Wildlife Matters The Podcast

This week, we are thrilled to unveil the inaugural episode of our new series, “Wildest Places,” in which we shall delve into the fascinating realm of urban wildlife thriving within our cities and towns. Our exploration commences at the historic and ecologically rich West Norwood Cemetery in central London, a veritable haven for diverse species.

As we experience the sweltering heat of over 30 degrees Celsius, we implore our listener...

The Return of the Golden Eagles serves as the focal point of this week's Wildlife Matters Podcast, as we journey to the enchanting landscapes of southwest Scotland in search of these majestic avian creatures. With eager anticipation, we invite you to accompany us on this expedition to discover whether we are fortunate enough to witness their resplendent flight. In addition, we delve into the flora and fauna of urban environments du...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast presents a profound exploration of the intricate interrelations between wildlife, nature, and the rich tapestry of folklore surrounding the summer solstice. We shall embark on a captivating journey to the Isle of Avalon, where we shall unravel the enchanting narratives that have long captivated the human imagination. Our discourse will include the noteworthy Animal Aid campaign, which seeks to b...

This week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast centres around the poignant issue of badger culling as we explore the alarming 2024 cull figures released by the Badger Trust and Wild Justice, which reveal a tragic loss of 10,769 badgers due to mismanagement by Natural England and DEFRA. This disconcerting development highlights the urgent need for accountability and the protection of our wildlife. In a contrasting yet equally captivating segm...

The Wildlife Matters Podcast tackles the urgent challenge of climate change and its detrimental effects on wildlife conservation, especially in light of the unprecedented warm spring of 2025, now recorded as one of the hottest in UK history. In the opening segment, we draw attention to the significant consequences of rising temperatures on local ecosystems, stressing the critical need to maintain water sources and shaded habitats f...

Welcome to Series Six of the Wildlife Matters podcast!

In this new series, we have many new adventures. Please like and subscribe to join us on an exciting journey as we explore the wonders of nature through nature-based storytelling infused with our firsthand experience and expertise in wildlife and the environment.

Later in series six, prepare to immerse yourself in this thrilling new series as we spend an unforgettable night with ...

In this week’s episode of the Wildlife Matters podcast, we explore the fascinating world of foxes during spring, focusing on a vibrant den in our local area. Our journey highlights the complex vocalisations of this iconic British mammal, which has an impressive repertoire of up to 28 distinct calls and a rich array of body language.

The Wildlife Matters podcast takes you on an enthralling exploration of the natural world, specifica...

On this week’s Wildlife Matters podcast we look at the intriguing lives of badgers during the springtime as we delve into their ecological behaviours and familial dynamics during this vibrant season.

With spring heralding the rebirth of nature, we explore badger cubs' activities as they emerge from their dens and engage in playful interactions.

We feature a captivating Mindful Moment that presents the sounds of a native mammal, off...

This week, the Wildlife Matters Podcast delves into the exhilarating arrival of spring as we celebrate the Spring Equinox. We want to inspire our listeners to venture outdoors and immerse themselves in the vibrant natural world awakening from winter's slumber.

Our discussion highlights the return of beavers to the British landscape, heralded as a pivotal moment for biodiversity. We also explore early nesting behaviors among birds i...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast focuses on Signals of Spring: A Tale of the Hazel Tree and Woodpeckers Drumming.

While the hazel tree, scientifically known as Corylus avellana, proliferates throughout the UK, its considerable ecological and historical contributions remain underappreciated.

In Wildlife Matters Nature News, we delve into the concerning news emerging from the River Wandle. A catastrophic oil spill has devastatingl...

In this week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast, we explore the captivating and often unexpected methods by which wildlife seeks mates in a somewhat tongue-in-cheek way as love is in the Air for Saint Valentine's Day.

Prepare to be amazed as we unveil the intricate courtship rituals and remarkable behaviors. From the enchanting dances of avian suitors to the astonishing insect tactics, the animal kingdom never fails to surprise.

Step into na...

The Wildlife Matters podcast takes listeners on a captivating journey into the world of British corvids, focusing on three fascinating species: the Chough, the Magpie, and the Jay.

Hosted by Nigel Palmer, the episode delves into the unique characteristics and behaviors that distinguish these birds within their genus.

Listeners learn about the Chough's striking red bill and its acrobatic flights along seaside cliffs, as well as its ...

Join Nigel Palmer on this week's Wildlife Matters podcast as he explores the captivating world of British corvids, a family of birds renowned for their intelligence and adaptability.

The episode delves into recent wildlife news, including the unauthorised release of lynx in Scotland and the public outcry that followed, highlighting the complexities of wildlife reintroduction efforts. Listeners will also learn about the remarkable s...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast delves into the folklore of nature and wildlife. So join us around the campfire at the heart of the Dark wood.

Nigel Palmer, the host of Wildlife Matters, welcomes listeners to a festive storytelling session that delves into the rich tapestry of folklore linked to nature. This special Christmas episode presents two compelling tales that highlight critical themes of respect for the environment, mo...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast dives into the concerning issue of avian botulism affecting water birds along the Grand Union Canal in West London, where several swans and other species have been found dead. Host Nigel Palmer discusses the investigative efforts of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), which initially suspected avian influenza but later shifted focus to toxins such as botulism as the likely cause of the ma...

Host Nigel Palmer takes listeners on an emotional journey through the Men's Nature Reserve in West Sussex, an ancient woodland that has been preserved for over a millennium. As the episode unfolds, listeners are encouraged to reflect on nature and the importance of wildlife welfare, highlighted by discussions on the detrimental effects of using live reindeer at festive events. The podcast also provides practical tips on how to care...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast examines one of the most iconic woodland bird species in Britain: the stunning woodpecker.

Host Nigel Palmer joined Chris Packham and over 150 organisations in London last Sunday for the Clean Water March, which was organised by River Action.

Wildlife Matters spoke to leading celebrity activists, including Chris Packham, Feargal Sharkey, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Olympic Rower Imogen Grant,...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast delves into the pressing issues of rising wildlife crime and animal cruelty in the UK, highlighted by alarming incidents involving the shooting of protected species like otters. Host Nigel Palmer discusses a private member's bill introduced by Labour MP Ruth Jones aimed at banning the import and sale of fur products in the UK, showcasing growing public concern over the fur trade. The episode als...

Hello and welcome to this week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast. I’m your host, Nigel Palmer.

In today’s Bonus episode, we will look back over our first 50, yes, 5-0 episodes, that is, four complete series, and chat through some of the highlights and challenges. We will celebrate the fantastic wildlife and some of the incredible people we have spoken to and discuss what it’s been like to start a podcast and build a community from scratch.

...