Main photo shows the River Great Ouse at Needingworth. Credit: Phil Mottram

Did you know?

• Water voles don’t hibernate in winter. Instead, they stay in their burrows, sharing warmth with family members and feeding on roots and bark. Up to 80% of wild water voles may not survive the winter, with flooding and food shortages being the main threats.
• Kingfishers, one of Cambridgeshire’s most colourful birds, struggle in harsh winters. When rivers freeze or flood, it’s harder for them to catch fish and many don’t make it through to spring.
• The rare bittern, a secretive wetland bird, relies on healthy reedbeds and unfrozen water to survive the coldest months. Cambridgeshire’s wetlands are vital for their survival.

Winter brings unique challenges to our rivers and wetlands. Heavy rain, snowmelt and freezing temperatures can cause flooding, pollute water and destroy habitats. For creatures like water voles, kingfishers and bitterns, these months are a fight for survival.

But there is good news – we can all help our precious wildlife to cope with the cold.

 

 How you can help: practical actions for everyone

 

1. Protect riverbanks and wetlands

• Avoid disturbing riverbanks in winter. Water voles and other wildlife need stable, undisturbed banks for shelter. Be peaceful, keep dogs on leads.
• Leave seedheads, reeds and leaf litter in place. These provide food and cover for many species.
• Support the creation and maintenance of ponds and wetland margins, which offer safe havens during floods.

2. Prevent pollution and reduce flood risk

• Use eco-friendly alternatives to rock salt on paths and roads near water such as eco-grit. Salt runoff can harm wildlife and plants.
• Never pour oils, de-icers or chemicals down drains (household or roadside) as these can end up in rivers and wetlands.
• Reduce blockages and local flooding by only flushing the 3p’s down your toilet:  paper, poo and pee! No type of wet wipe/wet toilet tissue biodegrades quickly enough to prevent blockages.

3. Report problems quickly

• If you spot pollution or flooding, report it to the Environment Agency . Report high levels of rubbish in rivers to or your local district council. Quick action can prevent long-term damage.

4. Get involved with local groups

• Join a litter picking group such as the Ramsey RiverCare group which organises regular clean-ups and habitat projects along  local waterways.
  

  Ramsey RiverCare volunteer in action.

• Cambridgeshire Flood Groups work with residents and councils to prepare for and respond to flooding.

 

Every small action adds up. Whether you’re clearing a drain, planting a tree or simply spreading the word, you’re helping to protect Cambridgeshire’s rivers and wetlands for both people and wildlife.