Connect with nature throughout the year
Every month will have a different theme and we will be promoting resources and activities on this page as well as publicising related projects and events.
Spending quality time with nature can reduce anxiety, balance your mood and help you feel more positive. Take a moment to notice nature in your daily life. You might be surprised by what you see on your daily walk or in your garden.
February’s theme: Wild Cherwell
Big Garden Birdwatch
For those of you that took part in the Big Garden Birdwatch at the end of January, don’t forget to enter what you saw online.
We hope you enjoyed it and will continue to enjoy looking out for different birds as winter turns into spring. Why not continue to record what you see.
February Wildlife Highlights
After the darkness of January, February brings fresh hope of new life as nature stirs after its winter hibernation. The shortest month of the year, it marks the final month of the winter season and heralds the dawning of spring. Here’s what you might see.
In February, it can also start to feel noticeably lighter each day which is always a boost after shorter daylight hours. This extra light makes heading for walks to spot wildlife a little easier so have a look at these walking options in the District and take a stroll.
Helping Hedgehogs in February
In February, hedgehogs are usually hibernating and relying on their fat reserves for energy. However, they may wake up occasionally to drink water or adjust their position. If you see a hedgehog out during the day in February, it might be in need of food and water.
Hedgehogs typically hibernate from November to March or April so why not make your garden hedgehog friendly in readiness for them emerging. Why not talk to your neighbours about creating a hedgehog hole in your garden fence or build a hedgehog home?
Take action for wildlife at home
The Berks, Bucks and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT)
BBOWT tells you how to help wildlife in your garden including providing a regular supply of water.
RSPB
The RSPB bird identifier lists 405 species of birds found in the UK, including some rare overseas visitors. You can also Identify a bird with the RSPB bird song identifier
The RSPB gives you ideas for activities and will help you to plan simple tasks ‘perfect for your patch’ whether it is a window box, outdoor space or garden.
Woodland Trust
The Woodland Trust has gathered some ideas to help you and your family enjoy a summer visit to a wood near you. Woodland Trust woods in Cherwell include:
Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre
You can also share your wildlife sightings with staff at the Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre (TVERC) who will add them to their database and make sure your records are used in local-decision making.
Oxfordshire Mammal Group
Find out about a variety of mammals in the County including the hedgehog. In Oxfordshire, hedgehogs (listed as European hedgehog) are widespread but declining and known records can be seen on this County map.
Kirtlington Hedgehog Street
Kirtlington Hedgehog Street is connecting gardens in the village to give hedgehogs enough space to breed and to help keep them off the roads. Why don’t you create a hedgehog street in your local area?
More about hedgehogs
More information about hedgehogs is available from the British Hedgehog Preservation Society
Habitat Heroes
With natural nesting sites in decline, adding a nestbox to your garden can make all the difference to your local birds - see how to build a bird box. Always get an adult to help with tools!
Make your garden hedgehog friendly and watch out for visitors. Why not talk to your neighbours about creating a hedgehog hole in your garden fence or build a hedgehog home? Why not create a hedgehog highway like Kidlington?