April 9, 2025 • 33 mins
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, specifically focusing on the captivating lives of foxes during the spring season. As we delve into the intricacies of a local fox den, we observe the rich tapestry of life that unfolds therein. The narrative is enhanced by the diverse vocalisations of these iconic mammals, which, while challenging to convey through audio alone, provide insight into their complex social behaviors and communication methods.
This week’s episode also discusses three significant news stories from the wildlife sector, each shedding light on necessary research and initiatives to enhance our understanding of nature’s delicate balance. The podcast provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary wildlife issues, from discussing the mental health benefits of exercise in natural settings to groundbreaking findings in the fight against bovine tuberculosis in Northern Ireland. It also offers practical advice for improving hedgehog habitats in our gardens.
Through these discussions, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their relationship with nature and consider actionable steps they can take to contribute to its preservation. By the episode’s conclusion, listeners are left with a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of wildlife and a renewed sense of responsibility towards nurturing the environment that sustains us all.
In the most recent episode of Wildlife Matters, we explore the enchanting lives of foxes as they face springtime challenges. The episode highlights intricate social structures and familial bonds within a local fox den, providing unique insights into the mother vixen’s nurturing behaviours and the dog fox’s diligent efforts. As the cubs emerge, their playful interactions and developing personalities are meticulously documented, illustrating the delicate balance of life in the wild.
Three significant news stories further enrich the episode by highlighting ongoing research and conservation efforts in the wildlife sector. Recent studies suggest that time spent in nature can enhance cognitive functions, particularly in individuals with attention-related challenges. The discussion on the mental health benefits of outdoor exercise draws on these studies.
Additionally, groundbreaking work in Northern Ireland to eradicate bovine tuberculosis underscores the importance of innovative approaches to wildlife health management. Finally, practical tips for creating hedgehog-friendly gardens serve as a call to action for listeners to contribute to local wildlife conservation efforts. This episode informs and inspires listeners to reflect on their interactions with nature and take tangible steps toward fostering harmonious coexistence with the wildlife that enriches our lives.
Takeaways:
- This episode explores the fascinating behavior of foxes during the spring season, particularly their vocalisations and family dynamics.
- Recent research indicates that exercise in natural environments significantly enhances mental well-being and cognitive function across various demographics.
- Northern Ireland’s Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute is straining to eradicate bovine tuberculosis with promising new methods involving wildlife interventions.
- Gardeners can help support Britain’s declining hedgehog population by creating small openings in fences. This will facilitate movement between gardens and improve the hedgehogs’ chances of survival.
- Fox cubs display remarkable social interactions as they engage in rough play, essential for their...
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:27):
Hello and welcome to thisweek's exciting episode of the Wildlife
Matters podcast.
And we've got a thrilling showlined up for you today as we venture
into the enchanting world offoxes during springtime, exploring
a bustling den right here inour local area.
Get ready to immerse yourselfin the sights and sounds of nature
(00:51):
on this week's WildlifeMatters mindful moment.
We will be listening to thecaptivating vocalizations of an iconic
British mammal, which boastsup to 2028 different calls and a
rich variation of body language.
However, that is a bit moretricky to convey on an audio podcast.
(01:16):
Before we leap into our Foxadventure, let's catch up on three
intriguing news stories fromthe wildlife and nature realm.
First, we'll tackle animportant question.
Can exercise and time innature truly enhance your mental
well being?
Well, you won't want to misssome of the fresh findings from this
(01:38):
newly released research study.
Our second story takes us toNorthern Ireland, where the Agri
Food and Biosciences Instituteexperts aim to eradicate bovine tb.
Join us as we uncover theirgroundbreaking discoveries that could
change the region's livestockhealth and all without harming bad
(02:02):
and finally, we'll take astroll to your garden.
No matter where you are inBritain, there's one simple, quick
and budget friendly task thatyou could do to make a difference
for an iconic local mammal.
So stay tuned for that mustknow tip in this week's Wildlife
(02:23):
Matters Nature News, which iscoming up next on this week's Wildlife
Matters podcast.
(02:46):
Hello and welcome to thisweek's Wildlife Matters Nature News.
And this week's first story isabout the benefits of exercise and
nature for our well being.
So can exercise boost yourbrain power or pay attention if you
want to enhance your brainfunction, memory and fitness all
(03:11):
simultaneously?
Because new research fromAustralia suggests that walking in
nature can help you achieveall three.
The study, which was led by Dr.
Ben Singh, found thatindividuals with ADHD experienced
the most significantimprovement improvements in executive
(03:31):
function, which means everydaytasks such as planning, problem solving
and adapting to new situationsbecame a bit more manageable.
This comprehensive literaturereview is the most extensive to date,
emphasizing that exercise iscrucial for physical health and for
(03:52):
optimizing cognitive health.
The umbrella review analyzed133 studies involving data, 2,724
randomized controlled trialsand over 258,000 individual participants.
It was published in theBritish Journal of Sports Medicine.
(04:16):
Our goal was to evaluate theeffects of exercise on brain function,
specifically generalcognition, memory and executive function,
across all age groups and populations.
Dr.
Singh told Wildlife Matters.
We examined differentdifferent types of exercise of varying
intensities and programdurations to determine the most effective
(04:40):
strategies for enhancing brain power.
Overall, our findings providestrong evidence that exercise significantly
boosts brain function.
So is low intensity or highintensity exercise better for your
brain?
Well, the research indicatesthat all exercise intensity benefit
(05:02):
the brain, but notably low andmoderate intensity exercises were
found to be more effective forcognitive improvements than high
intensity workouts.
