A NATURE group in the North-East is urging people to spare a thought for garden birds and small mammals during the colder winter months.

Northumberland Wildlife Trust said low temperatures with frost or snow on the ground make it extremely difficult for many species to find natural food.

Birds need to feed more frequently, to maintain energy levels to survive, and require a regular supply of high energy foods and bowls of everyday items found in kitchen cupboards, such as suet, low cost peanuts, seeds, apples and dried fruit, plus a bowl of fresh water will help many birds and small mammals.

The trust has said it is also important to ensure bird feeders are topped up regularly and try to provide a fresh, ice-free supply of water for drinking and bathing.

Head of conservation Steve Lowe said: “All too often when it’s cold and snowy we dash into the house where it’s warm and don’t venture out until the next day; but wildlife can’t do that, they have to fight to survive, so come on everybody, put an extra layer on and nip outside for a couple of minutes and give them a helping hand.”