Over the weekend some of us will have woken up to see our cars white over with frost, a real sign that winter is truly on it’s way.

For many, that means preparing for Christmas, but don’t forget about the wild birds which visit your garden, who will suffer through the cold winter months.

Winter is a difficult time for wildlife, who may struggle to find food or water in freezing conditions, which is why it’s so important to give them a helping hand.

A news article from the BBC lists a garden bird survival plan from the RSPB, which looks at ways you can help wild birds through the winter.

“Garden Bird Survival Plan:

• Put out feed regularly, especially in severe weather. Set up a bird table and use high-calorie seed mixes. This can also be used to put out kitchen scraps such as animal fats, grated cheese and porridge oats.
• Put out hanging feeders for black sunflower seeds, sunflower hearts, sunflower-rich mixes or unsalted peanuts.
• Ensure a supply of fresh water every day. If it is very cold use tepid water, but do not use any antifreeze products.
• Put out fruit such as apples and pears for blackbirds, song thrushes and other members of the thrush family.
• Food bars or fat hung up or rubbed into the bark of trees is great for treecreepers, goldcrests and many other species.
• Put up nest boxes to provide roost sites for smaller birds. They will then be used for breeding later in the year.”

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