Day 28 of my Dark Days of December Challenge – the best way to combat the winter blues – is to connect with nature, this time by watching a Robin on the feeder.
A Flash of Red (actually orange) in the Bleak Midwinter
There’s something magical about seeing a Robin during the colder months, isn’t there? This morning, as I stepped outside with my coffee, the little red (orange)-breasted visitor was already at the bird feeder, darting between seeds and suet. It’s no wonder the Robin is so deeply associated with Christmas; they bring a sense of cheer even on the darkest days of winter.
Robins are fiercely territorial birds, and the one visiting my feeder certainly seemed to have claimed it as their own. It perched confidently, looking at me as if to say, “This is mine!” Watching it hop about made me forget the peristently lurking mist and fog (that has spoiled the end of many an overseas Christmas holiday this year) and feel truly connected to the life in my garden.
Why Feed the Birds in Winter?
Winter can be a tough season for wildlife. Food is scarcer, and birds rely on feeders more than ever. Offering seeds, suet, and mealworms not only helps the Robins and their feathered friends survive but also provides endless joy for us as we watch them thrive. Don’t just feed them in the winter but all year round – see my video of my back garden feeder getting lots of different species
If you don’t have a feeder yet, now is the perfect time to put one up. Robins, tits, sparrows, and even and blackbirds amongst others will thank you for it.
A Symbol of Hope
The Robin is often considered a symbol of hope, and it’s easy to see why. Seeing its red chest and lively movements amidst the bare trees and grey skies feels like a promise of better days ahead.
Take a moment today to stand by a window or step outside. Watch the birds, and if you’re lucky enough to spot a Robin, let it lift your spirits.
Take time to pop outside and connect with nature to combat the winter blues – join others on the Devon Wildlife Truest 12 days of Christmas wild challenge
https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/news/charity-wants-you-have-wild-christmas