A leisurely hike may enhanceyour brain power more than a vigorous
uphill sprint.
Another interesting findingwas that shorter programs lasting
(05:24):
one to three months showedgreater cognitive benefits than longer
term interventions.
This suggests thatimprovements can occur quickly if
people consistently engagewith physical activity.
Children and adolescentsdemonstrated the greatest improvement
in memory.
Additionally, a potentiallygame changing discovery was made
(05:48):
that individuals with ADHD orattention deficit Hyperactivity disorder
who experienced the mostsignificant gains in executive function
among all the population analyzed.
Research indicates that areasof the brain responsible for executive
functions, mental skills suchas organization, attention and planning
(06:12):
tend to be smaller, lessdeveloped or less active in those
with adhd, so even a gentlestroll every day can be helpful.
Singh also revealed the exagames which require physical movement
while playing video games suchas the Nintendo Wii strongly impacted
(06:33):
memory and cognition.
This may be due to the dualengagement of body and mind, making
these activities particularlystimulating for the brain, he said.
These findings highlightvarious ways to improve brain health
through exercise.
Even light movement can bevery beneficial.
(06:53):
The way exercise enhancesbrain power involves multiple positive
biological and physiological mechanisms.
Firstly, exercise increasesblood flow to the brain, ensuring
the brain cells receive moreoxygen and essential nutrients which
supports overall cognitive function.
Exercise promotesneurogenesis, the growth of new brain
(07:17):
cells by stimulating therelease of brain derived neurotrophic
factor, a crucial proteininvolved in learning and memory.
Additionally, exercise helpsreduce inflamma and oxidative stress
which are both linked tocognitive decline.
Furthermore, exerciseincreases dopamine and serotonin
(07:39):
release, enhancing focus, moodand motivation.
Research by Singh has shownthat physical activity significantly
impacts on sleep quality andregulates stress by balancing cortisol
levels which if elevated, canimpair memory and cognitive functions.
(08:01):
These mechanisms demonstratethat exercise is not only beneficial
for physical health but alsoplays a crucial role in maintaining
a sharp and resilient brain.
This isn't Singh's first studyon transformative mental benefits
of exercise.
In 2022 he conducted thelargest review to date on exercise
(08:22):
effects on mental health whichdemonstrated its effectiveness improving
symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Ultimately, exercise is notjust about physical fitness, it is
essential for brain health.
Dr.
Singh explained.
What is exciting is that evenlight or moderate exercise can lead
(08:42):
to noticeable difference incognitive function, allowing people
of all fitness levels to benefit.
Our second story today takesus to Northern Ireland, where the
AFBI have claimed the bovinetuberculosis can be entirely eradicated.
That's exciting news from theAgri Food and Biosciences Institute,
(09:06):
which suggests that NorthernIreland is on the path to completely
eradicating bovinetuberculosis, or btv.
This breakthrough was the hottopic at a recent Omnics conference
in Belfast where AFBIvirologist Dr.
Adrian Allen shared promising findings.
(09:27):
Dr.
Allen highlighted that pastefforts in testing and carefully
removing infected cattle hadsignificantly lowered BTD levels.
However, the situation hastaken a concerning turn in recent
years, with BTB rates creepingback up in Ireland, Dr.
Allen pointed out.
While the increasing intensityof livestock production might play
(09:50):
a role, other factors couldalso appear to play.
We're diving deep into theseissues through ongo research, but
that's not all.
AFBI scientists have beeninvestigating another intriguing
aspect of BTB badgers.
Their groundbreaking testVaccinate OR Remove or TVR initiative,
(10:11):
which launched in 2014, is acomprehensive wildlife intervention
study that targeted theBanbridge area in County Down.
Through this initiative,scientists captured live badgers,
tested them for tuberculosisand vaccinated clear ones and remove
those who tested positive.
(10:31):
Robin Skus from the AFBIemphasized the critical role of cattle
to cattle transmission inspreading btb.
He commented, we sourced allthe badger BTP isolates through our
TVR program, while the bovineisolates came from Dara's mandatory
testing.
Our research revealed TB'ssurprisingly slow mutation rate,
(10:55):
confirming that the primarytransmission route cattle studies
by AFBI have validated thesame principles regarding cross border
transmission.
Alarmingly, the rates of BTBinfections are.
On the rise in NorthernIreland, which.
More than one in 10 cattleherds now facing some disease restriction.
(11:18):
The fight against bovine TB inIreland is far from over, but with
ongoing research andintervention initiatives, there is
hope on the horizon.
Our third story highlights asimple, quick and inexpensive action
that could significantlybenefit one of our most iconic wild
(11:39):
animals.
Gardeners are being urged toput holes in their garden fences
this spring to help save themuch loved hedgehogs, and this simple
act could offer a lifeline tothe nation's beloved yet sharply
declining hedgehog population.
The decline of hedgehogs inBritain has become alarmingly steep
(12:00):
due to environmental changesand specific gardening and lifestyle
practices in our homes andgreen spaces.
Nevertheless, gardeningenthusiasts are being urged to attract
these spiny creatures intotheir gardens during the warmer months
not only do hedgehog andcharm, but they also serve as efficient
(12:21):
pest controllers, eagerlyfeasting on insects that challenge
gardeners.
According to the Amazing Graceproject, hedgehogs are perpetual
roamers who need easy accessto gardens.
Hedgehogs are one of Britain'smost recognisable and well loved
animals.
They are a gardener's friendas they eat beetles, caterpillars,
(12:45):
worms and other invertebrates.
