World Wildlife Day (March 3rd 2025) is a global celebration of biodiversity and conservation across the world, it is also a way to raise awareness for the challenges wildlife is facing.

The UK is home to some incredible species like Hedgehogs, Otters and Red Squirrels; the sad truth is that many species are facing habitat loss and other environmental threats.

In 2023, State of Nature found an average decrease of 19% in species abundance since 1970 - this means nearly one in six species of wild animals are threatened with extinction.

With just a few simple actions, we can protect animal welfare and help endangered species; in this blog, we're going to give you ways to do this!

Create A Wildlife Friendly Garden

One of the most effective ways to support biodiversity is to make your garden a safe space for a whole range of species through creating habitats and installing bird feeders.

Even small outdoor spaces, like balconies or community gardens or local parks, can provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for a variety of species.

Plant Native Wildflowers

One place to start is planting native wildflowers around your garden; they provide essential nectar, pollen and seeds to support bees, butterflies and finches.

Let Part of Your Garden Go Wild

It sounds bad - but a slightly untidy garden is great for wildlife (great for those of us who aren't too keen on gardening!) Patches of long grass, fallen leaves and other plant debris and log piles create safe spaces for insects and other small creatures.

Install a Small Pond or Bird Bath

Water is essential for all life - from birds to insects to amphibians. A small wildlife pond, or shallow bird bath, will make a huge difference to animals in your garden.

Water is essential for birds, insects, and amphibians. A small pond or even a shallow dish of fresh water can make a huge difference.

Grow a Hedge Instead of a Fence

Hedges offer food and nesting sites for birds, while fences block wildlife movement. Native hedges like hawthorn, blackthorn, or hazel create the perfect shelter for small animals.

If you do have a fence, cut a small hole and create a Hedgehog highway, so that they can move around easily.

Add Nesting and Shelter Areas

Encourage birds and beneficial insects by adding Nest boxes for birds like Robins and Blue Tits, you could even add bat boxes if you have bats in your local area.

Bee hotels and bug hotels made of hollow stems or drilled wood for solitary bees are another great habitat to add to your outside space.

Even a few wildflower pots, a dish of water, or a small pile of leaves can make a big impact. Every bit of greenery helps restore habitats and support the UK’s declining wildlife to make the world a better place for future generations.

Feed & Protect Garden Birds

We all know the joy of watching garden birds flutter around our gardens, bringing life and colour. Many species are in decline but we can help: extra food, water and safe nesting sites are just some of the ways to help wildlife, especially during tough months like winter and breeding season.

Offer a Variety of Nutritious Bird Food

Birds all have different dietary needs and preferences, by offering a range of food, or researching the most common birds in your local area eat.

Sunflower seeds and nyjer seeds are great for finches, tits, and sparrows and crushed or whole peanuts (unsalted and aflatoxin-free) are rich in protein.

In the winter, provide a more high energy feed like suet and fat balls. Avoid feeding bread, as it lacks nutrients and can lead to malnutrition in birds.

Keep Feeders Clean to Prevent Disease

Dirty bird feeders can spread harmful diseases like avian pox and trichomoniasis, which have been affecting finch populations in the UK.

Wash feeders weekly with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly and move feeding stations occasionally to prevent the build-up of droppings.

If you already have nest boxes, clean them out in Autumn to remove parasites and old nesting material before the next breeding season.

While winter feeding is crucial, supporting birds year round with food, shelter, and water ensures they stay healthy and continue visiting your garden. Small efforts make a big impact on bird populations across the UK.#

Support Local Nature Reserves

The UK is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, from the wetlands of Norfolk to the rugged landscapes of Scotland.

But these habitats need protection. Supporting local wildlife reserves and national parks helps conserve biodiversity and provides safe spaces for endangered species.

Visit and Donate to Nature Reserves

Many nature reserves are run by conservation organisations or wildlife charities that rely on donations and visitor fees to maintain habitats and protect species. By visiting these areas, you’re supporting conservation efforts while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Top UK wildlife reserves to visit:

• RSPB Minsmere (Suffolk): A birdwatcher’s paradise with bitterns and avocets.

• Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust Slimbridge (Gloucestershire): Home to rare wetland birds.

• The Cairngorms National Park (Scotland): The UK’s largest national park, home to red squirrels and golden eagles.

• Skomer Island (Wales): Famous for its puffin population.

Volunteer for Habitat Restoration & Clean-Ups

Getting hands on with conservation is one of the most rewarding ways to help wildlife. Many reserves and parks organise volunteer days for tasks such as planting native trees and wildflowers to restore lost habitats, clearing invasive species that threaten local ecosystems, beach and river clean-ups to protect marine and freshwater wildlife, building bird and bat boxes to create safe nesting spaces.

Get Kids Involved with Nature

Inspiring a love for nature in children is one of the best ways to ensure future generations continue to protect wildlife. By encouraging outdoor exploration, hands-on activities, and educational resources, kids can develop a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Take Children on Nature Walks & Bug Hunts

Exploring local parks, woodlands, or even your own garden can be a great adventure for kids. Encourage them to observe different plants and animals while learning about local ecosystems.

Go on a scavenger hunt - create a checklist of things to find, such as acorns, bird feathers, or different insect species. Carefully life stones and replace them to discover beetles, woodlice, or slow worms.

Make Roads Safer for Wildlife

Roads can be a deadly barrier for wildlife, with animals often facing the peril of vehicles as they try to cross. Every year, thousands of animals, including hedgehogs, deer, and amphibians, are killed or injured on roads.

Be extra cautious in areas where wildlife frequently crosses, such as hedgehog habitats or deer-prone roads. Slow down, especially at night, and watch for signs of crossing animals. Slower speeds allow more time to react and can prevent accidents, saving lives.

If you encounter an injured animal on the road, contact a rescue centre immediately. The RSPCA and other wildlife organisations offer emergency services to help. Prompt action can save the animal’s life and ensure it gets the care it needs.