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 highlights the fragile balance between appreciating nature and the essential responsibility to create and protect environments that support diverse species.

Moreover, the episode dedicates substantial time to examining the serious legislative threats posed by the government's new planning and infrastructure bill, which jeopardises existing protections for wildlife. This compelling narrative emphasises the necessity for active participation in conservation efforts, urging listeners to reach out to their local representatives and advocate for robust environmental protections that defend vulnerable species and their habitats.

Key Takeaways:

- The spring of 2025 in the UK is characterised by record-high temperatures that threaten wildlife.

- Providing water sources and shade is crucial to support wildlife during extreme heat.

- The proposed planning bill could significantly undermine protections for various wildlife species in the UK.

- Common frogs, once thriving, now face grave risks due to habitat loss and disease.

- Conservation initiatives for endangered species like the pine marten and barn owl are essential.

- Listeners are encouraged to engage with their MPs to demand wildlife protection in the face of development pressures.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, the hosts 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 highlights the fragile balance between appreciating nature and the essential responsibility to create and protect environments that support diverse species.

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 majestic golden eagles in Southwest Scotland.

The excitement is palpable, and we are eager to share these remarkable adventures with you!

This series promises a rich exploration of nature, from the fabulous common frog to the fascinating dolphins and porpoises that live off the British coastline. We'll also dive into the alarming consequences of Avian Influenza and its devastating impact on our wild seabirds and migratory bird species. We will also explore how it has jumped species to infect seals and their pups.

We are excited to start a new feature based on urban wild spaces.

We begin in the capital, so get ready to experience Wild London. Join us as we spend a night in a cemetery that is an oasis for wildlife, explore an ancient woodland, and learn about some of its best-known wild species deep in South London.

We celebrate the summer solstice with an adventure walk to Glastonbury Tor and celebrate the milestone of the first 50 episodes of the Wildlife Matters podcast.

We'll conclude Series Six with a story around the campfire for the autumn equinox when the nights begin to lengthen and darkness envelops us.

But before that, stay with us as we kick off this series with an enchanting springtime fungi forage. Together, we will search for delectable wild mushrooms you can find now in nature.

Our spring fungi forage will begin later in this podcast.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we embark on new adventures in wildlife exploration and showcase our journey through nature's wonders.
• The podcast explores the alarming impacts of avian influenza on seabirds and other wildlife species.
• Listeners can anticipate a captivating feature series focused on urban wildlife spaces to experience nature in London.
• Our discussions delve into the importance of choosing native plants to support local ecosystems and wildlife in British gardens.
• The episode highlights the fascinating diversity of shark species in UK waters, enhancing our understanding of marine life.
• We conclude our series with a poignant narrative around the autumn equinox, celebrating the cyclical nature of wildlife and seasons.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• World Animal Protection
• TV Sid
• Netflix
• Latvian Fund for Nature

Links referenced in this episode:

• wildlife-matters.org
• latvian-fund-for-nature.com
• world-animal-protection.org
• tv-sid.dk
• coquette-island.co.uk

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...