How to keep a bird nest safe in your home garden 

There’s nothing quite like waking up to birdsong—don’t you agree? Creating a safe haven for birds in your garden is not just about providing a habitat; it's about fostering an environment where they feel secure enough to build their nests and raise their young. In this quick guide, we'll explore some practical tips on how to keep a bird nest safe in your home garden, ensuring the welfare of our feathered friends (Image: Canva)

Choose bird-friendly plants: Selecting native plants that attract birds is the first step in creating a welcoming environment for them. Plants like hawthorn, ivy, and honeysuckle provide both food and shelter, encouraging birds to frequent your garden (Image: Canva)

Provide nesting materials: Birds often struggle to find suitable nesting materials in urban environments. Help them out by placing items like twigs, grass clippings, and feathers in accessible locations around your garden. This not only assists them in building sturdy nests but also reduces the risk of them using harmful materials like plastic (Image: Canva)

Strategic nest placement: When installing bird boxes or nesting platforms, consider their placement carefully. Ensure they are positioned away from areas with high foot traffic or potential predators, such as cats. Opt for elevated locations that offer protection from the elements and ample sunlight (Image: Canva)

Maintain a clean environment: A tidy garden isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it's essential for bird safety. Regularly clean bird feeders and baths to prevent the spread of disease, and remove any litter or debris that could pose a hazard to nesting birds (Image: Canva)

Be mindful of garden pests: Certain garden pests, such as rats and squirrels, can pose a threat to bird nests. Take proactive measures to control these pests, whether through natural deterrents or humane traps, to safeguard nesting sites (Image: Canva)

Minimise disturbance: While it's tempting to check on bird nests regularly, excessive disturbance can cause stress to parent birds and their young. Keep human activity around nesting areas to a minimum, and avoid pruning or landscaping nearby until the nesting season is over (Image: Canva)

Monitor nesting behaviour: Keep an eye on nesting behaviour in your garden, but do so from a distance. Use binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens to observe without causing disturbance. This allows you to track the progress of nesting birds while respecting their space.

Provide food and water: Supplement natural food sources with bird feeders stocked with seeds, nuts, and suet balls. Similarly, ensure birds have access to clean, fresh water for drinking and bathing, especially during hot weather (Image: Canva)