Monty Don has shared his essential February advice for attracting more birds to your garden with a simple daily task
Angela Patrone Senior Lifestyle Reporter and Ellen Jenne U35 Spare Time Writer
08:24, 04 Feb 2026
Monty Don has shared his essential February advice for attracting more birds to your garden with a simple daily task(Image: Janny2 via Getty Images)
Birds bring joy to our gardens, and they require our support, particularly as native species are experiencing decline across the UK. February ushers in a period of dull, chilly, and damp weather – the perfect moment to ensure our feathered garden visitors are adequately fed, according to Monty Don.
In Monty’s February entry for monthly gardening tasks, he highlighted the crucial job of providing birds with daily nutrition, especially when temperatures plummet. The gardening expert expressed his concern for our avian friends during the winter period, underlining their requirement to remain well-fed throughout the challenging season.
One of the most vital things you can do is offer a reliable and nourishing supply of bird food.
Supplying them with nutrition maintains their energy and warmth, ultimately aiding not only their survival but also ensuring a vibrant presence in your garden, reports the Express.
Birds make our gardens happier places, and they need our help, too(Image: Getty)
Monty advised: “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 weather, the larger and healthier their offspring will be.
“Make sure to provide fat, nuts, and seeds daily throughout the month, and don’t forget to offer fresh drinking and bathing water.”
Monty has previously warned against providing grains, as these tend to attract pigeons, sparrows, squirrels, and even rats, which can cause significant disruption in your garden.
Instead, prioritise energy-dense foods like seeds, nuts and fats to ensure the birds get the nutrition they require.
Consistency is crucial when it comes to feeding birds. Providing a steady food source helps them recognise your garden as a reliable place to feed.
Monty has previously cautioned against offering grains, as these tend to draw pigeons(Image: Getty)
Additionally, they require access to fresh drinking water, particularly during icy weather.
Monty Don’s February advice serves as a reminder that by offering birds suitable food and clean water, we can help their survival and wellbeing, whilst simultaneously appreciating the charm they bring to our gardens.
This straightforward yet significant act of kindness can have a considerable impact on the wildlife in your area.
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