Make space for nature text accompanied by illustrations of a blackbird, ladybird and frog

Ten ways to make space for nature in your life this winter

Leugh ann an Gàidhlig / Read in Gaelic

Since 1994 we’ve lost 15% of our wildlife in Scotland, but most of us want to do more to help nature. From picking up litter, to putting out bird feeders and water, it all helps, plus it’s good for your health. Winter is a great season to head out and breathe in the season. Wrap up warm and follow our top tips.

Make space for nature campaign - A fieldfare eating an apple spiked on a branch

1. Feed the locals

Bruised or overly-soft fruit can be left out for badgers, foxes and birds. Cut fruit in half and leave on grass or spike on a tree branch. If cats or dogs are nearby avoid grapes and dried fruit as these can cause them harm.

Hedgehog in leaves

2. Encourage lazy gardening

Leaving areas overgrown or filled with leaves gives insects, amphibians and small animals a cosy place to hide during colder months. Leave plants intact with seed heads as many insects overwinter in hollow stems. If you've no garden, encourage friends, councils, and businesses with outdoor spaces to do this.

duck flying into land

3. Notice what's nearby

We discovered more local walks during lockdown. There's plenty of wildlife to spot, particularly in urban parks and local paths - from ducks to deer. If feeding ducks, do not give them bread. Instead try sweetcorn, porridge oats, and bird seed. 

red squirrel on stone in snow looking towards camera

4. Volunteer time for nature

One of the best things to do for nature is volunteering. From counting squirrels to building paths and planting trees, there are many ways to help while meeting new friends, gaining work experience and getting outdoors. Volunteer with NatureScot, see our list of environmental volunteering organisations or visit Volunteer Scotland. 

Blue tit sitting on bird feeder with fat balls while its snowing

5. Help our feathered friends

Whether you live in a flat or a house with a garden, you can add bird feeders to your space. Ensure you clean them out regularly, create a regular feeding schedule, keep them topped up, and provide water too. Try putting out sunflower hearts, quality peanuts, nyjer seed, and/or high-energy seed mixes. Fat balls are a great energy source during winter, and cheap to make at home.

Newt in the water

6. Provide water for wildlife

Garden ponds are a great water source for wildlife but not everyone has the space. Even using an old washing-up bowl of water or a deep saucer of water on a windowsill can help. If you do have a pond, a prolonged freeze can mean problems for fish and hibernating frogs in ponds. Gently crack the ice with a stick to make a hole, or float a ball in the water to stop it freezing.

robin sitting on a snowy tree stump

7. Share what you see

Submit sightings of any birds, animals, plants and more. The iRecord website and app is easy to use and collects everyday wildlife sightings, so they can be checked by experts to support research.

Help research
oak tree with leaves and sun

8. Take action now

Following our tips helps nature, now and in the future. Spending time outdoors means you're more likely to care for and respect nature, thereby helping fight nature loss and climate change.

Fight climate change
Smartphone taking pic of plant

9. Learn outdoors

We all learn outdoors no matter our age. Spot frosty patterns on leaves, use bird ID apps, simply listen to bird song, or help your local school or nursery to connect with nature by by highlighting this website full of useful resources.

Learn more
Woman hands in winter gloves Heart symbol with sunset light nature on background

10. Enjoy the benefits

We de-stress, feel energised, and improve our physical and mental health when outdoors. Keep consistent - arrange walks with a friend, set a motivational alarm or head out at lunch to enjoy daylight and a daily dose of Vitamin D.

Be healthy