The leaves have started falling, nights drawing in, but it’s a perfect time to get out and about and help our native wildlife through the tough winter months.

Our wildlife has different needs depending on the season. During autumn there is still a hive of activity. Birds will be piling on the pounds by feasting on fruits and nuts, to make sure they can survive the cold winter, while hedgehogs search around for the perfect place to hibernate.

[Pullout] “There are still lots of things we can do in our outdoor spaces to help our wonderful Welsh wildlife thrive. I’ve put together 5 top tips to help wildlife this autumn.” –  Jack Gradidge, conservation officer. [/Pullout]

1. Keep pumpkins out of reach of hedgehogs

Pumpkin carving is a great activity to get your kids doing this autumn but be sure to keep them out of reach of hedgehogs and other wildlife. It can make hungry hedgehogs very poorly.

2. Create a leaf pile

We all love the CRUNCH of leaves underfoot! Leaf piles or a compost heap can make a nice warm hideaway for hibernating mammals, bugs and other invertebrates which in-turn provides vital food for birds and amphibians.

3. Check bonfires before lighting them

Before roasting those marshmallows this bonfire night, check that there are no unwelcome visitors in your bonfire. Heaps of material can attract animals, like hedgehogs that are looking for a place to hibernate.

4. Provide a cosy winter home

Autumn is a great time to build or purchase wildlife boxes. Bird boxes can be put up to help them shelter from bad weather, whilst hedgehog boxes provide a safe hibernation spot.

5. Leave hedge cutting till late Winter

Autumn provides birds and mammals with an array of fruits, berries & nuts. Cutting or flailing hedges too early can destroy this larder of food!