Ivy bee ©Jane Adams
Wildlife gardening in November
With winter approaching, November is the time to prepare your garden or outdoor space for wildlife seeking shelter in the hard months to come.
Wildlife Gardening activities
Hedgehog by Tom Marshall
Check your bonfire for Hedgehogs
If you are planning a bonfire this month, there are some practical steps you can take to prevent Hedgehogs from taking up residence in the pile. Always be sure to check your fire before lighting it too!
© Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
Build a wildlife pond
A wildlife pond is one of the single best features for attracting new wildlife to the garden. Dig your pond in autumn or late winter when the ground isn't frozen and there is time for the pond to settle and fill naturally. Don't be tempted to fill your pond with tap water, which is nutrient-rich and will take much longer to clear and settle than rainwater.
Ì Ross Hoddinott/2020VISION
Plant wildlife-friendly bare-root trees and shrubs
Plant bare-root trees and shrubs during their dormant season (Nov-March) when they will bel less stressed from being moved. Top wildlife-friendly species include Blackthorn, Hazel, Elder, Spindle and Hawthorn.
Hedgehogs often hide under piles of leaves in autumn and winter
Leave some leaves
Fallen leaves provide shelter for insects, mammals, reptiles and amphibians during the colder months. If you have the space, leave a small patch of dead leaves in a corner of the garden to create a fantastic winter habitat.
More ways to help wildlife in November
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