They also revealed aninteresting fact about hedgehogs.
Did you know that as many as10 hedgehogs may be visiting your
garden over several nights?
This means that your hedgehogcould be a number of different ones
visiting at different times.
(13:06):
The European hedgehog is themost often admitted animal to wildlife
rescue centres.
Hedgehogs, known for theirnightly rambles of up to a mile,
might need some assistancenavigating our gardens.
Hedgehog friends suggestcreating small openings in fences
(13:26):
or walls or building tunnelsunder boundaries which with a 13x13
centimeter gap which issufficient for hedgehogs to get in
and importantly get to backout of your garden.
Just remember to check withyour neighbour before making an opening.
Tragically, the number ofhedgehogs has plummeted and experts
(13:49):
believe this is partly due tothe rise of solid barriers around
our properties and gardens.
According to Grace theHedgehog, it is becoming harder for
hedgehogs to move freely dueto an increase in the number of solid
walls and fences erectedaround gardens and the latest research
backs this up.
(14:09):
Lack of access to gardensreduces available foraging areas
for hedgehogs and that limitsthe food that they can access and
decreases their chances ofmeeting a mate.
Creating a hole in the gardenwall or fence allows your local hedgehogs
to pass safely from garden to garden.
(14:29):
For those looking to lend ahelping hand, you can cut a small
hole at the base of your fenceor slightly elevated panel or gate
to create enough space for ahedgehog to slip through, ensuring
it's small enough to preventthe passage of cats or other small
animals.
To help hedgehogs, all youneed to do is trim around 4 to 5
(14:51):
inches of wood from the bottomof your garden fence or gate that
will create an entrance forthose who want to dedicate solution.
Hedgehog projects like AmazingGrace or Hedgehog street offer a
hedgehog hole fence plate thatensures a metal reinforced opening
at the base of your fence.
(15:13):
The British HedgehogPreservation Society said a hole
measuring 13 x 13 cm is theright size for a hedgehog to pass
through, but is too small formost cats and dogs.
Once you have made your holein the fence or wall, you can fix
the hedgehog plate to thefence to ensure the hole does not
(15:34):
get blocked or stretched.
You can purchase hedgehoghighway holes from the Amazing Grace
Project and we will leave alink to their website and the other
hedgehog charities we'vementioned in our show notes and that
has been this week's WildlifeMatters Nature News.
(16:12):
So are you ready to make yourgarden a hedgehog haven this weekend?
It's the perfect time tocreate some spaces for these adorable
creatures and once you aredone, head out and soak up the amazing
benefits of exercising innature to help your own mental well
(16:32):
being.
Step this way and join us onthis early spring evening.
Imagine encountering some ofthe breathtaking wild species that
share this beautiful islandwith us as we sit and enjoy the incredible
range of vocalizations thisiconic wild animal family make on
(16:54):
this week's Wildlife Matters.
Mindful moments.
Sa.
(18:17):
You may have heard some ofthose sounds in your wild places
as they were the sounds of afox family before the vixen and dog
fox head off to find food tofeed themselves and their four cubs.
And that leads us to the starsof this week's Wildlife Matters main
(18:38):
feature where we have spenttime watching, listening and learning
about one of our local foxfamilies and what they are doing
in springtime.
(19:03):
Hello and welcome to thisweek's A Wildlife Matters Main feature
and today I am excited tobring you our look into foxes in
the springtime.
The early morning sunlightdanced through the trees as I sat
and gazed at the incrediblekaleidoscope of greens that surrounded
(19:26):
me.
From the grass up through thescrub to the emerging canopy.
Mother Nature was coming tolife after her winter resting and
I knew it was going to be agood day.
You see, I had returned to afox den that I've watched closely
for the last few weeks and awhile back I saw a vixen.
(19:49):
Looking around it, it is ideal.
Set within an earth bank andentangled in some exposed tree roots,
she would have spent time withthe dog fox, mating regularly during
those long dark winter nights.
Fox gestation is around 53days, so by March this has nearly
(20:12):
finished and she will bepreparing to have her cubs very soon
and we will be following them.
Vixens typically will havefour to five cubs and they will all
be born blind and deaf.
The newborns don't look like foxes.
They have round faces, shortears and dark chocolate brown fur.
(20:35):
They are entirely dependentupon their mother.
The vixen would have dug atleast two entrances to the den.
The main entrance is the onethat I am currently watching and
she will use this and it willlead through a tunnel to her nest
chamber.
(20:56):
For the first month or so, thevixen will be suckling her cubs and
will not leave them.
As at this stage, the cubscannot thermoregulate, which means
that they cannot control theirown body temperature.
Temperature.
After around 10 to 14 days,the Cubs will open their eyes, which
(21:16):
are a stunning ice or steely blue.
Over the next couple of weeks,their ears begin to grow into that
familiar fox shape and theywill grow guard hairs that make their
fur look like a fuzzy ball.
During the first month, thedog fox feeds the vixen while she
(21:37):
suckles her cubs, keeping themwarm and safe in the underground
nursery.
He will spend most of theevening and all night finding enough
food and bringing it back to her.
He will use the secondentrance leading to the food storage
area.
The dog fox will call as heapproaches the den with food and
(22:00):
the vixen will respond.
He will then give her the fooddirectly via the first den entrance
or store it for later usingthe second den entrance.
Foxes have an extensive vocalrange of sounds and form very close
family bonds.
(22:20):
It's been a cold and wetspring so far and nature has been
slow to get going.
Of course, Mother Nature willcompensate for lost time and I'm
sure we will soon be enjoyinganother hot, warm summer.
