Jolly frock-coated robins, majestic geese and arboreal partridges make for both literal and symbolic centrepieces at Christmas, says Matthew Dennison, as he revels in the cultural history of the season’s feathered fowl and game

Nadia Shaikh seeks good company for a search-and-gorge to get her through the ruthless darkness of the winter months

THIS MONTH Barn owls

→ Last Sunday I did a talk at the Anteros Arts Foundation, an art gallery and charity in Norwich. It was a fundraiser for Anteros, as I have had a studio there and love what they do. The story I offer

Our gardens are so important to wildlife - here’s how to provide a wonderful, warm winter welcome

The beautiful, soft-voiced turtle dove may be synonymous with Christmas, but as a symbol of courtship and love this endearing bird resonates all year round and must be saved, urges Mark Cocker