![\"Cumbrian](\"https:\/\/www.lakelovers.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2020\/10\/red-squirrel.png\")
<\/p>\nIt isn\u2019t all about the hills and thrill-seeking lofty adventure, if you hone into the fields, the coasts, the rivers and hedge rows, you\u2019ll find that Cumbria\u2019s wildlife is actively buzzing all year around\u00a0\u2013 it is what inspired Beatrix Potter after all.<\/p>\n
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 \u2013 including rare breeds \u2013 which make Cumbria and the Lake District their home.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s the Red Squirrel, Ospreys and Peregrines, Otters, Seals \u2013 best viewed at high tide at South Walney Island this month \u2013 and not to forget, more than 1,300 species of plant.<\/p>\n
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But, it is easy to forget that these wonderful species can only exist if the delicate balance in the natural environment is right.<\/p>\n
And, here\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
And, January it turns out, is also a great time to give Cumbria\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
If you want to get close to nature this month and\u00a0haven\u2019t booked your Lake District holiday cottage yet, we\u2019ve got last minute availability, so don\u2019t worry.<\/p>\n
The conservation effort is in full swing\u00a0this month, thanks to the Cumbria Wildlife Trust\u2019s Conservation days.<\/p>\n
![\"Nature](\"https:\/\/www.lakelovers.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2020\/10\/Latterbarrow-work-party-23.jpg\")
<\/p>\nCredit: Cumbria Wildlife Trust<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
So, if you fancy getting out and about, how about giving Cumbria\u2019s species a bit of help?<\/p>\n
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Conservation Day at Smardale Gill Nature Reserve \u2013 January 15<\/b>
\nYou 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.<\/p>\n
Guided walks at Eycott Nature Reserve \u2013 January 21<\/b><\/p>\n
Learn about the nature reserve and the wildlife and geology \u2013 plus enjoy the wonderful views!<\/p>\n
Brown Robin Winter Tree ID Walk \u2013 January 22 <\/b><\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Conservation Day at Wreay Woods Nature Reserve \u2013 January 25<\/b><\/p>\n
Help to restore one of the last remaining ancient woodlands on the River Pettril.<\/p>\n
Conservation Day at Barkbooth Lot Nature Reserve \u2013 January 29<\/b><\/p>\n
Help improve the woodland and grassland of this lovely area at the head of the Winster Valley.<\/p>\n
Conservation Day at Bowness On Solway Nature Reserve \u2013 January 30<\/b><\/p>\n
Bowness-on-Solway is an old gravel pit that has become a wonderful site for wildlife. Cumbria Wildlife\u00a0will be carrying some scrub clearance and other maintenance works.<\/p>\n
Conservation Day at Foulshaw Moss \u2013 January 30<\/b><\/p>\n
![\"Credit:](\"https:\/\/www.lakelovers.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2020\/10\/Latterbarrow-work-party-41.jpg\")
Join into make improvements to habitats and visitor facilities.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
So, if you\u2019re staying in the Lake District this month and enjoy it here, there is a chance to give something back if you want to.<\/p>\n
For all of the above conservation days and to book a space \u2013 which is essential -see www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org<\/p>\n
![\"Nature](\"https:\/\/www.lakelovers.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2020\/10\/nature.jpg\")
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All of them are VisitEngland inspected and graded and more than 170 are perfect for Lake District breaks with dogs too.<\/p>\n
You will be on the doorstep of great scenery and beautiful wildlife wherever you opt to stay by booking one of our cottages.<\/p>\n