This Christmas, the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) is inviting everyone to step outside and embrace the wonder of the natural world with its annual 12 Days Wild festive challenge.
Running from 25 December to 05 January, the initiative encourages participants of all ages to do one nature-inspired activity each day, helping to bring a little extra joy and mindfulness to the holiday season.
Whether it’s feeding garden birds, taking a winter walk, or noticing the wildlife on your doorstep, BBOWT’s challenge is designed to be simple, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone.
“To mark 12 Days Wild this year, I’ll be pledging to take a few moments every day to notice nature around me,” says Liz Shearer, Community Engagement Director at BBOWT.
“Whether it’s a stroll in the local park or simply watching birds through the window, connecting with wildlife is a simple but powerful way to recharge, especially during the busy festive period.”
The activities are designed to suit all levels of engagement. Participants might choose to observe birdsong and learn to tell robins from wrens, create a wildlife diary or scrapbook for 2026, or even track the footprints of nighttime visitors to their gardens.
Sharing photos and experiences on social media using #12DaysWild helps build a sense of community and spreads inspiration for more people to join in.
The challenge also offers significant mental health benefits. Dr Amir Khan, TV doctor and GP, and Vice President of The Wildlife Trusts, highlights that “Christmas isn’t always a happy season for everyone, and it can be overwhelming.
“Nature gives us the chance to slow down, notice the small things, and be present in the moment. Even in the winter darkness, there is wonder to be found — a tawny owl calling, a robin singing, or the quiet of a frosty morning.”
Participation is free, and daily emails provide ideas and guidance to help people fully engage with the challenge.
With simple, mindful interactions with the outdoors, 12 Days Wild aims to make this festive period more joyful, reflective, and connected to the natural world.
Families, individuals, and wildlife enthusiasts are all encouraged to take part and discover the magic that winter wildlife has to offer.
Sign up for 12 Days Wild 2025 and let nature inspire your festive season: www.wildlifetrusts.org/12dayswild.
