Ledbury Focus November 2019 Ledbury Focus November 2019 v3 | Page 70

Starling Murmuration Hereford - photo courtesy of Sophie Cowling A s temperatures drop, much of our native wildlife snuggles down somewhere cosy to wait for spring – but there are a surprising number of creatures out and about… The Big Sleep Only three species truly hibernate in the UK: dormice, bats and hedgehogs. Hibernation is very different to sleeping as the body’s systems are in a state of inactivity characterised by low body temperature, slow breathing and heart rate, and low metabolic rate. Discover a Wilder Herefordshire with Herefordshire Wildlife Trust this November Winter Wildlife 70 The hazel dormouse hibernates either on the ground - under logs, leaves, in grass tussocks and at the base of trees - or just beneath the ground where the temperature is more constant. Hedgehogs usually hibernate from October or November through to March or April. However, they do sometimes move nesting sites at least once during this period so you might just spot one out and about. During mild winters hedgehogs can remain active well into November and December. Bats spend the winter in specific hibernation roosts – different to their summer and maternity roosts. Bats roost in a variety of places but most commonly in trees, in buildings such as churches and underground, for example in cave systems, abandoned tunnels. Snakes also go into dormancy over winter known as brumation. Winter Wanderers So, who’s awake? Whilst some birds fly to warmer climes at this time of year, other species migrate to the UK and the bare branches and sparse hedgerows of winter mean that they are also much easier to spot! Good examples are the redwings and fieldfares, which arrive in the country as the weather turns cold. These To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: [email protected]