Feeding Stations:
Chaffinches and Greenfinches will happily use feeding stations, particularly sunflower feeders.
Feeding stations will benefit the other birds too, allowing them to build up fat stores to help them maintain heat during the colder winter months, support adult weight maintenance, prepare for nesting in the spring, and support them in the autumn as they prepare for migration.
Hedging:
Hedges composed of a variety of shrub and tree species at different stages of growth will encourage berries and fruits for food and provide different types of shelter for a variety of bird species. Rotational maintenance will allow the hedges to be at different stages and offer varying habitats for the different species of birds. Mechanical control of hedges is to be avoided; traditional hedge laying and the use of dead hedges are preferable.
Planting
The planting of wild bird seed mix, teasels, sunflowers and shrubs, which provide a variety of food sources, would support the diversity of birds within the Heritage Area.
Oak
Rowan
Spindle
Crab apples
Holly
Hawthorne
Guilda rose
Honeysuckle
Teasels
Nettle patch
Nest boxes
Nest boxes can help certain bird species to thrives including:
Swift nest boxes
Tawny owl nest boxes
Flycatchers – open-fronted
Pesticides
Minimise the use of rodenticides, insecticides and pesticides to ensure a healthy prey base, prevent secondary poisoning, and secure abundant insect populations.
Ant Hills
Protect the Ant hills to provide a food source for the Green Woodpeckers.
Preserving Mature Trees and Woodland
Many of these birds need mature trees to thrive, particularly the flycatchers, which thrive on mature oak trees.
Encourage a mix of tree species and ages to support a variety of insects and provide a suitable habitat
Encourage a varied woodland structure with dense undergrowth to support small mammals and insects, which are key food sources.
Avoid major habitat disturbance, especially during the breeding season, to protect nesting sites
Keep standing dead wood where safe to do so.
Maintain old trees, including those with ivy and crevices for flycatcher nesting.
Clear waterways
Keep waterways clear and clean to support the wagtails.