Thanks to everyone who entered the bird bath competition, I have really enjoyed reading your entries! Whilst some people simply named the bird they were hoping to attract, others sent me little stories explaining their choice, all of which were lovely.
The lucky winner was Adrian from Farnborough, who will shorlty be receiving his prize from the lovely people at Love Thy Space. Those of you who didn’t win this time can, of course, buy one of these lovely recycled glass bird baths for £25.
I thought you would be interested to see which birds had been chosen:
Blue tits were very popular, with their colourful plummage and cheeky personalities. A lot of people were concerned that they are not as common in gardens as they once were – fond memories of feathered childhood friends mean they are sadly missed.
The perky robin came in second, mainly because they are bold and will come and keep gardeners company when there’s the chance of worms being dug up. Robin red breast also reminded several entrants of loved ones who are no longer with us.
A lot of people wanted to attract a finch, although several different types were chosen. The tiny and shy wren was also a bird that many people hoped to draw out into the garden, but they love to hug the shadows under the hedge.
And there were a few entries from people who would like to attract larger birds to their garden, who wouldn’t find this delicate bird bath much of a draw! Kingfishers, a heron and woodpeckers are an unusual sight in most urban gardens (although I have seen a heron on nearby rooftops!).
It is perhaps encouraging that few people felt the need to attract blackbirds and sparrows – maybe it means that these characters are already present in many gardens and aren’t finding modern living too much of a strain.
Meanwhile, the Guardian has been looking at how you can attract some more unusual birds into your garden.