Walking in a winter wonderland...

BRITONS are being urged to connect with nature this festive season to boost their mental and physical health.

- BY STEPH SPYRO Environment Editor

There is lots of wildlife to discover and delight in during winter, from flocks of chattering thrushes feasting on red berries to tiny spiders in their frost-festooned webs.

In urban areas too, nature lovers can spot cheeky pied wagtails patrolling supermarket car parks and foxes leaving tracks in the snow.

Even in the darkness there is wonder to be found - with a male or a female tawny owl calling out across the rooftops.

TV doctor and GP Dr Amir Khan, who is vice president of The Wildlife Trusts, said:

“Even in the stillness of winter, there’s so much wildlife to discover and delight in right on our doorstep and you don’t have to go far to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Just a moment in the garden or a walk around your neighbour-hood works wonders for our physical and mental health. Spending time near trees or listening to birdsong can help reduce stress levels, and connecting with the natural world also encourages us to be in the present moment.

“Christmas can be joyful as well as challenging and so connecting to nature offers us the chance to notice the small things and experience wonder.” The Wildlife Trusts are inviting Britons to connect with nature this Christmas by taking part in its annual 12 Days Wild Christmas challenge.

Running from December 25 to January 5, the initiative encourages people of all ages to do one nature-inspired activity a day throughout the 12 days of Christmas.

As a nation of nature lovers, more than 10,000 people across the UK take part in the yearly celebration.