Winter is a tough time for garden wildlife. Food is scarce, water freezes, and shelter matters.
Small changes help a lot.
Leave it a little messy
Leave seed heads, leaf piles, and log piles. They provide food and shelter for insects, birds, and hedgehogs.
Feed birds well
- High-energy foods such as seeds and suet
- Clean feeders regularly to prevent disease
- Feed consistently once you start
Water
Keep a shallow dish of water ice-free. Floating a small ball can help prevent freezing.
Shelter
Nest boxes, hedgehog houses, and bug hotels give shelter. Check bonfire piles before lighting them.
Hedgehogs in winter
Hedgehogs hibernate in winter, often in leaf piles, compost heaps, and under sheds. Avoid disturbing these areas, check before strimming or forking compost, and leave gaps in fences so they can move between gardens. If you see a hedgehog out in the daytime in winter, it may be unwell — contact a local wildlife rescue for advice. Never give hedgehogs milk; offer water and meaty cat or dog food instead.
This is general sustainability information. Recycling, composting, and disposal rules vary by municipality — check local guidance. Cost and energy savings are estimates and depend on your home and usage.