Here at OX, we are always on the lookout for items that will make wonderful gifts for birthdays or Christmas. We were delighted when publishing company DK sent a copy of the newly published book by Dan Rouse, a presenter, wildlife conservationist and ornithologist from Swansea. How to Attract Birds to Your Garden, priced at £16.99, makes a great gift for anyone who appreciates birds and wants to learn more about these joyful creatures. With so many species under threat due to lack of space and fewer nesting opportunities, it is vital that whatever our outdoor space, we do something to care for our feathered friends.
Dan was just four years old when, encouraged by her father, they erected a bird feeding box in their garden. Living close to a park with numerous trees, the feeder attracted a wide range of birds to visit. Dan’s love of birdwatching was born. As she observed the visitors to the garden, she noticed more about their habits and behaviour. Her love of ornithology was encouraged by her father who helped her create nest boxes and feeding stations around the garden. Over the years, she has also developed a passion for coastal birds and wildlife and is widely respected for her ornithological and conservational work. Wherever possible Dan encourages people to share her love of birds.
How to Attract Birds to Your Garden is written in an easy read format, full of interesting facts, beautifully illustrated, and ideal for children in their early teens to grandparents. Whatever the size of our outside space – from a balcony to large garden – this book explains how to care for the birds that we so enjoy watching and listening to.
Dan opens her book by explaining how birds behave and interact with one another, how they feed and nest, the types of birds who live in gardens and those who will visit at various times of the year. She goes on to tell us more about how to feed birds, giving ideas for making our own bird feeders and a recipe for suet balls.
Encouraging birds to nest in our gardens by providing them with suitable and safe nesting boxes is clearly explained. Information is also given on what to plant in your garden to encourage birds, what access to water they need and how to add suitable water holders and keep birds safe.
The final section of the book gives profiles of 56 birds that are likely to visit our gardens. Whilst we may be familiar with some of the species, you will be able to learn more about their behaviour, features, habits and requirements in terms of food and water.
How to Attract Birds to Your Garden by Dan Rouse, DK, £16.99 is available from all good bookshops and online.
WIN!
We also have a copy of How to Attract Birds to Your Garden to give away to one lucky reader! To enter, click here.