Where and How to Spot Winter Wildlife in the UK Countryside
In our family, we love a winter walk through the countryside. Wrapping up warm in our parka coats, beanies, and wellies. Seeing the crisp frost on the tree branches in the woods. Spotting amazing wildlife like deer grazing through the mist or robins perching on hedgerows.
As someone with young children, I can't tell you how many times a simple walk has turned into an unforgettable wildlife adventure. For us, it's a fantastic way to encourage the kids to want to get outside, especially during the winter when the lure of the fire can be hard to resist. The kids seeing a squirrel darting up a tree is usually something that gets a giggle (and an inevitable sudden desire to watch Ice Age!)
So if you’re looking for a way to make the most of your own winter walks, we'd say that wildlife spotting is the perfect answer - and we've got the perfect guide to get you started.
Why It’s a Fun Activity for Families
What makes wildlife spotting so enjoyable for families is how easily it turns a regular walk into something a bit more exciting.
For kids, it’s all about curiosity - asking questions, pointing out things they’ve noticed, and that moment when they finally spot something can really light them up. Even the smallest finds, like a trail of paw prints or a bird hopping from branch to branch, can feel like a win.
As parents, it’s a chance to slow down and just enjoy the outdoors without much planning or pressure. It’s not about reaching a destination or ticking something off a list - it’s just about being together, getting some fresh air, and seeing what you might come across. And when the kids are running ahead, trying to be the first to see something, it feels like a little adventure every time.
Plus, it’s one of those completely screen-free, cost-free activities that works for any family, no matter how young or old your children are.
Which Wild Animals & Birds You Can Expect to See
Winter strips back the landscape, making it easier to spot wild animals and woodland birds that might usually be hidden in the thick of summer. Even though the air is colder, the countryside is still full of life. You just need to know where to look!
Here are some of the animals and birds you can expect to see on your winter walks:
- Deer: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to spot deer grazing in open fields or moving quietly through woodland. Their coats blend into the wintry landscape, so it’s always a treat when you catch sight of them.
- Red Kites and Buzzards: These majestic birds of prey are often seen soaring high in the sky, even in winter. Look out for their slow, graceful circling as they search for food, especially over open farmland.
- Foxes: Winter walks often reveal fox tracks in the frost or mud. If you're quiet and lucky, you might spot one trotting across a field or slipping through a hedge.
- Hares and Rabbits: While rabbits tend to hide away during the coldest days, you might catch sight of a hare darting across open farmland or sitting still to blend into its surroundings.
- Robins: Winter wouldn’t be complete without a robin or two. These friendly birds are easy to find in gardens, woodlands, and parks, often perching on low branches or hopping along paths.
- Owls: The eerie, echoing call of an owl is often a highlight of a winter walk. Barn owls and tawny owls are particularly active at dusk, and if you're lucky, you might see one swooping silently across a field.
- Fieldfares and Redwings: These migratory birds arrive from Scandinavia during the winter and can be seen in large flocks in fields and hedgerows.
Winter is also a great time to see birds such as blue tits, coal tits, great tits, and chaffinches.
Where to Go for Winter Wildlife Spotting in the UK
The best part about all this is that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy it! Sometimes the best spots are right on your doorstep. Local footpaths, public woodlands, and hedgerows are often full of surprises.
If you’re looking to explore a bit further, the UK’s National Parks are also fantastic places to start - especially if you’re lucky enough to live near one. For example, we live close to the Peak District, and it’s one of our favourite places to see an array of wildlife.
Nature reserves are another brilliant option, like RSPB sites or wetland reserves. They’re designed to support wildlife, and many have trails and hides where you can watch animals without disturbing them. It’s perfect for a family adventure, as you’re almost guaranteed to see something exciting.
Tips for Successful Wildlife Spotting in Winter
Winter invites us to look a little closer, listen a little longer, and notice the subtle wonders all around us. With a bit of patience and keen eyes, you’ll be amazed at how much there is to see, even in the seemingly quieter colder months!
Here are some tips to help you and your family enjoy a successful day out:
- Pick the Right Time: Dawn and dusk are the best times for spotting wildlife, as many animals are more active during these quieter parts of the day. Bundle up, and head out early for a peaceful morning walk or take a late afternoon stroll to catch that twilight hours.
- Bring Binoculars: A pair of binoculars is a great tool for kids to feel like real wildlife explorers. Whitby Gear do some fantastic ones - we personally love the Whitby Gear 8x21 Compact Binoculars.
- Stay Quiet and Patient: Wildlife won’t stick around if they hear too much noise. Keep your voices low, move slowly, and take your time. Remind your kids to use their inside voices!
- Look for Signs, Not Just the Animals: Sometimes, spotting animals is more about seeing the signs they leave behind. Look for tracks in the frost or snow, listen for rustling in the undergrowth, or check out tree bark that’s been scratched or nibbled.
- Dress for the Weather: We know how bitterly cold winter can be! Make sure everyone is bundled up in warm layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots or wellies.
The most important thing is that we want to make sure we’re not disturbing the animals' homes. Try to keep a little distance, and as tempting as it might be to offer a snack, it’s best to let them find their own food sources. This way, we can enjoy these special moments without disrupting the animals’ natural routines.
How to Get the Kids Involved
Wildlife spotting is a great way to get kids excited about the outdoors, but we all can appreciate that sometimes they need a little encouragement to stay engaged!
Here are a few simple ways to make sure the kids are just as eager to head out on your next walk:
- Turn it into a game: Kids love a bit of competition, so why not make a simple wildlife bingo or treasure hunt? You can create a list of animals or signs of wildlife (like tracks or bird calls), and see who can spot the most.
- Let them lead: Give your kids the chance to take charge. Whether it’s picking the route or deciding where to stop and look for animals, giving them a bit of responsibility can make them feel more involved.
- Bring a field guide or app: There are plenty of child-friendly wildlife guides and apps that can help them identify what they’re seeing. It’s a fun way to turn seeing something new into a learning moment without it feeling like a lesson.
- Start a nature journal: Encourage your children to bring a small notebook and sketch or write about what they see. They can even collect interesting leaves or feathers they find along the way.
- Pack snacks and hot drinks: Keep spirits high with some hot chocolate and a few snacks during the walk. Invest in a decent flask that you can take with you - a couple of our favourites are the Klean Kanteen Insulated TKPro Flask and the Stanley Classic Legendary Bottle.
If you find your kids love getting involved and you’d like to take their interest further, check out Wildlife Watch. It’s a fantastic resource for finding local events, activities, and loads of information about British wildlife.
Summary
We’ve always found that winter walks bring a sense of calm and discovery, even on the chilliest days. It’s amazing what you can spot when you take the time to look around. So, we hope this guide inspires you to make the most of your own next countryside outing.
If you’ve enjoyed reading our blog and would like to hear more countryside tips, make sure you sign up for our newsletter. And don’t forget to tag us in your Instagram posts if you spot any wildlife on your next walk!
About the Author
Matthew Holland is passionate about sharing tips on how to enjoy the British countryside, whether it’s through family-friendly activities or connecting with nature. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matthew is a proud advocate for our British farmers and the importance of eating local, seasonal food. He combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons and embrace the beauty of country living.
