- Categories:
- Animal
- Tags:
- Awareness
- Where:
- United Kingdom
- Date change rule:
- Every May 31 through June 6
- Holiday emoji:
- 🦋
Garden Wildlife Week runs from May 31 to June 6, spotlighting the diverse creatures that share our green spaces. This week-long observance encourages us to appreciate and protect the birds, insects, and small mammals thriving in our gardens. Learn simple ways to create wildlife-friendly habitats, reduce environmental impact, and foster a deeper connection with nature.
Want to sponsor Garden Wildlife Week? Learn how
Expected Garden Wildlife Week Deals
As a cause-driven observance, Garden Wildlife Week inspires engagement rather than commercial deals. However, many conservation organizations and wildlife charities partner with retailers for fundraising. Look for donation match programs at garden centers like B&Q or Homebase, where a portion of sales on bird feeders, insect hotels, or native plants may benefit wildlife trusts. Pet supply stores such as Pets at Home might run campaigns to support local animal rescues. Online retailers like RSPB Shop and Wildlife Trusts Shop offer branded merchandise and educational materials, with proceeds directly supporting their conservation efforts. We will update this page with confirmed live campaigns as May 31 approaches.
Platform Guide for Garden Wildlife Week
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #GardenWildlifeWeek. Share photos and videos of the wildlife you spot in your garden, from buzzing bees to visiting birds.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #GardenWildlifeWeek. Join conversations about local conservation efforts and share tips for creating wildlife-friendly spaces.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #GardenWildlifeWeek. Share educational resources and invite friends to participate in local wildlife events.
Garden Wildlife Week Hero
David Attenborough
History of Garden Wildlife Week
Some urban wildlife, such as house mice, have evolved to be synanthropic and throughout history, have become entirely dependent on human habitats. A testament to this is the wide range of synanthropic species of animals that have grown so much that they are unable to survive extreme weather, such as experienced in the winter season, without the shelter provided by human settlements. Animals that inhabit urban environments have different morphology, physiology, and behavior as compared to animals that inhabit more rural areas. Phenotypic development in wildlife offspring can be influenced by hormone-mediated maternal effects. For example, the deposition of androgens into their eggs by female birds tends to affect many different aspects of the development and phenotype of that bird’s offspring. Environmental factors capable of contributing to these developments include nest predation risk, breeding density, food abundance, and parasite prevalence.
In a study comparing antibody and maternal hormone concentrations in eggs between an urban population and a forest population of European blackbirds, clear differences were found in yolk androgen concentrations between both populations. Different types of urban areas support different kinds of wildlife. A general feature of bird species that adapt well to urban environments is the fact that they tend to possess bigger brains, perhaps allowing them to be more behaviorally adaptable to the more volatile and foreign urban environment.
Garden Wildlife Week timeline
The first wildlife garden is created in the Netherlands.
The National Wildlife Federation is created.
The first-ever National Wildlife Week takes place.
The Garden Wildlife Movement is established.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Garden Wildlife Week
Local businesses can embrace Garden Wildlife Week by promoting sustainable practices and supporting local ecosystems. Garden centers can host workshops on creating pollinator-friendly gardens or offer discounts on native plants and organic pest control. Hardware stores might highlight bird feeders, insect hotels, and water features. Cafes and restaurants with outdoor spaces can ensure their patios are wildlife-friendly, perhaps featuring local produce to reduce environmental impact and raising awareness for the week with signage.
Garden Wildlife Week FAQs
When is Garden Wildlife Week?
In 2027, Garden Wildlife Week will be observed from Monday, May 31, to Sunday, June 6. It’s a fantastic opportunity to dedicate time to enhancing your garden’s biodiversity and supporting local wildlife.
What kind of wildlife can be found in a garden?
From microscopic organisms in the soil to larger visitors like deer in rural settings, garden wildlife is incredibly diverse. You might encounter pollinators vital for plant health, beneficial insects that control pests, and a variety of birds and mammals seeking food, water, and shelter. Creating diverse habitats within your garden can attract an even wider range of species.
How many people participate in garden wildlife activities?
While exact participation numbers for Garden Wildlife Week itself are hard to quantify, the broader movement to support garden wildlife is significant. Surveys often show a high percentage of homeowners actively trying to attract birds and insects to their gardens, reflecting a growing awareness and commitment to local biodiversity.
What is the biggest threat to garden wildlife?
Beyond habitat destruction, climate change also poses a significant threat, altering migration patterns, food availability, and breeding cycles for many species. Additionally, invasive non-native species can outcompete native wildlife for resources, further impacting delicate garden ecosystems.
How to Observe Garden Wildlife Week
Tailor your garden to accommodate some wildlife
You can touch up your garden in such a way as to accommodate some garden wildlife in celebration of Garden Wildlife Week. Include some things you know the critters like, and watch your garden flourish.
Do some research about garden wildlife
A lot of research is being done regarding the biological factors affecting the adaptability of wildlife to urban living. Do some reading about it too!
Join the conversation online
Share everything you know about garden wildlife online using the hashtag #GardenWildlifeWeek. Spread awareness about this important week.
5 Interesting Facts About Garden Wildlife
Butterflies taste and smell with their feet
Butterflies depend on their feet to taste and smell.
Parsley purportedly cures migraines
Parsley has been said to cure migraines.
The gas plant emits flammable gas
The plant known as the ‘gas plant’ actually emits flammable gas!
Pumpkin flowers are edible
The flowers on a pumpkin plant are edible.
Bluebell flower juice can produce glue
The juice from a Bluebell flower was once used to make glue.
Why Garden Wildlife Week is Important
It is ecologically beneficial
Wildlife gardening is ecologically beneficial to the environment. We love it for this!
It allows wildlife to move easily
Wildlife gardening allows for easy wildlife migration in urban areas. See what you can do this week to contribute!
It allows wildlife populations to connect
Wildlife gardening helps wildlife populations connect better. Read up on the different populations that live in your area and how they interact with each other.
Garden Wildlife Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | May 25–31 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2027 | May 31–June 6 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2028 | May 29–June 4 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2029 | May 28–June 3 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2030 | May 27–June 2 | Monday–Sunday |
Social Media Tips for Garden Wildlife Week
Individuals
Creators
Brands