A significant rise in wildlife admissions at RSPCA centres has prompted the charity to encourage people in the South to help protect local wildlife by making their gardens and green spaces more nature-friendly.
In 2023, the RSPCA admitted 10,209 wild animals across its wildlife centres in England—marking a 35% increase from the previous year.
In East Sussex, West Sussex, and Hampshire alone, there were 2,258 reported wildlife incidents, highlighting the growing pressure on rescue services.
How to Make Your Garden Wildlife-Friendly
To support struggling wildlife, the RSPCA has shared ten simple ways to create a safe and welcoming environment for animals:
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Let parts of your garden grow wild – Leaving areas untouched helps create a habitat for insects, which in turn supports birds and other wildlife.
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Avoid netting and put away sports nets – Animals can easily become entangled, leading to serious injury or death. Always store sports netting when not in use and avoid using netting to cover ponds, fruit, or vegetables.
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Cover drains and store watering cans upside down – Small animals can fall in and become trapped.
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Check before mowing, strimming, or lighting bonfires – Hedgehogs, frogs, and other creatures may be hiding in long grass or leaf piles. Always check before mowing or burning garden waste.
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Create natural shelters – Logs, compost, and leaf piles provide excellent hiding spots for hedgehogs and are havens for insects.
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Add a wildlife-friendly pond – Amphibians like frogs, toads, and newts rely on ponds for breeding. Ensure there’s a shallow slope or ramp so animals can get in and out safely.
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Install wildlife homes – Bird boxes, bat boxes, bee hotels, and hedgehog houses (hogitats) offer safe nesting and resting places. Instructions for building your own are available on the RSPCA website.
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Provide fresh water and food – Offer clean water and appropriate food, such as dog food for hedgehogs or seeds and grains for birds. Find feeding guidelines on the RSPCA website.
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Avoid harmful chemicals and pesticides – These can be dangerous to wildlife. Store any chemicals securely and opt for eco-friendly alternatives.
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Plant native species – Encourage pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies by growing a variety of native flowers and plants.
For more guidance on helping wildlife, visit the RSPCA website.
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