Now that winter is on our doorstep is there anything worth looking out for in the countryside

A.� Winter may be considered a 'dead'�season�for nature lovers, but with�red-breasted robins and even red-tailed spotted �woodpeckers�more likely to visit our gardens, there are lots of fascinating animals and plants�to�loo out for at�this time of year. And� the more barren landscape may�actually make it easier to spot them.

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Q.� What plants stand out in winter

A.� Look out for the large single scarlet berries of the butcher's broom, Ruscu's aculeatus. This dramatic plant, which is, surprisingly, a member of the lily family, has very stiff branches which were traditionally tied in bunches and used for sweeping, hence its common name. After Christmas this plant produces small green and purple flowers.

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One famous flowering plant in winter is the evergreen climbing plant, Ivy. The yellow-green flowers should be opening up around now. Ivy is also a good place to spot any insects that are still out and about as its nectar and pollen provide food.

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Now that the hornbeam tree has lost its leaves you can get a really good view of its winged seeds that are still clinging to the branches until they're released by strong winter winds.

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Although the distinctive small compartments of the teasel plant may have lost its seeds by now, this space is taken up by opportunistic insects hibernating through winter.

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Q.� Is there anywhere else I should look out for hibernating insects

A.� Obviously the insects head for sheltered spots to maximise their chances of surviving the winter. Favoured places include dense vegetation such as thick grass and evergreens, inside the dead stems of certain plants such as hogweed and the bark of trees.

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Q.� What about winter wildlife

A.� Keep an eye out for the great spotted woodpecker. Its striking black and white feathers, with bright red tail feathers make it easy to spot. As food becomes scarce in the wild its likely that these birds will pay a visit to your garden.

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For information on how to feed birds responsibly during the winter months, click here.

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Q.� Any fungus worth looking out for

A.� Yes, when you come across any birch trees have a look for the razor sharp fungus Piptoporus betulinus. Also look out for puffballs that are waiting for raindrops to split them open after which they can expel their spores.

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Do want to question The AnswerBank about winter wildlife Click here to ask.

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by Lisa Cardy