When it gets cold outside: How to properly support wildlife

When temperatures drop and nature dons its winter coat, many native wild animals find themselves in a challenging situation. While we humans prepare for the cold season with warm homes, light, and ample supplies, it becomes increasingly difficult for birds, hedgehogs, squirrels, and small mammals to find food, water, and safe havens. That’s why it’s worth taking a closer look at how we can meaningfully support wildlife—without disturbing them or interfering with their natural rhythms. With just a few simple steps, you can adapt your balcony, garden, or patio to help animals get through the winter months stress-free.

Why wildlife needs our help in winter

Winter presents three major challenges for wildlife: less food, limited space to move around, and unpredictable weather. Frosty nights, snow cover, or long periods of rain make foraging considerably more difficult. At the same time, human-designed landscapes, smooth garden surfaces, and tidied-up green spaces deprive many animals of important natural shelter. By consciously offering small acts of help, you can specifically fill these gaps and ensure that native species get through the cold season healthy and safe.

Three simple steps that help right away

1. Set up feeding stations properly

Many animals expend significantly more energy in winter, so they also need more food. Birds in particular benefit from sheltered, dry feeding stations. It is important to choose high-quality food without salt, sugar, or artificial additives. A covered feeding station that is cleaned daily reduces the risk of disease while providing a reliable gathering spot.

2. Keep water available

Water is often underestimated in winter—but it is vital. Frozen puddles and rain barrels make it difficult for wildlife to access water. A shallow bowl of fresh water, ideally in a sheltered spot, can make all the difference. In freezing conditions, a frost-proof tray or a heating element is recommended to keep the water surface open.

3. Provide shelter

Many animals, especially hedgehogs and certain bird species, depend on places to retreat. Even small measures like a pile of leaves, a stack of wood, or a birdhouse help create a safe haven. It is important not to rearrange or clean up these shelters during hibernation so as not to disturb the animals.

What wild animals need most right now

Not all animals have the same needs, and many behaviors may seem surprising at first glance. Knowing which species needs what kind of support makes it easier to choose the right measures. While birds primarily need energy-rich food, hedgehogs depend on sheltered spots and high-quality, protein-rich food. Small mammals, in turn, need safe paths to reach feeding stations without danger. Understanding these differences helps you design your garden or balcony optimally.

Overview: How you can help wildlife get through the winter

Areas you should intentionally leave natural

A particularly effective way to help wildlife in winter is to deliberately leave certain areas of your garden or property untouched. Many animal species depend on natural structures that are rarely found in well-tended gardens. Piles of leaves under shrubs offer hedgehogs sheltered spots for their winter hibernation, while small mammals and insects find refuge in brush piles or stacks of wood. Even spent perennials, tall grass, or untended corners are valuable habitats that provide food and cover. Those who do not remove these natural areas but leave them intentionally create important refuges without having to put in much effort. Especially in winter, when peace and shelter are vital for survival, such natural zones are gratefully accepted by many animal species and support a healthy, stable ecosystem in your own garden.

How animal-friendly spaces can help

In winter, it becomes more difficult for many animals to move safely from one sheltered area to the next. Smooth, open, or heavily paved surfaces act as barriers and cause small animals to expend unnecessary energy. However, simple measures can transform the outdoor area into a better-connected habitat. Ground-hugging plants, small passages under fences, or intentionally left-standing hedge strips provide protected paths that make it easier for animals to reach feeding sites, water, or shelters. Such natural corridors make it easier for wildlife to move around energy-efficiently, even in snow and frost—an advantage that can be crucial, especially during long winters.

Protecting wildlife from dangers in the garden

In addition to cold and lack of food, hidden dangers in your own garden also pose a risk to wildlife. Open light wells, rain barrels, slippery tubs, or steep basement stairs can become traps. In winter, when animals may be weakened and disoriented, this risk increases even further. Even simple measures such as grilles on light wells, lids on barrels, or branches placed at an angle to help them climb out prevent accidents and help animals navigate safely through outdoor areas. By identifying and addressing these potential hazards, you can create a much safer environment for hedgehogs, birds, and small mammals.

Conclusion: Small gestures – big impact for our wildlife

Winter presents new challenges for wildlife every year, but even simple measures can make a decisive difference. By providing food, water, and shelter while ensuring hygiene, space, and a natural environment, you make a valuable contribution to species conservation. Even small balconies can become important havens if they are intentionally designed to be winter-friendly. With a little care, you can create a safe space for birds, hedgehogs, and many other animal species—and help them get through the cold season safely and in good health.