Nature News - December highlights

As we look back on December, the Millennium Country Park settled fully into winter, bringing with it crisp mornings, shorter days and a wonderful mix of resident birds and winter visitors. Thanks to the continued dedication of our volunteer birder Bob Hook, an impressive 77 bird species were recorded throughout the month - a strong total that reflects how important the Park is for wildlife as winter takes hold. 

 Published 12th January 2026

View full December bird list here

Winter wildfowl take centre stage 

The lakes and Wetlands were particularly lively in December as wintering wildfowl gathered in good numbers. Wigeon, Teal, Gadwall and Shoveler were regularly seen dabbling and grazing along the water’s edge, while Pochard, Tufted Duck and the striking Goosander favoured deeper areas for diving. Overhead, skeins of Pink-footed Geese passed through alongside Greylag, Canada and Egyptian Geese, their calls a familiar winter soundtrack.  

Photo: Goosander (stock image)

Reedbeds and wetland specialists 

December also offered some rewarding wetland sightings. The secretive Bittern continued to skulk in the reedbeds, blending perfectly into the frosted stems. Elegant Little Egrets, Great White Egrets and Grey Herons made the most of shallow pools, standing motionless as they waited for an unwary fish.  

Photo: Great Egret (Martin Green)

Raptors on the hunt 

With vegetation dying back and prey more visible, December was a great month for birds of prey. Red Kites and Buzzards were regularly seen soaring over the Park, while Kestrels hovered patiently above rough grassland in search of small mammals. 

The Wetlands continued to host Marsh Harrier, gliding low over the reeds. Observers were rewarded with sightings of Sparrowhawk and the powerful Peregrine, both taking advantage of winter flocks.  

Photo: Peregrine Falcon (stock image)

Winter thrushes and flocking birds 

The arrival of winter migrants was clear among the thrushes. Fieldfare and Redwing fed eagerly on berries and fallen fruit, often in mixed groups, while Blackbirds and Song Thrushes searched lawns and leaf litter for worms during milder spells. 

Woodland and hedgerows were alive with movement as flocks of Long-tailed Tits, Blue Tits and Great Tits travelled together, joined by tiny Goldcrests and elusive Treecreepers spiralling up tree trunks in search of insects hidden in bark crevices. 

Finches such as Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, Goldfinch and Greenfinch were drawn to seed-rich areas, while Reed Buntings clung to reed stems along the water’s edge. 

Photo: Reed Bunting (Martin Green)

Looking ahead to January 

As December drew to a close, temperatures continued to drop, and the Park took on a quieter feel. With January ahead, we can expect frosty mornings, the possibility of snow, and tougher conditions for wildlife - making sheltered habitats, unfrozen water and food sources all the more important. 

We look forward to seeing how the Park’s birds respond as winter deepens and thank Bob Hook once again for his invaluable records throughout December. Even in the coldest months, there is always something to discover at the Millennium Country Park. 

View full December bird list here

Want to get involved? 

Guided winter bird walk

Saturday 7th February 2026

Join us at the Millennium Country Park, Marston Moretaine, for a wintry guided walk led by our team of expert Volunteers. 

Book here

If you’re passionate about protecting the species you see and hear, why not become a Friend of the Forest? Your donation helps us to protect and grow the Forest and other vital habitats within the Forest of Marston Vale, plus you a get a host of 'Friends' benefits such a free parking, and discounts in the Forest Centre.