Winter Wildlife: How to Support Garden Visitors in November and December

Wildlife plays a vital role in garden health year-round. As winter settles in, many creatures struggle to find food and shelter — here’s how gardeners can help.

1. Leave Some Mess for the Birds

Don’t clear everything.
Seedheads from sunflowers, coneflowers, or asters provide essential winter food.

2. Make a Leaf Pile Sanctuary

Piles of leaves become homes for hedgehogs, toads, and insects.
Pick a quiet corner and let nature do the rest.

3. Provide Fresh Water

Even in winter, water sources freeze.

• Use a birdbath heater or crack ice daily

• Add a few stones for small birds to perch on

4. Offer High-Calorie Food

Winter-appropriate options include:

• Fat balls

• Sunflower hearts

• Peanut butter made for birds

• Mealworms

5. Avoid Early Pruning of Berry Shrubs

Don’t prune holly, pyracantha, or cotoneaster early — their berries feed wildlife through the coldest weeks.

Wrap-up:
Small acts of support turn your winter garden into a thriving haven for local wildlife — and bring joy to your cold-weather gardening.