Winter in Powys brings about a unique and dynamic landscape, influencing the behaviours and adaptations of the region's wildlife. From the rugged hills to the tranquil valleys, Powys is home to a diverse array of animals that have developed strategies to thrive in the winter months. Here are some of the notable winter animals you might encounter in Powys:

 

Birds 

The Swallows have now all departed for warmer climes but Autumn’s rich bounty of fruit and berries is attracting new visitors from distant lands.

 

Redwings flock to Wales from Finland, Norway and Sweden to feast on the berries produced by hedgerow shrubs such as Hawthorn and Elder. They migrate at night and their high-pitched whistling calls can often be heard on dark still nights, especially when large flocks are on the move.

 

Fieldfares are also arriving from their breeding grounds in Iceland and northern Europe. They visit Wales to feast on berries and fallen fruit. Orchards, especially those where fallen fruit is left on the ground, can attract huge numbers of Fieldfares. They are, however, a flighty bird and quickly retreat to the tops of trees if disturbed.  

 

Other winter visitors that are now arriving from their northern breeding grounds include Wigeon and Teal. These ducks are to be found on lakes and large ponds where they feed on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates. Wigeon and Teal migrate over huge distances to escape freezing winter temperatures in their northern breeding grounds. It's amazing to think that a Wigeon overwintering in Powys could have flown all the way from Russia.

 

At this time of year our iconic resident bird of prey, the Red Kite, is much easier to see, especially where large flocks congregate at feeding stations such as at Gigrin Farm in Rhayader. The Red Kite is a conservation success story; once down to just three individuals, the Red Kite population in Wales now numbers around two and a half thousand pairs.

 

Every now and again a bird with unusual and aberrant markings can spring up in a population of otherwise normally marked birds. There is currently one such bird coming to the Red Kite feeding station at Gigrin Farm. This unusually marked Red Kite is almost completely white; will this impressive looking bird produce white offspring? We will have to wait until spring to find out………

 

 

Deer:

The hills and woodlands of Powys are inhabited by red deer, and winter is a fascinating time to observe their behaviour. The colder months often bring about the rutting season, where male red deer, or stags, engage in impressive displays to establish dominance and attract mates.

Roe deer are well-adapted to the woodlands and fields of Powys. During winter, you may see these deer foraging for food in open areas or seeking shelter in the dense vegetation.

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Mountain Hares:

In the upland areas, such as the Cambrian Mountains, you may spot the elusive mountain hare. These creatures change their fur colour to white during winter, blending seamlessly with the snowy landscapes to avoid predators.

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Otters:

Powys is traversed by numerous rivers and waterways, making it an ideal habitat for otters. These semi-aquatic mammals can be observed along riverbanks and lakeshores, even in the winter months, as they hunt for fish and other prey.

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Badgers:

Badgers, though less active during the winter, may still venture out in search of food. Wooded areas and fields provide habitats where badgers may be spotted foraging.

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Foxes:

Foxes are adaptable and can be observed year-round in Powys. In winter, their tracks may be more visible in snow-covered landscapes, offering a glimpse into their nocturnal activities.

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Grey Squirrels:

These energetic rodents remain active during winter, foraging for nuts and seeds they've stored during the fall. They are commonly seen in woodlands and urban areas.

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Winter in Powys offers a unique opportunity to witness the resilience and strategies employed by the region's wildlife to navigate the challenges posed by the season. Whether it's the majestic deer, elusive hares, or soaring birds of prey, the winter landscape in Powys provides a rich tapestry of wildlife experiences for those keen on exploration and observation.