A local wildlife charity believes that the current lockdown time might be a good time to find out more about the nature that lives just outside our windows.

The Manx Wildlife Trust have created an online resource of activities and information to help people understand the environment outside their homes better and to suggest fun pastimes to do with the family while they may be stuck indoors.

’Here at the Manx Wildlife Trust we are very keen to get people out and about and enjoying nature,’ said Dawn Colley, education officer with the organisation.

’Whether interacting with it, or studying it, nature can help reduce stress levels and relieve anxiety.

’Why not make it a new year’s resolution to spend some time standing still and being absorbed in nature?

’Unlike the first lockdown, when we had the most marvellous weather, this second lockdown has occurred in the depths of winter.

’But have no fear because there is still plenty to spot by looking through your windows.

’With this cold snap it’s an ideal time to take a close look at ice, the frost coating the lawn, frozen puddles and maybe even snow.

’We all know about the various forms of ice in the natural world such as frost, hail and sleet and older generations will remember waking up to the beautiful swirling patterns of ice on the inside of their bedroom windows.

’But have you heard of hair ice?

’It is a rare type of ice formation where a particular fungus, called Exidiopsis, forms in rotting wood producing thin strands of ice which resemble hair.’

The Manx Wildlife Trust have family education and craft packs to download, which will help you get the most out of your wintery experience and to make frosty garden decorations.

’Please do post up your pictures of ice and frost to our Facebook page and remember to use #CloserToNature.’

More information and downloadable resources are available from mwt.im