Your wildlife month

October can feel quiet and sombre, with many species entering hibernation. Keep an eye on your late-flowering perennials they can be a lifeline for bumblebees, butterflies and hoverflies still on the wing, some of which have a long journey back to continental Europe or Africa. Verbena bonariensis, rudbeckias and sedums are all great late-nectar plants, while ivy flowers are also popular.

The first autumn migrants, such as redwings and fieldfares, will arrive soon, lessening the blow of the departed swifts, swallows and house martins. In the meantime, prepare your garden for winter: clean and refill bird feeders, leave out water and plant berrybearing shrubs for next autumn.

The common blue damselfly is about 3cm long and found in watery habitats, such as garden ponds