January Bushcraft Calendar: Winter Skills, Wildlife & Outdoor Challenges

January is a month of contrasts. In the Northern Hemisphere, cold weather, short days and bare trees create excellent opportunities to practise winter bushcraft, identify trees by their bark and buds, read animal tracks and develop cold-weather skills. In the Southern Hemisphere, January brings summer conditions, longer days in many regions and a different set of outdoor challenges.

Wherever you are, this is a good month to slow down, observe your surroundings and build practical skills. Learn to recognise the natural materials around you, understand how weather affects your plans and become more confident working outdoors in changing conditions.

January at a glance

Key dates

The Quadrantids are an annual meteor shower, but their peak lasts only a short time. In 2027, the predicted maximum falls on 4 January at approximately 03:30 UTC. Visibility depends on location, cloud cover, light pollution and the position of the meteor shower’s radiant. NASA’s meteor shower guide provides further information.

Daylight and weather

January brings noticeably different daylight patterns depending on where you are in the world. In the Northern Hemisphere, daylight gradually increases after the December solstice, although mornings can remain dark and temperatures low. In the Southern Hemisphere, daylight gradually decreases after the December solstice, but summer conditions can still bring intense heat and long periods of sunshine.

Understanding the available daylight is an important bushcraft skill. It affects how long you can travel, when you should establish camp, how much time you have to gather materials and when you need to begin your journey home.

The following table shows approximate sunrise and sunset times for three UK cities during January 2027. Times are local GMT and rounded to the nearest minute.

Sunrise to sunset, calculated for January 2027. Actual daylight varies with location, elevation and local horizon. Civil twilight begins before sunrise and continues after sunset.

Using the light

• Plan outdoor activities around the actual sunrise and sunset times for your location. Do not rely on a general monthly estimate when planning a journey.
• Remember that usable natural light begins before sunrise and continues after sunset during twilight, but visibility deteriorates quickly in woodland, valleys and heavily shaded areas.
• In northern winter conditions, the low sun produces long shadows and limited warmth. Frost and ice can remain in shaded areas throughout the day.
• In southern summer conditions, avoid unnecessarily strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Make use of shade, drink regularly and protect yourself from excessive sun exposure.
• Establish camp, prepare your equipment and complete any necessary fire preparation well before darkness. Only light a fire where it is permitted and safe.
• Set a realistic turnaround time that leaves enough daylight to return safely. Allow extra time for difficult terrain, poor weather and unexpected delays.
• Carry a reliable head torch, spare batteries and a backup light source, even when you expect to finish before sunset.

Typical weather

January weather varies enormously around the world. The following are broad seasonal patterns rather than guaranteed conditions.

Northern Hemisphere

• Many temperate regions experience cold temperatures, frost, rain and occasional snow. Mountainous areas can be considerably colder and experience rapidly changing conditions.
• In northern Europe and parts of North America, freezing conditions, icy paths and prolonged periods of wet weather can make outdoor activities more demanding.
• Coastal areas can experience strong winds, heavy rain and rough conditions, while inland locations may experience fog and freezing fog.
• Freeze-and-thaw conditions can create slippery paths, unstable ground and changing river levels.
• In tropical and subtropical regions, January may be relatively dry in some places and part of the wet season in others.

Southern Hemisphere

• Much of southern Australia, New Zealand, southern Africa and South America experiences summer conditions, although local climates vary considerably.
• High temperatures, strong sunshine and dehydration become important considerations, particularly during strenuous activities.
• Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and flash flooding can develop rapidly in some regions.
• Dry vegetation and strong winds can increase wildfire risk. Never light a fire where restrictions or conditions make it unsafe.
• Coastal and mountainous environments can still experience sudden weather changes, even during summer.

Before heading outdoors, check a reliable local weather forecast and any relevant warnings. In the UK, the Met Office provides forecasts and weather warnings. Elsewhere, use your national or regional meteorological service. Pay particular attention to wind speed, rainfall, temperature, visibility and any warnings affecting your intended route.

Week by week

January is a month of changing conditions, and the skills worth practising will depend on your local environment. In colder regions, frost, bare trees and shorter days create opportunities to develop winter bushcraft skills. In warmer regions, longer outdoor sessions can provide time to practise shelter building, water management and natural navigation.

Use the weekly guide below as inspiration. You don’t need to complete every activity in one week; the aim is to build knowledge and confidence through regular practice.

A skill to carry into February

Choose one skill you have practised during January and repeat it before the month ends. It could be identifying trees, recognising animal tracks, preparing a fire-lighting kit, improving your shelter or navigating with a map and compass.

