4 STEPS TO ENCOURAGE BIRDS INTO YOUR GARDEN

1. Provide supplementary feed
   The simplest and often the most rewarding method is to establish a feeding station using a seed based mix. Whilst most species are great opportunists and will eat what they can, we believe that it makes sense to use seed types that occur naturally in the United Kingdom as far as possible. This is one reason why - although popular with many species - we would not recommend feeding with peanuts (the other reason being the risk of aflatoxin poisoning which can occur with peanuts). Use of fat or rotten fruit will also be popular additions to a feeding station.
   
   You can feed birds using hanging/bunker type feeders (appeals to clinging species such as tits and finches), on the ground or on a flat table (favoured by others such as robins, thrushes and blackbirds) - or by a combination of these techniques.
   
   Most people like to place their feeding station in an area where they can enjoy the sight of birds feeding - in front of the kitchen or office window - but do not forget about predators. If the main risk is from sparrowhawks you can reduce the risks of attack by feeding close to cover such as garden shrubs, so that they are only exposed in the open for short periods. If the hazard is cats ensure that the station is perhaps 2 metres from cover so that 'your' birds have a good opportunity to see them first.
       
2. Provide nesting sites
   Well sited and good quality nest boxes will give birds in your garden a better chance of breeding successfully.
   
   Usually it is best to site boxes well off the ground - perhaps 1.5 metres. Seclusion is good, so not usually close to a feeding station (although many species are amazingly tolerant of human activity close by). Ensure that any chosen site is out of reach of cats. Generally it is best to site boxes out of direct sunlight and not to face them directly into the direction of the prevailing wind (SE usually better than SW).
      
3. Provide water
   Do not forget water for both drinking and bathing. And remember to break the ice at least daily if the temperature is below freezing.
      
4. Provide for insects
   Finally remember that insects are an important feed supply for many species, particularly at the crucial period when they are rearing young. Untidy gardens (long grass, uncut hedges, wetness) are good for insects and can therefore be very helpful to bird populations.

BIRD SURVEY SHEETS FOR SCHOOLS

Originally produced for local schools to help children to identify different species as part of the RSPB's "It's Time for Birds" initiative, these simple sheets are ideal for monitoring the birdlife in your own garden.