Find out the answers to all this seasons topical wildlife questions. If you have a question then why not contact WildCall on 01273 494777 or email WildCall

Qu: For Christmas I received a bird table, what should I think about when putting it in the garden?

A: Ideally the table should be in an open spot where the birds are able to see all around them, so that they can see they are safe from predators. This means that the table should not be placed too close to sites where cats can ambush them. This includes fences, bushes and trees from which cats could leap. It is also best to choose an area that is not consistently interrupted by human traffic i.e. the back door. However you do need to ensure you can still see the table otherwise it takes away the fun of watching them. Other factors to consider include the aspect of the table i.e. not to much cold wind or sun. Finally provide a lookout for the birds - a small bush a couple of metres from the table gives the birds somewhere safe to perch while they look to see if it is safe to feed, wait to 'queue up' for a place on the table or need to dash to if disturbed. Wherever you intend to place your bird table make sure you keep it clean by washing it down every couple of weeks.

Download our factsheet How to make a Bird Food Cake

coal tit / Dave Kilbey

Qu: I have found it really hard to find any mistletoe this December, can I grow it in my own garden?

A: Mistletoe conjures up thoughts of a cheeky Christmas kiss but sadly this plant is diminishing in the wild due to loss of habitat and exploitation. You can help the conservation of this plant by encouraging its growth in your garden.

To plant your kiss you need to have a suitable host tree, mistletoe’s most frequent host trees are apple, pear, lime and poplar. It has also been found growing on field maple, hawthorn, and even Honeysuckle.

Decide where to put your berries. This should be at least 1.5m up the tree, and on the side or underside of a branch that is over 20mm in diameter

Pick your berries - white, plump ones are best. If you picked them earlier and stored them in a dry place you need to rehydrate them in a bowl of water for a couple of hours.

The next step is to rub the berries onto a branch, squeezing out the seed along with some of the sticky substance (this acts like a glue). There is debate as to whether should cut the bark you are going to rub the berries onto, while it may increase germination success it may expose the tree to disease. Don’t forget to mark where you have rubbed your seed.

Don’t forget to let us know if you spot wild mistletoe while out on a winters walk.

Qu: When is the best time of year to prune my hedge?

A: January to February is the best time of year to carry out pruning work in your garden. This time of year is suggested because the hedges have less to offer. The berries will have been eaten by the birds over the wintering period and nesting season has not started yet. We would always recommend that you check areas for breeding birds before cutting any vegetation. The nesting season for birds generally runs from March to the end of August. You should avoid carrying out work which will disturb birds during this period as this is an offence under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Copyright Sussex Wildlife Trust January 2009
WildCall Factsheet disclaimer: All information contained within Sussex Wildlife Trust WildCall factsheets is to the best of our knowledge true and accurate at the time of printing. The Sussex Wildlife Trust will not accept any responsibility or liability for any losses or damage resulting from following the advice given.