January Wildlife Guide
Helping you discover more about your local wildlife
This guide will help you encounter some of the UK’s most exciting wildlife this month. As the days remain shorter and cooler, you can expect a variety of wildlife activity around the UK. From birds to mammals, countless species find winter in the UK.
Wild Birds
January is a challenging month for wild birds, as food and water become scarce in the cold winter months. Wild birds rely on us to take care of them during this time, so providing a safe and suitable habitat for them is essential as they continue to retain important body fat.
Start by making sure your garden or outdoor space is bird-friendly; make sure to keep water sources clean and accessible – such as frozen bird baths. Wild birds will also appreciate a few extra treats in the form of bird feeders or birdhouses; these provide much-needed nutrition as well as a safe place to roost at night. Blue Tits and Great Tits will begin eyeing up birdhouses ready for spring, whilst Robins, Thrushes and Tits sing for territories.
On top of providing a safe home for wild birds, you can also help by monitoring bird populations in your area. This will help to identify any trends in the numbers of birds present, and can also lead to early detection of any potential threats.
By taking these simple steps to provide a safe environment for wild birds, you’ll be doing your bit to help protect them during the winter months when they are at their most vulnerable. Caring for wild birds in January can be a great way to get involved with nature and show your appreciation for these beautiful creatures.
Mammals
In the UK, January marks a critical time for squirrels. During this month, squirrels are in their winter hibernation period and require special care from their human neighbours. While it is natural for squirrels to be less active during the cold weather months, there are a few things that UK residents can do to help ensure they remain healthy and safe during this time.
One of the best ways you can assist hibernating squirrels is to keep their homes clean, free from debris or other objects that might entice curious squirrels out of their nests. In addition, you can make sure to securely close all possible entrances into sheds and garages – squirrels are known for their ability to squeeze through even the tiniest of openings!
When it comes to food, feeding squirrels during their hibernation period should be avoided. This can disrupt their natural behaviour and might even interfere with their ability to survive the colder UK winter months. Additionally, keep a watchful eye out for any signs of squirrels in distress. If a you see an injured or sick squirrel, contact your local wildlife rescue right away.
Hazel Dormice are still deep in hibernation at this time of year, remaining on the temperature brink of just before freezing.
Due to a lack of substantial food for these creatures they remain in hibernation throughout the winter, food such as fruits, nuts, flowers, funghi and insects remain scarce. So, in efforts to preserve energy rather than a long search, you’ll find Hazel Dormice often in a snug, weaved nest at the base of a tree or beneath a leaf litter.
Hibernation for these creatures can be disturbed by climate change, with out of season temperature increases or disruptive weather patterns. To help these little creatures you might often find in your back garden, consider creating a woodland-like environment in an area of your garden for example or leave a few nuts – Hazelnuts being of the most beneficial.
