and suburban areas. Refill regularly to keep water from freezing.
How to keep birds warm in your backyard
During ice spells, birds flock, warmthThey often use hives as winter shelter.
Garden nesting boxes should be placed at least 2 meters away from dense vegetation to reduce the risk of ambush from birds. Cat.
Certain plants are also birdHolly’s dense foliage and sharp thorns provide shelter for winter birds such as finches, dunnocks, goldcrests, robins and thrushes, according to the Surrey Wildlife Trust. Berries also provide an essential food source for many birds.
Similarly ivy provides berries bird Blackbirds, thrushes, thrushes, starlings, redwings, etc. – refrain from winter pruning until all fruit is gone.