When pruning hedges or shrubs in your garden, pause to consider the wildlife living there. Even in August, often considered the end of the bird breeding season, active nests may still be present. Birds like blackbirds, robins, and dunnocks can raise multiple broods in a year. They might still be caring for young hidden in your garden’s foliage. A quick, careful check before pruning can prevent significant harm to a bird family.

The best way to check for a nest is to scan the hedge from a distance. Look for signs like a small cup of twigs, moss, or grass deep inside the branches. You may see an adult bird repeatedly entering and leaving, or hear the hungry chirping of chicks. If you find a nest with eggs or young, postpone pruning until the young have fledged. Disturbing a nest can cause parents to abandon their chicks, leaving them at risk.

This simple act of looking before you leap is a cornerstone of an easy-care, wildlife-friendly garden. By being mindful of the natural cycles happening around you, you create a space that not only looks good but also actively supports the creatures that share it. Postponing a trim for a few weeks to allow a brood to fledge is a small sacrifice that provides immeasurable benefits. It protects vulnerable birds and strengthens your garden’s role as a vital haven for nature. This thoughtful approach transforms garden chores from a simple task into a genuine act of conservation, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world just outside your door.