GARDENERS are being advised of several ways in order to look after wildlife this winter.

Animal lovers in Dorset can turn their gardens into an oasis for squirrels, hedgehogs, and other creatures before the winter chill sets in.

A spokesman for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: “As the days grow shorter many species are preparing for the winter. Gardeners can play a vital part in helping local wildlife survive the harsh weather."

  • Squirrels

Collect horse chestnuts from common land and leave a pile in a tree, on a garden structure or at the edge of the lawn Other great supplements for their natural diet include pine and hazelnuts, seeds such as sunflower and sweet goodies like apples and carrots.

Like most autumn animals, squirrels will also appreciate a bowl of water being left in the garden, especially if there are no natural sources nearby.

Another means to help squirrels is to provide a place that they can hide from predators, especially in urban areas where many trees have been felled over the decades.

  • Hedgehogs

The later hedgehogs are out beyond October, the further diminished their food sources will be, so it is advised to leave a plate of food on the lawn at night to assist their survival. Hedgehogs will happily munch on tinned dog or cat food (or crushed pet biscuits), as long as it isn’t fish-based; additional water will be much appreciated too.

  • Spiders

Provide shelter from bad weather; this could be as simple as cutting an entrance into a shoebox or piling some old wood. They will be thankful for a source of water

  • Birds

Birds will be attracted by the opportunity to drink, bathe and feed