The winter holidays bring joy, warmth, and celebration for people, but for wildlife, this time of year can be especially challenging. Between freezing temperatures, scarce food, and increased human activity, animals often struggle to find the resources and quiet spaces they need to survive.
Simple actions, from reducing noise to keeping outdoor areas safe, can make a meaningful difference for the creatures sharing our environment.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Always follow local wildlife protection guidelines and consult conservation experts before taking action. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
Decreased Food Availability
Natural food sources vanish when winter settles in. Many animals, like deer and squirrels, struggle to find the nourishment they need to survive.
Snow and ice cover the ground, making foraging nearly impossible. Seeds, nuts, and vegetation become buried under layers of frozen precipitation.
Providing supplemental food can help local creatures get through this challenging time. Bird feeders filled with seeds or leaving out safe food scraps may offer much-needed energy. Always check with local wildlife organizations to ensure you’re helping responsibly.
Harsh Weather Conditions
Freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and icy winds are tough for wildlife to endure. Animals like rabbits, foxes, and even deer face the challenge of finding shelter from the cold.
Some species, such as bats and certain amphibians, enter a state of hibernation or dormancy. Their survival depends on undisturbed rest periods.
If you find wildlife sheltering near your property, try not to disturb them. Offering a quiet, safe space can make all the difference in their ability to weather the storm and conserve vital energy reserves.
Human Activity And Disturbance
Holiday gatherings bring more people outdoors. Walking, driving on icy roads, and celebrating in larger groups creates added movement that can stress animals.
Wildlife trying to conserve energy or find shelter may flee to unsafe areas like busy roads. This added pressure disrupts their natural behaviours and survival strategies.
Minimizing loud noises and unnecessary traffic near known wildlife habitats can help reduce this stress. Being mindful of your surroundings and respecting animal spaces may help creatures navigate this already difficult season with fewer obstacles.
Dangerous Decorations And Lights
Holiday decorations can be a fun tradition, but they pose serious risks for wildlife. String lights, tinsel, and ribbons can entangle birds, squirrels, or even small mammals.
Electric lights and candles also create hazards for curious creatures exploring your yard. Non-biodegradable materials can pose long-term threats to local wildlife.
If you’re decorating outdoors, be mindful of the materials used. Ensure that animals can’t access them, and consider using bird-friendly ornaments. Simple changes to your holiday display may help protect the creatures sharing your neighbourhood.
Frozen Water Sources
As temperatures drop, water sources freeze solid. For many wildlife species, this lack of fresh water can be a serious issue that threatens their survival.
Birds, mammals, and other creatures rely on natural streams, lakes, and ponds to hydrate. Without access to liquid water, dehydration becomes a real danger.
If you’re in a location with wildlife nearby, you can offer access to water by setting up a heated birdbath. Providing fresh water in a container that doesn’t freeze may help local animals stay hydrated throughout the coldest months.
