hiya bucks Amersham, Beaconsfield, Chesham, Gerrards Cross, Missenden November 2018 | Page 10

‘CHARMING’ FINCHES PART THREE Following on from my previous two articles, the second reason why finches regularly visit Millstream Fork is because they feel safe. Whilst the wildlife garden is visited by a pair of sparrowhawks, there are no other predators for finches to avoid. This includes any lovable ‘moggies’. Unfortunately, pet cats often kill an enormous amount of garden wildlife. Even if they do not kill very often, a single cat may harass wild animals, and so prevent many potential visitors from frequenting the site. This is a great shame for any wildlife garden or animal feeding station, as birds are creatures of habit. When birds get used to doing something such as feeding at any one place, they will continue to do so until there is a specific reason why they should not. However, if the habit is not allowed to develop first, it means that a great opportunity to get a beneficial cycle on track is lost. A simple bell on a collar could help warn finches and all other wildlife of the cat’s whereabouts. However, whilst this alarm can help, it is not guaranteed to solve the problem. Not all finches do the same things, and there are some behavioural differences between them. ALLSCAPES CONSTRUCTION AND LANDSCAPING • Paving and brickwork • New driveways • Fencing and decking • Block paving/tarmac/ shingle • Tree pruning/removal • Turfing and planting • Shed/concrete bases • Specialise in child friendly gardens Fully insured Call Mark on 01494 300 005 or mobile 07814 646294 [email protected] www.allscapesgardens.co.uk 10 | hiyabucks.com