Robin (Erithacus rubecula) adult perched in frosty tree in winter, Scotland, UK - Mark Hamblin/2020VISION
Your guide to winter adventures in Cumbria
Winter walks
Discover winter wildlife
Temperatures have dropped and nature seems quiet and still...but take a closer look. Our coastline and wetlands are brimming with life, as thousands of migratory birds join our resident species. In our woodlands, bare branches make entrancing patterns against the sky – look out for mosses, lichen and liverworts adorning their lengths.
In the garden, you might spot flighty flocks of winter thrushes, like redwing and fieldfare, looking for plump berries to eat. And creatures we rarely see are leaving tell-tale signs in muddy or snowy ground – now's a great time to spot animal tracks from badgers, foxes, deer voles and mice.
© Danny Green/2020VISION
Magical murmurations
Have you ever seen a murmuration? In winter, flocks of starlings come together at dusk to dance and dive as one, before settling down together to roost. There are a few reasons why they might do this – to evade predators, to communicate and share knowledge, and to generate some body heat before a long, cold night!
Look out for murmurations over reedbeds and woodlands, near coastal cliffs and even over large buildings.
Dunlins © Pete Richman
Winter waders
Around our coastline, wading birds and wildfowl are having their annual winter gathering! Thousands of migratory birds join our resident species, flying down from northern Europe in search of food and milder temperatures. Some pass through and go further south, while others stay to see out the season.
Visit places like South Walney, Foulney Island and Eskmeals Dunes to spot large flocks feeding on the shoreline.
Family winter wildlife activities
Winter wildlife blogs
Hazel dormouse © Terry Whittaker/2020VISION
Wildlife's winter survival strategies
Did you know that only three UK species actually hibernate? Find out how our wild creatures see out the winter chill.
Grey partridge © David Tipling/2020VISION
Help wildlife at home this winter
Take action in your garden, yard or local area.
Make that difference for the wildlife you love
- Free entry to our nature reserves.
- Free nature reserve guide.
- Cumbrian Wildlife magazine three times a year with accompanying 'What's On' guide.
- Plus more! From just £3.50 a month/£42 a year (based on Individual membership)