As well as building thriving communities, we are always looking at ways to work with local groups in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Ahead of the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch, we provided eco-friendly items to Park View Community Primary School close to our Saxon Square development – part of the Miles Platting area – in Manchester, to give local children the chance to get a little closer to nature.
For more than 40 years, this annual campaign has helped to collect vital information on bird populations. Especially for urban locations, it can sometimes be harder to spot wildlife – but all it takes is a keen eye and perhaps a little bit of encouragement.
We sent tools, equipment and instructions for the students to make their very own bird-friendly wreaths to help their local wildlife through the winter months and to give the children a better chance of spotting native species. The wreaths have since been displayed proudly around their school grounds and will be a useful addition for attracting and spotting local bird species.
To make your own wreath, you will need:
- Pines cones
- Long twigs
- Garden wire
- Soft lard
- Mixing bowl
- Holly and other leaves
- Bird seed, breadcrumbs and grated cheese
- Dried fruits or unsalted nuts
And here’s how to put it all together:
- Twist together bundles of long twigs and fasten with wire into a ring.
- Squish lard into a soft paste in a bowl.
- Mix in bird seed, breadcrumbs or grated cheese.
- Smear over pinecones and decorate with dried fruits and nuts.
- Attach the cones to the ring with twisted wire.
- Decorate with other bits of greenery and hang up your wreath!
Especially during the cold, winter months birds may struggle to find as much food to eat, so these wreaths provided the perfect way to combine a beautiful decoration with a clever bird feeder. And, as the seasons change, the wreath can be adapted or added to.
Anne-Marie O’Doherty, regional sales director, said: “It’s lovely to be able to work with our local communities on this campaign as something fun and creative, but also an opportunity for children to learn about local wildlife and help support natural ecosystems during the winter.” Year 2 children at the school shared their favourite parts of the activity, and what they had seen since hanging up the wreaths.
Rocco said he “liked spreading the food on the wreath” adding “it was very messy”, while Eltayab “loved attaching the parts together”.
Yasser said they “saw birds flying and eating the seeds” with Haram adding, “we can see the birds enjoying the wreaths from our classroom.”
Teachers Miss McCullen and Miss Smith said: “For anyone else making these wreaths, make sure to put lots of food on to attract more birds.
“The children really enjoyed making the wreaths – it was great fun and got everyone involved. It’s been lovely to see the birds come to visit.”
Anne-Marie added: “Lovell have been building homes in Miles Platting for more than a decade, bringing much needed new homes to this area. Close to good schools and plenty of amenities, these homes have been popular with families relocating to the area. The homes at Saxon Square are designed for modern living, with all the perks of city living while still having green space and canal walks nearby. There are currently three- and four- bedroom homes available, all with private gardens and off-road parking.”
Visit our website to book an appointment and find out more: Saxon Square | New Homes for sale in Manchester (lovell.co.uk)
It's easy to be part of Big Garden Birdwatch. Simply choose one hour between 26 and 28 January and count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony, or in your local park. Only count birds that land. Then tell the RSPB what you saw - or maybe what you didn’t see if you weren’t fortunate enough to spot any feathered friends.
Visit #BigGardenBirdWatch for all the details and instructions on how to join in.