But now, in April, I have notyet seen the cubs emerge from the
den.
(22:41):
It was another chilly earlyevening when my phone beeped.
The trail cameras I hadpositioned have been triggered.
It was at the fox den.
I eagerly looked at the livecamera feed on my mobile phone.
The vixen was outside the denand was encouraging her cubs to leave.
(23:02):
I saw one cub, his dark brownfur slightly lighter but not orange.
His round face had begun tochange as his muzzle extended and
the ears were still floppy butalmost standing up on their own.
And then a second cub peakedout of the set for at least five
minutes before finding thecourage to leave the den.
(23:27):
Despite my mobile sendingmultiple notifications through the
night, I didn't see more thantwo cubs the next day.
I went to the den as soon aspossible and I maintained a good
distance of at least 20 metersfrom the set entrance and settled
in for the evening of watchingthe new fox family.
(23:50):
The dog fox was busy bringingfood and the vixen emerged before
dark.
A short while later, I saw thecubs, but this time there were not
two cubs, but four.
They began to play with the familiar.
A rough and tumble play,fights, pinning each other to the
ground, pouncing and having anawful lot of fun.
(24:15):
It really is incredible towatch the cubs as they learn and
develop the skills andinstinct thinks that they need to
survive in the big world awayfrom their den.
Finding enough food to supportfour cubs changing and growing daily
is hard work.
The vixen who has so lovinglyraised her cubs, dedicating every
(24:38):
hour to them, looks well fed.
However, she needs plenty offood now to help her regain her condition
after carrying, giving birthand raising her cubs.
The dog fox, by comparison,looks thin.
He is not getting much food,but his family is well fed, so he
(24:58):
is doing a good job.
Foxes are omnivores, whichmeans they have a varied diet and
will eat a wide range of food.
And this dog fox is a good hunter.
I have seen him bring rabbits,rodents, birds and even frogs, as
well as sliced white bread,sausages and chicken breast fillets.
(25:19):
He certainly knows where to goto be given food by the local humans.
On every visit to the foxfamily, I pack a couple of rounds
of sandwiches.
Usually they're peanut butterand something sweet like strawberry
jam sandwiches.
Yes, foxes do have a sweet tooth.
I always leave them somethingsomething and I've seen the dog fox
(25:43):
enjoy the treat and stash somefor later before returning to the
den more than once.
By the end of May, the cubsare out of the den every night and
can be seen begging for food.
As soon as the dog foxreturns, they begin a high pitched
whining.
They are either wagging theirtails or keeping their bodies low
(26:07):
to the ground, often both.
One cub nuzzles his mouth toget him to release the food to them
first.
I'm sure this is a female cub.
It is ultra competitive andvery much every fox for themselves.
The cubs will fight over food,arching their backs with their heckles
(26:30):
up, heads low and making highpitched kick kecking noises.
Even at this young age, foxesstill use audible communication as
well as visual and behavioral.
It's clearly intuitive for them.
But the cubs look so different now.
(26:50):
They've transformed from roundface, reddish brown baby bundles
of fur into the beautifulamber orange of young foxes with
the white chin, fur and bib developing.
Their ears are now pointed anderect, with white spots on the back
of the ear and dark fur on thepointed tips.
(27:12):
Their muzzles have elongatedwith dark hair and white whiskers.
Their legs are dark ebonybrown and the tails have begun to
grow into that beautiful brush.
Now they are slightly smallerversions of adults, but full of playful
spirit and curiosity.
(27:34):
And their desire to explorethe world is evident.
This fox family consists ofthree boys and one girl.
Fox cubs play roughly witheach other and the early rough and
tumble games have become morefocused as they get older.
I noted that they stood ontheir back legs trying to push each
(27:55):
other over with their front legs.
This sparring type behavior isakin to boxing hares, but it has
its purpose because the cubthat is pushed over often has its
rump or tail bitten and willbe subordinate to the other cub.
This may not be decided in onesparring match.
(28:17):
The cubs have been sparringregularly for a couple of days now.
They are now establishing theorder and who will be the dominant
cub.
Our female cub has excelled atthe rugby tackle.
Maybe not exactly, but shewould run at speed at her siblings
and slam her rump into them,knocking them away from the food
(28:40):
and often into another cub.
It made me think of ten pinbowling and I'm sure she felt the
same way I do on that rareoccasion I get a strike.
She deployed her secret weaponregularly and the boys never worked
out how to counteract it.
So there was no surprise thenthat it's the female cub who prevailed
(29:05):
to become the dominant cub inthis group, that has a lot of advantages.
It means that she eats firstevery time, and cubs that eat first
grow faster and become stronger.
The dominant cub is alsogroomed more often by both of her
(29:25):
parents and females usuallystay with their mothers and help
with the next year's cubs.
I can't help but feel proud of her.
Although she is physicallyslightly smaller, she has a genuine
desire for life.
The spring slowly becomes summer.
(29:46):
Our fox family experiences a lot.
But that's a subject foranother time and we'll be back with
the ongoing adventures of ourfox family.
I hope you've enjoyed WildlifeMatters look at our fox family in
spring.
Please do go back and listento our podcast, the Fox Family in
(30:09):
Winter from series one of theWildlife Matters podcast.
But for now, that has beenthis week's Wildlife Matters main
feature.
(30:33):
Well, I hope you enjoyedspending time with our fox family
during one of the busiesttimes of the foxy year in springtime.
One of the biggest pleasuresof the wildlife year is the joy of
watching fox and badger cubsas they venture from their underground
dens and sets and begin toexplore the world that is full of
(30:58):
new sights, sounds and smellsand is so exciting that it makes
you want to leap into the airand pounce on imaginary animals.
