Making our Garden fit for Birds
Our Garden and Birdwatching from Home
Over time, my wife and I have quietly turned our garden into something really special—a little escape from the pace and noise of everyday life. It’s become our go-to place to slow down, whether that’s having a meal outside, getting lost in a book, or just sitting together and enjoying a bit of peace and quiet.
What’s surprised us most is how much life it’s brought with it. You start to notice the small things—the blue tits darting in and out of the trees, the unmistakable call of a woodpecker somewhere nearby, swifts gliding effortlessly overhead, and even the sound of honking geese passing by. Once you tune into it, there’s always something happening.
We’ve been really lucky with the variety of wildlife too. During the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, we recorded 28 different species visiting the garden itself, and there’s even more to see if you look up—geese, cormorants, gulls, and even the occasional buzzard passing over. Go to the link above and get involved, its easy.
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| The view from our table and chairs, trees planted at the end of the garden providing shelter |
None of this happened overnight. We’ve just made a few simple changes over time—planting trees and shrubs, adding bird boxes (some now home to nesting Blue and Great Tits), and putting out feeders and fresh tap water. It doesn’t take much, but it makes a real difference.
We’re also trying to be responsible with it. The RSPB has recently shared guidance around bird feeding due to disease affecting finches, so we keep an eye on that and follow the latest advice where we can. It’s all about looking after wildlife properly, not just attracting it. We have removed nuts and seeds, keeping a few suet balls and fresh daily tap water.
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| The bird bath has a plastic tub in it so it can be removed and cleaned |
If you’re thinking about making your own garden more bird-friendly, it’s honestly quite straightforward:
- Put up feeders to attract birds like Blue Tits, Great Tits, Goldfinches, Nuthatch and Sparrows
- Leave some space for ground feeders like Robins, Blackbirds, Collard Doves, Wood Pigeon and Dunnock.
- Add a mix of trees, shrubs, flowers, and a source of fresh tap water
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| Ensuring there is some ground area available |
And once the birds start coming… that’s the real reward. Just take a bit of time to sit back and enjoy it. Be patient, listen as much as you look, and you’ll start to notice so much more.
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| Great Spotted Woodpecker |
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| Blue Tits |
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| Mrs Blackbird |
For us, it’s become more than just a garden—it’s a place to pause, reset, and reconnect with nature. And honestly, it’s one of the most rewarding things we’ve done.
Enjoy your Birding and thanks for reading.
Our Garden Bird List and Gallery
Our RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch Results over the last few years
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