Allotment Wildlife Watch: June Edition

Introduction

June is the height of activity on the allotment as summer begins to unfold. Wildlife is thriving, with birds feeding fledglings, pollinators buzzing between blooms, and mammals and amphibians taking advantage of the warmer days. For gardeners, this is a time to nurture your crops while observing and supporting the biodiversity that keeps your allotment vibrant and balanced. In this June Edition of Allotment Wildlife Watch, we’ll explore the species to look out for, practical tips to attract and protect wildlife, and actions to create a thriving habitat. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or new to wildlife-friendly gardening, June is the perfect time to embrace the energy of nature and enjoy the rewards of a biodiverse allotment.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

Are you starting an allotment or planning on growing your own fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a kitchen garden? If so we highly recommend the book Allotment Month By Month. This does exactly what it does on the cover to help you with what you should be doing in the allotment and kitchen garden each month. Below you can see the link for Amazon where you can purchase the book directly. This book is extremely popular with all allotment holders as you will read in the reviews:-

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

Why Focus on Allotment Wildlife in June?

Supporting wildlife on your allotment in June enhances your garden’s productivity and contributes to a healthier ecosystem:

• Pollination: With flowers in full bloom, pollinators like bees and butterflies play a vital role in fertilizing crops.
• Natural Pest Control: Predators such as birds, frogs, and bats help manage pest populations.
• Support for Young Wildlife: Many species are rearing their young and need access to food and shelter.
• Ecosystem Balance: Encouraging a diverse range of species creates a resilient and thriving environment.
• Enjoyment of Nature: Observing wildlife adds a sense of wonder and connection to your gardening experience.

By focusing on wildlife in June, you can create a sustainable and harmonious allotment that benefits both nature and your plants.

Wildlife to Watch for in June

June’s longer days and warm temperatures bring a wealth of wildlife activity. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Birds

Birds are busy feeding their young and preparing for second broods:

• Robin (Erithacus rubecula): Frequently seen foraging for insects and worms to feed their fledglings.
• Swallow (Hirundo rustica): These graceful birds can be seen swooping low over fields and allotments to catch insects.
• Blackbird (Turdus merula): Often heard singing at dawn or dusk, blackbirds forage for berries and worms.
• Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis): These colorful birds enjoy feeding on seeds and can be attracted to feeders.

2. Mammals

Mammals are fully active, foraging for food and raising their young:

• Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus): Active at dusk, hedgehogs are valuable allies in controlling slugs and other pests.
• Foxes (Vulpes vulpes): Often seen at dawn or dusk, foxes hunt for small mammals and insects.
• Field Mice (Apodemus sylvaticus): These small mammals forage for seeds and grains, often near compost heaps.

3. Insects

June is a peak month for pollinators and other insects:

• Bees: Bumblebees, honeybees, and solitary bees are at their busiest, collecting nectar and pollen from flowers.
• Butterflies: Look for species like red admirals, peacocks, and meadow browns fluttering around wildflowers.
• Ladybirds (Coccinellidae): These beneficial insects feed on aphids and are essential for natural pest control.

4. Amphibians

Amphibians are thriving in ponds and damp areas:

• Frogs and Toads: Look for tadpoles growing into young frogs and toads, often around water features.
• Newts: Often seen resting on pond edges or hiding among aquatic plants.

5. Predators

• Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus): These birds of prey can be seen hovering over fields, hunting for small mammals.
• Bats: At dusk, bats swoop through the air, feeding on insects.

How to Support Wildlife in June

To create a wildlife-friendly allotment in June, focus on providing food, water, shelter, and safe spaces. Here’s how:

1. Provide Food

• Bird Feeders: Stock feeders with seeds, suet, and mealworms to help birds feed their fledglings.
• Pollinator Plants: Grow nectar-rich flowers like lavender, foxgloves, and cosmos to attract bees and butterflies.
• Natural Sources: Leave wildflowers and dandelions to bloom, offering food for pollinators and birds.

2. Offer Water

• Bird Baths: Keep bird baths clean and filled with fresh water for drinking and bathing.
• Ponds: Maintain ponds with shallow edges for amphibians, birds, and small mammals to access safely.

3. Create Shelter

• Nest Boxes: Avoid disturbing bird boxes as fledglings may still be present.
• Hedgehog Homes: Provide undisturbed shelters like log piles or purpose-built homes for hedgehogs.
• Insect Hotels: Offer nesting spots for solitary bees and other beneficial insects.

