Is winter miserable for wildlife?

When you’re warm and cozy inside, it can be natural to wonder if the animals you see outside your window this winter are doing OK. Don’t worry – they’re doing better out there than you would.

By: Bridget B. Baker, Wayne State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 1, 2026

Words: 1,203

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

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By Bridget B. Baker, Wayne State University

While the weather outside may indeed get frightful this winter, a parka, knit hat, wool socks, insulated boots and maybe a roaring fire make things bearable for people who live in cold climates. But what about all the wildlife out there? Won’t they be freezing?

Anyone who’s walked their dog when temperatures are frigid knows that canines will shiver and favor a cold paw – which partly explains

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