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 minimal intervention. Our goal is to ensure that your garden remains a thriving sanctuary for wildlife, even when the temperatures dip.

But that’s not all! We take time to unwind with our Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments, where you can immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of late autumn—a soothing escape that fosters tranquillity and a profound connection to nature’s rhythms.

In our Nature News, we’ll bring you the latest stories from the world of wildlife and conservation. From groundbreaking conservation efforts to inspiring reintroduction successes, these updates highlight the remarkable strides being made to protect our planet’s biodiversity.

Join us on this journey as we enhance the well-being of our garden ecosystems while revelling in the serene beauty of the natural world around us. Tune in and let’s celebrate the wonders of wildlife together!

Takeaways:

• In this episode of the Wildlife Matters podcast, we provide essential guidance on nurturing wildlife within your garden and wildlife pond during the winter months.
• We discuss the importance of maintaining a clean wildlife pond to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases beneath the ice, which can endanger aquatic life.
• Prudent management of fallen leaves in the pond is necessary to prevent excessive algae growth, which can deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic ecosystems.
• Listeners are encouraged to create a welcoming environment for local wildlife by leaving parts of their garden wild and untidy, thus supporting biodiversity during challenging winter months.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation
• Trees for Life
• Surrey Wildlife Trust
• Bugs Life
• Painshill Park Trust

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.

The Wildlife Matters podcast also examines the impact of Bonfire Night and fireworks on local wildlife. As the 5th of November approaches, a discussion arises about the historical origins of this event, particularly the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, which has evolved into a modern celebration that often causes distress to domestic pets and wild animals.

The episode highlights the often-overlooked effect of fireworks on wildlife, including birds, foxes, and other creatures, who suffer extreme stress from loud noises and bright lights. To reduce such disturbances, the hosts suggest several measures to protect wildlife during this festive period, such as choosing public firework displays over private bonfires.

They encourage creating safer environments by providing shelters for animals and advise against building bonfires in gardens where wildlife might seek refuge. This segment reminds us of our duty to the natural world and the importance of coexisting peacefully with wildlife during celebrations.

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 adventure amidst the vibrant autumn landscape.

This week in Wildlife Matters Nature News, we will dive into the details of the Parliamentary debate that shaped this decision, before discussing updates on the impact on wild species and habitats from the proposed Planning and Infrastructure bill, before showcasing some of the projects that are recreating vital dew ponds across the South Downs National Park

Takeaways:

• The government has committed to ending badger culling, marking a significant policy shift in wildlife management.
• A new strategy will focus on enhanced cattle testing and vaccination to combat bovine tuberculosis.
• The creation of dew ponds in Hampshire aims to restore vital habitats for diverse wildlife species.
• Concerns have been raised regarding the proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill's impact on protected species.
• Wildlife and Countryside Link warns that environmental levies could undermine existing protections for endangered species.
• The podcast highlights the historical and ecological significance of Greenwich Park, emphasising its rich biodiversity.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Protect the Wild
• Badger Trust
• British Cattle Veterinary Association
• DEFRA
• Wildlife and Countryside Link
• Wildlife Matters Organisation
• Frog Life
• National Lottery Heritage Fund
• Bannister Trust
• People's Postcode Lottery

Want to get in touch? Our email is info@wildlife-matters.org