[{"id":243161858241,"handle":"bird-nest-boxes","updated_at":"2024-10-14T14:35:09+01:00","published_at":"2021-01-28T09:46:44+00:00","sort_order":"manual","template_suffix":"","published_scope":"web","title":"Bird Nest Boxes","body_html":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMany of our natural nest sites like large, old decaying trees are disappearing from our gardens. We need to provide nest boxes as well as feeders and birdbaths. Further encouraging garden birds into our gardens and keep them healthy and happy. This shortage of natural nesting sites for birds has played a part in the decline of some of the UK’s most iconic species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt is now easier than ever to provide both functional and beautiful nesting opportunities for birds in our gardens and outdoor spaces. There is no best time to put up nest boxes. By putting up boxes in the autumn, you can provide much-needed winter refuges for roosting birds. It is possibly increasing the chance of them staying and nesting in the spring. Putting up in autumn is an excellent practice to maintain as a well-designed nest box will only need cleaning once per year. Also, waiting until autumn to clean them usually ensures they’re empty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOne of the key determinants in how likely birds are to occupy nest boxes is where you choose to locate them. Remember to place nest boxes away from feeders and baths. And never disturb the birds once they’re in the box, enjoy watching from afar.\u003c\/p\u003e","image":{"created_at":"2021-02-15T10:20:52+00:00","alt":null,"width":900,"height":934,"src":"\/\/wildlifeworldtrade.co.uk\/cdn\/shop\/collections\/bird_boxes_bird_nest_box_900x_25d4aaab-cabd-4a53-8025-9139f8da9d57.jpg?v=1613384453"}},{"id":243162775745,"handle":"bumblebees","updated_at":"2024-10-04T15:15:20+01:00","published_at":"2021-01-28T09:54:18+00:00","sort_order":"manual","template_suffix":"","published_scope":"web","title":"Bumblebees","body_html":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIf you look closely at flowering plants in your garden chances are, you'll spot at least one species of bumblebee. The large, hairy bees are usually black with varying degrees of yellow banding. They are social insects that live in colonies of up to 200 workers. We have pollinators, such as the bumblebee, to thank for around every third mouthful of what we eat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe continuing decline in bumblebee numbers across the globe is partially linked to changes in the way we farm and use pesticides. It is now more important than ever to do your bit to help. You can do this by growing different flowers and shrubs that are full of nectar and pollen. As a result, they'll have abundant feeding grounds throughout the year. You can also help bumblebees by providing them somewhere to nest. In spring, queen bumblebees will be searching for nest sites. They'll be attracted to gardens where they can find plenty of food and safe places to nest low on the ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWildlife World cares passionately about bumblebees. We've carefully designed a range of habitats and unique flower mixes to encourage bumblebees into your garden.\u003c\/p\u003e","image":{"created_at":"2021-02-15T11:51:19+00:00","alt":null,"width":900,"height":934,"src":"\/\/wildlifeworldtrade.co.uk\/cdn\/shop\/collections\/bumblebees_900x_5ce02b94-fce2-4e43-92f3-4a2b1dc744a3.jpg?v=1613389879"}},{"id":243161923777,"handle":"roosting-nest-pockets","updated_at":"2024-10-15T07:30:05+01:00","published_at":"2021-01-28T09:47:05+00:00","sort_order":"manual","template_suffix":"","published_scope":"web","title":"Roosting Nest Pockets","body_html":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAll bird lovers understand the importance of nesting boxes for providing birds with suitable nesting sites. But after the nesting season comes to an end, roosting pockets can be even more vital for a bird’s survival.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEach species has different roosting behaviour. Some will choose to roost alone, whereas others will favour sharing body heat and roost in groups. The one thing they all look for is somewhere to sleep that is secure, comfortable and will protect them from potential predators. Cosy roosting spaces out of the prevailing wind in your garden can be a lifesaver for small birds during harsh weather conditions. Without somewhere to shelter and sleep, they use up vital energy reserves just trying to keep warm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTo ensure they do keep the worst of the weather out. It is best to position roosting pockets in a sheltered place, preferably facing south or east. They should be secure when they are fixed, not swinging freely in the wind. Either to a tree or post or wired into a hedge or ivy.\u003c\/p\u003e","image":{"created_at":"2021-02-15T11:47:39+00:00","alt":null,"width":900,"height":934,"src":"\/\/wildlifeworldtrade.co.uk\/cdn\/shop\/collections\/bird_nesting_pockets_900x_a4173e16-e442-41e8-af6e-49dd771ef7db.jpg?v=1613389660"}}]