1. Look Out for Birds in the Hedgerows
Devon’s hedgerows are full of life throughout the year, and late autumn is no exception. As the trees lose their leaves, it can become easier to spot birds moving between branches and searching for food.
Keep your eyes open for robins, blue tits, great tits and blackbirds. You may also spot fieldfares and redwings, seasonal visitors that arrive in Britain from colder parts of Europe to feed on berries and other natural food sources.
Take a slow walk along a country lane or find a quiet spot overlooking a field. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, and listen carefully for birdsong and calls in the trees.
2. Discover the Magic of Devon’s Woodlands
A woodland walk in autumn has its own unique charm. The woodland floor is carpeted with fallen leaves, the air feels fresh and crisp, and the softer autumn light creates a beautiful atmosphere for exploring.
Although many animals are becoming less active as winter approaches, you may still spot squirrels gathering food, deer moving between trees or signs of wildlife along the woodland paths.
Look out for tracks in muddy ground, feathers beneath trees and small feeding marks on nuts and seeds. These little clues can reveal how much activity is taking place, even when the animals themselves remain hidden.
Remember to keep to public paths and observe wildlife quietly, without disturbing its natural behaviour.
3. Enjoy the Wildlife of Dartmoor
Few places capture Devon’s wild beauty quite like Dartmoor. Its wide open moorland, rocky outcrops, wooded valleys and winding rivers provide a wonderful setting for a late autumn adventure.
Dartmoor ponies are one of the area’s most recognisable sights, often seen grazing across the open moor. You may also spot birds of prey overhead or catch a glimpse of deer in quieter wooded areas.
Autumn weather can change quickly on the moor, so wrap up warmly, wear suitable walking boots and check the forecast before setting out. Stick to appropriate routes and be prepared for mist, rain and muddy ground.
Even on a grey day, Dartmoor offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate Devon’s untamed landscapes and the wildlife that calls them home.
4. Watch for Squirrels and Other Woodland Visitors
As temperatures drop, squirrels become particularly interesting to watch as they search for food and make use of the resources they have gathered throughout the autumn.
Grey squirrels are common in many parts of Devon, while red squirrels are not a typical sight on the mainland. You may also notice rabbits in fields, hedgehog activity earlier in the season or signs of foxes moving through the countryside.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, which is part of the fun. The best approach is to move slowly, keep noise to a minimum and take time to notice the smaller details around you.
If you’re staying on a farm, ask your hosts which birds and animals are commonly seen in the surrounding fields and hedgerows. Local knowledge can make all the difference when exploring somewhere new.
5. Notice the Beauty of Autumn’s Hedgerows
Devon is famous for its patchwork fields and ancient hedgerows, and these become particularly striking as autumn gives way to winter.
Look for bright red holly berries, rosehips and the last of the season’s blackberries. These natural food sources are important for birds and other wildlife preparing for the colder months.
Hedgerows also provide shelter for small mammals and nesting or roosting places for birds. Taking a closer look at these familiar features can reveal just how important they are to the wider countryside.
Please leave berries and other natural food sources for wildlife, and avoid picking plants or disturbing habitats.
6. Make Time for a Spot of Birdwatching
You don’t need to venture far from your accommodation to enjoy wildlife watching. Sometimes, the best sightings happen while enjoying a morning cup of tea or looking out across the fields.
Find a comfortable spot by a window, on a patio or in a garden, and watch what visits. You might see birds feeding, hear owls calling at dusk or notice activity around a hedgerow as the light begins to fade.
If you enjoy birdwatching, bring a notebook to record your sightings or use a reputable bird identification guide to learn more about the species you encounter.
A quiet morning spent observing nature can be just as memorable as a day spent exploring further afield.
Make Your Next Escape a Devon Countryside Stay
This is a wonderful time to experience a quieter side of Devon. From birds in the hedgerows to the open landscapes of Dartmoor, there is plenty to discover for anyone who enjoys nature, fresh air and a slower pace of life.
Staying in the Devon countryside gives you the chance to wake up to rural views, explore nearby footpaths and spend your days discovering the wildlife and landscapes that make this part of the country so special.
Whether you’re planning a peaceful break for two, a family countryside adventure or a few days away with your dog, Devon offers plenty of opportunities to step outside and enjoy the changing seasons.
Ready to discover Devon for yourself? Explore the range of farm stays, cottages and country accommodation available through Devon Farms & Country Stays, and start planning your next countryside escape.
