Feed the birds and create safe wildlife habitats!
As part of Operation WildNation, we’re shining a spotlight on how you can support native Irish wildlife, starting right in your own garden. With the colder months approaching, our gardens become crucial sanctuaries for birds and other wildlife. By offering the right food, shelter, and plants, you can transform your outdoor space into a haven that nurtures nature. In this blog, we’ll share expert tips on how to Feed the birds and create safe wildlife habitats!
Feed the Birds:
Choose the Right Bird Feeders: Ensure you’re using feeders that are safe, accessible, and suited to the types of birds visiting your garden. Place feeders at least 2 meters away from trees or hedges to keep birds safe from predators. Have multiple feeding sites, this helps to stop overcrowding and competition for food. Browse Bird feeders here.
Offer a Variety of Foods: Different birds prefer different foods. By providing a mix of seeds, nuts, suet, and mealworms, you can attract a diverse range of species. Browse Bird feed here.
Keep Feeders Clean: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent the spread of diseases among birds. A clean feeder is a healthy feeder.
Add Water Features: Even in winter, birds need access to fresh water. A bird bath or shallow dish that’s kept ice-free can be a lifeline for thirsty birds. Browse water features here.
Planting Shrubs and Trees with Berries: One of the best ways to naturally support birds and wildlife is by planting shrubs and trees that produce berries. They not only provide a vital food source for birds during the winter months but also offer shelter and nesting sites. And native species are perfectly adapted to the Irish climate and help sustain the local ecosystem. Ask our in-store Horticulturists for advice on the best plants for your garden.
Create Safe Wildlife Habitats:
Leave an Untouched Area: Dedicate a corner of your garden where the grass can grow long, This creates a natural habitat for insects, small mammals, and birds.
Build a Log or Rock Pile: Create a pile of logs or rocks in a quiet corner of your garden. These provide shelter for hedgehogs, frogs, and insects, offering protection from predators and harsh weather.
Install a Bird Box or Hedgehog House: Offering ready-made homes like bird boxes or hedgehog houses encourages wildlife to settle in your garden. Place these in safe, sheltered spots away from busy areas. Browse Insect houses here.
Get Involved with Operation WildNation:
This winter, join Operation WildNation by transforming your garden into a sanctuary for native wildlife. Feed the birds and create safe wildlife habitats. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, every small action makes a big difference. Get the whole family involved and make protecting wildlife a fun and educational experience. Download our comprehensive guide filled with fun activities, experiments, and practical tips for discovering and protecting backyard wildlife. Perfect for kids, parents, teachers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Explore our free resources below and start your family’s wildlife adventure today!
About Tirlán CountryLife:
Tirlán CountryLife is dedicated to supporting and enriching communities through sustainable gardening and wildlife conservation. As part of Tirlán Ireland’s ‘Living Proof’ sustainability strategy, we are committed to promoting sustainable living practices that make a positive impact on our environment. We believe that children play a crucial role in educating their families about the importance of conserving wildlife, which is why initiatives like Operation WildNation are designed with this goal in mind—to inspire the next generation of nature guardians and encourage a deeper connection with the natural world.
