Birds add life and joy to our gardens, yet many native species across the UK are facing decline. February’s cold, dull, and damp weather makes it especially important to support these feathered visitors. Gardening expert Monty Don emphasizes the vital role gardeners can play in providing birds with the nourishment they need during this challenging season.
In his February gardening guide, Monty highlights a straightforward but essential daily responsibility: feeding the birds consistently throughout the month. As temperatures fall, birds must maintain their energy and warmth to survive—and your garden can be their lifeline.
Monty advises, “Keep feeding the birds as they begin to mate, nest, and lay their first clutches of eggs. The better nourished the parent birds are, especially during cold periods, the healthier and stronger their offspring will be.”
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For optimum results, offer energy-rich foods such as fat, nuts, and seeds every day. Avoid grains that tend to attract unwanted visitors like pigeons, sparrows, squirrels, and even rats, which can disrupt your garden’s balance. Additionally, fresh drinking and bathing water is crucial, particularly during icy weather.
By maintaining a steady supply of food and water, you’ll encourage birds to view your garden as a trusted refuge. This not only supports their survival but also enhances the natural beauty and wildlife diversity right outside your door.
Monty Don’s advice serves as a powerful reminder that simple acts of kindness—like feeding birds daily—make a significant difference in helping our native wildlife flourish through the winter and into spring.