Make a note of what went well, what you found difficult and what you would change next time. Building bushcraft ability is about developing reliable skills through practice, not simply completing a task once.

In the woods

January offers an excellent opportunity to slow down and study the natural environment. In deciduous woodland, bare branches reveal details that are hidden during the growing season, while frost, snow and softer ground can make animal tracks and feeding signs easier to spot.

In warmer regions, January may bring a completely different picture, with active wildlife, flowering plants and dense vegetation. Whatever the season where you live, learning to recognise small changes in your surroundings is one of the most valuable bushcraft skills you can develop.

Wildlife this month

Wildlife activity varies considerably with climate, habitat and location. Rather than expecting to see particular animals, look for signs that reveal how they are feeding, moving and responding to seasonal conditions.

• Deer: In many temperate regions, deer continue feeding through winter, often using woodland edges and sheltered areas. Look for tracks, droppings, browsing marks and flattened resting places. Observe from a distance and avoid forcing animals to move, as this wastes energy and causes unnecessary stress.
• Birds: Winter can bring mixed flocks of tits, finches and other small birds, while seasonal visitors may include redwings and fieldfares in parts of Europe. Look for feeding activity, feathers, footprints and calls. In warmer regions, observe local summer breeding and feeding behaviour without approaching nests.
• Foxes: In parts of Europe and North America, foxes may become more vocal during their winter breeding season. Calls, tracks and scent-marking sites can reveal their presence, even when the animals themselves remain hidden.
• Hibernators: Some species, including hedgehogs, bats and dormice in parts of Europe, spend periods of winter inactivity. Others remain active throughout the year. Avoid disturbing leaf litter, hollow trees, rock crevices and log piles, which may provide important shelter.
• Amphibians: In milder regions, frogs and toads may begin moving towards breeding ponds during damp weather. Activity depends on local temperatures and rainfall. Look for tracks and movement around suitable wetland habitats without disturbing spawning sites.

A useful habit is to keep a small wildlife observation notebook. Record the date, weather, habitat, species or signs observed and anything unusual. Over time, these notes will help you recognise seasonal patterns in your local environment.

Trees to learn this month

Winter is an excellent time to practise identifying trees without relying on leaves. Look closely at bark, buds, twigs, branching patterns and remaining fruits. Try to identify each species using at least two or three features rather than relying on a single characteristic.

Tree identification and traditional uses vary by species and region. These are examples of familiar temperate woodland trees rather than a universal list.

A closer look at hazel

Hazel is a particularly interesting tree to study in January. Its long yellow male catkins become increasingly noticeable during winter, sometimes opening well before spring. Look closely and you may also spot the much smaller female flowers, which have tiny red styles emerging from their buds.

Hazel has a long history of use in traditional woodland crafts. Its flexible stems can be used in weaving and campcraft, while thicker rods have traditionally been used for frames, supports and tool handles.

If you want to learn coppicing or practise working with hazel, first understand local access rules and obtain permission. Never cut living stems simply for practice.

January tree identification exercise

Choose three different trees in a local park, woodland or suitable outdoor area. Photograph each tree and record its identifying features.

Try to include:

• A photograph of the whole tree and its overall shape.
• A close-up of the bark.
• A close-up of the buds and twigs.
• Any remaining fruits, cones or catkins.

Use a reliable regional tree identification guide to check your answers. If you cannot identify a tree confidently, record it as unknown rather than guessing.

The aim is to become better at recognising trees throughout the year, not simply memorising a list of species.

January nature watch: What to look for

January might seem quiet compared with spring and summer, but there are plenty of signs that the natural world is changing. Look closely and you may find early flowers, developing catkins, animal tracks and other clues to what is happening around you.

Here are some things worth looking for during your January walks. The examples below are particularly relevant to temperate parts of the Northern Hemisphere; readers elsewhere should look for equivalent seasonal changes in their own region.

Hazel catkins

Look for hazel trees (Corylus avellana) carrying long, yellow-green catkins. These are the male flowers, which release pollen into the air. They often become noticeable during winter, although their timing depends on local temperatures and conditions. Look closely at the same branches for the tiny female flowers, which have small red styles and are much easier to miss.

Snowdrops and early flowers

In milder parts of the Northern Hemisphere, snowdrops (Galanthus species) may begin flowering during January. Look for their distinctive white, drooping flowers in gardens, parks, woodland edges and established naturalised colonies.

Winter aconites and certain other early-flowering plants may also appear, depending on local conditions. Avoid picking or digging up flowers, particularly where they grow in protected or managed areas. Simply photograph them and record where and when you spotted them.

