First signs of spring can be seen in January says Rippingale nature columnist Ian Misselbrook

I wish you all a happy, much healthier and peaceful 2022. Also, a year that is brimming with exciting wildlife encounters, writes columnist Ian Misselbrook.

January can seem like a long month but with lengthening daylight, the first signs of spring can be sought. Snowdrops burst into flower and the first catkins can be found in the woodlands and hedgerows.

Still the options available to the all round naturalist are a bit limited at this time of the year, so I don’t need much of an excuse to indulge in my primary interest of birdwatching.