West Dean Estate sits within the heart of the South Downs, and winter brings a noticeable change across the landscape. Shorter days and colder temperatures give the estate a very different feel to the busy spring and summer months, but this season plays an important role for both wildlife and land management.

Across the estate’s mix of chalk grassland, woodland, farmland and hedgerows, winter reveals how these habitats link together. With leaves off the trees and vegetation reduced, it’s easier to see wildlife corridors and areas that provide shelter and food during the colder months. These features are especially important for species that remain active throughout winter.

Bird life is still very much present at this time of year. Resident species such as robins, blackbirds, blue tits, great tits and woodpeckers can be seen around woodland edges and hedgerows. Over open farmland and downland, buzzards and kestrels regularly hunt, while winter visitors including fieldfares and redwings arrive to feed on berries and fallen fruit.

Mammals are more elusive but signs of them are often visible. Roe deer move between woodland and fields, particularly at dawn and dusk. Brown hares can be spotted on open ground, and fox tracks are often clear in muddy paths after wet weather.