People with robins in their garden issued urgent warning

Gardeners are being advised to refrain from one particular activity this Christmas to avoid frightening away robins. The bird, a UK favourite, is often seen in gardens during the festive season, easily identified by its bright red breast.

However, a single change in garden maintenance during winter can disrupt their nesting habits. Despite being quite tolerant of nest disturbances, pruning plants can significantly affect the robin's nesting area.

These birds are known to nest in unusual places, often close to the ground or under bushes. The female robin constructs a cup-shaped nest using various materials such as moss, grass, dead leaves and sticks.

Get the latest news straight to your phone by joining us on WhatsApp

Breeding season can start as early as January for these winter birds, but it usually begins around March. Robins typically lay their eggs between mid-April and mid-August, with a clutch consisting of about four-six eggs.

It takes only 13 days for the chicks to hatch, who then leave the nest roughly two weeks later. As fierce defenders of their territory, robins can become territorial if pruning exposes their nests, reports the Express.

They are commonly found in woodlands, gardens, parks and hedgerows, where they sing to defend their space.

Homeowners are also being urged to be mindful of where they place bird feeders. The Woodland Trust said: "Ideally, bird feeders should be positioned around 2m away from dense vegetation. This will reduce the chance of a surprise attack by cats, and means birds can still easily retreat to cover if needed."

The red-breasted birds, often seen out of their nests, are known for their tame nature and can be easily spotted perched on tree branches. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, seeds, insects, and earthworms.

They are a common sight in gardens, where they are frequently seen searching for worms among the plants. Despite their association with Christmas, Robins are actually vulnerable to harsh winters.

These fiery little creatures can lose up to 10% of their body weight during a single freezing winter night. Hence, it's crucial for them to build up their fat reserves.

Bird enthusiasts can assist in this by providing bird food.