Winter buds

Bare branches make January an excellent time to study tree buds. Look at their shape, colour, arrangement and position along the twig. Some trees have buds arranged opposite each other, while others have alternate buds. These small details can help you identify trees when leaves are absent.

Choose three different trees and photograph a close-up of their buds. Try identifying each one using a reliable regional tree guide before checking your answers.

Mosses and lichens

Look closely at tree trunks, stones, walls and fallen branches. You may notice different types of moss and lichen growing in patches, cushions or crust-like layers.

Although they are often found together, mosses and lichens are not the same thing. Mosses are small plants, while lichens are partnerships between fungi and photosynthetic organisms such as algae. Compare their textures, shapes and colours, and notice how their distribution changes between damp, shaded and more exposed surfaces.

Winter fungi

Deadwood can be particularly interesting in January. Look for bracket fungi growing from fallen logs and old stumps, as well as other species that may fruit during colder months. Velvet shank (Flammulina velutipes), for example, can appear on dead wood during winter in parts of its range.

Observe the shape, colour, surface and attachment of any fungi you find. Photograph them in place and leave them undisturbed. Never eat a wild fungus based on a photograph or an uncertain identification.

Winter birds

Watch for birds feeding in hedgerows, woodland and open fields. Depending on your location, you may see mixed feeding flocks, birds searching for seeds and berries, or seasonal visitors moving through the landscape.

Rather than simply recording which birds you see, spend a few minutes watching what they do. Are they feeding on the ground, searching branches, calling to one another or moving together as a flock? Behaviour can tell you a great deal about how birds use their habitat during winter.

Animal feeding signs

You do not always need to see an animal to know it has been nearby. Look for gnawed hazelnut shells, stripped bark, browsed shoots, damaged pine cones and other signs of feeding.

Try to work out which animal may have left the evidence. Compare the marks with a reliable wildlife guide, but remember that feeding signs can overlap between species and are not always conclusive.

Frost patterns

On cold mornings, frost can transform ordinary woodland details. Look for ice crystals on grass, frozen leaves, seed heads and the edges of puddles. Photograph the patterns and compare how frost forms on different surfaces.

Take care on slippery paths, boardwalks and slopes, and never assume that a frozen pond or stream is safe to walk on.

Tracks in frost

A cold morning can reveal animal activity that might otherwise go unnoticed. Look for footprints in thin frost, soft mud, damp soil and patches of snow. Pay attention to the shape of individual prints, the distance between them and the pattern they make across the ground. You might find evidence of foxes, deer, rabbits, squirrels or birds, depending on your location.

Try following a trail for a short distance without disturbing it. Look for changes in direction, pauses, feeding marks and other clues. Remember that tracks can be distorted by weather and other animals, so avoid making a definite identification from a single unclear print.

Your January nature observation challenge

Choose a familiar outdoor route and try to record five different signs of seasonal change. These could include a flowering plant, a tree bud, a bird feeding, a fungus on deadwood or an animal feeding mark.

Photograph each observation, record the date and location, and write one or two sentences explaining what you found. Repeat the same walk later in the month to see whether anything has changed.

The aim is not to find everything on this list. It is to slow down, look more carefully and begin recognising the smaller changes taking place around you.

Tracks and Signs in Frost

Frosty mornings can make it easier to notice the wildlife moving through an area, even when you never see the animals themselves. A light covering of frost can highlight footprints, trails and disturbed vegetation, while patches of soft mud or fresh snow may preserve clearer impressions.

You do not need deep snow to practise tracking. Look carefully around woodland paths, muddy edges, field margins, riverbanks and sheltered areas where animals regularly travel. Remember that frost does not always preserve a clear footprint, so use the conditions available rather than expecting to find perfect tracks.

What to Look For

Hoofprints: Deer and other hoofed animals leave split impressions. Look for the shape, size and spacing of the two halves, and check whether several prints form a regular trail. Hoofprints can become distorted in soft ground, so avoid identifying an animal from one unclear impression.

Paw prints: Foxes, dogs and other four-footed mammals may leave prints with visible toes and, sometimes, claw marks. A fox often leaves a relatively narrow, tidy trail, while domestic dog prints can vary considerably in shape and spacing. However, tracks overlap between species, and one print is rarely enough for a confident identification.

Rabbit and hare tracks: These animals often leave distinctive groups of prints because their larger hind feet land ahead of their smaller front feet. Look for repeated patterns rather than treating each impression as an isolated footprint.

