Gardening for Wildlife in Winter: How to Support Irish Nature Year-Round

Winter may bring quieter days in the garden, but for Ireland’s wildlife, it’s a time of survival. From hungry birds to shelter-seeking insects, your garden can become a safe haven during the colder months. And the good news? Supporting biodiversity in winter is simple, natural, and rewarding.

Why Winter Wildlife Matters

Native species, from robins and wrens to hedgehogs and pollinators, rely on gardens to bridge the gap between declining wild habitats and their seasonal needs. A wildlife-friendly garden in winter helps maintain Ireland’s natural ecosystem, even while growth slows.

5 Ways to Support Wildlife in Your Winter Garden

1. Leave the Leaves Resist the urge to over-tidy. Piles of leaves and hollow stems provide essential cover for insects, frogs, and hibernating hedgehogs.

2. Plant for Late Colour and Food

   • Choose ivy, holly, hawthorn, and crabapple – rich food sources for birds.

   • Winter-flowering shrubs like mahonia provide nectar for any active pollinators.

3. Put Up a Bird Feeder (and Keep It Topped Up) Offer seeds, fat balls, and mealworms. Clean feeders regularly and place near shrubs for safe perching.

4. Build or Install a Bug Hotel Stack untreated wood, bamboo canes, or bricks with holes in a sheltered corner. These offer overwintering spaces for solitary bees and beetles.

5. Add a Water Source A shallow dish of water – even in winter – can be a lifeline. Prevent freezing with a ping pong ball or by changing it regularly.

   
   

Nature and Wellbeing, Even in Winter

Creating a wildlife garden in winter keeps us connected. Watching birds feed or spotting tracks in frost can be a grounding, mindful activity during shorter days.

Small actions make a big difference. Whether you're gardening in a city estate or a rural plot, you can turn your space into a sanctuary, not just for wildlife, but for yourself.