Brits urged to help birds this autumn

Gardeners are being urged to help birds this autumn by leaving out water supplies and food sources.

Gardening experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have shared five ways Britons can help birds as temperatures begin to lower for the new season.

As autumn approaches, garden birds will begin losing their feathers and begin migrating to different areas.

During this time they need as much help as possible to keep them warm, fed and watered and safe from prey.

Gardening experts are urging households to help our garden birds by doing a few simple tasks such as leaving out a fresh daily supply of water and providing shelter in the form of leaves or bird houses.

Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Garden birds need us during the autumn months. This is the time of year where they will be moulting so it’s important to give them food that will help them store fat and stay warm like nuts and seeds.

“You don’t need to do much to help them, try keeping one section of your garden a bit untidy with fallen leaves and other garden debris to give birds a place of shelter.

“Birds will also really appreciate a daily fresh water supply for drinking and bathing. If you’re not keen on installing a bird bath or fountain you can just leave out a bowl of water for them on the ground instead.”

How to help birds this autumn:

1. Leave out a water supply

Installing a bird bath helps keep birds hydrated and provides them with a space for bathing. If you don’t want to set up a bird bath you can just place a bowl of water on the floor. Remember to keep the water fresh and change it daily.

2. Provide them with food sources

It’s important to supply birds with the correct bird food in the colder months to help them store fat and keep warm. Leave out high energy foods like nuts and seeds.

3. Leave garden debris and fallen leaves

Keep one section of your garden untidy with fallen leaves and other debris to help create a shelter and warmth for birds and other wildlife.

4. Set up a bird house

Bird houses make for a gorgeous feature in any garden and they give birds a place to rest and feed. Bird and nesting boxes come in all shapes and sizes so you can find one that suits your garden size.

5. Avoid using pesticides

If possible, try to avoid using pesticides in your garden during the autumn and opt for natural solutions instead. If you feel the need to use pesticides try to keep them away from areas of your garden where you’re hoping to attract birds.

To find out more about caring for birds and wildlife in autumn visit GardeningExpress’ wildlife care page here