RSPB tip: Leave out water to attract robins and other garden birds

The RSPB, via expert Jamie Wyver, recommends leaving out clean, unfrozen water to help robins and other birds drink and bathe, and notes that ivy (Hedera helix or H. hibernica) and foods such as mealworms can provide late-season nectar, berries and energy for wildlife.

The RSPB has highlighted several simple measures that can support robins and other garden birds through the winter months. Expert Jamie Wyver is quoted advising that birds need access to clean, unfrozen water for drinking and bathing. The organisation also notes ivy species and certain foods as useful winter resources for wildlife. Highlights: - The article reports that robins are among the few UK birds that sing year-round and that the RSPB suggests leaving out clean, unfrozen water so birds can drink and bathe. - Ivy species named include Hedera helix and Hedera hibernica; their flowers provide late-season nectar for pollinators and their purple-black berries offer a high-fat food source for birds such as woodpigeons, thrushes, robins, starlings and blackcaps. - The piece mentions that offering bird food such as mealworms can help robins build fat reserves during winter, as mealworms are a noted favourite for the species. Summary: The guidance highlights straightforward ways to support bird welfare in winter by providing water, food and habitat resources. Undetermined at this time.