How to build a home for wildlife according to leading staffordshire housebuilder and the RSPB

 

With the warm weather set to continue, now is the perfect time to get busy in the garden. Inspired by their national partnership with the RSPB, Barratt and David Wilson Homes has shared some tips on how to create the very best garden for UK wildlife.

B&DWH - A typical wildlife friendly show home garden

Steve Barton, Senior Sales Manager at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Mercia, said: “We are committed to ensuring our developments are as wildlife friendly as they can be and now with lockdown in full swing we’re sharing some guidance in order to give people some fun activities to do and lend a hand to wildlife in the process”

Charlotte Ambrose, RSPB Wildlife Advisor said: “Gardens and the wildlife they attract can be a source of joy and comfort even in the most difficult times. Right now, we need to take that joy and comfort where we find it, and nature provides it in bucket (trowel) loads. “

The RSPB has comprised the following easy tips to utilise your garden space:

1. Get to know your garden birds

With many of us spending more time at home, attracting birds into your garden with feeders or a source of fresh, clean water will help you get to know your garden birds. Only feed selected foods at this time of year, such as sunflower seeds, pinhead oatmeal or special mixes for birds that feed mainly on insects. Remember, good hygiene is vital, or feeding may do more harm than good. Find out more about feeding your garden birds at Join in with the RSPB’s #BreakfastBirdwatch to share your sightings.

2. Sow some seeds for bees

It’s not too late to start growing flowering plants from seeds such as cornflowers, marigolds and poppies to help provide bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects with a much needed food source – and your garden with an extra splash of colour. When the bees and butterflies started buzzing and fluttering around the flowers they will help bring the whole place to life.

3. Let it grow

Now is the time when people usually start venturing into the garden after the winter and start tidying up – the gardeners equivalent of spring cleaning. Of course we like our gardens to look beautiful, but if you can leave bits undisturbed and wild, you will be rewarded with wildlife that might not otherwise find a place to stay. That unkempt hedge could well have birds nesting in it by now, and the pile of leaves in the corner is perfect for visiting hedgehogs.

Steve added: “We at Barratt and David Wilson Homes often provide wild seed packs to our residents to grow a slice of UK countryside in their otherwise modern gardens. Our feedback is great and residents soon begin to see an increase in all kinds of wildlife.”

4. Breathe

Whether you just have a window box planted with lavender or a garden full of trees, shrubs and flowers, take some time to breathe it in. Sit back, relax, watch and listen to the wildlife you have invited to share your little patch of greenery with you.

Steve added: “Making small adjustments to gardens in urban or suburban environments creates extremely valuable wild spaces. Our properties often have versatile gardens that can host more friendly residents than meets the eye.”

For more information on how you can make your garden as wildlife friendly as possible visit rspb.org.uk/wildlifegardening

For more information on Barratt and David Wilson Homes, please visit www.barratthomes.co.uk or www.dwh.co.uk