And that brings us to the endof series five of the Wildlife Matters
podcast.
We now have over 60 episodeson our RSS feed, so please do check.
(31:20):
Check out our back catalogue.
Wildlife Matters will returnin two weeks for Series six, our
summer and autumn series andwe have an exciting new interviews
and feature species like thestunning golden eagle.
You can join us as we watchwild beavers, look at one of our
(31:44):
native amphibian species andsee the devastating impact of AI
of birds and other nativespecies here in Britain.
We will also be looking atsome of the many benefits of being
in nature to our well being.
(32:05):
So series six has lots tocapture your interest, whatever your
interests are in the wonderfulworld world of wildlife here in Britain.
Thank you for your time today.
We hope you enjoyed it andhave something to take away from
this episode.
Please do leave us a reviewwherever you get your podcasts.
(32:27):
It really helps other wildlifeand nature lovers to find us in this
algorithm driven world.
Thank you.
Wildlife Matters will returnin two weeks with a land landmark
first episode of Series six,something we couldn't have imagined
when we started this podcaston a dark, cold winter evening back
(32:50):
in 2021.
So until then, stay curiouswild ones.
This is Wildlife Matterssigning off.
Hello and welcome to thisweek's exciting episode of the Wildlife
Matters podcast.
And we've got a thrilling showlined up for you today as we venture
into the enchanting world offoxes during springtime, exploring
a bustling den right here inour local area.
Get ready to immerse yourselfin the sights and sounds of nature
(00:51):
on this week's WildlifeMatters mindful moment.
We will be listening to thecaptivating vocalizations of an iconic
British mammal, which boastsup to 2028 different calls and a
rich variation of body language.
However, that is a bit moretricky to convey on an audio podcast.
(01:16):
Before we leap into our Foxadventure, let's catch up on three
intriguing news stories fromthe wildlife and nature realm.
First, we'll tackle animportant question.
Can exercise and time innature truly enhance your mental
well being?
Well, you won't want to misssome of the fresh findings from this
(01:38):
newly released research study.
Our second story takes us toNorthern Ireland, where the Agri
Food and Biosciences Instituteexperts aim to eradicate bovine tb.
Join us as we uncover theirgroundbreaking discoveries that could
change the region's livestockhealth and all without harming bad
(02:02):
and finally, we'll take astroll to your garden.
No matter where you are inBritain, there's one simple, quick
and budget friendly task thatyou could do to make a difference
for an iconic local mammal.
So stay tuned for that mustknow tip in this week's Wildlife
(02:23):
Matters Nature News, which iscoming up next on this week's Wildlife
Matters podcast.
(02:46):
Hello and welcome to thisweek's Wildlife Matters Nature News.
And this week's first story isabout the benefits of exercise and
nature for our well being.
So can exercise boost yourbrain power or pay attention if you
want to enhance your brainfunction, memory and fitness all
(03:11):
simultaneously?
Because new research fromAustralia suggests that walking in
nature can help you achieveall three.
The study, which was led by Dr.
Ben Singh, found thatindividuals with ADHD experienced
the most significantimprovement improvements in executive
(03:31):
function, which means everydaytasks such as planning, problem solving
and adapting to new situationsbecame a bit more manageable.
This comprehensive literaturereview is the most extensive to date,
emphasizing that exercise iscrucial for physical health and for
(03:52):
optimizing cognitive health.
The umbrella review analyzed133 studies involving data, 2,724
randomized controlled trialsand over 258,000 individual participants.
It was published in theBritish Journal of Sports Medicine.
(04:16):
Our goal was to evaluate theeffects of exercise on brain function,
specifically generalcognition, memory and executive function,
across all age groups and populations.
Dr.
Singh told Wildlife Matters.
We examined differentdifferent types of exercise of varying
intensities and programdurations to determine the most effective
(04:40):
strategies for enhancing brain power.
Overall, our findings providestrong evidence that exercise significantly
boosts brain function.
So is low intensity or highintensity exercise better for your
brain?
Well, the research indicatesthat all exercise intensity benefit
(05:02):
the brain, but notably low andmoderate intensity exercises were
found to be more effective forcognitive improvements than high
intensity workouts.
A leisurely hike may enhanceyour brain power more than a vigorous
uphill sprint.
Another interesting findingwas that shorter programs lasting
(05:24):
one to three months showedgreater cognitive benefits than longer
term interventions.
This suggests thatimprovements can occur quickly if
people consistently engagewith physical activity.
Children and adolescentsdemonstrated the greatest improvement
in memory.
Additionally, a potentiallygame changing discovery was made
(05:48):
that individuals with ADHD orattention deficit Hyperactivity disorder
who experienced the mostsignificant gains in executive function
among all the population analyzed.
Research indicates that areasof the brain responsible for executive
functions, mental skills suchas organization, attention and planning
(06:12):
tend to be smaller, lessdeveloped or less active in those
with adhd, so even a gentlestroll every day can be helpful.
Singh also revealed the exagames which require physical movement
while playing video games suchas the Nintendo Wii strongly impacted
(06:33):
memory and cognition.
This may be due to the dualengagement of body and mind, making
these activities particularlystimulating for the brain, he said.
These findings highlightvarious ways to improve brain health
through exercise.
Even light movement can bevery beneficial.
(06:53):
The way exercise enhancesbrain power involves multiple positive
biological and physiological mechanisms.
