Appeal to help birds make it through cold spell

THE Scottish SPCA today appealed to wildlife lovers to help birds survive the extended winter as snow and ice continues to grip parts of Scotland.

A spokeswoman for the animal welfare charity said Scots with gardens could help by leaving out food in their gardens during the cold spell and beyond and also by providing water.

The SSPCA has already rescued 137 birds this year, with 52 currently in its care. They include many adult birds found in poor condition and a growing number of weak chicks, caught out by the extremely cold weather.

She said: “The most recent casualties are four pigeon chicks found sheltering from the cold, ironically, in an ice rink in CumbernauldUnfortunately the chicks’ nest was disturbed by workmen so they are now being cared for at the Scottish SPCA’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre at Fishcross near Alloa.”

Colin Seddon, the centre manager, said: “Wild birds are really struggling at the moment mainly due to the snow making it difficult for them to find food and the cold temperatures are preventing insects from appearing.

“We are receiving a higher than usual number of adult birds and they are all generally weak and in poor condition due to lack of food.”

He continued: “The adverse weather will be having an impact on nesting, which is likely to be late and possibly not as successful as previous warmer winters, and this may result in reduced clutch sizes.

“We’re urging people to help the birds by feeding them throughout the cold spell and even through the warmer months to come. One of the most important ways of helping is by providing fresh water for them to drink and bathe in.”