Gardeners are being urged to stay lazy this winter to save baby birds.
For most species here the nesting season starts in February. But climate change means many are starting early.
So putting off tidying up plots and borders can be a lifesaver for them.
Choosing plants that provide fruits early but not leaving snacks out near nesting sites are among the tips from Garden Buildings Direct
A spokesman said: “Helping egg-laying birds as the worst of the winter weather wears off isn’t as simple as just throwing a few kitchen leftovers on the garden and forgetting about it.
“It’s especially important in urban areas to make sure they have all of the materials they need to make their nests and to help them remain undisturbed until chicks reach maturity.
“Hanging a feeder from a tree at the bottom of the garden may seem like a good idea but it often isn’t. Sweeping the lawn could also be detrimental to fledglings’ chances.”
Here are five golden rules to stick to if you want to be a blackbird’s best friend during breeding season.
Ways to help breeding birds
1. Get chopping before spring
Avoid cutting hedges, trees and dense vegetation when the weather warms up, as you could disturb a nest. Complete major pruning before spring arrives.
2. Leave fallen leaves and twigs
To help birds make the best nest possible, leave twigs and leaves on lawns and around borders.
3. Winter and spring fruits
A truly bird-friendly garden needs plants that produce fruit in the breeding season. Think holly berries, blackberries on ivy, hawthorns and rose hips.
4. Place feeders wisely
Artificial food sources could reduce fledglings’ chances of survival by attracting predators such as squirrels. Place winter and spring feeders on or by the house, far from potential nesting sites that could be disturbed.
5. Leave out helpful hair
Pieces of string and yarn – no longer than a couple of inches – are great for nests. Human and pet hair clippings are ideal too. Oven-dried, crumbled eggshells can help female birds restore lost calcium.