Firstly, exercise increasesblood flow to the brain, ensuring
the brain cells receive moreoxygen and essential nutrients which
supports overall cognitive function.
Exercise promotesneurogenesis, the growth of new brain
(07:17):
cells by stimulating therelease of brain derived neurotrophic
factor, a crucial proteininvolved in learning and memory.
Additionally, exercise helpsreduce inflamma and oxidative stress
which are both linked tocognitive decline.
Furthermore, exerciseincreases dopamine and serotonin
(07:39):
release, enhancing focus, moodand motivation.
Research by Singh has shownthat physical activity significantly
impacts on sleep quality andregulates stress by balancing cortisol
levels which if elevated, canimpair memory and cognitive functions.
(08:01):
These mechanisms demonstratethat exercise is not only beneficial
for physical health but alsoplays a crucial role in maintaining
a sharp and resilient brain.
This isn't Singh's first studyon transformative mental benefits
of exercise.
In 2022 he conducted thelargest review to date on exercise
(08:22):
effects on mental health whichdemonstrated its effectiveness improving
symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Ultimately, exercise is notjust about physical fitness, it is
essential for brain health.
Dr.
Singh explained.
What is exciting is that evenlight or moderate exercise can lead
(08:42):
to noticeable difference incognitive function, allowing people
of all fitness levels to benefit.
Our second story today takesus to Northern Ireland, where the
AFBI have claimed the bovinetuberculosis can be entirely eradicated.
That's exciting news from theAgri Food and Biosciences Institute,
(09:06):
which suggests that NorthernIreland is on the path to completely
eradicating bovinetuberculosis, or btv.
This breakthrough was the hottopic at a recent Omnics conference
in Belfast where AFBIvirologist Dr.
Adrian Allen shared promising findings.
(09:27):
Dr.
Allen highlighted that pastefforts in testing and carefully
removing infected cattle hadsignificantly lowered BTD levels.
However, the situation hastaken a concerning turn in recent
years, with BTB rates creepingback up in Ireland, Dr.
Allen pointed out.
While the increasing intensityof livestock production might play
(09:50):
a role, other factors couldalso appear to play.
We're diving deep into theseissues through ongo research, but
that's not all.
AFBI scientists have beeninvestigating another intriguing
aspect of BTB badgers.
Their groundbreaking testVaccinate OR Remove or TVR initiative,
(10:11):
which launched in 2014, is acomprehensive wildlife intervention
study that targeted theBanbridge area in County Down.
Through this initiative,scientists captured live badgers,
tested them for tuberculosisand vaccinated clear ones and remove
those who tested positive.
(10:31):
Robin Skus from the AFBIemphasized the critical role of cattle
to cattle transmission inspreading btb.
He commented, we sourced allthe badger BTP isolates through our
TVR program, while the bovineisolates came from Dara's mandatory
testing.
Our research revealed TB'ssurprisingly slow mutation rate,
(10:55):
confirming that the primarytransmission route cattle studies
by AFBI have validated thesame principles regarding cross border
transmission.
Alarmingly, the rates of BTBinfections are.
On the rise in NorthernIreland, which.
More than one in 10 cattleherds now facing some disease restriction.
(11:18):
The fight against bovine TB inIreland is far from over, but with
ongoing research andintervention initiatives, there is
hope on the horizon.
Our third story highlights asimple, quick and inexpensive action
that could significantlybenefit one of our most iconic wild
(11:39):
animals.
Gardeners are being urged toput holes in their garden fences
this spring to help save themuch loved hedgehogs, and this simple
act could offer a lifeline tothe nation's beloved yet sharply
declining hedgehog population.
The decline of hedgehogs inBritain has become alarmingly steep
(12:00):
due to environmental changesand specific gardening and lifestyle
practices in our homes andgreen spaces.
Nevertheless, gardeningenthusiasts are being urged to attract
these spiny creatures intotheir gardens during the warmer months
not only do hedgehog andcharm, but they also serve as efficient
(12:21):
pest controllers, eagerlyfeasting on insects that challenge
gardeners.
According to the Amazing Graceproject, hedgehogs are perpetual
roamers who need easy accessto gardens.
Hedgehogs are one of Britain'smost recognisable and well loved
animals.
They are a gardener's friendas they eat beetles, caterpillars,
(12:45):
worms and other invertebrates.
They also revealed aninteresting fact about hedgehogs.
Did you know that as many as10 hedgehogs may be visiting your
garden over several nights?
This means that your hedgehogcould be a number of different ones
visiting at different times.
(13:06):
The European hedgehog is themost often admitted animal to wildlife
rescue centres.
Hedgehogs, known for theirnightly rambles of up to a mile,
might need some assistancenavigating our gardens.
Hedgehog friends suggestcreating small openings in fences
(13:26):
or walls or building tunnelsunder boundaries which with a 13x13
centimeter gap which issufficient for hedgehogs to get in
and importantly get to backout of your garden.
Just remember to check withyour neighbour before making an opening.
Tragically, the number ofhedgehogs has plummeted and experts
(13:49):
believe this is partly due tothe rise of solid barriers around
our properties and gardens.
According to Grace theHedgehog, it is becoming harder for
hedgehogs to move freely dueto an increase in the number of solid
walls and fences erectedaround gardens and the latest research
backs this up.
(14:09):
Lack of access to gardensreduces available foraging areas
for hedgehogs and that limitsthe food that they can access and
decreases their chances ofmeeting a mate.
Creating a hole in the gardenwall or fence allows your local hedgehogs
to pass safely from garden to garden.
