Where wildlife comes to you: a winter roost at Willow Tree Fen
In this latest episode of the Wilder Lincolnshire Podcast, we head out to Willow Tree Fen as dusk approaches to witness one of the county’s most spectacular wildlife events — the winter roost.Join us on the viewing area with Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust’s Deputy Head of Nature Reserves, Sarah Craythorne, as we explore how this remarkable reserve has transformed from arable farmland into a thriving wetland haven. We delve into the story of Willow Tree Fen’s rebirth, the arrival of cranes after more than 400 years, and the unique decision to limit access so wildlife can flourish undisturbed. We learn how water management shapes the reserve, how cattle play a role in habitat care, and why Willow Tree Fen has become nationally significant for wintering wildfowl, waders and raptors.Later, we’re joined by Josh, a former trainee and now volunteer, who shares his experiences monitoring harriers and cranes, helping visitors identify birds in flight, and watching record-breaking roosts unfold — including more than 40 cranes bugling as they come in to roost.
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A diary of Deeping Lakes with Ajay Tegala
In this episode Melvyn Prior visits Deeping Lakes Nature Reserve in the far south of Lincolnshire with special guest Ajay Tegala — conservationist, environmentalist, broadcaster, and author.Ajay returns to the place where his life long passion for nature began. From volunteering as a teenager and braving icy winters by the River Welland, to studying countryside management and becoming a leading voice for conservation, Ajay reflects on how this reserve shaped his journey. Together, Melvyn and Ajay explore the reserve, discuss habitat restoration, butterflies, and the importance of volunteering, and share hope for the next generation of young naturalists.🦋 Recorded on location at Deeping Lakes Nature Reserve, near Market Deeping.Hear more from Ajay at: ajaytegala.co.uk
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Hidden gems: our woodlands at the edge of the Wolds
The first of our 'Hidden gems' series, showcasing beautiful nature reserves across the county that you may not even know exist! Recorded at Legbourne Wood, one of the largest ancient woods in eastern Lincolnshire, warden Matt Blissett explains what management is needed for these woodlands. You can also hear from Residential Volunteers, Dan and Jess, who are now half way through their placement with the Trust and gearing up for seal season ahead.
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Welcome to Whisby
Whisby Nature Park is a beautiful landscape near Lincoln, full of wildlife, walks and trails. Once barren and lifeless, this amazing place now abounds with wildlife. The park was created by quarrying for sand and gravel, but nature has reclaimed the pits and bare sand, creating habitats for many species.In this episode, find out more about the team behind the nature reserve. From education officers to volunteers and wardens, everyone plays a crucial role in making Whisby Nature Park a place for people and nature.
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Our secret wild isle: conservation on Crowle Moor
This month, Melvyn Prior received an update from the warden of Far Ings on another year of successful breeding by our resident bitterns, before heading over to Crowle Moor to learn all about our carbon capturing peatlands in north-west Lincolnshire.Crowle Moor is one of Lincolnshire's last remaining lowland peatlands - a wild and wonderful landscape that's home to rare plants, insects and birds. In this episode, we explore why peatlands are so important for wildlife, how they store carbon, and the work being done to protect this precious habitat.
Welcome to our monthly podcast where we discuss all things wildlife around Lincolnshire and take a deeper look into the workings of the Trust where nature is concerned. We are regularly joined by special guests who share their expertise and experience of a life in conservation. Make sure to check out footage of the interviews on our YouTube!
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