Wildlife friendly gardens don't have to be big and are still people friendly too!

Choosing the right plants can mean a garden full of beautiful butterflies and useful pollinating bees.

Those of you taking part in the RSPB Homes for Wildlife project will know a few small actions can make a world of difference.

Wildlife activity reaches its peak in May with many young birds newly out the nest and learning to survive on their own.

Early hedgehog babies may also be on the move and there will be countless insects all making the most of the milder and hopefully sunnier weather.

Towards the end of this month and into early June young blue tits fledge and leave the nest. If you have a nestbox keep watch from a safe distance, you might be lucky and see them emerge.

Like all babies they look vulnerable but the adults will still be around to keep an eye on them. And remember, if you do find a chick that looks like it has fallen out of a nest, just leave it.

The adults will almost certainly return and will do a better job of looking after it than we can.

Listen out for swifts this month – you will likely hear them before you see them as they come screaming into our skies! I think they look like boomerangs, and their wonderful flying displays are a joy to watch.

Lastly, if you want to venture further than your own garden there are so many beautiful walks available whether you want five minutes or a full day!

RSPB reserves are a good place to start and most are free of charge so a great day for the whole family.

Kate

For information on wildlife gardening and nature reserves visit www.rspb.org.uk.

For information on walking and ideas for complete beginners or experienced enthusiasts visit www.ramblers.org.uk.