You wouldn't have thought so to look out of the window. But as the weather looks set to stay on the colder side for the next few days, at least, we think a helping hand is in order.
Birds, unlike us, have several layers of fluffy down to ensure they are well insulated. However, it is still so important that you provide the best food to give them as their struggle for food becomes more apparent.
The smallest birds, like blue tits and goldcrests, have to effectively feed throughout the hours of daylight in winter and consume a vast quantity of food - as much as 30% of their body weight - to make sure they build the necessary fat reserves to get them through the long, cold nights.
During cold snaps, you will almost certainly notice more birds coming into your garden to seek sanctuary from the harsher environment in the countryside – particularly if you provide food on a regular basis. The variety of species may increase too and you may be lucky enough to attract unusual visitors such as blackcaps and bramblings.
Finding a regular source of high-energy food such as a garden feeding station is the equivalent of winning the lottery for wild birds and a well-stocked garden is a real lifesaver.
Foods such as the suet balls from the RSPB are perfect for the winter weather. They contain mealworm pieces that are added to the premium grade suet, seeds and cereals for extra flavour and nutrition. The versatility of this type of food is what makes it ideal for feeding in cold weather. Start by taking advantage of our buggy coconut shell treat offer and save £6 on a box of 20. http://tinyurl.com/bvofpwd.
As most of you will know, after sending your little one to school dressed as Where's Wally or Harry Potter, today is World Book Day.
A day of celebrating and reading your best-loved books and all time favourites.
So what could be a more fitting day to launch our brand new 'Book of the Month' offer.
For the next month, Madeleine Floyd's book Birdsong will be available for £7.99, £2 off the RRP.
About the book -
A celebration of British birds and their songs, from the sought-after artist Madeleine Floyd. Some 50 of her exquisite drawings of birds, along with their specific eggs are captured here for fans of her work and wildlife enthusiasts. It includes details of the songs and sounds made by each of the birds, from sparrows, tits, to the lyrical nightingale. The latter has up to 250 different phrases in his song and each performance is made up of a unique composition. The art of Madeleine Floyd is beautifully presented in this gem of a book and should delight all bird lovers. About the author -
Madeleine Floyd is one of Britain\'s best-loved artists. She works from her studio in London and is widely commissioned around the world. Madeleine\'s creative talent is one of remarkable depth and diversity. She paints, she draws, she writes and she illustrates.This versatility allows Madeleine to produce hugely successful exhibitions, write and illustrate her own books. She has a particular passion for wildlife.
http://tinyurl.com/d7fak6w
Enjoy!
With just over a week to go until Mother's day, it's the time to start thinking about that gift to get your special mum.
Now, you could go for the conventional flowers and chocolates (and believe me, I've been down that road many a time) but this year why not try something a little different?
Honouring your mum doesn't have to cost the earth or mean you have to take huge amounts of time off work and go away, the small gestures count just as much (the classic - 'it's the thought that counts' comes to mind!). So here at the RSPB we have a few things we thought she might like. http://tinyurl.com/czvr4t2
Now, I'm sure jewellery has crossed your mind a few times already, but finding a beautiful, inexpensive piece is hard. However, you're in luck as Estella Bartlett's range at the RSPB has the answer. Every piece is simple and elegant, perfect for any mother. And with 20% who could resist?
If you did want to splash out a little more, Scarlett's jewellery is the one for you. Scarlett was established by award-winning British designer Sarah Fenton in 1998. Sarah's jewellery is hand-made in her Brighton mews workshop with personal care and attention. Customers love the detail of the designs and the personal stories behind collections. The jewellery wears wonderfully well, creating signature classics with a timeless, everyday quality - jewellery you'll feel lost without. The talismanic stories are an essential part of Scarlett's unique identity and many collections are supplied with meaning cards tucked inside the box. 'I'm an eternal romantic so my jewellery celebrates the landmarks of life. Jewellery is so precious and personal, so I design to express the wearer's feelings.' Sarah Fenton, Designer
One of my personal favourite ideas for any present is to create my very own lucky dip gift box. Start by grabbing an old empty box, some tissue paper and some wrapping paper. Cover the box in the wrapping paper and tear up the tissue to put inside, simple!
Now all you have to do is buy the gifts to put inside.
Here is a suggestion of our favourite small gifts that are perfect for mothers everywhere.
So I know I've contradicted myself slightly with the last one but who can resist a little bit of chocolate?
Have a happy Mother's Day!
It's the penultimate day of our bird sacks offer so make sure you don't miss out!
Save £10 when you buy any two single 12.75 kg sacks of selected bird seed and seed mixes.
Choose from any of the following -
Click here to go straight to the website - http://tinyurl.com/a7gat4f
Offer ends tomorrow - 26/02/13