British gardens truly come to life during spring, where the days grow longer and warmer, flowers burst into bloom and wildlife begins to wake up.
There is a flurry of activity in our gardens during these months. And amongst the fresh green shoots and blooming bulbs, creatures are emerging from hibernation, nesting, foraging and raising their young. This makes spring a critical time for garden wildlife, where they need food, water and safe shelter.
There are many ways in which we can help garden wildlife thrive during spring. The good news is that you don’t require a lot of space, time or equipment to do so! Small actions can make a big difference, where your garden, balcony or window box can become a lifeline for birds, insects and small mammals.
Below are some simple ways we can help.
Sources of fresh water
After the cold winter months, birds, insects, amphibians and hedgehogs all need a reliable drinking source. Clean water is just as important as food and a reliable water source can literally be a life saver.
Add a shallow bird bath or dish with stones for perching and exiting safely. Change water regularly to keep it fresh and hygienic.
A small wildlife pond can also have a big impact. Where frogs spawn, newts arrive and dragonflies lay eggs. It could be something as simple as a washing up bowl or large plant pot. Just ensure your container has shallow edges and escape ramps. The Wildlife Trust offer a step-by-step guide to creating a mini wildlife pond.
Planting spring flowers for pollinators
Bees, butterflies and hoverflies need nectar and pollen urgently after the winter months. Planting ‘early-flowering’ plants provide these insects with essential energy.
A few garden pots, a window box or small border packed with pollinator-attracting flowers or scattered wildflower seeds can make a huge difference.
Some beautiful spring flowers that thrive in UK gardens and attract pollinators, include English bluebells, crocuses and snowdrops, primrose and pulmonaria, Helleborus, wallflowers, forget-me-nots and early varieties of lavender.
Provide safe nesting spaces
Many wildlife species are ‘house-hunting’ during the spring months. They require somewhere safe to nest, away from direct sun and predators.
There are many ways in which we can provide much needed nesting spaces, including:
- Putting up bird boxes (or cleaning old ones). You can also provide natural nesting materials such as wool, moss, twigs and pet hair.
- Create a bee hotel by using a cluster of bamboo, reeds or straws. Solitary bees will lay their eggs inside.
- Build a hedgehog house in a quiet corner using bricks, logs or wooden crates. Ensure there is an entrance hole of 13x13cm and there are natural materials such as leaf litter, twigs and soil.
- Leave piles of logs and rocks in areas, which are great for insects, amphibians and small mammals.
- Build a bug hotel using garden waste and natural materials, providing a haven for several kinds of garden insects. The RSPB provide a useful guide to building a minibeast hotel, including video instructions.
Feeding garden birds
Spring is the hungriest time for birds. Adults are using lots of energy building nests and feeding chicks and natural food can be scarce after winter.
Position bird feeders in open areas where birds can spot cats. Keep feeders topped up with high energy foods such as sunflower hearts, mealworms and suet pellets. Avoid whole peanuts and fat balls when birds begin feeding chicks, as these can be dangerous for young birds.
There are also many ways in which you can make homemade bird feeders using a variety of different materials. Organisations such as RSPB, Wildlife Trust and the National Trust offer lots of ideas on their websites.
Let your garden be a little messy
After winter it’s tempting to rush out into the garden and tidy up every spot. However, some garden mess, such as piles of old leaves, old stems and fallen branches can provide shelter for insects, hedgehogs and amphibians.
Instead, try leaving some areas undisturbed until late spring, especially in quiet corners.
- Leave seedheads on perennials, birds love them
- Resist the urge to cut back dead stems, as some insects overwinter inside them
- Leave patches of longer grass for butterflies to lay eggs
Avoid chemicals where possible
Using chemical pesticides and weed killers can harm pollinators and birds. Try using natural alternatives instead.
Weeds, aphids and other garden pests are often food for wildlife. Let nature’s pest controllers (hedgehogs, birds and ladybirds) do their job.
A little bit goes a long way
Helping garden wildlife during the spring months doesn’t have to be about grand gestures. It’s small acts that can make a big difference, a clean bird feeder, a bowl of water or a few extra flowers. Whether you have a large garden, a courtyard or a windowsill, your space matters.
Why not visit our Pinterest board for more ideas on helping Garden wildlife?