Don't cut hedges yet, pleads RSPB

Gardeners and councils were urged yesterday not trim back hedges, bushes and trees yet as it could deprive wildlife of much-needed supplies of food.

The RSPB wildlife charity said tidying up gardens too soon could starve birds and other creatures of vital fruits and berries still covering plants. And it could even disturb late nesting birds such as collared doves and pigeons.

It also appealed to local authorities to delay cutting back hedgerows and plants after receiving numerous calls from the public complaining that long stretches were being trimmed almost bare.

Val Osborne of the RSPB said: "If you can wait to cut your foliage, please do. Chopping down hedges, bushes and trees can wipe out a vital food source for birds and other creatures."