Gardeners are being urged to leave one particular job undone this month to help protect and support robins visiting their outdoor spaces. While spring is an ideal time for gardeners to don their gloves and get their lawns looking pristine, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has warned that birds "are in trouble, and they need our help."
Bird Species at Risk
A 2023 State of Nature report revealed that 43% of all British bird species are at risk of disappearing within the next few decades. Robins are also experiencing rapid population declines. To aid these beloved garden visitors, experts advise against cutting back hedges, as this can disrupt nesting robins during a vital period in their breeding cycle.
Hand Tools Over Power Tools
Instead of using power tools, gardeners should opt for hand tools until the breeding season ends. The experts steering clear of any hedge maintenance until the end of September, according to the Express. This caution is not only for winter, when shelter, food, and water become scarce, but also for summer, when cherished garden birds like robins and blackbirds rear their young and need to maintain their energy levels.
RHS Recommendations
The RHS recommends postponing any hedge-trimming even into late summer, stating: "Delay hedge cutting until late August when nesting season is safely out of the way. With berrying hedges, try cutting one side this year and the other side next year to ensure there are always berries on offer to birds." Thick hedgerows offer secure nesting spots and crucial shelter for young birds as they grow and develop.
Expert Advice from Haiths
Bird specialists at Haiths firmly believe that trimming hedges should be avoided during the summer months altogether. They said: "August is a great time for birdwatching in our gardens. As summer matures and hints of autumn begin to appear, a diverse array of birds can be observed, each bringing a unique charm and activity to your garden. In August, these territorial birds [robins] can often be seen foraging for insects and worms. [Blackbirds] are ground feeders, so keep an eye on the lawn or under shrubs where they search for insects and worms."
