As enthusiastic naturalists themselves, the Vickers family
are committed to supporting our local wildlife. We at Dunscar
have been planting hedges, trees and shrubs throughout our business
history and transformed an empty field into a haven for wildlife.
Over 80 species of bird have been sighted here, including a
kingfisher on our irrigation pit. We have also seen here newts
(crested and smooth), stoats, hedgehogs and even water voles.
With the increasing urbanisation
of the countryside and intensification of farming much of our
wildlife is becoming increasingly dependent on private gardens.
Trees and shrubs not only provide safe perches for roosting
and nesting but also food in the form of insects, berries and
seeds. At Dunscar we stock a wide range of products to encourage
wildlife into your garden such as hedgehog boxes, bird tables
and an extensive range of bird care products. You will also
find groupings of plants that have been specially selected to
attract birds, butterflies and bees into a garden.
The Vickers family are
keen to pass on their own love of wildlife to future generations
and accordingly at Dunscar we try to inspire children to develop
an interest in gardening and wildlife. For example we regularly
organise wildlife related competitions and activities, and stock
gardening and nature activity products as well as a wide range
of wildlife books, mini gardening tools and gifts for our youngest
customers.
TIPS FROM THE BRITISH
TRUST FOR ORNITHOLOGY FOR WILD BIRD CARE DURING THE SUMMER (SPONSORED
BY GARDMAN)
Continued feeding of wild birds in Summer is necessary to
aid the following:
o Ensure adult birds are in good condition for breeding
o Supplement adult birds’ diet to aid feeding of fledglings
o Improve the survival rate of young birds after they have left the nest
o Extend the breeding season of some species to allow further broods to be
produced
o Do not feed birds dry bread and hard fats in Summer
o To prevent young birds choking on whole peanuts always use a mesh feeder
o To maintain healthy birds keep bird tables and feeders clean by washing frequently
with a mild disinfectant solution
