Seasons - Winter
This is a quiet time in our countryside as much of the
wildlife is in hibernation (the lack of insect life being
particularly noticeable), or has gone to warmer climes for
the winter period. However, it is considered one of the most
beautiful times of year in the woodland, with morning frost
on the bare tree branches and the climbing Ivy leaves
One of the most distinctive winter animals is the Robin,
with its’ characteristic red breast and rich ‘warbling’
song, it will defend its’ territory, often aggressively. In
folklore the Robin is said to ‘take cool dew on its’ little
bill and lets it fall on sinful souls in torment’, so the
red breast is a result of the fire that scorches him as he
drops the water.
In early December, the Mistle Thrush, or ‘Storm Cock’, starts singing
its’ far carrying, strident, fluty song from the very tops of trees. The
lack of foliage also makes it easier to spot creatures such as Voles and
Weasel. This is also the time to see the beautiful and elegant Goosander –
one of our winter visitors.
Threats to conservation of the area –
- Shooting indiscriminately – by youths with Air Rifles/Shotguns
- Illegal burning (youths starting fires, etc) can have a detrimental affect
on the flora and fauna as there is an overall loss of plant diversity, and
therefore fauna.
- Illegal Motorbike riding and 4x4’s which tear up soil, and destroy
vegetation and disturb wildlife.
- Littering and fly tipping.
- Poaching of fish and other wildlife.