April sees more insects on the wing, including more species of bumblebee, ground-nesting mining bees, and butterflies, moths and hoverflies. You’ll also spot queen wasps emerging from hibernation, which do a fantastic job of keeping garden pests under control, and should be welcomed much more into our gardens.
How to help wildlife in your garden:
- Garden habits you need to break in order to help wildlife
- 10 ways to work with nature on your veg patch
- Wildlife-friendly plants for shade
- Fergus Garrett on wildilfe at Great Dixter
Hedgehogs are waking up
Hedgehogs should be out and about now, building up reserves lost during their winter sleep – do leave them out meaty dog or cat food, or biscuits, along with a dish of water, which can really help them get into shape for breeding. They nest in dense undergrowth such as bramble thickets and open compost heaps. Ensuring they have a safe spot to nest in your garden will dramatically help them have a successful breeding year.
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