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Much is written about the dire situation with the decline in insect and pollinator species as well as birds and garden mammals. This is a serious issue, and some great work is being done by large organisations such as Surrey Wildlife Trust, RSPB and the Woodland Trust.
For us as individuals to make a difference or contribute to reversing this decline seems a huge task – one that we feel we don’t have the time or resources to dedicate to the cause.
So we’ve come up with 10 simple things you can do to make a difference in your garden.
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Together we can make a difference
1. Provide food sources: Plant native flowers, shrubs, and trees that produce nectar, seeds, fruits, and nuts that wildlife can feed on.
2. Install a bird feeder: Place a bird feeder in your garden and keep it stocked with birdseed to attract a variety of bird species.
3. Create a water source: Install a birdbath, pond, or shallow dish filled with water to provide a drinking and bathing spot for birds and other wildlife – add stones so bees and insects can also benefit.
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4. Build a bug hotel: Create a bug hotel using natural materials like logs, branches, and twigs to offer shelter for insects and other small creatures.
5. Leave wild areas: Allow a portion of your garden to grow wild with tall grass, wildflowers, and native plants to provide habitat for insects, birds, and small mammals. Even if this was just a corner – it will make a real difference.
6. Avoid pesticides: Minimize the use of pesticides in your garden to protect wildlife and their food sources from harmful chemicals. The goal should be no chemical use at all – if you attract birds and hedgehogs, they will invariably feast on the pests that destroy your plants.
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7. Provide nesting sites: Install bird boxes, bat boxes, and insect houses to offer shelter and nesting sites for various wildlife species.
8. Plant a variety of vegetation: Include a diverse range of plants in your garden to attract different types of wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and birds.
9. Create shelter: Add hedges, bushes, and dense vegetation to offer shelter and hiding spots for wildlife from predators and harsh weather – no need to buy special items like hedgehog houses – a quiet area will do the trick.
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10. Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing nests, burrows, or habitats to allow animals to thrive in your garden.
By incorporating these simple practices into your gardening routine, you can create a welcoming and supportive environment for wildlife in your garden.
The cherry on the top would be to talk to your neighbours and create a Hedgehog Highway between your gardens – as these cute, endangered animals do like to wander.
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