Wildlife conservation through September garden maintenance

Garden maintenance in September can significantly impact local biodiversity, particularly for European hedgehogs and birds. To support hedgehogs, it is recommended to leave piles of dead leaves, twigs, and wood in corners of the garden. These piles provide vital, sheltered hibernation sites that protect the animals from wind and moisture.

For bird enthusiasts, maintaining nesting boxes is equally critical. Neglected nesting boxes can become uninhabitable due to the accumulation of feathers, excrement, and debris, which attract parasites and mold. To ensure these habitats remain attractive to birds, boxes should be cleaned annually in September or October once the nesting season has concluded.