and peaceful environment, minimising disturbances to make your garden a welcoming haven for all bird species.
4. Red-footed falcon
This small falcon species is a rare visitor to the UK, primarily during the summer. It has a distinctive reddish- brown plumage and can sometimes be spotted in grasslands or wetlands. To attract them, try planting meadowsweet, a perennial plant with white or pink flowers that can attract insects, which are prey for the falcons. Marsh thistle also produces spiky flowers that can attract insects and provide a food source for the birds.
Any flowering trees or shrubs will attract insects, increasing the chance of bringing birds to your garden. The rarer species such as the redstart and blackcap will be drawn in by the caterpillars and insects that use the berries and flowers from these species.
5. Bullfinch
If you’re hoping to attract bullfinches to your garden, there are specific plants you can incorporate to make your space more enticing to these beautiful birds. Bullfinches are known for their striking colours, with males displaying vibrant pinkish-red breasts. One of the best plants to attract bullfinches is the crab apple, which produces small, colourful fruits that bullfinches find irresistible. The tree blossoms in spring also provide nectar for insects, which can attract bullfinches seeking a source of protein. Additionally, planting berries and fruits such as hawthorn and blackthorn can help draw these birds to your garden, as the berries provide an essential food source for bullfinches, particularly during the winter months when other food options may be scarce. Creating a diverse and layered garden with a mix of trees, shrubs and flowering plants will not only attract rare birds, but also provide them with a range of habitats and food sources throughout the year, the couple maintain.
Photo: Red-footed Falcon
Remember to also provide a water source and create a safe
Photo: Bullfinch
Photo: Hoopoe
Photo: Roseate Tern
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