Water the birds!

Bill Oddie's asking us to think of wildlife and put out fresh water for birds to drink and bathe. "Water the birds!" says Bill.

"I'm not suggesting you hose down Blackbirds and Robins. That's NOT the kind of watering I'm encouraging! No. It's as basic as this: provide fresh drinking and bathing water for birds, daily if you can, and you'll make life easier for them. You'll enjoy watching them splash around. It's great fun, and it costs pennies. Get the kids involved.

"If you haven't got a bird bath, go out and get one. Please! Or use a shallow dish/plate, ensure you make filling it part of your daily regime. Clean it regularly, too, you'll be awash with happy birds," says Bill.

Birds bathe to keep clean and also to keep their feathers in good condition. A few species, like Starling and House Sparrow, like to bathe in groups. It's great to see eight or more birds bathing at the same time! Get the camera out. Bill's asking you to share your photos on twitter, #waterthebirds.

"We know it's only days before the weather changes. But providing fresh water, daily, is a great habit to succumb to as birds need watering all year round - even in winter!"

(EDITOR: It is best to use tap water rather than from a water-butt.)