Here's a blog from our fantastic wildlife garden volunteers... enjoy

Firstly Happy New Year to you all, and welcome to our first blog of 2014.

Lets begin by saying what unusual weather we have been having, so much so it seems to be fooling some species into thinking its Spring already. You may notice birds singing and early budding on our plants. Early for this time of year!

Now is a great time to ensure nextboxes are all ready and cleared out. Our feathered friends will be checking them out now, ready for Spring. Also if you feed the birds, make sure the feeders are well stocked, they really need it at this time, but just as importantly make sure that they are clean. Regular cleaning is essential, especially in this damp weather.

We hope you have been able to be part of the Big Garden Birdwatch this year, all details are on the website.

Thanks to all who have contributed to this, the BIGGEST WILDLIFE SURVEY IN THE WORLD!

In terms of gardening, now really is a time for clearing and planning of your space for wildlife, however small. Thinking about what more you can do or add to the garden to further support the wildlife is not only important but extremely exciting! Remember some creatures will be hibernating like hedgehogs, frogs and toads, so please take care when clearing, as leaf pile, logs and long grass are perfect for them. To ensure they are not disturbed or harmed its best to stay well away. If you do accidentally disturb a sleeping hibernator, try put it back where it was safely and ignore.

As the weather turns colder you  may find your wildlife pond freezes over. Unless you have fish this is ok and you do not have to break the ice, as everything will survive until it naturally melts. There is enough oxygen in the water for plants and aquatic life, in fact current research suggest the oxygen levels could even increase under the ice.

Hopefully you share our love for the wildlife garden here at Fairburn Ings, and you have noticed our work has brought new life and varied habitats to the space. This does mean we work hard in the garden, but we always endeavour to create as little disturbance as possible to the wildlife. Particulary when you are here to see them in the garden. We respect your wishes if ever you would like us to wait while you observe or take photos, and will happily move aside for you. Just ask, its never a problem. We also really welcome all your gardening questions or any other information about the reserve.

Along with all the other animals, I too am expecting a baby of my own in the Spring! And so Louise is holding the fort alone for a while, please keep your questions coming though, she welcomes any you can throw at her.

With a less cluttered backdrop in the trees, birds can be easier to identify at this time, no leaves on the trees can greatly help see the beauty of the birds. So now is a great time to come see what the reserve has to offer.

Till the next blog, goodbye and happy gardening!

Teresa and Louise

Wildlife Garden Volunteers