The short, sparkling days and long, cold nights of winter are perfect for wildlife watching. But which species of animal can be seen and heard in winter, and where are the best places in the UK to experience winter wildlife spectacles? <\/p>
Even in the deepest depths of winter<\/a> there is life to be found in the British countryside, from bright-white mountain hares<\/a> in Scotland and starling murmurations<\/a> in Northern Ireland, to red squirrels<\/a> in Wales and owls<\/a> in England.<\/p> These incredible natural wonders can be experienced on a winter walk<\/a> and offer the perfect excuse to practice your winter photography skills.<\/p> Keep an eye and ear out for these wild sounds and sights with our guide to the best winter wildlife spectacles in the UK. In each case we include details on the best months within the winter season to experience these events, as well as where to see them.<\/p> Bolstered by winter migrants from Scandinavia and Germany, Britain\u2019s starlings<\/a> congregate in their thousands at fairly predictable winter roosting sites \u2013 usually marshes or reedbeds but also man-made structures \u2013 throughout the coldest months of the year.<\/p> But before they settle down for the night, they often perform great swirling sky-dances, their sheer numbers creating thrilling images in the late afternoon sky. Finally, just before dusk, the flocks pour into the reedbed and begin to settle down \u2013 though their chattering can be like the sound of a distance steam train.<\/p> Best winter wildlife spectacles in the UK<\/h2>
Starling murmurations<\/h3>