Support Winter Wildlife With Squire’s 21-Day Challenge

Winter can be a tough time for wildlife, but small changes in our gardens and outdoor spaces can make a big difference. To inspire and encourage everyone to support local wildlife, Squire’s Garden Centres is launching a 21-Day Wildlife Challenge this January.

The initiative invites wildlife supporters – both young or old – to complete 21 wildlife-friendly activities, helping animals and birds thrive during the colder months. Whether you have a garden, balcony, or simply a windowsill, you can take part in this challenge to support the wildlife around you. To get started, simply download Squire’s handy planner to start making a positive impact on wildlife. Squire’s website has lots of ideas and tips to help those participating. Those who complete the challenge can enter a prize draw to win £100 to spend on wildlife goodies by submitting a photo of their completed plan (deadline for entries 3 February 2025). Completed planners should be emailed to competitions@squiresgardencentres.co.uk.

In addition to the challenge, Squire’s is offering 15% off all wildlife food, shelters, and accessories from 9-21 January 2025 to help you prepare your outdoor space to welcome wildlife.

Tips to Support Wildlife This Winter

Our gardens and outdoor spaces have the potential to become vital sanctuaries for wildlife, especially during the colder months. From birds searching for food to hedgehogs seeking safe havens, even the smallest actions can have a big impact on the creatures that call our gardens home. By making a few thoughtful changes, we can provide much-needed support to nature and enjoy the wonder of seeing wildlife thrive right outside our doors.

Whether you have a sprawling garden, a compact patio, or even a balcony – every effort counts. Here are some simple, practical tips to help you transform your outdoor space into a refuge for wildlife this winter and beyond:

• Feed the Birds: Provide high-energy food like sunflower seeds, suet, or mealworms to help birds stay warm and nourished.
• Create Shelter: Install birdhouses, insect hotels, or hedgehog shelters to give creatures a safe space to rest.
• Provide Fresh Water: Place shallow dishes of water in your garden to help wildlife stay hydrated, especially when water sources freeze.
• Plant for Pollinators: Even in winter, certain plants can provide much-needed nectar and shelter for insects.
• Leave Leaf Piles: Fallen leaves can create a warm habitat for small animals and insects.

The importance of supporting local wildlife is endorsed by Dan Reep, Squire’s Wildlife Expert, who comments: “Wildlife plays such an important role in our ecosystems, and winter is when they need our help the most. Our 21-Day Wildlife Challenge is a great way for everyone to take small but impactful steps to make their outdoor spaces more inviting for wildlife. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature and see the difference your efforts make firsthand – this time of year is a real opportunity to connect with nature, which can bring much to celebrate too.”

So, join Squire’s this January and make a difference to local wildlife by taking part in the 21-Day Wildlife Challenge, a fun and rewarding way to help our furry, feathered and flying friends this winter.