Winterwatch Wildlife: Identification Guide And Viewing Locations

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Identifying Common Winter Wildlife

Winter offers a unique opportunity for wildlife spotting, as many animals exhibit distinct behaviours and appearances. Learning to identify these creatures will significantly enrich your Winterwatch adventures.

Birds

Several bird species are easily identifiable in their winter plumage. Their behaviours and calls also provide valuable clues. Here are a few common examples:

• Redwing: Slightly smaller than a blackbird, with rusty-red flanks and a distinctive, chattering call. Often found in fields and hedgerows feeding on berries. Look for their characteristic flight pattern – rapid wingbeats followed by short glides.
• Fieldfare: Larger than a blackbird, with a greyish-brown back, rufous flanks, and a streaked breast. They flock together and are frequently seen foraging in fields. Their call is a harsh, chattering sound.
• Robin: Instantly recognisable with its bright orange breast. A common garden visitor, often singing even in the coldest weather. Listen for its clear, melodious song.
• Wren: Tiny brown bird with a cocked tail. A master of camouflage, often found in dense undergrowth. Listen for its loud, bubbling song, disproportionate to its size.

Mammals

While some mammals hibernate, others remain active throughout winter. Learning to recognise their tracks and signs can increase your chances of spotting them.

• Roe Deer: Small deer, reddish-brown in summer, turning grey-brown in winter. Often seen in woodland edges. Look for their characteristic hoof prints – two small, close together, and two slightly larger prints behind them.
• Fox: Reddish-brown fur, bushy tail, and sharp features. Adaptable and often found in both urban and rural environments. Look for their distinctive three-toed paw prints and their scat (droppings) which are typically white and spiral-shaped.
• Badger: Large, stocky mammal with distinctive black and white stripes on its face. Primarily nocturnal, they are more easily found by looking for their sett (burrow) and their characteristic droppings.

Other Winter Wildlife

Beyond birds and mammals, other creatures may be spotted during your Winterwatch excursions:

• Squirrels: Grey and red squirrels are active throughout winter, scampering through trees and foraging for food. Look for their distinctive bushy tails and nimble movements.
• Hedgehogs: Although they hibernate, you might occasionally spot one stirring on a milder day. Look for their spiky backs and characteristic snuffling sounds.

Best Locations for Winter Wildlife Viewing

Choosing the right location is crucial for a successful Winterwatch experience. Various habitats offer unique opportunities to observe different species.

Nature Reserves & Parks

Many nature reserves and parks are havens for winter wildlife. These protected areas often provide feeding stations and undisturbed habitats.

• RSPB reserves: Across the UK, RSPB reserves offer excellent opportunities to see wintering waterfowl like ducks and geese, as well as birds of prey such as buzzards and kestrels. [Link to RSPB website]
• National Parks: National Parks like the Peak District and the Lake District provide diverse habitats for a range of winter wildlife, from deer to owls. [Link to relevant National Park websites]
• Local Parks and Woodlands: Even your local park may surprise you with its winter inhabitants. Look for feeding birds in the trees and hedges.

Coastal Areas

Coastal areas attract a variety of seabirds and waders during winter.

• Estuaries: Estuaries are rich feeding grounds for birds like curlews, oystercatchers, and various ducks.
• Sea Cliffs: Sea cliffs can be home to nesting seabirds, although observation should be done from a safe distance.

Woodland & Forests

Woodlands provide shelter for many mammals and birds during winter.

• Deciduous Woodlands: These provide good cover for deer, foxes and woodland birds.
• Coniferous Forests: These offer refuge for birds seeking shelter from the cold.

Tips for Successful Winter Wildlife Watching

Careful planning and preparation will improve your chances of a rewarding Winterwatch experience.

• Dress warmly in layers: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is essential.
• Use binoculars: Binoculars will allow you to observe wildlife from a safe distance without disturbing them.
• Bring a field guide: A field guide will help you identify the species you encounter.
• Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance: Never approach or disturb wildlife.
• Be mindful of the environment and leave no trace: Take your litter home and avoid damaging vegetation.
• Check weather forecasts before you go: Adverse weather conditions can affect wildlife activity.
• Consider visiting at dawn or dusk: Many animals are most active during these times.

Conclusion

Winter wildlife watching is a rewarding experience, offering the chance to connect with nature during the colder months. By using this identification guide and exploring the suggested viewing locations, you can enhance your Winterwatch experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the fascinating animals that thrive even in winter's harshest conditions. So grab your binoculars, wrap up warm and get out there to enjoy the magic of Winterwatch wildlife! Remember to share your sightings and photos using #WinterwatchWildlife.