WINTER is a tough time for wild birds, but as spring approaches we should expect to hear more tweeting in our gardens.

One of the UK’s leading home and garden retailers, Wilko, is inviting people to share their best wild bird photos in its annual competition, to capture the best feathered friends.

Wilko is inviting people to share their best wild bird pictures for the chance to feature in its 2021 Wild Bird Calendar and win one of 12 Wilko gift cards, worth £100.

Daniel Bingham, senior pets buyer for Wilko, offers some practical advice.

"Birds feed every day and don’t store energy well, so one or two bad days in cold weather or without food can be very dangerous for them," he said.

"Put out a good selection of food in feeders or on tables to attract birds to your garden – things like fat balls are nutritious and high in energy - perfect to help them maintain weight and stay fuelled.

“Put some soft food down for the songbirds who can’t reach the feeders. suet blocks and pellets work particularly well as they give the birds a great energy boost and plenty of calories.

“Don’t forget to provide fresh water.

"Ponds, puddles and other water sources may freeze over, making them inaccessible to birds.

"Birds can be timid so you’ll need to be patient, build up trust by sharing plenty of treats and you could soon be rewarded with the perfect wild bird shot”.

For further information and advice, visit www.homes.rspb.org.uk

The Wilko wild bird competition runs until Friday, April 3 and all photographs should be taken in a garden or outdoor setting and must have been taken by the entrant.

Entries should be emailed to WildBirdCompetition@wearebrazenpr.com