ALL OF us need a helping hand from time to time and our wildlife is no exception. So, during the month of February, why not think about ways to help your local wildlife this year. It need not be time consuming or labour intensive and, most important of all, it need not be expensive either. It all boils down to the different things you can do to help the wildlife in your garden.

For example, a small border of nectar-rich plants will bring our pollinating friends buzzing with excitement and hopefully some of our declining butterfly species as well.

For the more adventurous among you, why not allow part of your garden to go wild and throw in a small log pile as well. This will attract insects which in turn may attract the insect feeders, such as toads and frogs or, if you hit the jackpot, a hedgehog. Or maybe go one step further and create your own wildlife garden with or without the ultimate in wildlife gardening features – a pond.

It can be great fun getting the whole family involved in planning and designing your own wildlife area. Once completed, maintenance is minimal and you can always add to it if you wish. If nothing else, putting up a small bird table will help the local bird population more than you may realise, especially through the winter months. So give a thought for local wildlife this year, because a little help can make a big difference.

LB Loxley