Gardeners are being encouraged to introduce a single feature to their outdoor spaces to naturally draw in birds during the summer months. Specialists from GardenExpress highlight that as temperatures rise, now is the perfect time to make gardens more inviting for feathered visitors.
Simple Steps for a Bird-Friendly Garden
The experts recommend straightforward ways to ensure birds have access to food, shelter, and water as the heat increases, encouraging them to visit and thrive throughout the season. Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress, said: "Birds are naturally drawn to places where they can quickly find nutrients and shelter, so incorporating a variety of plants into your garden can greatly increase its appeal to birds."
Plants should include food-bearing varieties and hedges or shrubs that offer protection from predators and harsh weather, helping to keep birds nearby. Choosing native shrubs, trees, and flowers provides the most effective support for local wildlife.
Water: The Key Attraction
The first recommendation is to provide fresh water. Placed in an open area and topped up regularly during warmer spells, it gives birds somewhere to drink and bathe. A lack of rainfall can make it increasingly tough for birds to locate protein and moisture-rich creatures such as caterpillars, earthworms, and snails, which they consume and feed to their chicks during breeding season.
Natural Food Sources
Another brilliant way to support birds is by planting seeds, berry, and fruit-bearing plants, as these provide a natural and readily available food source. You can also purchase seeds, nuts, or dried insects to fill a bird feeder.
Safety and Shelter
Offering safety and shelter helps birds evade predators. This can be achieved by planting dense shrubs and bushes throughout your garden. Holly and yew bushes make excellent natural hideaways for visiting birds. It may also be worth positioning one or two birdhouses around the garden, and to tempt birds to take up residence, simply add a small handful of leaves or moss inside.
