Don’t cut hedges...to save birds

GARDENERS and councils should not trim back hedges, bushes and trees yet – as it may deprive wildlife of much-needed supplies of food, the RSPB has urged.

Tidying up gardens too soon could starve birds and other creatures of vital fruits and berries Tidying up gardens too soon could starve birds and other creatures of vital fruits and berries

The wildlife charity said tidying up gardens too soon could starve birds and other creatures of vital fruits and berries still on plants.

It could even disturb late nesting birds, such as collared doves.

The RSPB is also urging local authorities to delay cutting hedges and plants after getting calls from the public.

The RSPB’s Val Osborne said: “If you can possibly wait to cut your foliage, please do.

Last year’s winter larder of berries on shrubs and hedges meant the difference between life and death

The RSPB’s Val Osborne

“In chopping down hedges, bushes and trees you could be wiping out vital food sources for birds and other creatures.

“Last year’s winter larder of berries on shrubs and hedges meant the difference between life and death for many birds.”

All birds’ nests and eggs are protected by law. It is illegal to deliberately destroy nests.

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?