Blackbirds are omnivorous birds that eat a varied diet, including earthworms, insects, berries, fruits, seeds, and kitchen scraps. Their diet changes seasonally, with more protein-rich foods like worms and insects during breeding season (spring/summer) and more plant-based foods like berries and fruits during autumn and winter. Blackbirds are among the most …
The Common blackbird (Turdus merula), also known as the Eurasian blackbird, is one of the most recognisable and beloved birds across Europe and beyond. With its distinctive appearance and melodious song, this bird has captured human attention for centuries, appearing in literature, music, and folklore. …
Hummingbirds typically begin their southward migration between late July and early October, depending on their species, location, and environmental conditions. The process is primarily triggered by decreasing daylight hours rather than food availability or temperature changes. Adult males often start migrating south first (as early …
House sparrows are diurnal birds that sleep at night, typically roosting in dense vegetation, building cavities, or communal roost sites. They begin settling into their roosting spots approximately 1-1.5 hours before sunset and remain relatively inactive until sunrise. During winter months, they often engage in communal roosting behaviour to conserve body heat, which can reduce energy expenditure by 11-13% based …
Sparrows gather in gardens primarily due to abundant food sources (seeds, insects, and supplementary bird feeders), suitable nesting sites in hedges and cavities, available water sources, protection from predators, and the social nature of these birds that prefer to flock together. Gardens that provide these …
Having native sparrows in your garden is generally beneficial for pest control, seed dispersal, and biodiversity. However, invasive house sparrows can cause problems by competing with native birds. The overall impact depends on which sparrow species are present and your specific garden goals. When you …
Bringing house sparrows to your garden starts with the right food. These small, sociable birds can become regular visitors if you provide them with their favourite seeds. While their numbers have declined in recent years, offering suitable food can help support local sparrow populations and …
At first glance, house sparrows and dunnocks can appear remarkably similar; both are small, brown-streaked birds commonly found in gardens across the UK. This similarity has led to the dunnock’s colloquial name, “hedge sparrow,” despite the two birds belonging to entirely different families. While house …
Sparrows may be small and common, but their symbolic significance spans cultures, religions, and centuries of human history. These humble birds have captured our imagination and earned places of honour in mythology, literature, art, and spiritual traditions worldwide. From representing divine care in Christianity to …
Sparrow birds are among the most widespread and recognisable birds in our natural world. These small, often brown-streaked birds bring life to our gardens, parks, and wild spaces with their cheerful songs and lively behaviour. While many people might think of sparrows as just “little …