Wildlife

We all have a duty of care to our natural world, the smallest actions can lead to the biggest impact, whether that’s for better or worse. We have the power to choose. Here is a list of a few things we can do;

• Take a little time to check the undergrowth and long grass before mowing or strimming as there may be some critters hiding there.
• Put out a shallow bowl of clean water especially in dry or hot spells. Add a couple of stones to it so if anyone falls in they can climb out again.
• Spread the news about any joyful encounters you’ve had. Tell friends and family about the importance of doing their bit too.
• Pick up any litter you might pass – even if it’s just one piece, if we all do the same then we’re going to have a much safer and nicer environment not only for wildlife but for us too.
• Avoid using any chemicals in your outdoor space.
• Have a good think about what society has drilled into us about what our outdoor spaces should be like. We’re simply guardians not owners of these places. Let’s leave our wild friends a nicer place for them to live and love, not just for us to look at.
• Be very wary of what time of year you trim vegetation, be mindful there may be birds building nests.
• Create an attractive log pile for the insects, we need them more than ever before.
• Leave the dandelions alone – they’re usually the first and only source of food for our bees after winter.
• If you see an animal or bird you believe to be in need of help, call your local rescue for advice on what to do for the best https://helpwildlife.co.uk/map/ will help you find your nearest.
• Whilst there are many big household name animal charities you can donate your hard earned cash to, I personally prefer to donate to smaller grass-roots rescues because they don’t have executives and advertising budgets, and often their rescue is their life not a job.
• Sit in nature, breathe in the air, be present and still, you never know what you might see. Leave no trace and stick to the paths.
• If you have a dog, please keep it on a lead when in nature – ground nesting birds and other wildlife are easily disturbed by exuberant doggos snuffling through the undergrowth.
• If you have a cat, ideally it would be kept in at night and early morning but I understand the strength of feeling surrounding keeping pet cats indoors. If they bring in wildlife they have caught, although they may be alive at the time if you can release them, the shock can easily kill.