As temperatures drop, birds need more energy to stay warm, making reliable food sources especially important at this time of year. Garden boss Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress has shared tips for homeowners who want to make their gardens more welcoming to birds this autumn.
There are plenty of natural ways to make a garden more appealing to birds without completely transforming it. In fact, leaving parts of the garden a little untidy can actually be beneficial. Seed heads, berries, fallen leaves and dense shrubs all provide something useful, whether that's food, shelter or a place for insects to hide.
Water and shelter are key
Birds need water all year round, and keeping a clean bird bath topped up can make a big difference, especially when natural sources start to dry up or freeze. Gardeners should also avoid going overboard with autumn tidying, as clearing everything away can remove some of the food and shelter birds rely on.
Dense hedges and shrubs give birds somewhere to take cover when the weather is wet and windy. Try not to cut everything back too heavily in autumn, particularly in areas where birds regularly visit. Bird boxes can also provide a useful sheltered spot, so make sure any boxes in the garden are securely fixed and positioned somewhere safe from predators.
Leave leaves and seed heads
There's no need to clear every single leaf from the garden. A layer of leaves underneath trees, shrubs and hedges can provide a home for insects, which in turn gives birds something to forage for. If you're keen to keep paths and lawns tidy, simply rake the leaves into a quiet corner instead.
Don't rush to cut back plants once they've finished flowering. Seed heads provide a natural food source for birds, with plants such as sunflowers, teasels and coneflowers particularly useful. Leaving some stems standing also gives birds somewhere to perch and adds a bit of extra cover to the garden.
Food and bird bath tips
As natural food becomes harder to find, putting out some extra food can give birds a useful boost. Sunflower hearts, bird seed, unsalted peanuts and mealworms are all good options. It's best to put out small amounts regularly rather than leaving large quantities out, as uneaten food can quickly go mouldy. Make sure feeders are cleaned regularly too.
Birds need fresh water for drinking and bathing, even when the weather starts to cool down. Use a shallow container and change the water regularly to keep it clean. Give the bird bath a good scrub from time to time and position it somewhere birds can keep an eye out for cats and other predators.
