Team: Wildlife’s top things to see this winter:

• Pink-footed geese and brent geese
• Whooper and Bewick’s swans
• Holly and mistletoe (very festive!)
• Starling murmurations filling the sky

Team: Wildlife is restarting at Forest School for Life, and we’re just in time for the transition from early autumn into winter! Although it gets colder and darker, there is still lots of fantastic wildlife to look out for, and we can’t wait to see what this year brings us. Being outdoors can give us a well-needed boost for mental health through the darker months, as well as bring us the joy of discovering winter wildlife.

Autumn brings fungi and mushrooms to life; the falling leaves create the ideal environment for them, and you’ll see so many different types popping up. From picture-perfect fly agarics and huge parasol mushrooms to giant puffballs and shaggy inkcaps, there are lots to try and find! (But please don’t touch them – lots can be toxic…!)

During October half-term, we took a nature walk to learn about some different fungi, as well as to look at their different parts. The children saw just how varied fungi can be and loved trying to find them! We also looked at a range of animal skulls and ‘not so spooky’ animals to celebrate Halloween. 

As winter approaches, our deciduous trees like ash and beech lose their leaves, and the beautiful autumnal colour fades. Instead, we are treated to the bright berries of holly, hawthorn, rowan and even the very festive mistletoe! These berries are not only beautiful, but also vital for wildlife to help them feed and survive through winter. Birds like mistle thrushes and blackbirds love them, and they are an important source of food for migratory birds such as the redwing.

So, wrap up warm and get outside this winter. Use those daylight hours well and enjoy what winter has to offer!

🌿With roots in research and family life, 

Rebecca, MA, PhD Student & Mother

If you want to know more about team: Wildlife’s home education sessions at Forest School for Life, please contact us!