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 during our Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments segment, fostering a co...
Jul 02, 2025•43 min•Season 6Ep. 5
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 ban the use of snares in England. This critical movement follows t...
Jun 18, 2025•39 min•Season 6Ep. 4
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 segment, we recount a mesmerising encounter with wild beavers in the ...
Jun 04, 2025•29 min•Season 6Ep. 3
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 for wildlife during these scorching months. This discussion highli...
May 21, 2025•35 min•Season 6Ep. 2
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 wild beavers in the West Country and witness the return of the ...
May 07, 2025•39 min•Season 6Ep. 1
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 ...
Apr 09, 2025•33 min•Season 5Ep. 12
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, offering listeners an opportunity to appreciate the often unnoticed ...
Mar 26, 2025•31 min•Season 5Ep. 11
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 in a captivating way. Furthermore, we present compelling stories o...
Mar 12, 2025•47 min•Season 5Ep. 10
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 devastatingly harmed local wildlife and ecosystems, particularly during this...
Feb 26, 2025•36 min•Season 5Ep. 9
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 nature with this week’s Mindful Moments and experience the tranqu...
Feb 12, 2025•34 min•Season 5Ep. 8
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 unfortunate decline due to habitat changes and persecution. The M...
Jan 29, 2025•44 min•Season 5Ep. 7
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 sightings of humpback whales off the Sussex coast, showcasing the ...
Jan 15, 2025•54 min•Season 5Ep. 6
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, morality, and the consequences of human actions. The first story, ...
Dec 18, 2024•37 min•Season 5Ep. 5
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 mass mortality. The episode also highlights the importance of maint...
Dec 04, 2024•42 min•Season 5Ep. 4
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 for garden birds during the winter months, ensuring their surviv...
Nov 20, 2024•40 min•Season 5Ep. 3
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, before speaking to Giles Bristow, CEO of Surfers Against Sewage...
Nov 06, 2024•33 min•Season 5Ep. 2
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 also explores the mysterious deaths of swans along a London canal, r...
Oct 23, 2024•39 min•Season 5Ep. 1
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. VM8mty8hW23bl0Rpm5fj It's time to review our first four series ...
Sep 25, 2024•42 min•Season 4Ep. 13
Last week Wildlife Matters joined hundreds of other advocates outside Parliament in London to call for an en immediate end to the Badger culls in England. Speakers included Chris Packham, Dominic Dyer, Rosie Wood, Chair of the Badger Trust, who hosted the event; Wildlife Matters, who joined hundreds of other advocates outside Parliament in London to call for a and Dr Alice Brough, a veterinarian; and Rob Pownall from the campaign group Protect the Wild. Today's podcast includes the full speeches...
Sep 11, 2024•52 min•Season 4Ep. 12
Hello and welcome to this week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast. I’m your host - Nigel Palmer, and we have another exciting show for you today. It’s been a busy time at Wildlife Matters HQ. This week’s main feature will be our trip to the Upland Moors, and the shutdown of the Grouse shoots on the opening day of their season. Then, in complete contrast, join me in a small, crystal-clear stream in a stunning ancient woodland in Kent to enjoy nature in this week’s Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments. How ma...
Aug 28, 2024•30 min•Season 4Ep. 11
Hello and welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters Podcast. I'm your host, Nigel Palmer. In today's action-packed episode, we embark on an exclusive adventure to discover some of the rarest wildflowers in the UK. It's a unique journey, and we are pleased to share our adventures and experiences with you. In this week's Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments, we will spend some precious time in nature enjoying a windy night in the woods. But before that, let’s head to the news desk to bring you the lates...
Aug 14, 2024•39 min•Season 4Ep. 10
Hello and welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters podcast. In this week's episode, we are embarking on an exhilarating mission that will take us all around the UK as we strive to uncover Britain’s rarest woodland wild plants. The thrill of the plant hunt is palpable, and we can't wait to share our discoveries with you. In this week's Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments, our journey is also guided by the breathtaking beauty of a spring morning. We invite you to immerse yourself in the tranquillity o...
