Go wild this Christmas

Spending time in nature probably isn’t high on most people’s list of priorities for the festive season. 

But what if you could spend time in nature every day for twelve days over Christmas? That’s the challenge of The Wildlife Trust’s 12 Days Wild.

Running from December 25 to 5 January 5, 12 Days Wild encourages everyone of all ages to do one activity inspired by or connected with nature every day. 

At this time of year, it can seem like that there’s not much wildlife about. And on grey overcast days, it’s tempting to stay warm indoors but even on a dull day, the natural light and being outdoors can give us a real boost. 

Good weather can make it even more worthwhile with clear blue skies and stunning sunsets combined with the sound of a frozen leaf crunching underfoot. 

I’ve taken on this challenge for the last few years and, even if I don’t manage it on each of the days, I’ve found 12 Days Wild to be a great way to banish the winter blues. 

Sometimes, I have travelled further afield, visiting Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust nature reserves on the coast or on the Humber estuary. 

But you don’t have to travel far. In Lincoln, there are plenty of parks and green spaces. My closest is the West Common. Here, I’ve seen flocks of fieldfares and had close encounters with foxes. 

I’m already looking forward to what I might come across this winter. Will there be another large starling murmuration in Lincoln this year? Will I be lucky enough to see a barn owl hunting in the twilight? 

Even if I don’t see these things, I know that the opportunity to sit quietly, away from the distractions of modern-day life, will be beneficial. 

For my 12 Days Wild challenge, when I go for a walk, I try to remember a flask of hot chocolate and, as it’s Christmas, a mince pie. Then I can find somewhere to sit for a few moments. 

Days are short at this time of year so on that days that I’m working, if the sun is out, I will grab my coat and put my woolly hat on, so I can take my tea break outside. It becomes a valued chance to slow down, to be present and notice the small things around me.

In essence, this is what this festive challenge is all about. Or, at least, that what it is for me. For you, it could be something different. 

It is totally up to you what you decide to do for 12 Days Wild. You could take small actions to help nature - like recycling your Christmas tree, feeding the birds or doing a litter pick. You could choose to learn more about the wildlife by downloading an app that helps identify bird song. Perhaps you could support the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust by becoming a member and we’ll take some big actions for wildlife on your behalf. 

If you’re not sure, sign up for free on the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust website at lincstrust.org.uk/12-days-wild. You’ll receive daily emails packed with fun ideas and inspiration to help you notice nature’s magic this winter and learn more about the wildlife around you.