Sir David Attenborough has shared simple yet effective tips for the UK's 10 million cat owners on how to protect other garden animals this summer. The advice comes from his BBC1 series, Secret Gardens, which formed part of the legendary naturalist's centenary birthday celebrations on the BBC.
Bells on collars to reduce hunting success
In the programme, Attenborough revealed that Britain's sizeable cat population has been estimated to kill approximately 55 million birds each year across the UK. To cut cats' "hunting success by a third", he encourages cat owners to consider fitting a bell to their pet's collar, so that gardens can remain safe sanctuaries for all wildlife, birds included.
Something as simple and affordable as a bell can provide birds with a vital warning that predators are nearby, considerably reducing the likelihood of a successful attack.
Bring cats indoors at dawn and dusk
Another useful tip to prevent cats from preying on unsuspecting birds is to bring our four-legged companions indoors during crucial periods, such as dusk and dawn, when birds are at their most active. These windows happen to coincide with prime hunting time for cats, but it may well be worth making this minor adjustment and keeping pets inside during these hours, so that other innocent creatures don't needlessly fall victim to their natural instincts.
Position bird feeders strategically
One further highly recommended, expert-backed measure is to position bird feeders considerably higher up, well out of reach of roaming pets - and at least 2 metres away from dense vegetation. While thick shrubbery can offer birds a swift escape route, it can equally serve as a concealed ambush point for feline predators, making it prudent to avoid placing bird feeders directly adjacent to dense foliage.
Relocating feeders to elevated positions and increasing the distance from potential launching points - such as decking, fences, planters or anything else that could serve as a springboard - will significantly reduce the chances of cats and other cunning wildlife viewing your garden as prime hunting ground.
Another worthwhile suggestion is switching to enclosed bird feeder designs, which offer an additional layer of protection for vulnerable birds while they visit your garden. These simple yet highly effective adjustments can transform your outdoor space into a genuine sanctuary for wildlife.
