As winter weather sets in across the UK, the coming weeks promise even colder temperatures, which are likely to make life even tougher for local wildlife.
For smaller birds, such as robins, the struggle to find enough food will become more critical as the ground hardens from frigid nighttime temperatures.
Although the festive robin may appear to thrive in cold conditions, this brave red-breasted species faces a number of challenges during the harshest period of winter.
Despite their association with the Christmas season, robins reside in our gardens year-round.
However, their small size and territorial nature mean that getting enough food can become a difficult task when natural resources decline, according to The Forest Trust.
Frigid temperatures also make it difficult for robins and other birds to access the insects, worms and seeds that normally make up their diet.
Experts in the Royal Horticultural Society Highlight the importance of providing birds with foods rich in fat, which help them stay warm and maintain the energy they need to survive in colder conditions.
in your websiteThey explain: ‘Garden birds, in particular, benefit from year-round feeding, but winter is a time to provide high-fat feed to help keep them warm.
For smaller birds, such as robins, the struggle to find enough food will become more critical as the ground hardens due to frigid nighttime temperatures (archive images)
“Feed regularly so that birds do not waste vital energy visiting your garden when there is no food.”
The RHS recommends placing blubber blocks in wire cages around your garden to support local bird species, including robins.
Also known as suet blocks, fat blocks are usually made from solidified animal fats, such as lard, and may also contain seeds, grains, and other ingredients.
While pre-made grease blocks are available at garden centres, RHS also encourages homeowners to try making their own grease blocks at home.
in your websiteadvise: “Create your own fat blocks by melting suet in molds such as coconut shells or in holes drilled in logs.”
‘Plastic nets surrounding fat balls should be removed as birds, such as woodpeckers, can become trapped in the net.
According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), In terms of diet, robins typically feed on worms, seeds, fruits, insects and other invertebrates.
With temperatures expected to continue to drop in the coming weeks, now is the time to take action by offering high-fat foods and ensuring these beloved winter visitors are well cared for.
The RHS recommends placing blubber blocks in wire cages around your garden to support local bird species, including robins (file image)
Meanwhile, one lawn expert is urging homeowners to avoid walking on their grass this winter to avoid damage that could last “well into spring.”
As Britain prepares for flurries of snow and freezing temperatures, gardens and lawns will require a little extra attention to survive the harsh elements of winter.
Frozen grass can suffer significantly during the coldest months of the year, with individual blades of grass becoming brittle and prone to breaking.
Lawn expert Chris McIlroy, of The Grass People, said: “Frost can be hard on grass, causing damage that can affect its health well into spring.” Each step can crush and break the blades, which cannot bend or flex as they normally would.
The turf expert warned that if the grass is still wet from rain or dew and frost or snow appears, increased footfall can cause soil compaction.