Humans ‘may need more sleep in winter’, study finds

Research shows people get more deep REM sleep than in summer, and may need to adjust habits to season

Wholesome soup, night walks and wearable sleeping bags: how to prepare for winter – and even embrace it

Many of us dread the nights drawing in and this year there is added apprehension. Here experts offer advice to get yourself through the colder months

Country diary: The hair-trigger pigeons are up again, more dance than flight

Brighton, East Sussex: How many times a day do they do this? How do they decide who goes first?

Country diary: hammering hail and a rare sight of crystalline beauty

Comins Coch, Ceredigion: A single speck, no larger than an apple pip, settled on my sleeve – showing against the dark fabric as a tiny, perfect hexagon

Country diary: slow growth on the edge of oblivion

Buxton, Derbyshire: Yews have steel-like strength and the ability to grow in unlikely places – even out of pure rock

Dreading a dark winter lockdown? Think like a Norwegian

Studies show people living in the Arctic Circle are armed with a mindset that helps combat the long ‘polar night’. It might come in handy for us all…

Weatherwatch: the science behind the sad, dark days of solstice

Why do we feel down in the dumps in the depths of winter? It’s not the cold; it’s not the damp; it’s hormonal

Weatherwatch: cold air risks dehydration so drink more

Heavy clothing can increase thirst in cold weather – and some people urinate more when temperatures plummet

Weatherwatch: we all need sunlight, some more than others

Scientists are studying how Yorkshire’s gloomy skies and short winter days may affect the performance of young American footballers from sunny climes

Get the jab and don’t worry about kissing: how to avoid cold and flu

As the nights draw in, catching a virus becomes more likely – but there are a few ways to steer clear of winter bugs. Here’s how you can keep yourself fighting fit