It is that time of year where the days grow shorter, the air turns crisp, and trees transform into shades of oranges, reds and yellows with leaves slowly whirling to the floor. Hedgehogs start to hide away; peacock butterflies seek shelter for torpor and birds scatter seeds helping regenerate our forests. It’s a time for change – not just for us but for all species. Supporting nature during this season is vital for its survival and for keeping our ecosystem thriving. 

So, how can you play a role in protecting local nature this autumn, whilst also enjoying nature for yourself? Here are 5 steps to help wildlife flourish.

1. Welcoming wildlife into a local green space

You do not need acres to create a haven for nature – you can encourage wildlife in your garden or a shared local area. Some perennials can be planted in the autumn to encourage pollinators such as butterflies in the spring. Reuse wood to create a bug hotel or rake a leaf pile to create a hibernating hideout for hedgehogs.

Want to go a step further? 

Try putting up a bat box

Wiltshire has a rich bat population. Encourage these illusive acrobats to roost by creating a shelter at least 4 metres high. This should be in a sheltered area with some exposure to sunlight. Once fixed it is illegal to disturb a bat box if you do not have a licence, instead identify inhabitants by looking for bat droppings. 

2. Keep resources topped-up

Autumn weather can be challenging for wildlife. Birds need to build up extra energy to stay warm, so filling feeders with seeds and grains provides these foraging opportunities. Remember to top up the bird bath! - do this regularly to give the birds an fresh water to drink and bathe. Small actions like these can provide a massive help for wildlife survival during colder months.

3. Get involved with your local Wildlife Trust

Why not embrace getting dirt under your nails or even jumping in muddy puddles? Volunteering is a great way to connect yourself to nature whilst making an impact. Wildlife Trusts run events and projects for various ages, such as river restoration and planting trees to help conserve local biodiversity. From practical conservation to office administration to volunteering with our education and wellbeing groups, click here to find out more about opportunities with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. 

For the younger ones, joining a local Wildlife Watch group gives children the opportunity to learn more about the natural environment around them. And other ways you can get involved include supporting campaigns, fundraising, or even writing blogs about the local landscape and species that interest you.

4. Appreciate your local reserves and green spaces 

Nature doesn’t just need our help - we need nature to thrive. Take time to go on a walk, pause to enjoy the fresh cool air and reset your mind. Make sure you visit green spaces responsibly, protecting habitats by keeping to footpaths and taking rubbish home with you.  Wrap up warm, put your wellies on and enjoy the crunch of leaves on your autumnal walk! Click here to find a reserve near you.

5. Start a new outdoor adventure

Conservation starts with education. This season start a new hobby to help embrace your connection with the great outdoors. Why not try birdwatching? Autumn brings winter migrants, with species such as shoveler ducks, teal and wigeons found at Langford Lakes and Lower Moor. Use an identification app such as iNaturalist to get to know different wildlife or try an identification book to help build an understanding of the species markings and tracks. 

Sometimes it is about keeping it simple by finding a bench to read a book or getting that perfect scenic shot by using your camera. Whatever you choose, it’s about building your appreciation and relationship with nature.