The winter can be a tough season for birds.
Unlike other animals, they generally live from moment to moment, rather than planning ahead for the cold weather, which can increase the risk to their survival. However, there are actions you can take that can help garden birds flourish through winter.
Provide regular food sources
Food is one of the areas where birds struggle in winter, because the ground is often frozen solid. This makes the food in feeders absolutely invaluable, and there are certain types of food that can really help.
Suet cakes and fat balls will let the birds build up their body weight, but these should be balanced by things like seeds. Pick seeds without husks where possible, to save birds time and energy.
Offer fresh water
Drinking can also be a problem for birds during winter, because much of the water freezes.
Putting a bowl of water on any bird tables you have will ensure they are able to stay hydrated, but make sure to change it regularly over the winter months, so that it does not freeze.
Give them shelter
A third way to help birds to survive the harsh winter weather is by giving them a place to shelter.
Among the ways to do so that are recommended by the RSPB is to add hedges made of thick plants, like privet or hawthorn, to your garden, along with growing ivy and holly. Either of these will provide garden birds with cosy places to roost until the weather begins to warm up again.