4. Plant for Wildlife

• Wildflower Meadows: Sow wildflower seeds to create a habitat for pollinators and small mammals.
• Climbing Plants: Grow ivy, honeysuckle, or clematis to provide cover and nesting sites for birds and insects.
• Fruit and Berry Bushes: Plant shrubs like raspberries or blackberries to provide food for birds and mammals.

5. Avoid Harmful Practices

• Skip Chemicals: Avoid pesticides and slug pellets, which can harm beneficial wildlife.
• Check Before Clearing: Inspect compost heaps, dense vegetation, or woodpiles for resting animals before tidying.

6. Monitor and Record

• Wildlife Diary: Document sightings of birds, mammals, and insects to track changes and better understand your allotment’s ecosystem.
• Citizen Science: Join projects like the Big Butterfly Count or other wildlife surveys to contribute valuable data.

Common Challenges and Solutions

1. Pest Infestations

Solution: Encourage natural predators like birds, frogs, and ladybirds to manage pests instead of using chemicals.

2. Dry Water Sources

Solution: Regularly top up bird baths and ponds to ensure wildlife has access to fresh water.

3. Overgrown Areas

Solution: Leave some areas wild to provide essential shelter and food for insects, amphibians, and small mammals.

4. Limited Nectar Sources

Solution: Plant a variety of nectar-rich flowers to provide continuous food for pollinators.

5. Disturbance of Young Wildlife

Solution: Avoid heavy activity near nest boxes, hedgehog homes, or other known shelters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What birds are most active on allotments in June?

Answer: Robins, swallows, blackbirds, and goldfinches are commonly seen feeding, nesting, or hunting for insects.

2. How can I attract butterflies in June?

Answer: Plant nectar-rich flowers like cosmos, lavender, and daisies to provide food for butterflies.

3. Can I tidy my allotment in June without disturbing wildlife?

Answer: Yes, but proceed cautiously. Check for nesting birds, resting hedgehogs, and amphibians before clearing areas.

4. How do I support frogs and toads in June?

Answer: Maintain a clean, accessible pond and avoid disturbing aquatic vegetation where tadpoles are developing.

5. What flowers should I grow for pollinators in June?

Answer: Plant lavender, foxgloves, cosmos, and wildflowers to provide a variety of nectar sources.

6. How can I attract hedgehogs to my allotment?

Answer: Provide food like mealworms or cat food, avoid slug pellets, and create safe, undisturbed shelters.

7. Are bats beneficial for allotments?

Answer: Yes! Bats feed on insects, including pests, helping to naturally control their populations.

8. Should I leave wildflowers like dandelions on my allotment?

Answer: Yes, wildflowers are an excellent food source for pollinators and can be left in wild areas.

9. How can I help birds during June?

Answer: Provide food and water, avoid disturbing nests, and ensure hedgerows or shrubs are undisturbed for cover.

10. What’s the best way to document wildlife on my allotment?

Answer: Keep a wildlife diary or take photographs to track species, behaviors, and seasonal changes.

Conclusion

June is a month of abundance and activity on your allotment, offering endless opportunities to support and observe wildlife. From feeding birds and pollinators to creating shelters for mammals and amphibians, your actions can make a significant impact. By planting wildlife-friendly flowers, maintaining water sources, and avoiding harmful chemicals, you’ll foster a vibrant ecosystem that benefits both nature and your garden. Celebrate the energy of summer with the June Edition of Allotment Wildlife Watch, and enjoy the beauty and activity of your allotment in harmony with wildlife.

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

If you love podcasts and are passionate about gardening, why not tune in to Gardening with Ben’s Allotment Podcasts? Packed with tips, inspiration, and plenty of down-to-earth advice, Ben’s podcasts are perfect for anyone looking to get the most out of their garden or allotment.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Gardening with Ben covers a wide range of topics to keep you informed and motivated. From seasonal planting guides and pest control tips to creating a wildlife-friendly space, there’s something for everyone. Each episode is filled with Ben’s friendly, relatable charm, making it feel like you’re chatting with a gardening buddy.

Don’t miss out on the latest episode below, where Ben shares his insights on what to plant this month, how to prepare your soil, and creative ways to make the most of the colder seasons. It’s the perfect companion for your next cup of tea or a relaxing moment in your gardening shed.

You can also listen to Gardening with Ben’s podcasts on your favorite platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Prefer hands-free? Simply ask Alexa, “Play Gardening with Ben,” and you’ll be ready to dig into the latest episode.

So, if you’re looking for gardening inspiration, practical advice, or just a bit of friendly encouragement to get your hands dirty, tune in to Gardening with Ben’s Allotment Podcasts. It’s your perfect gardening companion, wherever you are! 🌱🎧