Bird tracks: Look for three forward-pointing toes and, in some species, a rear toe. Footprint size and shape can help narrow down the possibilities, but many birds leave similar marks. Also look for feeding activity, disturbed leaf litter and small feathers.

Small mammal signs: Rodents and squirrels may leave tiny footprints, feeding remains and trails through vegetation. Gnawed nuts, opened seed cases and cone fragments can be useful clues, although the food itself may be easier to identify than the animal responsible.

Look Beyond Footprints

Tracking is not simply a matter of recognising prints. Animals leave other evidence of their presence, including droppings, feeding marks, feathers, fur caught on vegetation, scraped ground and well-used trails.

Look for hazelnuts with neat circular holes, bark stripped from young branches, browsed shoots and disturbed ground beneath trees. These clues can help you build a picture of what has been happening in an area.

Never handle droppings or disturb nests, burrows, dens or resting places. If you find signs of a sensitive or protected species, observe from a distance and leave the area undisturbed.

A Simple Tracking Method

When you find a possible track, slow down and examine the surrounding area before moving on.

1. Photograph the whole trail so you can see the direction and pattern of movement.
2. Take a closer photograph of a clear impression, placing a ruler or another suitable scale beside it without disturbing the track.
3. Note the surface, such as frost, snow, mud, sand or damp soil.
4. Record the date, approximate time, weather and location.
5. Look at the shape, number of toes, presence of claws, stride length and spacing between prints.
6. Search nearby for additional tracks or other signs that support your identification.
7. Compare your observations with a reliable tracking guide, and record your identification as uncertain if the evidence is not clear.

January Tracking Challenge

Find and photograph three examples of animal activity during a walk. These do not all have to be footprints: feeding marks, trails, feathers and other signs count too.

For each example, record what you found, where you found it, the conditions and what you think may have left it. Explain which features support your identification.

The aim is not to guess every animal correctly. It is to learn to observe carefully, recognise useful evidence and become more confident about distinguishing what you know from what you are still unsure about.

Fire and fuel

Fire preparation is an important bushcraft skill, but January presents different challenges depending on where you are. In colder regions, damp fuel, frozen ground, snow and cold hands can make fire lighting more difficult. In warmer regions, dry vegetation, high temperatures and strong winds can increase the risk of accidental wildfires.

The most important lesson is to understand your surroundings before lighting anything. A successful bushcraft fire is not just about producing a flame; it is about choosing a suitable location, using appropriate fuel, controlling the fire and leaving no lasting damage.

Choose and prepare the site

Before lighting a fire, consider the following:

1. Check local rules and permissions. Never assume that you have the right to light a fire simply because you have permission to visit or camp on the land. Check landowner requirements, local restrictions and seasonal fire bans. In some environments, a portable stove may be the better option.
2. Choose a suitable location. Use an established fire area where possible. Avoid peat, dry grass, leaf litter, exposed tree roots and areas containing combustible vegetation.
3. Consider the surroundings. Keep fires well away from tents, shelters, overhanging branches, dry vegetation and other combustible materials. Account for wind direction and the possibility of flying sparks.
4. Prepare suitable equipment. Have water or another appropriate extinguishing method immediately available before lighting the fire. Never leave a fire unattended.
5. Protect the ground. Use a suitable fire pan or established fire-resistant surface where necessary. Do not assume that bare-looking ground is free from combustible roots or organic material.

In areas with dry vegetation, high temperatures or strong winds, do not light an open fire if there is any significant risk of it spreading. Follow local fire restrictions and use a suitable stove where permitted.

Where to find dry material in January

Finding suitable tinder and fuel is often more difficult during wet or freezing conditions. Learning where moisture collects and how different materials behave is a useful skill.

Remember that standing deadwood and fallen timber provide important habitats for insects, fungi and other wildlife. Do not remove material simply because it looks useful. Follow local collection rules and take only what you genuinely need.

Understanding fuel woods

Different types of wood behave differently when burned. Density, moisture content and preparation generally matter more than simply knowing the tree species.

• Oak: Dense hardwood that can produce long-lasting heat when properly seasoned. It is usually better suited to established fires than initial kindling.
• Ash: Traditionally valued as firewood because it splits well and burns effectively when seasoned.
• Beech: A useful dense hardwood that produces good heat when properly dried.
• Hawthorn: A dense wood that can make effective fuel once seasoned.
• Willow and poplar: Relatively light woods that burn more quickly than many dense hardwoods. They can still be useful when properly dried.
• Elder: Generally a lighter wood that can burn quickly when dry but is less suitable for producing a long-lasting bed of coals.

Never burn painted, treated or contaminated timber, household rubbish or unknown materials. These can release harmful fumes.

