The sight of a red-breasted robin in your garden is very captivating. This endearing bird, which is frequently connected to the holiday season, has come to represent Christmas. However, did you know that robins have a lot of difficulties in the winter? The current cold spell has prompted gardeners to take a few easy actions to help these small birds withstand the winter cold. These small animals may face difficult winter nights and fewer food sources throughout the colder months. Little adjustments, like where you put bird feeders or how you trim your shrubs, can have a significant impact on these birds.One such crucial action is to postpone any heavy pruning in the winter. Robins tend to build their nests in thick, dense vegetation, where they feel safe and secure. If you prune shrubs too early, you risk disturbing their nesting areas, reports The Daily Dazzling Dawn.
Robins are fiercely protective of their territory, so even a minor disturbance can have a significant effect on their behaviour. Bird feeders play an essential role in supporting robins during the colder months, and where you place them is key.The Woodland Trust suggests positioning bird feeders at least two metres away from dense shrubs or bushes. This reduces the risk of predators, like neighbourhood cats, and allows robins to find cover quickly if needed.
Feeding robins is a crucial task, especially in providing food that helps them build up their reserves. With winter's arrival, these birds require additional calories to maintain warmth and health, so offering a combination of high-energy foods like suet balls, seeds, and dried fruit can make a significant difference.Robins can shed up to 10% of their body weight in just a few hours, so keeping their tummies full helps them survive the chilly nights. Even though robins are sturdy little creatures, they're not invincible to winter. The scarcity of insects and worms means they depend on the generosity of gardening enthusiasts for sustenance. The harsh cold can be brutal on their bodies, and without energy, robins may find it challenging to endure the season.If you're keen on lending a hand to the birds this Christmas, think about how you can transform your garden into a safe and welcoming haven for them. Whether it's placing your bird feeder in a protected spot, postponing that winter pruning, or simply ensuring a consistent supply of food, your efforts will aid robins in braving the winter.
By cultivating a bird-friendly garden, you can ensure these stunning birds pay your garden a visit this winter.