As the days get shorter and colder, we all start wondering ‘Do you think it’ll snow this year?’, but it’s not just us who feel the change. Our local wildlife faces its challenges when the winter season comes knocking.
In this blog, we’re going to talk about some easy ways that you can help wildlife in your neighbourhood. We’ll also cover why they might be struggling and how your small actions can make such a big difference.
Bonfires: A cosy tradition with some precautionary steps
Who doesn’t love gathering around a bonfire with friends and family on a chilly November night? Whether it’s toasting marshmallows over the bonfire or lighting sparklers and fireworks, it’s a great way to celebrate – but it’s essential to think about our wildlife neighbours too.
Before you light your bonfire, please take a moment to check inside the pile first. All the wood, leaves and branches you’ve gathered might look like the perfect cosy spot for hedgehogs or other small animals to snuggle into for a rest. By giving it a quick check, you might just save a life, a small pause before lighting the fire can make all the difference.
Fireworks: Fun for us but not so much for the animals
Fireworks are a big part of winter traditions and celebrations, but they can be really stressful and fear-inducing for animals – both pets and wildlife. The RSPCA have teamed up with the Social Market Foundation recently and found some eye-opening stats:
- 64% of animals are negatively affected by private firework displays.
- 55% of pet and livestock owners dread fireworks season because of the stress it causes their animals.
- 40% of people feel too awkward to bring up their concerns with their neighbours or local communities.
Fireworks are loud and unpredictable to animals – and for those who can see them, the sudden flashes of light are often seen as a sign of danger. It can cause them to panic, try to run away, or even develop long-term noise phobias (this is especially true for dogs).
So, what can you do? This year, if you’re planning on having a fireworks display, maybe rethink your plans if you can. Instead of hosting a private show, consider attending a local public display. These bigger events often take extra precautions, not just for safety but for minimising disruption to the environment and wildlife. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy the fireworks without having to worry about all the logistics!
To find out more about the RSPCA’s advice on fireworks, please visit: Fireworks Advice - RSPCA
Looking out for the locals
When we get home, turn the heating on, enjoy a warm meal, and snuggle under a cosy blanket, it feels like winter’s chill melts away, even if just for a little while. But let’s not forget about our local wildlife – they’re out there braving the cold with none of the above. The good news? There are simple ways we can help them feel a bit more comfortable this winter.
Give birds a cosy spot:
Staying warm and finding shelter can be tough for animals when the temperatures drop. One easy way to help is by putting up a bird box in your garden. It can provide a temporary warm spot where birds can escape the cold, even just for the night and recharge for the next day.
Provide food and water for your feathery & furry friends:
When the temperature plunges, the ground gets hard, and water sources freeze over, it’s a struggle for wildlife to find the basics – food and water. You can give them a hand by leaving out fresh water when it won’t freeze overnight, making it easier for birds and other animals to stay hydrated.
And when it comes to food, birds love fat-rich snacks that give them the energy they need to keep warm. You can easily pick up bird-friendly food from your local supermarket – things like suet balls or even peanuts are perfect!
Don’t forget the hedgehogs!
Hedgehogs might not be the first animal you think of when it comes to urban areas, but they’re often closer than you think, even in neighbourhoods with terraced houses. These little guys are like natural pest controllers, munching on slugs and other bugs. While they do hibernate in the winter, you can still help them out by leaving fresh water and even a bit of meat-based cat or dog food (no fishy flavours though – hedgehogs aren’t fans!).
Let’s make winter a little easier for our wildlife friends
As we cosy up for winter, remember a small gesture can go a long way for the animals outside. Whether it’s checking your bonfire pit, attending an organised fireworks display, or offering up fresh water or shelter, these simple things can go a long way for local wildlife in the winter months. By lending them a helping hand, we’re not only showing kindness but also keeping our local ecosystem healthy and thriving.