Tips for January

In cold and wet conditions:

• Keep your tinder and fire-lighting equipment in a waterproof container or inside pocket.
• Prepare feather sticks and kindling before attempting to light the fire.
• Split suitable deadwood to expose the drier interior.
• Protect collected fuel from rain and snow while preparing your fire.
• Wear gloves when handling cold equipment, but make sure you can still operate your fire-lighting tools safely.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to cold while concentrating on fire preparation.

In hot and dry conditions:

• Check fire bans and wildfire warnings before heading outdoors.
• Avoid open fires in dry grassland, woodland and areas with accumulated dry vegetation.
• Pay attention to wind direction and changing weather.
• Never leave a fire unattended, even if it appears to be burning down.
• Extinguish all fires completely and check that no embers remain.

The build

Once you have permission, a suitable location and appropriate fuel, you can practise building a small controlled fire.

1. Prepare your materials. Separate tinder, small kindling and larger fuel into different piles. Have everything ready before attempting to light the fire.
2. Prepare your tinder. Use a small, loose bundle of dry natural tinder or another suitable material. It needs enough airflow to catch and sustain a flame.
3. Arrange the kindling. Build a small structure that allows air to reach the tinder. A simple teepee or loosely arranged stack can work well.
4. Light the tinder. Use a ferro rod, lighter or another appropriate fire-lighting method. Practise with different tools so you understand how they behave in different conditions.
5. Feed the fire gradually. Begin with the smallest kindling and introduce progressively larger pieces as the fire develops. Avoid adding too much fuel at once.
6. Maintain control. Keep the fire small and manageable. Watch for changing wind conditions, flying sparks and nearby combustible material.

A useful exercise is to practise preparing a fire-lighting kit without actually lighting a fire. You can develop your tinder preparation, feather-stick carving and equipment handling skills without creating unnecessary environmental impact.

Put it out

Extinguishing a fire properly is just as important as lighting it.

1. Stop adding fuel and allow the fire to burn down under supervision.
2. Carefully spread the remaining embers and ashes within the designated fire area.
3. Douse everything thoroughly with water, taking care to avoid splashing hot material.
4. Stir the ashes and remaining fuel to expose any hidden embers.
5. Add more water and repeat until there is no remaining heat, smoke or glowing material.
6. Check the surrounding ground for stray embers and sparks.

Do not bury a fire or assume that covering it with soil will extinguish it. Underground roots and organic material can continue smouldering and may cause a fire to spread later.

Leave the area safe and follow any site-specific requirements for ash disposal. If you cannot confidently extinguish a fire, do not light one in the first place.

Foraging

January can be a challenging month for foraging, particularly in temperate regions where many plants have died back or entered dormancy. However, some evergreen plants, winter greens, fruits and seeds may still be available.

In warmer climates, January may offer a completely different selection of seasonal foods. The important skill is learning what grows in your local environment, recognising edible species confidently and understanding when and how to collect them responsibly.

Never rely on foraging to provide your main food supply, particularly during winter. Treat it as an opportunity to develop plant knowledge rather than a dependable source of calories.

Plants to look for

The following examples are particularly relevant to temperate parts of Europe and some other regions with similar climates. They will not all be available everywhere in January.

A note about seasonal availability: These plants are examples, not a universal January foraging list. Some may have finished fruiting, while others may only be available in particularly mild locations. Always check what is actually growing locally.

Fungi

January is generally a quieter month for many familiar mushroom species, although some fungi can continue fruiting during mild or damp weather.

You may encounter winter-growing fungi on deadwood, fallen branches and tree trunks. However, identifying fungi safely requires considerably more than matching a photograph or reading a short description.

Some poisonous and edible fungi can look remarkably similar. Never eat a wild mushroom unless you are completely confident of its identification and have checked it using reliable specialist references. If you are learning, attend a guided foray with an experienced local fungi expert.

For this calendar, treat fungi observation as a learning activity rather than a food-gathering exercise.

Responsible foraging

Foraging is not simply about finding something edible. It also involves understanding local laws, respecting wildlife and avoiding unnecessary damage to the environment.

Follow these principles:

• Know the law: Collection rules differ between countries, regions, landowners and protected areas. Check the rules applying to the land where you intend to forage.
• Ask where necessary: Do not assume that public access gives you permission to collect everything growing there. Commercial collection generally requires additional permission.
• Avoid protected species: Never collect plants or fungi that are legally protected or growing in locations where collection is prohibited.
• Take only what you need: Collect small quantities from abundant populations and leave plenty for wildlife and natural regeneration.
• Avoid damaged or contaminated areas: Do not collect food beside busy roads, polluted waterways, industrial sites, heavily sprayed land or areas affected by animal waste.
• Protect the plant: Avoid uprooting plants or damaging their roots, stems and surrounding habitat.
• Identify before eating: Never consume anything based on one photograph, an identification app or a resemblance to something familiar.
• Keep unfamiliar finds separate: Never mix uncertain plants with food you have already identified and prepared.

