Don’t forget to help garden birds during the cold weather

The food people provide in their gardens can be particularly important - and you might see a few new visitors.

The robin is one of Britain's favourite garden birds. Picture: JOHN HARDING/British Trust for Ornithology - Credit: Archant

In recent snowy days the British Trust of Ornithology (BTO), based in Thetford, have said they have had numerous sightings of Redwings, yellowhammers and reed buntings.

Here is some advice from the BTO on how you can help.

• Provide fresh water as most water sources will be frozen over and inaccessible.

• Remember, not all birds will use hanging feeders, such as Blackbirds.

MORE - Wintry weather advice for dog owners• Use a bird table and putting some food on the ground as well as using hanging feeders.

• The wider variety of foods you put out, the wider the variety of birds you are likely to see. Energy rich products, such as sunflower hearts and peanuts, and fat products are useful in this weather.

Remember, regular cleaning and disinfecting of bird tables, bird baths and hanging feeders is an important part of good hygiene practice when feeding garden birds.

Click here to find out more about the different bird species you might find in your gardens during the winter period.