Allotment Wildlife Watch: March Edition

Allotment Wildlife Watch: March Edition

Introduction

March is a month of awakening on the allotment, as the first signs of spring bring a burst of activity to gardens and wildlife habitats. With longer days and rising temperatures, birds start nesting, pollinators emerge in search of nectar, and mammals become more active. For allotment gardeners, this is a pivotal time to support and observe the natural world while preparing for the growing season. In this March edition of Allotment Wildlife Watch, we’ll explore the wildlife you’re likely to encounter, practical tips to create a wildlife-friendly environment, and actions to encourage biodiversity. Whether it’s spotting returning migratory birds or nurturing early pollinators, March offers countless opportunities to engage with and protect the wildlife on your allotment.

Why Focus on Allotment Wildlife in March?

Supporting wildlife on your allotment in March offers numerous benefits:

Nesting Support: Birds are actively building nests, making March an ideal time to provide food, water, and safe spaces.
Pollinator Preparation: Early pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, need nectar-rich flowers to fuel their spring activity.
Ecosystem Boost: Encouraging beneficial wildlife helps manage pests naturally and supports healthy crop growth.
Connection to Nature: Observing wildlife in March fosters a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of your allotment’s ecosystem.
Seasonal Gardening Insights: Wildlife activity can guide your gardening practices, such as planting schedules and pest control.

By focusing on wildlife in March, you can create a thriving environment that benefits both nature and your gardening efforts.

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Wildlife to Watch for in March

March marks a transition from winter to spring, with a wide variety of wildlife becoming active on your allotment. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Birds

Birds are particularly busy in March as they prepare for the breeding season:

Robin (Erithacus rubecula): Robins are territorial and can often be seen gathering nesting materials.
Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus): These agile birds start building nests in tree holes or nest boxes.
Chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita): One of the earliest migratory birds to return, their distinctive song signals spring’s arrival.
Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis): Often seen feeding on seed heads or visiting feeders.

2. Mammals

With hibernation coming to an end, mammals are more visible on your allotment:

Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus): Hedgehogs begin emerging from hibernation, searching for food and water.
Foxes (Vulpes vulpes): Foxes may be seen foraging for food or caring for cubs in dens nearby.
Field Mice (Apodemus sylvaticus): These small mammals remain active, seeking seeds and grains.

3. Insects

As temperatures rise, insects become increasingly active on mild days:

Queen Bumblebees: Emerging from hibernation, they search for nectar and suitable nesting sites.
Butterflies: Species like small tortoiseshells and peacocks can be seen basking or feeding on early flowers.
Ladybirds (Coccinellidae): These beneficial insects emerge from their winter shelters to feed on aphids.

4. Amphibians

March is breeding season for many amphibians:

Frogs and Toads: These creatures gather around ponds to spawn, often laying jelly-like eggs in shallow water.
Newts: Newts become more active, searching for mates and laying eggs in aquatic vegetation.

5. Predators

Owls (Strigiformes): Barn owls and tawny owls hunt small mammals during the early evenings.
Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus): These birds of prey hover over fields and allotments, searching for prey.

How to Support Wildlife in March

March is a critical time to provide food, shelter, and resources for wildlife. Here’s how you can help:

1. Provide Food

Bird Feeders: Stock feeders with seeds, nuts, and mealworms to support nesting birds.
Fruit Offerings: Leave windfall apples or offer fresh fruit to mammals and birds.
Wildflower Seeds: Allow seed heads from last year’s flowers to remain for birds to feed on.
Compost Piles: Compost heaps attract insects and worms, providing food for small mammals and birds.

2. Offer Water

Bird Baths: Keep water sources clean and replenished for drinking and bathing.
Ponds: Maintain open areas in ponds and ensure they’re accessible for amphibians and birds.

3. Create Shelter

Nest Boxes: Check and clean existing bird boxes or install new ones for species like blue tits and robins.
Hedgehog Homes: Ensure hedgehog shelters are ready for use, with fresh bedding if needed.
Log Piles: Provide habitat for insects, amphibians, and small mammals by creating or maintaining log piles.

4. Plant for Wildlife

Nectar-Rich Flowers: Plant early bloomers like crocuses, hellebores, and daffodils to support pollinators.
Hedgerows: Maintain or plant hedgerows for nesting birds and shelter for mammals.
Herbs: Grow herbs like thyme and rosemary, which attract pollinators and offer shelter.

5. Avoid Disturbance

Quiet Zones: Leave areas of your allotment undisturbed to provide safe spaces for wildlife.
Check Before Clearing: Inspect compost heaps, leaf piles, and dense vegetation for resting animals.

6. Monitor and Record

Wildlife Diary: Keep track of sightings and behaviors to better understand your allotment’s ecosystem.
Citizen Science: Participate in wildlife monitoring projects to support conservation efforts.

Common Challenges and Solutions

1. Food Scarcity

Solution: Supplement natural food sources with feeders and fruit offerings.

2. Nesting Disturbance

Solution: Avoid pruning or clearing hedgerows and shrubs where birds may be nesting.

3. Frozen Water Sources

Solution: Regularly top up water sources with fresh water and remove any ice.

4. Predation Risks

Solution: Provide dense cover like shrubs or hedgerows to protect small animals from predators.

5. Pest Management

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What birds are nesting in March?

Answer: Robins, blue tits, and blackbirds are among the first to start nesting in March.

2. How can I attract early pollinators in March?

Answer: Plant nectar-rich flowers like crocuses, snowdrops, and hellebores to provide essential food for bees and butterflies.

3. Should I clean bird boxes in March?

Answer: If not cleaned earlier, do so at the start of March before nesting begins. Ensure boxes are dry and free of old material.

4. How can I make my pond amphibian-friendly?

Answer: Ensure shallow edges for spawning and add aquatic plants like water lilies to provide shelter and oxygen.

5. What should I do if I see a hedgehog during the day?

Answer: Hedgehogs are nocturnal; if active during the day, they may need help. Provide food (like wet cat or dog food) and water, and contact a wildlife rescue if they appear injured or weak.

6. Can I start planting wildflowers in March?

Answer: Yes, March is a great time to sow wildflower seeds, as the warming soil encourages germination.

7. How can I identify frog spawn?

Answer: Frog spawn appears as clumps of jelly-like eggs in shallow water, while toad spawn forms long chains.

8. What’s the best way to support ladybirds in March?

Answer: Allow aphids to remain on some plants as a food source and maintain log piles or leaf litter for shelter.

9. Is it safe to tidy my allotment in March?

Answer: Be mindful of nesting birds and resting wildlife. Check before clearing areas like compost heaps or dense vegetation.

10. How can I attract migratory birds to my allotment?

Answer: Provide fresh water, food, and safe nesting spots. Plant berry-producing shrubs to offer additional food sources.

Conclusion

March is a time of renewal and growth on your allotment, offering endless opportunities to support and observe wildlife. From providing food and shelter to planting nectar-rich flowers, small actions can make a significant impact on your local ecosystem. Watching birds nest, bees buzz, and frogs spawn brings the allotment to life, reminding us of the interconnectedness of nature. Embrace the joys of spring with the March Edition of Allotment Wildlife Watch, and play your part in creating a vibrant, thriving haven for wildlife and plants alike.

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

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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.

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