The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and the Wildlife Trusts have issued a 'reminder' to people to be mindful of wildlife when gardening.

The charities are suggesting that people consider garden wildlife when making their New Year's Resolutions for the year ahead. As growing numbers of species are becoming endangered wildlife conservation in gardens is becoming an important issue. The charities are appealing to city and country gardeners alike to make provisions to support local wildlife and make their green spaces more wildlife-friendly, no matter how big or small they may be.

The charities suggest three good methods of attracting wildlife - setting up bird-feeders and nest boxes, utilising roof terrace and balcony space with flowering window-boxes, and building a pond.

Morag Shuaib, The Wildlife Trusts' Big Wildlife Garden Awards Project Manager, says: "Gardens are part of a network of mini wildlife havens which link habitats across the UK. All are a vital source of shelter and food, especially in winter when many species need warm, dry spaces in which to bed down."