How to Help Local Wildlife Thrive this Autumn
As autumn begins across the UK, there’s plenty you can do to help our wildlife thrive during this vibrant season. Here are some wildlife-friendly tips to make a difference:
1. Feeding:
Leave any seedheads standing in your garden if possible; with natural food sources dwindling, set up feeders with seeds, nuts, and suet to help birds store energy for the colder months. Don’t forget to keep your feeders clean to prevent disease. And leave out tinned cat or dog food, or proper hedgehog food to get them into condition for winter.
2. Create shelter:
Piles of leaves, logs, and twigs can become cosy homes for hedgehogs, insects, and amphibians. If you have a garden, let parts of it go wild to offer safe spaces for these creatures to hibernate.
3. Plant native species:
Autumn is a great time to plant shrubs, trees, and wildflowers. Native plants provide essential food and habitat for local wildlife, and they can also add beauty to your garden.
4. Provide water:
Ensure there’s fresh water available. As temperatures drop, water sources can freeze, making it harder for wildlife to stay hydrated. Use shallow dishes and check them regularly.
5. Avoid bonfires:
Piles of leaves and wood might be inviting for small animals looking for shelter, especially hedgehogs. If you must have a bonfire, check thoroughly for any hidden creatures before lighting it or, ideally, relocate it beforehand.
6. Reduce pesticide use:
Chemical pesticides can harm beneficial insects and the animals that feed on them. Opt for natural pest control methods to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
7. Put up nesting boxes:
Not only is this the prime time to clean out your existing nest boxes, it’s also a good time to put up new ones now so that birds can roost in them on cold nights.
By taking these small yet impactful steps, you can make a big difference for wildlife in the UK this autumn. Every little action counts, and together we can ensure that our wild neighbours are well cared for during the colder months.