ACTIONPLAN

For wildlife, this is the bleakest season. Days are short and cold, food is scarce and, in hard weather, birds and animals may even have trouble finding water.

If you have a pond, make sure the water is accessible. Break ice, if necessary, or put out drinking water. replenish bird baths regularly.

Small birds need cover for warmth and to hide from predators such as sparrowhawks and cats. If possible, delay cutting herbaceous plants or pruning shrubs until the end of February.

Hedgehogs usually hibernate — or semi-hibernate — in deep leaf litter under shrubs, so take care not to disturb those when cleaning up. During mild spells, they may begin to stir. Frogs can also be coaxed into premature wakefulness by freakishly mild weather. Some even spawned last February in my mini-pond. If you see frogs on the move, it’s best to leave them undisturbed.

GIVE YOUR GRASS A BREAK

LawnS often become waterlogged in midwinter. That makes the surface softer and, with passing feet, the grass can become rutted and muddy. So keep off the lawn where possible. Take special care with ‘ pinch points’, where many feet pass.

If parts are already muddy and rutted, take no action now. Try to keep off the grass, though. Then, when days lengthen and the ground begins to dry, rake the scuffed turf level. Use a roller to firm it down, or gently press the raked areas with your feet.