How Birds Stay Warm and Why in Winter
Now Is the Time to Book Your Work
As the days shorten and temperatures drop, the UK’s birdlife prepares for the challenges of winter. The nesting season, typically spanning from March to September, is now behind us. This transition marks a critical period for both our feathered friends and those of us involved in wildlife conservation and property maintenance.
🐦 The End of Nesting Season
The end of the nesting season signifies a shift in the natural rhythm of our gardens and countryside. During this period, birds have completed their breeding cycles, and many species begin to prepare for the colder months ahead. It's important to note that disturbing nesting birds during this time is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Somerset Council. Therefore, any work involving trees, hedgerows, or buildings should be carefully planned to avoid harming protected species.
A nest containing eggs is currently preventing the tree team from completing their work as planned.
❄️ How Birds Stay Warm in Winter
Birds face unique challenges in winter. Unlike mammals, they cannot store large amounts of fat due to the need for flight. Instead, they employ several strategies to conserve heat and energy:
Insulating Feathers: Birds grow additional down feathers during the autumn moult. These soft feathers trap air close to the body, providing insulation against the cold. Ark Wildlife
Fluffing Up: To increase insulation, birds fluff up their feathers, creating air pockets that retain body heat.
Tucking In: Many birds tuck their beaks under their wings or into their feathers to reduce heat loss.
Sheltered Roosting: Birds seek out sheltered locations, such as dense shrubs or tree cavities, to roost during the night. Some species even huddle together for added warmth.
Energy Conservation: During particularly cold nights, birds can lose up to 10% of their body weight. Ark Wildlife To mitigate this, they rely on high-energy food sources like sunflower hearts, suet, and mealworms.
A small flock of pigeons gathered together on the pavement, pecking at crumbs and quietly cooing among themselves.
🌍 Bird Migration: Heading South
While some birds brave the UK winter, many migrate to warmer climates. Species such as swallows, swifts, and house martins head south to avoid the harsh conditions. Their migratory patterns are influenced by a combination of temperature, daylight hours, and the availability of food. Migration is a remarkable natural phenomenon that ensures the survival of these species during the colder months.
Our skilled team is currently using the MEWP and chipper to carry out essential tree work efficiently and safely.
🛠️ Planning Your Work: Why Now Is the Time
With the nesting season concluded, now is an ideal time to plan and execute work that may have been postponed. Whether you're considering tree maintenance, hedgerow management, or property repairs, it's crucial to ensure that your activities comply with legal protections for wildlife. Somerset Council
Booking your work now not only aligns with legal guidelines but also supports the well-being of local wildlife. By scheduling during this period, you contribute to the conservation of bird species and their habitats.
For more detailed information on how birds stay warm during cold winter nights, visit Ark Wildlife's guide: How Do Birds Keep Warm & Survive in the Winter?
If you're planning any work involving trees or hedgerows, it's essential to be aware of the bird nesting season guidelines. Somerset Council provides comprehensive advice here: Bird Nesting Season Guidance
By staying informed and planning responsibly, we can ensure that our actions support the health of our local ecosystems and the birds that inhabit them.