Jul 31, 2024•36 min•Season 4Ep. 9
Hello, and welcome to the Wildlife Matters podcast. In this episode, we will talk to Matt Somerville of Bekindhives, who introduces us to natural beekeeping. Many of you may be sceptical of beekeeping. While we all want to encourage and help bees and other pollinators, the world of beekeeping has several issues that very quickly turn people off from keeping bees themselves. Wildlife Matters investigates the natural bee-keeping world after we look at what’s happening with wildlife and nature next...
Jul 19, 2024•31 min•Season 4Ep. 8
On this week's Wildlife Matters podcast we are delighted to bring you our Introduction to British Bats. My fascination with bats began in childhood when I watched them gracefully fly around our garden. This childhood curiosity has blossomed into a lifelong passion. Even now, I eagerly anticipate the bats I might encounter on my evening walks. The introduction will provide a comprehensive overview with lots of information to capture your interest and get you started on your adventure. We will fol...
Jul 03, 2024•37 min•Season 4Ep. 7
Restore Nature Now London March and A Bronze Age Solstice day walk to Stonehenge. Hello and welcome to this week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast. We are fast approaching midsummer’s day—or solstice day—so we have followed a Bronze Age walk to Stonehenge on solstice morning 2023, and we would love it if you came along with us. Our journey will transport us back over 4500 years to explore the enigmatic neolithic earthworks, the ancient king barrows, and the new king barrows. We will be captivated by th...
Jun 19, 2024•37 min•Season 4Ep. 6
We are talking to Natalia Doran on this week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast. Natalia founded Urban Squirrels, a London-based specialist grey squirrel rescue and is also an advocate for wildlife, being on the council of Animal Aid, a trustee of Farplace Animal Rescue and the academic charity Pan-Orthodox Concern for Animals. The Grey Squirrel, a cherished and frequently spotted creature, especially in urban areas, is under grave threat. It is one of the most targeted wild animals, with our wildlife c...
Jun 05, 2024•53 min•Season 4Ep. 5
Join Wildlife Matters as we spend a night with the Pine Martens Hello, and a big warm welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters. I’m your host, Nigel Palmer, and we have a real treat for you today. But it’s not the Q&A you may have been expecting - that has been put back slightly while we finalise the production. Today, we are offering a unique opportunity- a live wildlife-watching experience. And what makes it truly special? The mammal we'll be observing is a rare sight in most of the UK. Thi...
May 22, 2024•27 min•Season 4Ep. 4
On this week's Wildlife Matters podcast, we have a feature-length chat with Alana, the co-founder of the Wildlife Care Badge. Wildlife Care Badge was set up by a collective of vet professionals, wildlife professionals, and wildlife rescues/rehabbers, who have united to develop some self-regulation for UK wildlife rescues/rehabbers. We have launched a new UK Wildlife Rescue DIRECTORY/MAP that represents a list of trustworthy - PROVEN - Wildlife Rescues/Rehabbers for Vet Practices & members of...
May 08, 2024•45 min•Season 4Ep. 3
The Bloody Ivory Trade We have had a very wet winter here in the UK, but now the signs of spring are all around. With its many shades of green and the bluebells currently carpeting our woodlands, the birds are nesting, and the dawn chorus is loud and genuinely a beautiful cacophony. I’ve been leading nightingale walks in our local woodlands and following a buzzard family nesting nearby. In a future podcast, we will bring you the whole story. Today, 24th April is #helpanimalsday. Our friends at O...
Apr 24, 2024•31 min•Season 4Ep. 2
Hello and welcome to this week’s Wildlife Matters Podcast. I’m your host, Nigel Palmer. It’s Springtime here in the UK, and nature is bursting back into life. There are so many shades of green - and every shade is so fresh and vibrant. The birds are in full song, and the buds have burst into blossom. And we are at the start of Series Four. It has been just over two years since we launched the podcast, and it has been such a fun and exciting journey. We have come a long way, and with this new ser...
Apr 10, 2024•38 min•Season 4Ep. 1
