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Robins, commonly associated with the colder months, are in fact found throughout Ireland all year long, though they face different challenges across different seasons.

For instance, their main food source, earthworms, dig deeper underground when temperatures climb and conditions turn dry, making it difficult for robins to find them. Sustenance becomes scarce again during winter, when seeds and berries are less abundant and the soil may be frozen solid.

Investing time and energy into providing food for these fragile birds can dramatically improve their chances of survival and ensure they continue visiting your gardens throughout the year.

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And there's reportedly one specific tree that will guarantee their return to your garden borders.

The serviceberry tree produces fruit during summer and remains a favoured option for the humble robin, according to All About Birds. Wild Ones describes the tree as a "four-season winner," noting that it "is a favourite of both native landscapers and bird lovers".

The website highlighted that the tree features a "froth of delicate white blossoms in early spring, luscious blueberries by June, apricot to reddish bronze fall colour, and silver-grey bark for winter interest," reports Wales Online.

It added: "Birds descend in droves to feed on ripening serviceberries... [lots of] species of birds have been documented feeding on these delicious fruits. Without question, serviceberries are one of the top plants for birds."

However, if you also keep a bird feeder, stay alert as shrubs, trees and even flower borders can offer perfect hiding spots for cats, and most birds won't feel safe if a feeding station is too close to the ground or next to any vegetation.

Positioning a bird feeder near plants can stress birds and make them less likely to return to your garden, whilst also potentially harming your outdoor space.

Setting up a bird feeder near your flowerbeds or crops could expose the greenery to bird droppings, which can increase the risk of bacteria, disease or other germs infecting plants.

It's wise to place your bird feeder in a shady spot in your garden to keep birds cool, but ensure it's far from plants and even fences and sheds to prevent cats from reaching it.

Robins also enjoy fruits, sunflower seeds, crushed peanuts, but they particularly love mealworms, so stocking these will attract them to your garden.

Providing robins with a reliable food source now boosts their chances of staying healthy and surviving once the colder weather arrives. Taking the time to assist them now will ensure your garden becomes a favourite haunt for them.

Plant this one tree in your garden and robins will visit it all year round