Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions for Nature

Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions for Nature

Having all eased back into the first week back at work, now is a good time look at the fresh start that a new year brings. This year how about making resolutions that go beyond ourselves, and extend to the incredible natural world around us. Take a look at these suggestions for our Top 10 New Year's Resolutions for Nature, designed to help you connect with, protect, and celebrate wildlife and nature over the coming year.

1. Lend a Hand to Nature: Volunteer with Wiltshire Wildlife Trust

What better way to kick off the year than by giving back to the environment? Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has over 2,000 dedicated volunteers who devote their time to help protect nature and wildlife. Whether you're a seasoned conservationist or simply eager to learn, there's a role at the Trust for you. Help us manage our 40+ nature reserves, assist with wildlife surveys, or lend your skills in our offices, along with many more opportunities. Find out more and sign up today!  

Photo of a volunteer

2. Welcome Feathered Friends: Provide Food and Water for Birds

Winter can be a tough time for birds, but you can help! Hang a feeder filled with high-energy seeds like sunflower hearts, put out apple slices and nuts, and provide a fresh water source in a bird bath. You'll be rewarded with the cheerful sight of robins, blue tits, and other feathered visitors gracing your garden all stopping by! For hints and tips on the best way to do this visit: Help wildlife in the cold | Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

Garden birds perch on a frosty branch

3. Become a Wildlife Detective: Record Your Sightings

Every wildlife observation, no matter how small, contributes to our understanding of the natural world. Help us keep a record of Wiltshire’s wildlife by logging your sightings and encounters through Home | iRecord. From buzzing bees to soaring birds, your data helps us track populations, monitor biodiversity, and make informed conservation decisions.

Bird Watching

4. Inspire the Next Generation of Nature Lovers

Share a passion for wildlife with the young people in your life. Join a Wiltshire Wildlife Watch group and embark on exciting outdoor adventures together each month. From pond dipping to minibeast hunts, you'll create lasting memories while fostering a love for nature in the next generation. Find a group near you: Wildlife Watch Groups | Wiltshire Wildlife Trust

Wildlife Watch group

5. Transform Your Garden into a Wildlife Haven

Although the ground is frosty and gardening might be the farthest thing from your mind, you can still plan for creating a greener garden in spring… Whether you have a sprawling lawn or a tiny balcony, you can make a difference! Start making a plan now for planting native wildflowers to attract pollinators, building a bug hotel for beneficial insects, or even installing a small pond to support amphibians. Need inspiration? Check out our online resources for wildlife-friendly gardening tips.

Wildflower meadow - Paul Hobson

Paul Hobson

6. Explore Local Nature Reserves and Warm Up with a Treat

Plan a monthly, weekly, or even daily walk! Embrace the crisp air and explore Wiltshire's stunning nature reserves. From the tranquil waters of Langford Lakes to the ancient woodlands of Ravensroost, there are so many natural wonders waiting to be discovered. Warm up afterwards with a delicious treat at the Dragonfly Cafe at Lower Moor Farm or the Kingfisher Cafe at Langford Lakes, supporting local businesses that champion sustainability.

coffee

7. Share the Beauty: Capture and Share Your Nature Photos

When you’re out and about, take a step back to look in more detail at your surroundings. Wiltshire's landscapes are teeming with breathtaking beauty even in the darkest winters. Capture those magical moments on camera and share your photos on social media! Tag us @wiltshirewildlife and use the hashtag #WiltshireWildlife to join the online community of nature enthusiasts. Get hints and tips for photographing the natural world here: The Essential Nature Photography Guide.

Sunsetting over peatland

Mark Hamblin/2020 VISION

8. Unleash Your Artistic Side: Get Creative in Nature

Make time for creativity in 2025… let nature inspire your artistic side! Gather natural materials like leaves, twigs, and stones to incorporate into your creative projects. Nature journalling is a great way to connect with your inner thoughts, be more mindful and appreciate your surroundings; our next nature journalling session is on 23 January at Clouts Wood. Or join an upcoming linocut workshop at Langford Lakes and learn how to create beautiful prints inspired by the natural world.

New Year Resolutions for Nature

9. Embrace a Greener Diet: Try Veganuary

Did you know that reducing your meat consumption can have a positive impact on Wiltshire's wildlife? Animal agriculture is a major contributor to habitat loss and greenhouse gas emissions. By participating in Veganuary, you'll not only explore delicious plant-based cuisine but also contribute to a healthier planet for both people and wildlife. Want to give it a go? Veganuary 2025 | Home | The Go Vegan 31 Day Challenge gives helpful hints, tips and of course, recipe ideas.

Veganuary

10. Be a Voice for Nature: Support the Climate and Nature Bill

Make your voice heard and support legislation that protects nature. The Climate and Nature Bill is a crucial step towards tackling the climate and biodiversity crises. Find out how you can get involved and make a difference: https://action.zerohour.uk/

 

Let us know

We’d love to hear if you take on any of these activities! Please post them on our Team Wilder page so that we can share your stories and see the action you are taking for nature. Let’s resolve to make a positive impact on Wiltshire's wildlife this year. By embracing these resolutions, we can create a wilder, healthier, and more vibrant future for both nature and ourselves - Happy New Year!

Climate and Nature Bill