UK guidance: In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the Food Standards Agency provides guidance on safe foraging. In Scotland, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code explains the customary collection of wild berries and fungi for personal consumption and the restrictions applying to commercial collection. Protected species and designated sites have additional restrictions. Always check the rules for the specific location.

A better January foraging exercise

Rather than making January about collecting as much food as possible, use it to improve your identification skills.

Choose three plants growing in your local area and photograph them in their natural surroundings.

For each one, record:

1. The common name and scientific name, if known.
2. The habitat in which it grows.
3. Its identifying features, including leaves, stems, flowers, fruits or seeds where available.
4. Whether it has any known poisonous lookalikes.
5. Whether it has recognised edible uses and which parts are traditionally used.
6. Any collection restrictions or sustainability concerns.

Use a reputable regional field guide or botanical reference to check your findings. If you cannot confidently identify a plant, record it as unknown and leave it untouched.

The aim is to build a reliable understanding of local plants before attempting to use them as food.

Shelter, navigation and the night sky

January is the month to practise staying warm, finding your way in poor light, and reading the winter sky.

Staying warm, dry and comfortable

A successful night outdoors depends on more than having a warm sleeping bag. Your shelter, sleeping mat, clothing, weather conditions and the ground beneath you all contribute to your comfort and safety.

In cold conditions, insulation from the ground is particularly important. A sleeping mat with an R-value of 4 or higher can be a useful starting point for winter camping, although the warmth you need will depend on the expected temperatures, your sleeping system and the mat’s rating standard. Choose a sleeping bag with a comfort rating suitable for temperatures below the forecast overnight low, rather than relying on its extreme or survival rating.

Keep a dry set of base layers specifically for sleeping. Store spare clothing and insulation in waterproof bags, and avoid going to bed in damp clothes. Check your sleeping system before leaving home so you know how it fits together and whether it is suitable for the conditions.

When pitching a tarp, consider the prevailing wind and position its more sheltered side towards the weather. Leave enough room for ventilation and remember that wind direction can change overnight. Avoid pitching beneath dead branches or damaged trees, and stay clear of exposed ridges, flood channels and other locations that could become hazardous if conditions deteriorate.

Never use an open fire, barbecue, charcoal burner or fuel-burning stove inside a tent or enclosed shelter. These can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, even when a door or opening appears to provide ventilation.

In hot climates, shelter has a different purpose. Prioritise shade, airflow and protection from direct sunlight. A well-ventilated tarp or shade structure can help reduce heat exposure, but avoid blocking useful breezes. In areas prone to heavy rain or flash flooding, do not camp in dry riverbeds, gullies or other low-lying channels.

If you are practising winter camping, start close to home or somewhere with a straightforward exit route. Check the forecast, tell someone where you are going and make sure you have enough insulation to cope with a colder night than expected.

Snow shelters, including snow caves and snow holes, require proper instruction and experience. Poor ventilation can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, while unstable snow can collapse. Do not attempt to build or sleep in one without suitable training and an understanding of the conditions.

Navigation

January is a useful month to practise navigation because low sunlight, poor visibility, frost, snow or heavy vegetation can make familiar routes harder to recognise. In other parts of the world, summer heat, storms or rapidly changing weather may present different challenges.

Start by checking your map and identifying clear features along your route. Look for handrails such as paths, rivers and ridgelines, as well as catching features that help you recognise when you have gone too far. Keep track of your position rather than waiting until you are uncertain.

A compass and paper map remain valuable even when you carry a phone or GPS device. Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance, so keep electronic devices protected and carry a reliable backup. In hot conditions, protect devices from direct sunlight and overheating.

You can also observe the sun to develop a better understanding of direction. At local solar noon, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. In the Northern Hemisphere it is generally towards the south; in the Southern Hemisphere it is generally towards the north. The exact position depends on your latitude and the time of year, and this method becomes less useful in the tropics. Solar noon is not necessarily 12:00 on your clock.

Treat the sun as an observation aid rather than a substitute for a map and compass. Never rely on it alone to navigate.

January navigation challenge: Choose a familiar route and practise identifying your position using a map and compass. Before setting off, mark your starting point, destination and a few features you expect to encounter. Afterwards, compare your planned route with the one you actually followed.

