As winter settles in, New Hampshire’s wildlife relies on time-tested strategies—from hibernation to snow-savvy movement—to survive the cold. But while this season feels especially harsh, long-term data from NOAA show winters are warming overall, with real consequences for forest ecosystems and the animals that depend on them.

Winter forests are full of hidden microclimates, from snow-sheltered deer yards beneath conifers to sun-warmed tree wells in hardwood stands. As explored on Something Wild, these subtle snow patterns shape how wildlife survives the coldest months.