The red-breasted robin, a beloved symbol of the festive season and a familiar presence in British gardens year-round, is facing growing challenges. Habitat loss, climate change, rising temperatures, and a decline in insect populations are threatening these iconic birds, prompting conservationists to call on gardeners to take supportive measures.
The Woodland Trust highlights that robins are more likely to frequent gardens where they feel safe from predators, particularly domestic cats. To transform your garden into a safe haven for robins, the Trust recommends repositioning bird feeders. Placing feeders about two meters away from dense vegetation significantly reduces the risk of cats launching surprise attacks, while still allowing birds quick access to nearby cover.
Additionally, gardeners are encouraged to install nest boxes in quiet, secluded locations that cats cannot reach. Orienting nest boxes facing between north and east helps protect them from harsh sunlight and prevailing wet winds, creating a comfortable environment for breeding birds.
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Regular maintenance is also crucial. Bird feeders should be cleaned often to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria, and nest boxes should be inspected and cleared of old nests each autumn—only once birds have finished using them for the season.
By following these straightforward steps, gardeners can make their outdoor spaces safer and more inviting not only for robins but for a wide variety of bird species, helping to support wildlife amid ongoing environmental pressures.