It is the flagship bird of Christmas and is often called “the gardener’s friend”.

The humble Robin also leads the pack when it comes to Britain’s favorite bird, according to a poll conducted by one of the country’s largest charities, the RSPB.

Perhaps one of the reasons these distinctive birds are so popular is their habit of living near us.

Gardeners sometimes notice that all they have to do is lift a spade and a robin appears. According to the association, what we consider conviviality is actually opportunism.

Gardening often involves digging, which in turn disturbs worms and other grubs – rich harvests for a hungry blackbird.

And while just the sight of a robin can make us feel like Christmas, what can you do if you’re not spotting the jolly little characters as much as you’d like?

According to wildlife experts, there are ways to increase your chances of seeing more of these charming birds in your yard this year.

Maria Kincaid, the chief ornithologist of FeatherSnapshares her tips for turning your garden into a Robin Redbreast hotspot.

Strategically Place Bird Food

“Unlike most birds that happily feed from a feeder, blackbirds prefer to feed closer to the ground.

“Place bird food in a low container or feeder under a tree, placing it just high enough off the ground to be out of reach of cats but still accessible to blackbirds.

“Since blackbirds’ diets consist primarily of insects and worms – rich sources of protein, calcium and essential nutrients that sustain them through winter – mealworms are the best option to attract them.

“While regular birdseed is fine, adding mealworms will greatly increase your chances of attracting blackbirds to your garden.

“Be sure to clean the container regularly with warm, soapy water to minimize the risk of spreading disease.”

Protect your garden from cats

“Cats are among the most prolific bird hunters. One study estimates that British cats kill between 160 and 270 million animals each year, around a quarter of which are birds.

“If you are a cat owner, consider keeping your cat indoors, especially if you are trying to attract blackbirds to your yard. Robins are very cautious in areas where they sense a cat is because they are instinctively wary of predators.

“If you don’t have a cat, but they frequently visit your yard, consider adding deterrents. Planting densely thorny or prickly shrubs, using motion-activated sprinklers, or placing prickly mats on common paths can discourage stray cats from entering.

Create a wild foraging area

“Since blackbirds are avid foragers, consider designating a small area of ​​your garden as a “wild spot” where they can feed.

Maria suggests piling up fallen autumn leaves in a sheltered area, which will attract invertebrates, blackbirds’ natural prey.

“This wild spot provides a constant supply of food for robins, even if you are not actively present. Over time, the undisturbed soil and fallen leaves will also be home to more natural insects and worms, making the area even more attractive to blackbirds.

Offer a water source

According to Maria, providing a water source is essential for a bird-friendly environment.

“Bird baths are like stopping places for robins, allowing them to bathe and drink. If you don’t have one, you can easily create a makeshift birdbath using everyday items, like a shallow dish or plant saucer.

“Place it on a low, stable surface, preferably near shrubs for cover.

“In winter, water can freeze, so be sure to keep the water cool and free of ice. Add small stones to the birdbath to provide places to perch, making it more welcoming to blackbirds.

“To make your water source even more beneficial, consider placing it in a part of the garden where sunlight hits, so it is less likely to freeze, and clean it regularly to keep it hygienic.”

Provide shelter from the cold

“In addition to food and water, blackbirds need shelter to survive the winter months. Providing them with places where they can rest and warm up will make your garden even more attractive.

“Remember to install a small nest box suitable for blackbirds, ideally placed sheltered from strong winds and direct rain.

“Dense hedges, shrubs or ivy-covered areas also make excellent shelter options, giving blackbirds somewhere to roost during cold nights or harsh weather.

“Even a small pile of logs in a corner can provide additional warmth and protection, creating a welcoming refuge where robins will feel safe.”

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