Winter can often be regarded as a few months of perpetual greyness until springtime. However, if you spend some time outside you can see that this is far from the truth. Winter in the UK can transform the natural world into a magical landscape, filled with unique signs to mark the season’s arrival.

1. Seasons greetings from feathered friends

During the winter, the UK is a key destination for many migratory birds, both as a refuge from harsher climates as well as a layover point during their migration. Species such as redwings, fieldfares and waxwings come from Iceland and Scandinavia and are commonly spotted in hedgerows feeding on the berries of hawthorn, cotoneaster and rowan.

2. Hibernation stations

Several of our native animals use hibernation to survive the winter. The process involves the animal’s metabolism slowing down to a rate where only just enough energy is used to keep the blood flowing and sustain body heat. Hazel dormice and hedgehogs can build up their body weight by over 30% and usually choose logs or leaf piles to hunker down for the winter in. Other animals, such as amphibians and reptiles bury themselves in loose soil and tree trunks.

3. ‘Tis the season to eat berries…

…if you’re a bird, of course. Holly and mistletoe are two plants commonly associated with the festive season. The bright red holly berries bring a pop of colour into our gardens and green spaces, and the white sticky berries of mistletoe can be spotted within the branches of its host tree. The berries of these plants are an important food source for many birds during the winter, such as blackcaps, robins and thrushes.

4. Look closely for winter flying moths

Winter is usually considered the time for insects to hide away and rest until the warmer months appear. There are however a few species of moth that can be seen flying during this time of year – the appropriately named Winter Moth being the easiest to find, usually resting on tree trunks as well as the fluffy December Moth.

5. Magical murmurations

Another visitor from the continent, starlings will come to the UK for the relative warmth and food sources. Large flocks of these birds, called murmurations, will perform spectacular aerial displays at dusk – particularly over wetlands – as they prepare to roost together.

Helping wildlife in winter

These colder months can be difficult for wildlife as food can be scarce and hibernators are in search for safe, suitable shelters. If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, there are some ways you can help such as making log piles, maintaining your bird boxes or just leaving fallen leaves on the ground. Check out our top tips here. 

Written by Josie Stuart, Surrey Wildlife Trust Youth Action Committee (YAC)