Winter in the Woods

As winter envelops the landscape, Wolford Wood transforms into a serene frozen haven, showcasing the quiet beauty unique to this season. The leafless trees stand in silent elegance, their bare branches etched against the crisp January sky, creating a tranquil atmosphere that invites reflection and exploration.

Winter Wildlife Wonders

January offers a unique chance to observe wildlife that typically remains hidden during other seasons. In the stillness of winter, the rustling of leaves might unveil small mammals like bank voles and wood mice, busily foraging for sustenance. With the foliage thinned, spotting these creatures as they move across the woodland floor becomes much easier. Additionally, winter provides a fantastic opportunity to spot animal tracks in the snow or soft ground. Distinctive footprints of badgers, deer, foxes and squirrels, reveal fascinating insights into their nocturnal shenanigans and daily adventures. Particularly abundant and a joy to watch, are the Robins of Wolford, marvelous with their warm, orange breast and cheery song.

Fascinating winter nature facts

• Wet & dry snow: Did you know the journey of a snowflake determines whether it is sticky or powdery? The journey from the cloud to the ground takes 2 hours; falling through a dry atmosphere creates powdery snow that is perfect for skiing. However, if snowflakes fall through slightly warmer temperatures of just above 0℃, the edges melt causing them to stick. This makes them ideal for making snowmen! 
• Winter lasts for 21 years on Uranus: Uranus is an ice giant of mostly swirling fluids with 1 year being equal to roughly 84 Earth years. The equator of Uranus has a tilt of 97.77 degrees; this unique tilt causes extreme seasons and during winter, the sun shines over each pole, plunging half of the planet into darkness for 21 years.
• Red squirrels are tough-nuts: Red squirrels do not hibernate over winter, instead they stash away their food in their critter cupboard. Their preferred foods are Hazelnuts and Pine seeds. Red squirrels are not native to Wolford, however we are excited to be exploring the possibility of introducing them. 

Extreme Winter Campers

We have welcomed some extreme campers who fully immerse themselves in the winter woodland experience. Camping during this season can be exceptionally rewarding; here are some of our visitors top tips to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable adventure:

• Layer up: Wear multiple layers of clothing to trap heat effectively. Ensure not to wear tight fitting clothing, as this can reduce circulation, making you colder. Thermal base layers made with materials like wool and polyester are excellent choices which provide insulation while wicking away moisture.
• Insulate your sleeping area: Use quality sleeping pads to create a barrier between you and the cold ground. You can either double up on camping mats or purchase specific winter mats or beds.
• Stay dry: Keep your clothing dry to stay warm. Change out of damp clothes promptly and store wet items outside your sleeping area to prevent condensation. Take extra clothing and keep them in a waterproof bag.

Winter activities

Whether staying over-night, or visiting for the day, Wolford opens the door to a variety of activities that highlight the beauty and tranquility of the season:

• Wildlife tracking: Learn to identify animal tracks. This activity not only enhances your tracking skills but also deepens your connection to the natural world.
• Stargazing: The long nights and clear winter skies provide excellent conditions for observing constellations. Bring a star chart to help identify celestial formations, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring. Most recently, we observed the Waxing Crescent Moon, alongside Venus shining most beautifully in the clear evening sky.
• Photography: Capture the stark beauty of the winter landscape, from frost-covered branches to the subtle hues of a winter sunrise. The low angle of the sun during winter months offer unique lighting conditions, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Embracing the winter season in Wolford Wood offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature’s splendor and discover the subtle wonders that this time of year brings. Whether you’re camping under the luminous night sky, observing wildlife, or just being present, the winter woodland provides an enriching experience for all who venture into its ethereal embrace. Why not book a fire pit and logs to cozy up by the flames, savor warm treats, and let the soothing crackle of the wood set the perfect atmosphere.

We look forward to sharing the magic with you,

The Wolford Wood Team