Never assume a frozen pond, lake or stream is safe to cross. Ice thickness can vary considerably, even across a small area. Keep away from frozen water unless you are in a properly managed area where conditions have been assessed.

The night sky

Long nights in the Northern Hemisphere make January a good opportunity to practise recognising stars and constellations. In the Southern Hemisphere, January falls during summer, but there are still excellent opportunities for stargazing when skies are clear and conditions are suitable.

The constellations visible to you depend on your location, season and the time of night. Orion is visible from many parts of the world and is a useful starting point. Look for its three distinctive belt stars, then identify the brighter stars and patterns around it. Sirius, one of the brightest stars in the night sky, lies close to Orion.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Cassiopeia is another recognisable constellation, often appearing as a W or M shape. The Plough, part of Ursa Major, can also help you locate the general area of the northern sky. Polaris, the North Star, lies close to the north celestial pole and can be found using the familiar pointer stars of the Plough or the pattern of Cassiopeia.

In the Southern Hemisphere, the Southern Cross (Crux) is a familiar constellation in many regions. It can help indicate the direction of south when used correctly, but it should not be confused with other nearby star patterns. Learn the constellation and its pointer stars before attempting to use it for navigation.

For a first attempt, use a planisphere or a reliable star chart set to your location. This will help you understand which constellations should be visible and where to look. Do not rely on a constellation as your only navigation method, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the night sky.

Your eyes also need time to adjust to darkness. Allow around 20–30 minutes for your night vision to develop, avoiding bright white lights where possible. A dim red light can help preserve some night vision, although any bright light will affect your ability to see faint stars.

If conditions are clear, take a few minutes to observe the sky and identify three recognisable patterns. Record what you find and return to the same spot later in the month to see how the sky has changed.

Forgotten Skills: Making a Traditional Winding Stick

Before modern measuring tools became commonplace, people relied on simple equipment and careful observation to judge straightness, alignment and distance. One useful example is the winding stick: a pair of straight pieces of wood used together to reveal twists and unevenness in a board or other piece of timber.

It is a straightforward woodworking aid, but it also introduces an important bushcraft principle: useful tools do not always need complicated designs or expensive materials.

What Is a Winding Stick?

A winding stick is a straight piece of timber with a clearly visible top edge. Two are placed across a piece of wood, one near each end. When you look along their upper edges, any twist in the timber becomes easier to see because the two sticks no longer appear level with one another.

Traditional winding sticks were often made from hardwood, although the important qualities are that they are straight, stable and reasonably consistent.

What You Will Need

• Two straight, similar-length pieces of timber.
• A hand saw, if you need to trim them.
• A pencil or marker.
• A flat, stable working surface.
• A piece of timber to inspect.

Use prepared offcuts or timber you already have permission to use. Do not cut living branches or remove woodland material without permission.

How to Make and Use Them

Choose two pieces of timber that are as straight as possible. They should be long enough to span the width of the board you intend to inspect.

Trim them to a similar length and check that their bottom edges sit flat on a level surface. Mark one end of each stick so you can keep their orientation consistent.

Place the first winding stick across one end of your timber and the second across the other. Stand back and lower your eye level until you can see the upper edges of both sticks together.

If the timber is flat and untwisted, the upper edges should appear aligned. If one side appears higher or lower, the timber may have a twist. Rotate or reposition the sticks to check that the result is not caused by an uneven working surface or an inaccurate winding stick.

Why This Skill Is Worth Learning

Winding sticks demonstrate how a simple tool can make a difficult visual judgement easier. The same principle of using alignment and comparison appears in many traditional crafts, from woodworking to building and making practical camp equipment.

It is also a useful reminder that good craftsmanship begins with observation. Before cutting, shaping or joining materials, take the time to understand what you are working with.

January Forgotten Skill Challenge

Make a pair of simple winding sticks from suitable prepared timber. Use them to inspect a piece of wood and photograph the setup.

In your notes, explain what you observed, whether the timber appeared twisted and how the winding sticks helped you reach your conclusion.

Safety: Use tools on a stable work surface, keep hands clear when cutting and follow appropriate tool-safety precautions. If you are new to woodworking, ask an experienced person to supervise the cutting.

Safety, law and etiquette

January can bring cold weather, ice, strong winds and limited daylight in some regions. In others, it may mean high temperatures, intense sunlight, storms or wildfire risk. The safest approach is to understand the conditions where you are going and adapt your plans accordingly.

If someone is seriously unwell or in immediate danger, contact the emergency services using the number for your country. Do not assume the same emergency number applies everywhere.

