And as several of the UK’s bird species do not migrate for winter, it’s imperative we look out for our winged visitors.
This is because the plummeting temperatures can put our bird baths at risk of freezing over, leaving wildlife without a place to source water from in our gardens.
Due to this, green thumbed Brits are being urged to use this one household item to help keep their garden wildlife alive, a tennis ball.
The one household item could help save wildlife if put in your garden bird bath (Image: Michael Fullagar)
UK charity Songbird Survival claim a tennis ball can be used to help prevent the water in your garden bird bath from icing over.
This is because these balls are buoyant which means they will float on the surface and constantly disrupt the flow of water, outdoor space expert Backyard Boss states.
By doing so, the fluorescent ball stops any potential ice from starting to form or staying intact and stops the water freezing.
To conduct this wildlife friendly hack, place a tennis ball in the bird bath water and watch as your bird bath resists the frost.
If you don’t have a tennis ball, another ball that floats, like a ping-pong, is also said to work, Songbird Survival states.
The charity also suggests people should think carefully about where to place the water, so it’s away from potential predators like cats.
To prevent the spread of disease, they also recommend homeowners to clean their bird feeders and water baths regularly.
A Songbird Survival spokesperson said: “When it’s freezing, place a small ball in the dish to help stop the water from icing over.
“Think carefully where to place the water so it is away from potential predators like cats.
“To prevent the spread of disease, it’s also important to clean your bird feeders and water baths regularly.
“We recommend cleaning your bird feeders and water baths at least once a week, and more frequently during times of high bird activity.”
Songbird Survival also recommends providing birds with shelter from the cold on winter nights.
They suggest letting things grow in your garden in the winter months, including fallen leaves for shelter.
A Songbird Survival spokesperson said: “You can make a windbreak in your garden for birds by placing a pile of branches and foliage on the ground.
“Adding a sheet of plywood to serve as a wall will drastically reduce the wind and provide shelter from wind and snow too.”
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