Robin on a snowy branch

Winter’s impact on UK wildlife: A photographer’s guide

Winter is a magical time for wildlife photography, and birds in particular can be a real treat to capture on camera. As an amateur wildlife photographer myself, I know the challenges that come with trying to photograph birds in the winter. But with a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can get some truly stunning shots. In this article I talk about winter’s impact on UK wildlife.

The UK is home to a wide variety of birds, and many of them can be seen in the winter months. From the majestic red kite to the tiny wren, there are plenty of opportunities to get some great shots. However, it’s important to remember that these birds are adapted to survive the harsh winter conditions, and their behavior can be quite different from what you might see in the summer.

Barn Owl on post
Barn Owl on post in winter

One of the biggest challenges of bird photography in the winter is finding birds that are active and visible. With shorter days and colder temperatures, many birds will be roosting or seeking shelter, making them harder to spot. This is where bird feeders can come in handy. By providing a reliable source of food, you can attract a variety of birds to your garden, giving you the chance to photograph them up close.

However, if you’re finding that your bird feeders aren’t getting many visitors, it could be that the birds in your area have found other sources of food. In the winter, birds will also feed on fruits, berries, and insects, so make sure to keep an eye out for these natural food sources as well.


Ruddy Turnstone foraging on the beach
Ruddy Turnstone foraging on the beach in winter

As an amateur wildlife photographer, I have noticed a change in the patterns of birds in the UK over the past few years. One of the most notable changes is that the winter seasons have become milder. This is due to global warming and it’s affecting the birds in a number of ways.

The milder winters mean that many birds that would normally migrate south for the winter are now staying in the UK. This is great news for photographers as it means we have more opportunities to photograph a wider variety of birds. However, this change also means that the birds are facing new challenges.

With milder winters, there is less food available for the birds. This is because the insects and berries that they would normally feed on are not as abundant. This can lead to malnutrition and even death for some birds. Additionally, the milder winters also mean that there is less snow and ice, which can make it more difficult for birds to find food.

Another challenge that the birds are facing is that the milder winters mean that the breeding seasons are starting earlier. This can be a problem because the birds may not be ready to breed, which can lead to lower success rates.

As photographers, we can help by providing food for the birds during the winter. Putting out bird feeders and providing water can make a big difference for the birds. Additionally, by taking photographs of the birds, we can raise awareness about the challenges that they are facing and the importance of protecting their habitats.

Global warming is affecting the UK birds, causing milder winters, it is important to be aware of this change and how it affects the birds, and how we can help them through providing food, raising awareness, and protecting their habitats. As photographers, we have the power to make a difference and to showcase the beauty and the challenges of these wonderful creatures.


Vole in the Autumn
Vole in winter in search of food

Here are some of the birds you can commonly see in the UK in the winter and where to find them:

  • Red Kite: These large birds of prey can be found in open countryside.
  • Fieldfare: These thrushes can be found in orchards and hedgerows.
  • Blackbird: These birds are common in gardens and woodlands.
  • Siskin: These small finches can be found in coniferous forests.
  • Long-tailed Tit: These fluffy birds can be found in gardens, woodlands, and hedgerows.
  • Redwing: These birds can be found in gardens, woodlands, and hedgerows, particularly in Northern and Western areas of the UK.
  • Barn Owls: These nocturnal birds can be found in open countryside, particularly in Southern and Western areas of the UK.
  • Crows: These birds can be found in gardens, woodlands, and open countryside throughout the UK.
  • Redpolls: These small finches can be found in coniferous forests, particularly in Northern and Eastern areas of the UK.

In conclusion, winter can be a challenging time for wildlife photography, but with a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can get some truly stunning shots of the birds that call the UK home.

So don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting out there and capturing some amazing images.

And please leave a comment below to let me know how your winter bird photography is going, any questions or tips you have for others, I’d love to hear from you.