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

We’ve already lost nearly 25% of our wildlife in Scotland, but more than half of us want to do more to help nature. So if we all take action we will help reverse nature loss and fight climate change.

Looking after nature is good for us, the planet and wildlife. With many of us already spending more time outdoors, it's easy to make space for nature in our lives. 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.

2. Enjoy lazy gardening

Leaving areas overgrown or filled with leaves gives insects, amphibians and small animals a quiet and cosy place to hide during colder months. Leave borders/ herbaceous plants intact with seed heads - many insects overwinter in hollow stems.

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

If you have bird houses and bird feeders ensure you clean them out regularly. Create a regular feeding schedule, keep feeders topped up and remember to provide water. To attract a range of birds 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.

6. Provide water for wildlife

Garden ponds are a great water source for wildlife but when temperatures drop a prolonged freeze can mean problems for fish and hibernating frogs and newts. Gently crack the ice with a stick to make a hole, or float a ball in the water to stop it freezing. A pond needn't be a large outlay, even using an old washing up bowl of water or a deep saucer of water on a windowsill can help.

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

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

9. Learn outdoors

We all learn outdoors no matter what our age. Spot frosty patterns on leaves and spider webs, download plant or bird ID apps, simply listen to bird song, and really notice the seasonal changes.

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