Blackbirds are a common sight in gardens across the UK, and there’s a simple way to encourage them to visit your outdoor space during the winter months. All you need is a simple plant
There’s a simple way to attract blackbirds (stock image)(Image: Paul Grace Photography Somersham via Getty Images)
Many people enjoy having birds in their gardens, but drawing them in can be challenging, even though there are simple methods you can use to encourage them to stop by. If you’re hoping to see more blackbirds to add some cheer to your garden throughout the winter months, there’s a straightforward solution you can try.
It appears there’s a simple method we can use to help birds during the colder season, and cultivating a particular plant can make all the difference. Blackbirds adore nibbling on it and, should you grow it, this can help lure them back time and time again from November onwards.
Cambridge University Botanic Garden recently offered some straightforward guidance to help people support local wildlife. Specialists also previously suggested ensuring you take action to keep blackbirds safe too.
In a post shared on Instagram, experts said: “Berry-bearing plants provide a valuable food source for wildlife – rowan, hawthorn, viburnum and cotoneaster attract waxwings, while blackbirds, bullfinches, and redwings love ivy berries and holly berries are a favourite with greenfinches.”
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Whilst ivy flourishes in gardens, it emerges that blackbirds have a fondness for berries in general. Therefore, if you haven’t got this plant in your outdoor space, there’s no cause for concern, as you can put other items outside as well.
Typically, blackbirds have a passion for consuming berries and fruits, particularly throughout autumn and winter. During this period of the year, they form a significant portion of their nutritional intake.
Blackbirds are known to enjoy a variety of berries, including hawthorn, rowan and holly. They also have a fondness for fruits such as pears and apples, making these excellent choices if you’re looking to attract them with some chopped up treats.
Experts suggest that they also enjoy snacking on raisins, sultanas and currants, as well as soft fruits like blackberries and strawberries. This gives you plenty of options if you’re trying to entice them.
However, when feeding blackbirds, it’s crucial to remember not to leave out salted products, milk or any uncooked hard grains. These foods can be harmful to them.
Additionally, avoid leaving out avocado, which is toxic to birds, or hard, stale foods that could cause choking. Never leave out spoiled food or anything mouldy either.
Why should we look after birds in November?
You may not know this, but November is a particularly important time to feed birds. This is because they require extra energy to survive the cold and shorter days.
Providing high-energy foods helps them to build fat reserves for the long winter nights. It supports their health during a period when natural food sources are scarce.
During the colder months, birds need more food sources to help them survive. This means that having certain plants in your garden, or offering specific foods, can greatly assist them.
If you have a bird feeder, it’s important to clean it regularly to limit the spread of disease among birds. Also, avoid feeding them bread, as it often lacks the essential nutrients they need.
This guidance should assist you in attracting birds and providing them with the necessary support. You’ll be aiding them more than you might think.
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