As winter tightens its grip, many across the UK are looking for ways to support local wildlife. While stocking up bird feeders is a common instinct, experts reveal there's a far more effective method to ensure feathered visitors keep returning to your garden throughout the chilly month of December.
The Winter Magnet: Why Water Beats Food
According to advice shared by the gardening specialists at Grow It My Way, the ultimate feature for attracting birds isn't a feeder full of seeds. The best feature is water. This simple resource becomes critically important in winter when natural sources like puddles and streams often freeze over.
Birds require water for two essential purposes: drinking and bathing. Maintaining clean, insulated feathers through bathing is vital for their survival in cold weather. By providing a reliable water source, you offer a lifeline that can draw them in like a magnet, potentially making your garden a regular stop on their daily rounds.
How to Create the Perfect Winter Water Station
You don't need an expensive or ornate bird bath to make a difference. The key is accessibility and safety. Ensure your water source is clean, fresh, and no deeper than about two inches (5cm). This shallow depth allows birds to bathe safely without risk of drowning.
Position the container near shrubs or trees to give birds cover and perches from which they can survey for predators. If you don't have a dedicated bird bath, common household items work perfectly:
- Plant saucers or trays
- Dustbin lids
- Shallow bowls or dishes
It is crucial to regularly scrub the container and refresh the water to prevent the spread of disease among visiting wildlife.
Keeping Water Accessible During Frosty Weather
The main challenge in December is preventing the water from freezing. Experts recommend a few practical solutions:
- Break up and remove ice each morning.
- Add a floating object like a ping-pong ball or cork to the surface; movement can delay freezing.
- Periodically pour in some warm (not hot) water.
- Consider investing in a specially designed heated bird bath.
When choosing a container, plastic or rubber options are preferable to metal, as they provide better insulation and are less likely to crack if the water inside freezes.
While providing water is the top tip for consistent visits, naturally, leaving out appropriate food like seeds and fat balls will offer further valuable support to birds when natural food sources are scarce. Combining both resources creates an ideal winter sanctuary for UK garden birds.
