Ah, the UK – famous for its charming countryside, iconic landmarks, and, of course, its unpredictable weather! From April showers to autumn downpours and winter rainstorms, we Brits are no strangers to a good soaking. But while we might be tempted to cosy up indoors with a cuppa during these wet spells, spare a thought for our feathered friends braving the elements in our gardens. In this blog post, we'll explore how you can help garden birds during the wet weather. So grab your umbrella, and let's make a splash in the world of bird-friendly gardening!

Sheltered Feeding Stations

During wet weather, birds struggle to find food, as rain can wash away insects and make foraging challenging. By setting up sheltered feeding stations, such as hanging feeders under eaves or placing them beneath dense foliage, you provide birds with a dry spot to feed. Choose feeders designed to withstand the elements and keep food dry, preventing it from becoming spoiled and mouldy. TOP TIP: If you don't have any shelter to place bird feeders under, squirrel baffles work just as well. The feeder will sit under the dome, sheltering it from rain and stopping squirrels from getting to it at the same time!

Offer High-Energy Foods

Wet weather means birds expend more energy to stay warm and dry. Help them replenish by offering high-energy foods such as suet balls, mealworms, and sunflower hearts. These foods are rich in essential nutrients and calories, providing birds with the fuel they need to stay active and healthy, even in damp conditions.

Provide Fresh Water

Despite the rain, birds still need access to fresh water for drinking and bathing. Keep bird baths clean and topped up with fresh water, ensuring they are not contaminated with debris or algae.

Offer Shelter

Garden birds have feathers that keep them dry in light rain so they can continue their daily activities without much disruption. However, when faced with heavy downpours or strong winds, they might need somewhere safe to hide. By placing nest boxes in gardens, birds are provided with a haven during unfavourable weather conditions, protecting them from the elements and ensuring their safety until the weather improves. Trees, shrubs, and hedges in your garden also offer valuable shelter during wet weather. Avoid heavy pruning during the wet season to maintain natural cover, ensuring birds have places to roost and seek shelter during downpours.

Keep Feeders Clean

Regularly clean and disinfect bird feeders to prevent the spread of disease, which can be more prevalent in damp conditions. Remove any mouldy or spoiled food from the feeder before using animal-safe cleaning solutions to disinfect the parts. Once thoroughly cleaned, allow it to dry before refilling it with fresh food. By implementing these simple tips, you can create a haven for birds in your garden, even when the skies are grey and the rain is falling.