A CHARITY that aims to protect birds and their habitats is urging residents in Worcestershire to think about different ways they can help wildlife in their gardens.

The Royal Society Protection of Birds (RSPB) is launching Homes for Wildlife, a new activity inspiring people to make a real difference for the animals that share the open spaces closest to us.

It is hoped thousands of people will support the initiative by following free wildlife-gardening advice to help them transform their homes and gardens into wildlife havens.

The RSPB is also staging Feed the Birds Day encouraging people to leave tasty treats out in their gardens on Saturday, October 27. Richard Bashford, from the RSPB, said: "We want people to let their gardens go a bit wild - just leaving a small area of long grass will encourage insects and provide food for birds. Planting shrubs and building a pond will also be extremely beneficial."

Mr Bashford said people do not even need to have a traditional garden to be able to help. Those living in flats can put up a window feeder or install window box with nectaring plants, while those who have a courtyard garden can put up bird tables or encourage climbing plan-ts to grow up walls. People are also being told they can spice up a bird's diet by putting out cheese, fruit, rice, bread or even non-salty bacon alongside more traditional foods like nuts and seeds.

Mr Bashford said: "You really don't need to be an expert to take part in Homes for Wildlife and you can do as little or as much as you have time for. Just providing a little food, water and shelter can really help birds and turn your garden into a wildlife haven for you to enjoy."

For more information about Homes for Wildlife visit www.rspb.org.uk/ hfw and everybody who registers to take part in the project will receive an information pack.