Households are being warned to ‘think twice’ before putting Halloween decorations in their garden this week due to the risk it poses to wildlife. Halloween has grown and grown in popularity in the UK in recent years, with all manner of spooky, scary and gruesome decorations seen not just hanging in windows or on doors but spreading to front gardens in many cases too.
But ecology experts from Arbtech.co.uk are warning that birds, bats, and small mammals can become entangled, putting them in real danger this spooky season. Common decorations such as fake spider webs, pumpkins, and hanging lights can all have detrimental effects on wildlife.
The experts said fake spider webs are a “particularly concerning danger”, as birds and bats can become easily entangled, with the struggle to escape leading to injury or death from exhaustion, broken bones, or strangulation.
Pumpkins also cause a range of issues for common garden visitors like hedgehogs, if eaten – such as severe diarrhea, dehydration, and even death.
Unnatural flashing lights can even confuse wildlife and disorient them from their surroundings – making them more vulnerable to predators and less likely to locate their food sources.
A spokesperson for Arbtech said: “Halloween is a time for fun, and decorations may seem harmless, but it’s important to remember the potentially critical effects they have on local wildlife.
“Fake spider webs, carved pumpkins, and spooky lighting may help create an eerie atmosphere in your garden, but they create unnecessary risks for birds, hedgehogs, and other wildlife.
“That’s not to say you can’t enjoy a Halloween display, but consider looking at wildlife-friendly alternatives instead. Just a few simple swaps could save the lives of birds and hedgehogs in your garden.
“Keep potentially harmful items indoors or as part of a window display, and opt for warm-coloured LED lights instead of bright, flashing ones. This way you can still create a festive atmosphere all while keeping wildlife safe.”
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