**How to Attract Robins Into Your Garden This Winter – Wales Online**
Robins, with their distinctive red breasts, are a common sight during the festive season, and the sight of one can bring a touch of joy to any garden. While spotting a robin may seem random, experts suggest there are ways to deliberately attract these charming birds to your garden. Maria Kincaid, head ornithologist at FeatherSnap, shares her top tips for creating a welcoming environment for these feathered friends.
**Strategic Bird Feeding**
Robins have a preference for foraging close to the ground as opposed to feeding from traditional bird feeders. To attract them, place bird food in a low container or feeder under a tree, making sure it is at a height that is inaccessible to cats yet easily reachable for robins. While regular bird seed can suffice, incorporating mealworms into the feed significantly boosts the chances of attracting robins due to their diet rich in insects and worms. It is crucial to clean the feeding container regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
**Guard Against Cats**
Cats are known to be skilled hunters, posing a threat to birds like robins. To create a safe space for robins in your garden, consider keeping pet cats indoors, especially if you are actively trying to attract birds. For gardens frequented by neighborhood cats, implementing deterrents like thorny plants, motion-activated sprinklers, or spiky mats can discourage feline visitors.
**Design a Wild Corner**
As robins are enthusiastic foragers, setting aside a designated “wild corner” in your garden can provide a natural habitat for these birds to search for food. Piling up fallen leaves in a sheltered area can attract insects, serving as a food source for robins even in your absence. This untouched spot will encourage the growth of natural prey, further enticing robins to visit.
**Offer Water Sources**
Adequate hydration is vital for birds, including robins, particularly during winter. By providing a water source like a bird bath, robins can drink and bathe, enhancing their well-being. In the absence of a bird bath, a shallow dish or plant saucer can serve as an alternative. Placing the water source near shrubs provides cover and adding stones for perching spots makes it more appealing to robins.
**Provide Shelter**
Apart from food and water, robins require shelter to survive harsh winter conditions. Consider installing a nesting box or creating sheltered areas with dense foliage where robins can seek refuge from extreme weather. A simple log pile in a corner can offer warmth and protection, ensuring robins feel secure in your garden.
**Conclusion**
Creating a robin-friendly environment in your garden involves strategic bird feeding, protecting against predators like cats, setting up foraging areas, providing water sources, and offering shelter. By following these tips from Maria Kincaid, you can transform your garden into a haven for robins this winter. So, take the initiative to attract these delightful birds and bring a touch of nature’s beauty to your outdoor space.