Wildlife Matters The Podcast

This week, we delve into the critical issue of marine bycatch and its devastating impact on marine wildlife, including seabirds, dolphins, and whales. We explore recent findings indicating that over 10,000 seabirds and thousands of marine mammals are victims of this problem annually in the UK. Our discussion highlights innovative solutions, such as the acoustic pingers developed by FishTech Marine, which show promise in significant...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast unveils an intriguing exploration into the world of nature detective work, aptly titled "The Clue is in the Poo." In this compelling feature, we delve into the significance of animal droppings as vital clues in understanding local wildlife and their habitats. Our discussion highlights the myriad insights that can be gleaned from these often-overlooked indicators, enriching our appreciation of th...

This week's Wildlife Matters Podcast explores the enchanting wet woodlands of the Southern Weald, delving into the mysterious gills and the diverse flora that inhabit these ancient ecosystems. Our journey invites listeners to engage in fungi foraging, revealing the hidden wonders of nature as they don their boots in anticipation of a muddy adventure. Furthermore, we will intersperse our exploration with an auditory experience of na...

This week's podcast focuses on the important issue of hedgehog conservation. We discuss groundbreaking research from the University of Oxford that reveals hedgehogs can perceive ultrasound. Researchers have proposed using innovative ultrasonic repellers on vehicles to reduce hedgehog fatalities on roads significantly. This is particularly urgent, as hedgehog populations have declined by 70% in rural areas. In addition, we explore t...

In the latest instalment of Wildlife Matters, we delve into the intriguing realm of early nesters those audacious avian species that embark on the formidable task of rearing their progeny amidst the lingering chill of winter. This episode seeks to elucidate the motivations behind their seemingly perilous decision to nest early and to ascertain whether this strategy ultimately yields favourable outcomes for their offspring. As we tr...

Celebrating the arrival of the spring equinox, this week's Wildlife Matters podcast presents two captivating tales rooted in folklore that illuminate the intricate relationships between nature and humanity.

The first story, "The Alder Sprite," intricately weaves themes of respect for the natural world and the consequences of human folly, drawing upon the rich traditions of Celtic mythology. This tale serves as a poignant reminder of...

This week, we embark on a winter wildlife walk in an ancient woodland, where we will immerse ourselves in the tranquil beauty of nature and capture moments on audio and video for our podcast and YouTube episodes.

Our exploration begins with a review of intriguing wildlife and nature news, including the remarkable return of beavers to Cornwall's rivers after a 400-year absence and an inspiring project in Wales aimed at reconnecting f...

In this week's Wildlife Matters podcast, I finally reveal the iconic wild animal that approached me at the end of the last episode, as I continue exploring Scotland's ancient temperate rainforest. Before this exciting moment, I discussed urgent wildlife and natural issues, including the serious problem of illegal wildlife persecution and the ongoing delay in implementing the peat ban, even though most politicians agree it's needed....

This week on Wildlife Matters, I kick off an exciting journey through the temperate rainforests along Scotland's northwest coast. We'll explore the ancient, mossy woodlands, home to vibrant wildlife and ecosystems. Before we set out, we discuss important nature stories, including avian influenza and why blaming wild birds is misguided. Intensive farming is a bigger factor. We also discuss a recent fox hunt that disturbed a cemetery...

This week on Wildlife Matters, we explore animal tracks in a local snowy woodland, highlighting how tracking wildlife reveals connections among species, their habitats, and the environment.

We focus on the wildlife species that call this peaceful woodland home and discuss how natural sounds shape our experience across different habitats. As we walk through the snowy landscape, we encourage listeners to pause and enjoy the calm and b...

In this week's episode of the Wildlife Matters podcast, we explore how to care for garden birds during the winter months. As winter sets in, providing food and shelter is essential for our feathered friends, who face significant challenges surviving the season. We also take a moment for reflection with our Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments, featuring a beautiful audio nature soundscape from our recent winter walk in the South Downs.

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This week's episode of the Wildlife Matters podcast explores the fascinating phenomenon of starling murmurations, which are a captivating spectacle as thousands of these birds gracefully navigate the evening skies of the UK.

In Wildlife Matters Nature News, we report on a recent government initiative to ban trail hunting in England and Wales, marking a significant advance in the broader animal welfare strategy.

This episode also hi...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast celebrates the Winter Solstice and its intrinsic connection to nature.

As we reflect on this celestial event, which marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year, we are reminded of its profound significance across cultures and of the cyclical nature of life itself. The Winter Solstice not only symbolises the triumph of light over darkness but also ignites a sense of hope and renewal,...

Hello and welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters podcast. In this episode, we explore Hedgerows and why they are vital for England's future, boosting biodiversity, combating climate change, and enhancing soil health.

The enchanting world of hedgerows is a vibrant ecosystem that plays a crucial role in the British countryside. The discussion emphasises the historical significance of hedgerows, tracing their origins back to the Bronz...

In this week’s Wildlife Matters podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating world of winter wildlife care in our gardens. Discover essential practices that not only nourish your garden’s ecosystem but also provide a haven for local creatures during the frosty months ahead.

We’ll share a treasure trove of tips—ranging from creating cosy shelters to offering vital sustenance—that embrace the principle of m...

Hello and welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters podcast. This week, we explore the complexities of hibernation.

We will investigate why certain species, including hedgehogs, employ this survival method during the cold winter months. Then, in Part Two, we offer practical advice on how to improve your garden for hedgehogs as they prepare to hibernate, emphasising the importance of creating safe habitats and reducing disturbances.

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The seventh series of the Wildlife Matters podcast kicks off with an essential milestone in wildlife policy: the government has officially ended the controversial badger culling program, a campaign we've passionately fought against for nearly fifteen years.

Join us for our main feature as we confidently explore the rich biodiversity of Greenwich Park, the oldest Royal Park in London. Get ready for an exciting urban wildlife adventur...

In this week's Wildlife Matters podcast, we delve into the remarkable yet heart-wrenching story of the pangolin, the most trafficked mammal on the planet.

My involvement with the CITES committee has given me deep insights into the numerous challenges these beautiful anteaters face.

The episode outlines the four species of African pangolins: the Ground Pangolin, White-Bellied Pangolin, Giant Pangolin, and Black-Bellied Pangolin. Eac...

This week's Wildlife Matters podcast is dedicated to autumn and nature storytelling, which unfolds amidst the enchanting backdrop of the dark woods.

As we transition into autumn, we reflect on the remarkable responses of nature, including the preparation for migration of summer visitors and the hibernation practices of various wildlife.

This episode features our unique take on a classic folktale story that celebrates the essence of...