As winter progresses, robins and other small birds such as blue tits and wrens face an increased risk of starvation due to the scarcity of food sources like insects and berries. February is particularly challenging for these birds, as the freezing ground makes it difficult for them to find their usual meals. Wildlife experts from the Wildlife Trusts are advocating for gardeners to refrain from tidying their gardens during this time, arguing that allowing nature to take its course can create essential habitats for these vulnerable species.

By leaving natural items like old leaves or twigs on the lawn, gardeners can provide shelter and food sources that help robins and other birds survive the winter. The idea is that an untidy garden can significantly aid wildlife by offering places for insects to hide, which will become food for birds once they begin to re-emerge as temperatures rise in February. This approach not only benefits the birds but also contributes to a richer biodiversity in the garden, enriching the entire ecosystem.

The campaign encourages individuals to rethink traditional gardening practices, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity and the role of gardens as sanctuaries for urban wildlife. The message is clear: by making small changes like leaving the lawn a little messy, gardeners can assist in protecting local wildlife during the coldest months of the year, thereby fostering a more considerate and symbiotic relationship with the natural world.