January can feel like a quiet, grey month, but it’s actually a brilliant time to reconnect with nature – and to make a positive difference for wildlife close to home. Research shows that daily contact with nature is linked to better health, including reduced stress, improved concentration and increased physical wellbeing.

We believe nature should be part of everyday life. Whether it’s a winter walk, feeding garden birds, taking part in citizen science or volunteering with others, there are so many simple ways to feel connected, inspired and hopeful as the year begins.

Get outside this winter

Getting outdoors doesn’t need to mean long hikes or big adventures. A gentle walk around your local green space or nature reserve is enough to lift your mood and get your body moving. Winter landscapes have their own quiet beauty - bare trees, crisp air and unexpected wildlife moments.

We run free and low-cost guided walks and talks throughout the year, offering a chance to explore nature with others and learn something new along the way. Or you might prefer some solo time, or a stroll with friends or family, enjoying one of our local nature reserves at your own pace.

Connect with people and wildlife

Sharing nature experiences helps us feel part of something bigger. Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet people, learn new skills and give time to places you care about. Our volunteer sessions run throughout the year and support many areas of our work, from caring for nature reserves to monitoring wildlife and restoring rivers.

Simple moments of connection count whether it’s watching birds together, sharing photos of winter wildlife, or talking with neighbours about what you’ve spotted locally.

Help nature on your doorstep

Winter can be a tough time for wildlife, and small actions really do make a difference. Putting out food for birds, keeping feeders clean, and providing fresh water for drinking and bathing can be lifesaving during cold spells.

You could also work with neighbours to make your area more wildlife friendly - creating Hedgehog highways, leaving wild corners in gardens, or planting for pollinators. These shared efforts strengthen both communities and help local wildlife.

Take notice 

Taking a few minutes each day to notice nature can be incredibly grounding. Listen for birdsong, watch clouds drift, or observe which birds visit your garden or local park.

Now is also a great time to take part in citizen science, where your observations help build a bigger picture of how wildlife is doing. Make January the month you start to take part in citizen science and help build a bigger picture of how wildlife is doing. Your observations could support the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch, which takes place each winter.

Try something new

Building your knowledge of wildlife can deepen your connection with nature and boost confidence outdoors. Throughout the year, we host talks, workshops and events for all ages, covering everything from species ID to conservation skills.

Our events calendar is updated regularly, and signing up to our monthly e-news is a great way to stay informed about what’s coming up near you.

Finally consider joining our gang. Membership of the Trust supports wildlife year-round. You'll receive a guide to over 40 nature reserves, our members' magazine, inspiring updates and plenty of advice on how to help protect wildlife across Hertfordshire and Middlesex. In January you can enjoy an introductory offer of 50% off membership: https://www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/newyearoffer