(14:29):
For those looking to lend ahelping hand, you can cut a small
hole at the base of your fenceor slightly elevated panel or gate
to create enough space for ahedgehog to slip through, ensuring
it's small enough to preventthe passage of cats or other small
animals.
To help hedgehogs, all youneed to do is trim around 4 to 5
(14:51):
inches of wood from the bottomof your garden fence or gate that
will create an entrance forthose who want to dedicate solution.
Hedgehog projects like AmazingGrace or Hedgehog street offer a
hedgehog hole fence plate thatensures a metal reinforced opening
at the base of your fence.
(15:13):
The British HedgehogPreservation Society said a hole
measuring 13 x 13 cm is theright size for a hedgehog to pass
through, but is too small formost cats and dogs.
Once you have made your holein the fence or wall, you can fix
the hedgehog plate to thefence to ensure the hole does not
(15:34):
get blocked or stretched.
You can purchase hedgehoghighway holes from the Amazing Grace
Project and we will leave alink to their website and the other
hedgehog charities we'vementioned in our show notes and that
has been this week's WildlifeMatters Nature News.
(16:12):
So are you ready to make yourgarden a hedgehog haven this weekend?
It's the perfect time tocreate some spaces for these adorable
creatures and once you aredone, head out and soak up the amazing
benefits of exercising innature to help your own mental well
(16:32):
being.
Step this way and join us onthis early spring evening.
Imagine encountering some ofthe breathtaking wild species that
share this beautiful islandwith us as we sit and enjoy the incredible
range of vocalizations thisiconic wild animal family make on
(16:54):
this week's Wildlife Matters.
Mindful moments.
Sa.
(18:17):
You may have heard some ofthose sounds in your wild places
as they were the sounds of afox family before the vixen and dog
fox head off to find food tofeed themselves and their four cubs.
And that leads us to the starsof this week's Wildlife Matters main
(18:38):
feature where we have spenttime watching, listening and learning
about one of our local foxfamilies and what they are doing
in springtime.
(19:03):
Hello and welcome to thisweek's A Wildlife Matters Main feature
and today I am excited tobring you our look into foxes in
the springtime.
The early morning sunlightdanced through the trees as I sat
and gazed at the incrediblekaleidoscope of greens that surrounded
(19:26):
me.
From the grass up through thescrub to the emerging canopy.
Mother Nature was coming tolife after her winter resting and
I knew it was going to be agood day.
You see, I had returned to afox den that I've watched closely
for the last few weeks and awhile back I saw a vixen.
(19:49):
Looking around it, it is ideal.
Set within an earth bank andentangled in some exposed tree roots,
she would have spent time withthe dog fox, mating regularly during
those long dark winter nights.
Fox gestation is around 53days, so by March this has nearly
(20:12):
finished and she will bepreparing to have her cubs very soon
and we will be following them.
Vixens typically will havefour to five cubs and they will all
be born blind and deaf.
The newborns don't look like foxes.
They have round faces, shortears and dark chocolate brown fur.
(20:35):
They are entirely dependentupon their mother.
The vixen would have dug atleast two entrances to the den.
The main entrance is the onethat I am currently watching and
she will use this and it willlead through a tunnel to her nest
chamber.
(20:56):
For the first month or so, thevixen will be suckling her cubs and
will not leave them.
As at this stage, the cubscannot thermoregulate, which means
that they cannot control theirown body temperature.
Temperature.
After around 10 to 14 days,the Cubs will open their eyes, which
(21:16):
are a stunning ice or steely blue.
Over the next couple of weeks,their ears begin to grow into that
familiar fox shape and theywill grow guard hairs that make their
fur look like a fuzzy ball.
During the first month, thedog fox feeds the vixen while she
(21:37):
suckles her cubs, keeping themwarm and safe in the underground
nursery.
He will spend most of theevening and all night finding enough
food and bringing it back to her.
He will use the secondentrance leading to the food storage
area.
The dog fox will call as heapproaches the den with food and
(22:00):
the vixen will respond.
He will then give her the fooddirectly via the first den entrance
or store it for later usingthe second den entrance.
Foxes have an extensive vocalrange of sounds and form very close
family bonds.
(22:20):
It's been a cold and wetspring so far and nature has been
slow to get going.
Of course, Mother Nature willcompensate for lost time and I'm
sure we will soon be enjoyinganother hot, warm summer.
But now, in April, I have notyet seen the cubs emerge from the
den.
(22:41):
It was another chilly earlyevening when my phone beeped.
The trail cameras I hadpositioned have been triggered.
It was at the fox den.
I eagerly looked at the livecamera feed on my mobile phone.
The vixen was outside the denand was encouraging her cubs to leave.
(23:02):
I saw one cub, his dark brownfur slightly lighter but not orange.
His round face had begun tochange as his muzzle extended and
the ears were still floppy butalmost standing up on their own.
And then a second cub peakedout of the set for at least five
minutes before finding thecourage to leave the den.
(23:27):
Despite my mobile sendingmultiple notifications through the
night, I didn't see more thantwo cubs the next day.
I went to the den as soon aspossible and I maintained a good
distance of at least 20 metersfrom the set entrance and settled
in for the evening of watchingthe new fox family.
(23:50):
The dog fox was busy bringingfood and the vixen emerged before
dark.
A short while later, I saw thecubs, but this time there were not
two cubs, but four.
They began to play with the familiar.
A rough and tumble play,fights, pinning each other to the
ground, pouncing and having anawful lot of fun.
(24:15):
It really is incredible towatch the cubs as they learn and
develop the skills andinstinct thinks that they need to
survive in the big world awayfrom their den.
