What's Happening In Nature

Winter's Solstice!

December brings a calm beauty to the landscape—bare trees etched against soft gray skies, quiet marshes rimmed with ice, and that special crispness in the air that feels like the season’s own greeting. While much of nature seems to rest, there’s still a quiet hum of life all around us, especially in our backyards.

The early sunsets and chilly mornings draw our familiar winter birds close to home. Chickadees, nuthatches, and titmice are regulars at feeders now, darting in and out with quick bursts of energy. Northern cardinals add bright splashes of red against snow-dusted branches, while juncos and white-throated sparrows hop along the ground in search of seed. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a red-breasted nuthatch or a visiting purple finch stopping by for a snack.

This is also a great time to take note of bird behavior. Many species spend the colder months in small mixed flocks—it’s a strategy that helps them find food and keep watch for predators. Suet, high-fat seed blends, and peanut feeders are a welcome energy boost for these busy birds. And remember to keep water available! A heated bird bath can make a world of difference when temperatures dip below freezing.

The Winter Solstice on December 21st marks the year’s shortest day and longest night. From that point forward, the sun begins its slow return, bringing a promise of light and renewal. Many cultures have long celebrated this turning point, and it’s easy to see why—it’s nature’s own reminder that brighter days always come back around.

Beyond the feeders, foxes and coyotes are more active now, pairing up as their breeding season approaches. You may notice tracks in the snow or hear a distant call on a still night. Squirrels scurry to retrieve buried acorns, and evergreens stand out in the woods, symbols of resilience and life through the coldest months.

As we celebrate our own holidays—gathering with loved ones and sharing kindness—it’s a wonderful time to extend that spirit to the natural world too. Refill your feeders, hang a suet cake, or simply pause to appreciate the birds that bring color and song to winter’s quiet.

As the year comes to a close, December reminds us that even in stillness, nature carries on—quietly, beautifully, and right outside our windows.

Happy Hanukkah! Merry Christmas! Happy Kwanzaa! Happy Holidays!