THIS winter has been particularly mild and Devon Wildlife Trust is asking the public to spare a thought for wildlife who are becoming confused by the unusual weather.

Winter is a tough time for wildlife as they hibernate, migrate and try to survive.

Temperatures have been reaching highs of 14 degrees in some parts of Devon and as a result the wildlife is not following its usual seasonal patterns.

This unusual behaviour has been reported across the 50 nature reserves the Devon Wildlife Trust has under its care.

David Wodehouse, who helps manage DWT’s Meeth Quarry nature reserve, near Hatherleigh, said: “The primroses are out at Meeth, normally a sign that spring is on the way. We also have marsh ragwort and wild strawberries in flower and our bee hives are still active.”

The Post recently reported on daffodils being spotted by Julia Ward who lives at St Gennys. It is unusual to see them sprouting at this time of year.

Birds are also becoming confused about what time of year it is. Andrew Warren, who has worked on the trust’s reserves for more than ten years, said: “Many of our winter birds, including robins and songthrushes have been very vocal. I’m almost expecting to start seeing them collect twigs ready for nesting!”

Birds do sing throughout winter but often only in short bursts. The long songs being heard suggest birds are thinking it is time to find a mate and start breeding.

Devon Wildlife Trust has also been receiving reports that hibernating animals such as toads, bats and hedgehogs or those that normally lie dormant in the winter are being spotted out and about.

The trust is asking people to send in their unusual wildlife sightings via Twitter @DevonWildlife or Facebook.

The charity advises that people help wildlife by providing a regular supply of fresh water and keeping birdfeeders topped up.

devonwildlifetrust.org