Law and outdoor etiquette

Bushcraft activities take place in many different environments, and the rules governing camping, fires, wood collection and access vary considerably between countries, regions and individual sites. Always check the rules before setting out.

• Get permission where required. Do not assume that being able to enter a woodland or open space gives you permission to camp, light a fire, cut wood or collect natural materials.
• Check fire restrictions. Some areas prohibit open fires or impose seasonal bans. Follow local rules, landowner instructions and any temporary wildfire restrictions.
• Protect wildlife habitats. Avoid disturbing nesting, roosting or hibernating animals. Leaf litter, hollow trees, log piles and deadwood can provide important shelter for wildlife.
• Leave living trees alone. Never cut, strip or damage a living tree for firewood, shelter materials or practice projects.
• Respect deadwood. Standing dead trees, fallen trunks and rotting branches support insects, fungi and other wildlife. Do not assume they are available to collect. Only gather material where it is permitted, and leave valuable habitat undisturbed.
• Keep dogs under control. Follow local requirements, particularly around livestock, wildlife, nesting areas and managed shooting grounds.
• Be aware of land management activities. Forestry work, hunting seasons, controlled burns and other operations may affect access. Observe warning signs and follow any temporary closures or instructions.
• Leave no trace. Take all rubbish home, including food scraps and fire remains. Avoid damaging vegetation, disturbing soil or leaving structures behind.
• Respect other people. Keep noise down, give wildlife space and avoid blocking paths, tracks or access points.

Location-specific note – United Kingdom: Access rights and restrictions differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Do not assume that public access automatically allows overnight camping, fires or wood collection. Check the rules for the particular land and follow any signs or local restrictions. In Scotland, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides guidance on responsible access, but access rights still come with responsibilities and exclusions.

The best bushcraft practice is to develop skills while leaving the environment in a condition that allows others to enjoy it too.

Challenges, kit list and FAQ

This month’s challenges

Each challenge has a clear pass or fail, so you know exactly when you have completed it. Choose activities that suit your local weather, environment and experience. You do not need snow or freezing temperatures to take part in January.

You can complete these challenges in a garden, woodland, local green space or another suitable outdoor location. Always obtain permission where required and follow local restrictions.

Kit list for January

January conditions vary around the world, so treat this as a flexible checklist rather than a requirement to carry every item on every trip.

Clothing and protection

Shelter and comfort

Tools and practical equipment

Optional cold-weather extras

In hot or humid environments, prioritise water capacity, shade, ventilation, sun protection and suitable clothing. Your kit should reflect the conditions you are actually going to encounter, not simply the month on the calendar.

Questions people ask

Is January too cold for bushcraft?

Not necessarily. January can be an excellent time to practise outdoor skills, provided you prepare for the conditions. In colder regions, dress in layers, protect yourself from wind and rain, and make sure your shelter and sleeping equipment are suitable. In warmer regions, heat, sun exposure and seasonal storms may be the bigger concerns. Start with manageable trips and stay within your experience.

Can you forage in January?

Yes, depending on your location and local growing conditions. Some temperate regions may have winter greens such as chickweed and hairy bittercress, while gorse flowers or rosehips may still be available in certain areas. Availability varies, and many plants will be dormant or difficult to identify. Never eat a wild plant unless you are completely confident of its identification and know which parts are safe to consume. Check local collection rules and leave enough for wildlife and regeneration.

What is the best fire for warmth?

There is no single best fire for every situation. Fire design, fuel choice, wind, available space and the surrounding environment all make a difference. A small, well-managed fire using suitable dry fuel is often more practical than a large fire. A reflector can sometimes help direct radiant heat, but it must be constructed from appropriate materials and positioned safely. Never use a fire inside a shelter, and do not light one where local restrictions or conditions make it unsafe.

What should I wear for winter bushcraft?

Use layers that work together. A wool or synthetic base layer helps manage moisture, an insulating mid layer provides warmth, and a suitable outer layer protects you from wind and rain. Add a hat, gloves and suitable footwear. Carry spare dry clothing, particularly socks and base layers, and avoid allowing yourself to become chilled during long stops.

How many hours of daylight are there in January?

It depends on your latitude and hemisphere. In the Northern Hemisphere, January generally brings gradually increasing daylight after the December solstice, although the change varies considerably by location. In the Southern Hemisphere, January falls during summer and days are generally longer.

For a local estimate, check sunrise and sunset times for your location rather than relying on a single global figure. Remember that useful daylight for navigation and outdoor work also includes the periods of twilight.