Finding enough food to supportfour cubs changing and growing daily
is hard work.
The vixen who has so lovinglyraised her cubs, dedicating every
(24:38):
hour to them, looks well fed.
However, she needs plenty offood now to help her regain her condition
after carrying, giving birthand raising her cubs.
The dog fox, by comparison,looks thin.
He is not getting much food,but his family is well fed, so he
(24:58):
is doing a good job.
Foxes are omnivores, whichmeans they have a varied diet and
will eat a wide range of food.
And this dog fox is a good hunter.
I have seen him bring rabbits,rodents, birds and even frogs, as
well as sliced white bread,sausages and chicken breast fillets.
(25:19):
He certainly knows where to goto be given food by the local humans.
On every visit to the foxfamily, I pack a couple of rounds
of sandwiches.
Usually they're peanut butterand something sweet like strawberry
jam sandwiches.
Yes, foxes do have a sweet tooth.
I always leave them somethingsomething and I've seen the dog fox
(25:43):
enjoy the treat and stash somefor later before returning to the
den more than once.
By the end of May, the cubsare out of the den every night and
can be seen begging for food.
As soon as the dog foxreturns, they begin a high pitched
whining.
They are either wagging theirtails or keeping their bodies low
(26:07):
to the ground, often both.
One cub nuzzles his mouth toget him to release the food to them
first.
I'm sure this is a female cub.
It is ultra competitive andvery much every fox for themselves.
The cubs will fight over food,arching their backs with their heckles
(26:30):
up, heads low and making highpitched kick kecking noises.
Even at this young age, foxesstill use audible communication as
well as visual and behavioral.
It's clearly intuitive for them.
But the cubs look so different now.
(26:50):
They've transformed from roundface, reddish brown baby bundles
of fur into the beautifulamber orange of young foxes with
the white chin, fur and bib developing.
Their ears are now pointed anderect, with white spots on the back
of the ear and dark fur on thepointed tips.
(27:12):
Their muzzles have elongatedwith dark hair and white whiskers.
Their legs are dark ebonybrown and the tails have begun to
grow into that beautiful brush.
Now they are slightly smallerversions of adults, but full of playful
spirit and curiosity.
(27:34):
And their desire to explorethe world is evident.
This fox family consists ofthree boys and one girl.
Fox cubs play roughly witheach other and the early rough and
tumble games have become morefocused as they get older.
I noted that they stood ontheir back legs trying to push each
(27:55):
other over with their front legs.
This sparring type behavior isakin to boxing hares, but it has
its purpose because the cubthat is pushed over often has its
rump or tail bitten and willbe subordinate to the other cub.
This may not be decided in onesparring match.
(28:17):
The cubs have been sparringregularly for a couple of days now.
They are now establishing theorder and who will be the dominant
cub.
Our female cub has excelled atthe rugby tackle.
Maybe not exactly, but shewould run at speed at her siblings
and slam her rump into them,knocking them away from the food
(28:40):
and often into another cub.
It made me think of ten pinbowling and I'm sure she felt the
same way I do on that rareoccasion I get a strike.
She deployed her secret weaponregularly and the boys never worked
out how to counteract it.
So there was no surprise thenthat it's the female cub who prevailed
(29:05):
to become the dominant cub inthis group, that has a lot of advantages.
It means that she eats firstevery time, and cubs that eat first
grow faster and become stronger.
The dominant cub is alsogroomed more often by both of her
(29:25):
parents and females usuallystay with their mothers and help
with the next year's cubs.
I can't help but feel proud of her.
Although she is physicallyslightly smaller, she has a genuine
desire for life.
The spring slowly becomes summer.
(29:46):
Our fox family experiences a lot.
But that's a subject foranother time and we'll be back with
the ongoing adventures of ourfox family.
I hope you've enjoyed WildlifeMatters look at our fox family in
spring.
Please do go back and listento our podcast, the Fox Family in
(30:09):
Winter from series one of theWildlife Matters podcast.
But for now, that has beenthis week's Wildlife Matters main
feature.
(30:33):
Well, I hope you enjoyedspending time with our fox family
during one of the busiesttimes of the foxy year in springtime.
One of the biggest pleasuresof the wildlife year is the joy of
watching fox and badger cubsas they venture from their underground
dens and sets and begin toexplore the world that is full of
(30:58):
new sights, sounds and smellsand is so exciting that it makes
you want to leap into the airand pounce on imaginary animals.
And that brings us to the endof series five of the Wildlife Matters
podcast.
We now have over 60 episodeson our RSS feed, so please do check.
(31:20):
Check out our back catalogue.
Wildlife Matters will returnin two weeks for Series six, our
summer and autumn series andwe have an exciting new interviews
and feature species like thestunning golden eagle.
You can join us as we watchwild beavers, look at one of our
(31:44):
native amphibian species andsee the devastating impact of AI
of birds and other nativespecies here in Britain.
We will also be looking atsome of the many benefits of being
in nature to our well being.
(32:05):
So series six has lots tocapture your interest, whatever your
interests are in the wonderfulworld world of wildlife here in Britain.
Thank you for your time today.
We hope you enjoyed it andhave something to take away from
this episode.
Please do leave us a reviewwherever you get your podcasts.
(32:27):
It really helps other wildlifeand nature lovers to find us in this
algorithm driven world.
Thank you.
Wildlife Matters will returnin two weeks with a land landmark
first episode of Series six,something we couldn't have imagined
when we started this podcaston a dark, cold winter evening back
(32:50):
in 2021.
So until then, stay curiouswild ones.
This is Wildlife Matterssigning off.
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