Giving Cumbrian Wildlife A Boost This January

While the weather may be crisp and chilly, don’t be put off a roam around the Cumbrian countryside on your Lake District break this winter.

It isn’t all about the hills and thrill-seeking lofty adventure, if you hone into the fields, the coasts, the rivers and hedge rows, you’ll find that Cumbria’s wildlife is actively buzzing all year around – it is what inspired Beatrix Potter after all.

And, Winter is as good a time as any to get out into the countryside to spot some of the little creatures that feature in her books, as well as so many more species – including rare breeds – which make Cumbria and the Lake District their home.

There’s the Red Squirrel, Ospreys and Peregrines, Otters, Seals – best viewed at high tide at South Walney Island this month – and not to forget, more than 1,300 species of plant.

But, it is easy to forget that these wonderful species can only exist if the delicate balance in the natural environment is right.

And, here’s where Cumbria conservation comes in, to keep the environment finely tuned against the impact of issues such as farming, mining, forestry and more recently tourism.

And, January it turns out, is also a great time to give Cumbria’s wildlife a helping hand too, so as well as admiring all the area has to offer, you can give a helping hand to preserve it. So, your grandkids, your great- grand kids and generations more can enjoy what this spectacular area of Britain has to offer.

If you want to get close to nature this month and haven’t booked your Lake District holiday cottage yet, we’ve got last minute availability, so don’t worry.

The conservation effort is in full swing this month, thanks to the Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s Conservation days.

Credit: Cumbria Wildlife Trust

So, if you fancy getting out and about, how about giving Cumbria’s species a bit of help?

FREE Conservation Days across Cumbria in January

Conservation Day at Smardale Gill Nature Reserve – January 15
You can help coppice and brash burning to help maintain an open ride for butterflies. It will encourage the diverse woodland ground flora to proliferate and keep the path open for public access.

Guided walks at Eycott Nature Reserve – January 21

Learn about the nature reserve and the wildlife and geology – plus enjoy the wonderful views!

Brown Robin Winter Tree ID Walk – January 22

Ever thought about learning about trees? Well, join the Brown Robin honorary reserve manager to identify trees and find out all about their traditional uses and folklore.

Conservation Day at Wreay Woods Nature Reserve – January 25

Help to restore one of the last remaining ancient woodlands on the River Pettril.

Conservation Day at Barkbooth Lot Nature Reserve – January 29

Help improve the woodland and grassland of this lovely area at the head of the Winster Valley.

Conservation Day at Bowness On Solway Nature Reserve – January 30

Bowness-on-Solway is an old gravel pit that has become a wonderful site for wildlife. Cumbria Wildlife will be carrying some scrub clearance and other maintenance works.

Conservation Day at Foulshaw Moss – January 30

Join into make improvements to habitats and visitor facilities.

And, if you like a bit of art too, Cumbrian artist Ellie Chaney teamed up with the Trust and local people to make sculptures from marine trash cleaned up off the shores of Cumbria. This thought-provoking art exhibition is at the Wildman Gallery in Kendal from January 23-26.

So, if you’re staying in the Lake District this month and enjoy it here, there is a chance to give something back if you want to.

For all of the above conservation days and to book a space – which is essential -see www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org

If you love nature and are looking for a Lake District stay, have a look at our luxury self-catering holiday cottages across the Lake District.

All of them are VisitEngland inspected and graded and more than 170 are perfect for Lake District breaks with dogs too.

You will be on the doorstep of great scenery and beautiful wildlife wherever you opt to stay by booking one of our cottages.

See more here www.lakelovers.co.uk or call us on 015394-88855 for advice or to book one of our beautiful homes.