Worcestershire has been named one of the UK’s top counties for garden birdwatching.
The county ranked 10th in a nationwide study by Vine House Farm, which analysed locations across the country to identify the best areas for spotting garden birds.
The research considered the number of bird species recorded, breeding bird populations, tree equity scores, and the number of calm or dry days each year.
Worcestershire recorded 262 bird species, including 116 breeding species.
The county also scored 88 for tree equity and enjoys around 257 calm or dry days annually—conditions that support healthy bird populations.
A spokesperson leading the study said: “To attract birds to your garden, you need to ensure that you are providing food, water and shelter.
"In terms of food, providing a range of food can increase the number of species that visit your garden, as can varying how you offer the food. Use hanging feeders and scatter food on the ground to meet the foraging needs of different birds. As well as providing supplemental food, growing berry or seed bearing plants in your garden is a great way to attract birds."
Yorkshire topped the list, followed by Norfolk and Kent.
Other counties ranked above Worcestershire included Dorset, Suffolk, Hampshire, Northumberland, Lincolnshire, and Cambridgeshire.
The study found that locations with higher numbers of bird species and breeding birds tended to rank better overall.
Favourable weather was also important, as birds can forage more easily and expend less energy in calm, dry conditions.
Experts say Worcestershire’s mix of diverse birdlife, good tree cover, and suitable weather make it a prime location for enjoying wildlife from the comfort of the garden.
Following the results, wildlife specialists at Vine House Farm offered advice for residents hoping to attract more birds to their gardens.
They said providing food, water, and shelter is essential for creating a bird-friendly environment.
A variety of foods can draw in different species, while a mix of hanging feeders and ground feeding areas caters to their varied feeding habits.
Experts also recommend planting berry-producing and seed-bearing plants to offer a natural food source.
A shallow bird bath placed in a quiet spot can give birds a safe place to drink and bathe.
Dense hedges and shrubs offer important shelter, and nest boxes in north or east-facing locations can encourage birds to breed and roost.
The study reinforces Worcestershire’s reputation as a haven for garden wildlife and highlights the opportunity for residents to enjoy birdwatching at home.
The advice from Vine House Farm offers practical steps for residents to help support garden birds and make the most of living in one of the UK’s best counties for wildlife.
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