This month there will be a noticeable reduction in the amount of daylight as we slip into autumn, but its not all doom and gloom, the wildlife can always brighten us up.

I think 'mellow' is a good word to describe our gardens this month as the wildlife settles back into a routine of sorts following the hustle and bustle of the last few months.

Birds will gradually return to gardens seeking out familiar habitat and any feeders, tables or bird baths that we provide.

Don't worry if they still seem absent though. Their behaviour patters are dictated by the weather and natural food supply so they will arrive in their droves eventually.

Many flowers will be at their most glorious this month and as well as brightening up our outside space they are great food sources for insects and birds.

Flowers like aster and michaelmas daisy will also be attracting butterflies such as peacocks and tortoiseshells and who knows, perhaps a hummingbird hawkmoth might put in an appearance.

Damselflies and dragonflies will certainly be making the most of any last minute warm sunshine but not for too much longer.

September is a wonderful month to get out and about, especially with an Indian summer predicted and some late summer temperatures.

RSPB nature reserves are a great day out, whether you are a wildlife expert or just fancy a nice stroll and some fresh air.

I went to Saltholme near Teeside last year and I definitely want to work my round some of the 200 reserves the RSPB has to offer.

I hope you enjoy the last of the summer and are standing by to feed all those hungry beaks again…

Kate