Anyone who loves robins, blackbirds and sparrows can utilise leaves and take action in October to help
12:46, 15 Oct 2025Updated 13:27, 15 Oct 2025
Massive declines in insects is putting bird populations at risk, say the RSPB – but gardeners can help(Image: Getty)
The RSPB has said anyone with a garden should take three actions to save species which are disappearing at an alarming rate. The organisation said that people can now take action this Autumn which could have a big impact in 2026.
The decline of insects has a massive implication for birds. A major part of their diet comes this way so anyone who has a love for robins, blackbirds and sparrows visiting their garden can make some changes now which will set up a feast for their feathered friends next year.
In a new post on social media the RSPB said: “Have all the insects gone? Insects play a vital role in our natural ecosystem, from being a food source for many animals to pollinating our crops and even helping to balance ecosystems. But due to a range of negative impacts such as climate change and pesticide use, some of our insects are starting to disappear. So what can we do to help? We’ve come up with 3 easy tips to help you encourage insects in your garden this autumn. “
RSPB tips for helping insectsLeave any fallen fruit on the ground, as they can be great food for butterflies such as the Red Admiral and Comma.Your ivy might be flowering soon, but hold off on trimming it as this means the later insects can feast on its flower buds and skip cutting back the flowers that have gone to seed, as these will be perfect for visiting insects. You can even leave piles of logs and leaves in a corner to help create a safe haven for them.Why not plant insect friendly bulbs like crocus and snowdrops ready for the spring next year. The insects will thank you for it.Content cannot be displayed without consent
In addition the Woodland Trust has said people should consider planting trees. It said: “Add colour and life to your outdoor space with native trees and shrubs. Autumn is the perfect time to plant as trees are dormant and less likely to suffer damage. Native species like holly, hawthorn and rowan are all suited to small spaces and provide vital food and shelter for birds, insects and small mammals through the colder months. Choose carefully and you can enjoy other benefits too – admire fantastic displays of spring blossom or fiery autumn leaves, capture carbon, create a shady spot and much more.”
And it adds to the RSPB suggestion about utilising fallen leaves: “As the weather turns cooler, give minibeasts like bees, ladybirds and spiders a safe and cosy space to shelter with a bug hotel. Autumn is a great time to find lots of natural materials for your construction too, including pine cones, dried twigs and fallen leaves. They don’t have to take up much room – try your hand at one of our ideas, from a log pile lodge to a pinecone palace.”
Earlier this year the 2024 Bugs Matter citizen science survey was published. The latest data shows that the number of flying insects sampled on vehicle number plates, across the UK, has fallen by a staggering 63% since 2021.
Dr Lawrence Ball of Kent Wildlife Trust which was involved in the survey said: “This huge decrease in insect splats over such a short time is really alarming. Its most likely that we are seeing the compounding effects of both a background rate of decline as well as a short term cycle of decline, perhaps linked to the extreme climate in the UK in recent years.
“Bug splats declined 8% from 2023 to 2024, following sharper drops of 44% in 2023 and 28% in 2022. This shows the rate of decline has slowed and it may even flatten or reverse next year. Continued support from citizen scientists is key to revealing the overall trend in insect numbers.”
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