The leaves are starting to change colour and fall and the berries are out - it can only mean one thing - Autumn is on its way. Autumn is a busy time in the garden but try and resist the urge to be too tidy - whilst its tempting to clear everything away this often means taking food and shelter from wildlife. The birds will feast on the seed heads from the flowers and the insects will overwinter in hollow stems so make sure you leave at least a few. When you're planning your wildlife garden make sure you have some late flowering plants - Asters and Sedum spectabile are a couple of good choices to provide nectar for those late flying insects.
As you know the RSPB is dedicated to "Giving nature a home" and there is lots you can do to in your own garden at this time of year to ensure you do just that. For example now is a great time to put nest boxes up, birds will then get used to them being there and may check them out for nesting next spring - they may even use them to roost in over the winter. Installing a hedgehog house is another great idea as they will be looking around at this time for somewhere to hibernate - please remember though particularly at this time of year to check that they have not chosen bonfires by mistake. Leafpiles also make great habitats for a variety of mini beasts - if you don't want to just leave them where they fall sweep them into a pile in a quiet corner and let nature do its thing. Remember - build it and they will come. Speaking of leaves try not to let too many fall in your garden ponds as this affects the water quality.
Most importantly Autumn is a great time to get out in the fresh air - feel those leaves crunching under your feet and watch in wonder for birds like redwings, waxwings and geese that make those incredible journeys to get here. Why not pop down to RSPB Fairburn Ings and see the amazing changes that Autumn brings.
Teresa RSPB Volunteer