Orchard homes get involved in Big Garden Birdwatch
Did you know, the RSPB (the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) was an all-women movement created all the way back in 1889? Since then, the movement has been awarded a Royal Charter and passed numerous nature protection campaigns! Here at Orchard, we love getting involved with animals and nature conservation in any way that we can, so participating in Big Garden Birdwatch 2026 was a given.
It comes as no surprise that one of the homes to get involved in the event was Riverdale Care Home in Chesterfield. Activities Coordinator Wendy is not only creative, but also very passionate about utilising the home’s outdoor spaces to their full potential.
Last year, they made beautiful China cup bird feeders, and this year they have used toilet roll holders, peanut butter and wild bird seed to make delicious snack turrets for the birds – what an excellent way to recycle the cardboard.
“It was a sticky and messy activity, but one which the residents loved getting involved in as always. We’ve been watching out the windows as the birds come by for their lunch!” said Wendy.
Another home which created fabulous bird feeders was Middleton Park Lodge Nursing Home in Leeds - they decided to add string and hang them from the trees in a fun, decorative way.
The residents were very proud of their creations and love taking part in artistic activities – they’re such a creative bunch!
Meanwhile at Green Park Nursing Home, Activities Coordinators Lisa and Sharon took a different approach as everyone got their aprons and palettes at the ready.
Lisa told us: “Since the ladies and gents love painting so much and enjoy being hands-on, we decided to incorporate garden creatures and scenery into our masterpieces to celebrate the Big Garden Birdwatch; we even included a fantastic little robin!”
Animal visits are always a big hit amongst both residents and team members, so Thornton Hall & Lodge Care Home in Liverpool used the event as a perfect excuse to meet friendly owl Breeze and learn all about his beautiful species and how to care for them.
One resident in particular who enjoyed the interaction with Breeze and the other animals on the day was Dorothy – she found the afternoon both engaging and fascinating!
Activities Coordinator Clair at Green Lodge Care Home is always looking for ways to get involved in the local community and create ties and relationships, so she used this event as an opportunity to get creative with pupils from the local school.
Home Manager Kelly told us: “The residents and children had a lovely time making lovely acorn bird feeders together – these intergenerational links are so important for us and the school. Everyone learns a lot from each other!”
Well done to all homes for going to such great efforts for the Big Garden Birdwatch, we can’t wait to see what they get up to as the weather gets warmer! If you’d like more information on any of our wonderful homes, then take a look here today.
