Struggling Survival: Tips for Nourishing Squirrels and Avian Friends

Savin' the day, one critter at a time: Let's keep our urban gardens a slice of heaven for hedgehogs, squirrels, and more. With a bit of elbow grease and a dash of compassion, we can make their day brighter, even when the mercury rises.

First things first, let's acknowledge that cityscapes aren't always friendly to our furry and feathered pals. High temperatures and limited resources often conspire against them. But you can help!

Garden-Oasis: A hub for hedgehogs and squirrels alike

A sustainability-oriented garden is like a heroes' sanctuary for these creatures. Piles of leaves and dead wood give shelter to hedgehogs, making them feel right at home. So, if you're tidying up the garden, save those leaves! Hedge pruning? Great! Skip the disposal and lay 'em low – messier is better this time. Squirrels are smitten with fruit-bearing trees and shrubs, so treat 'em.

Now, let's run through some key safety measures:

Keep your lawnmower fire-breathing beasties in the garage at night. Hedgehogs are in real danger of getting squashed when you're mowing in the dark.
Leaf blowers are a no-go. They ain't just destroying hedgehog homes; they're sucking up unsuspecting critters and shredding them to smithereens.
Rain barrels can be a drowning hazard for squirrels. Cover those suckers with a net or a thick rope.

In the realm of critter conservation

Tended Terrace and Gardens: A bee-utiful haven
Campland conservation: Every square meter matters for animals
The unfazed mole: Why we should keep our paws off
Take the plunge: Switching to peat-free soil

Ooh, chilly winters can be a pain for hedgehogs

As November kicks into gear, hedgehogs usually retreat to their cozy caves for a hibernation slumber. But when winter isn't quite what it's cracked up to be, youngsters may still be wandering around. It's cool. No worries.

But if this regular winter daze persists, they might end up burning through their winter energy reserves before spring arrives. To help them out, drop a bowl or two of wet cat food without sauces and jelly – a food they find tasty but we humans find horrid. Know the golden rule: Milk products are a no-go for hedgehogs – they can't handle lactose.

By mid-April, hedgehogs usually emerge from their winter snooze. At that point, they can take care of themselves again.

The busier the squirrel, the merrier

The wildlife scene in your city garden can thrive with the simple addition of food. Squirrels appreciate a dish (or three) filled with nuts – both shelled and unshelled. Pro tip: Be sure to avoid almonds and peanuts as they can cause bloating and diarrhea in our rodent friends. Warning: Keep the feeders a little elevated to keep foxes and cats at bay.

H2O Heroes

Birds and squirrels need water too. Water dishes can be a lifesaver – especially during the summer heat. For squirrels, keep the dishes elevated. For hedgehogs, keep it ground-level. To prevent illnesses, change the water daily and clean the containers regularly.

Just remember: Our wildlife is still the wild stuff – only approach them if they need aid.

Insights:

Supporting Biodiversity: To foster biodiversity in the garden, consider creating diverse habitats to cater to a variety of wildlife. This includes planting native plants, providing sources of food, shelter, and water.
Winter and the Wildlife Diet: Instead of commercial hedgehog food, consider using wet cat food, meat, and fat-rich, without sauces and jelly, and providing a year-round food supply for squirrels and birds.
Animal Welfare: Reducing pesticides and letting some areas in the garden become wild can also help support wildlife, while keeping water sources clean can prevent the spread of diseases.
Species-Specific Concerns: Different species have unique needs and considerations. For example, hedgehogs need ground-level water, while squirrels prefer higher dishes. It's essential to cater to their specific needs for a successful wildlife-friendly garden.
Summer Heat Concerns: During summer, it's crucial to provide ample shade and water for wildlife, as high temperatures can lead to dehydration and heat stress.
Leaving Some Debris: Allowing some areas of the garden to grow wild can help provide shelter for insects and small mammals, contributing to overall biodiversity.

References:

Biodiversity. (n.d.). Simple stepps to help wildlife in your own garden. Retrieved June 06, 2023, from https://www.nda.ukri.org/resources/managing-wildlife/gardening/
The Wildlife Trusts. (2018, February 08). Helping Hedgehogs. Retrieved June 06, 2023, from https://www.thewildlifetrusts.org/help-nature/help-hedgehogs
WWF. (n.d.). Making Your Garden a Friendlier Place for Wildlife. Retrieved June 06, 2023, from https://www.worldwildlife.org/initiatives/make-your-garden-a-friendly-place-for-wildlife
RSPB. (n.d.). Making a wildlife-friendly garden. Retrieved June 06, 2023, from https://www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/activities/nature-reserves/gardening/making-a-wildlife-friendly-garden/
The Wildlife Trusts. (n.d.). Planting to attract wildlife. Retrieved June 06, 2023, from https://www.thewildlifetrusts.org/help-nature/helping-plant-native-wildlife-friendly-plants

Incorporating elements of science, health-and-wellness, and fitness-and-exercise, urban gardens can be transformed into a haven for various creatures, including hedgehogs and squirrels. Tending to the garden in a sustainable manner, such as preserving leaves and dead wood, not only helps these animals but also promotes the overall sustainability of the garden. Furthermore, by providing food sources like fruits, nuts, and water, one can encourage the growth of a thriving wildlife population.