Wildlife Matters The Podcast

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, underscoring the need for stronger laws. On a brighter note, we highlight the Warminster Toad Patrol, a great example of community action for wildlife. Come along as we discover how everything in nature is connected.
Scotland's Ancient Rainforest Part One
This week's Wildlife Matters podcast takes you on a week-long trek through Scotland's temperate rainforests. It's the first part of an adventure that shows off the beauty and importance of these old woodlands. Before we start, I cover some key wildlife stories in our Nature News segment. One story features Phil Lymbery, who explains that wild birds aren't primarily to blame for avian influenza; intensive farming is a bigger cause and that we need to rethink our view of the relationship between wildlife and farming.
We also discuss a troubling story about a fox hunt that passed through a cemetery, raising questions about hunting and the need for stronger laws. On a positive note, we celebrate the Warminster Toad Patrol, who are helping toads safely reach their breeding ponds as Valentine's Day approaches. Their work shows how communities can come together to protect wildlife and support biodiversity.

In our Mindful Moments segment, I encourage listeners to reflect on nature's resilience, as shown by a Blackbird singing through the winter gloom. This moment reminds us to find joy and meaning even when things are tough. After this, we head into the magical temperate rainforests, full of mystery and life, and end the episode with a promise of more adventures in the next part.
Takeaways:
The podcast starts with a story about a week-long trip through Scotland's temperate rainforests, highlighting the area's rich wildlife and ancient woods.
In Nature News, we look at common myths about avian influenza and explain that wild birds aren't to blame; intensive farming is the main cause.
A recent fox hunt that went through a cemetery shows why we need stronger hunting rules to protect wildlife and public areas.
The Warminster Toad Patrol's work to help toads migrate safely during breeding season is a great example of community support for wildlife and animal welfare.
In Mindful Moments, a Blackbird's song in the winter reminds us that we can find resilience and joy even when times are tough.
The episode culminates in an invitation to join us on a captivating exploration of Scotland's ancient rainforests, offering thrilling wildlife encounters and a deeper understanding of these vital ecosystems.

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Compassion in World Farming
League Against Cruel Sports
Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Wildlife Matters
The episode ends with an invitation to join us as we explore Scotland's ancient rainforests, promising exciting wildlife encounters and a better understanding of these important ecosystems.

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 beauty of nature. Before we begin, we cover important wildlife and environmental news from this week, highlighting the urgent need to address the climate crisis and protect biodiversity. Join us as we discover woodland secrets and share important wildlife stories.
In this episode, we invite listeners to walk with us through a snowy woodland and listen to the sounds of nature. We start with a Nature News update on the growing environmental challenges in the UK, including species decline and the need for stronger government action on sustainability. The Wildlife Trust shares insights on how economic growth and biodiversity are connected, and why we need to rethink our environmental policies. Next, we practice wildlife tracking and look for stories in the animal footprints we find in the snow. By noticing these signs, we learn how all life in the woods is connected. We encourage listeners to explore nature, stay curious, and help protect wildlife. The episode reminds us why it is important to care for our ecosystems for the future.
Takeaways:
In this episode, we venture into a snow-covered woodland to discover wildlife. These tracks show how different species interact with their habitats. significantly enhance our experience of different wildlife habitats and the biodiversity they host.
The Wildlife Trust raises urgent concerns about the nature and climate crises in Britain. They call for the government to keep its promises and protect biodiversity.
Recent studies show that mountain hares in Scotland are struggling to adapt to climate change. They are not changing their fur shedding patterns as snow cover decreases, which makes them more vulnerable to predators.
We also hear about a hopeful conservation project. It could bring elk back to the UK by 2028. This is a positive step toward restoring lost species and improving local ecosystems.
During the episode, we give practical tips for spotting animal tracks in the snow. We hope to help listeners enjoy watching wildlife and inspire them to explore nature on their own.

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Wildlife Trust
Environment Act
Office for Environmental Protection
Rewilding Britain
Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Wildlife Trusts
University of Michigan
James Hutton Institute
Wildlife Matters Organisation

Want to get in touch? Email us [email protected]

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.
Additionally, this episode shares uplifting stories from the wildlife world, including encouraging developments for hedgehogs in Dorset and restoration efforts for Scotland's ancient rainforests. We invite our listeners to participate in the 2026 Big Garden Birdwatch and to share their experiences, fostering a closer connection with nature.
Show Notes:
In this week's instalment of the Wildlife Matters podcast, we discuss the importance of caring for our avian companions during the cold winter months. The episode begins with an engaging segment of Wildlife Matters Nature News that highlights positive developments regarding Scotland's ancient rainforests and the efforts of the Dorset Hedgehog Rescue. These stories illustrate the vital role of community involvement in wildlife conservation and emphasise the ongoing challenges faced by various species.
Following this informative discussion, we present a serene auditory experience featuring a delightful soundscape from a winter walk in the South Downs, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in nature's soothing ambience. The episode concludes with a comprehensive guide on transforming gardens into safe havens for wintering birds. We detail practical strategies for providing nutritious food, clean water, and secure shelter, empowering our audience to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these vulnerable creatures and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.
Takeaways:
- This episode emphasises the need to care for garden birds during harsh winter months and offers essential guidance for creating welcoming outdoor spaces.
- We share inspiring news about restoration efforts for Scotland's ancient rainforests, stressing the importance of biodiversity and community participation in conservation.
- The Wildlife Matters Guide provides detailed strategies for feeding birds, highlighting the significance of nutrition and shelter for their survival during winter.
- Listeners are encouraged to take part in the upcoming RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2026, promoting citizen science and community engagement in observing and supporting local wildlife.
- We underscore the critical role of clean feeding areas, appropriate food selection, and regular maintenance in cultivating a thriving bird-friendly environment in gardens.
- Our audience is invited to share their experiences and insights regarding wildlife interactions, helping to build a collaborative community of nature enthusiasts dedicated to conservation.
Links referenced in this episode:
- wildlifematters.co.uk
- dorsethedgehogrescue.co.uk
- rspb.org.uk
Companies mentioned in this episode:
- Nature Scotland
- Woodland Trust
- Dorset Hedgehog Rescue
- RSPB
If you would like to contact us, our email address is [email protected]

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 highlights the importance of restoring natural habitats, exemplified by a project in Cheshire that revitalises floodplain grazing marshes to support local biodiversity. Additionally, we share an endearing listener's narrative about a charming robin named Scruffy, whose antics offered solace during the pandemic. Join us as we reflect on the wonders of nature, the pressing need for conservation, and the joy that wildlife brings to our lives.
The Wildlife Matters podcast presents the enchanting spectacle of starling murmurations, interwoven with poignant narratives surrounding wildlife conservation.
The episode begins with an overview of the government's recent initiatives to bolster animal welfare, particularly the ban on trail hunting, a contentious issue among conservationists. The hosts express gratitude for this legislative advancement and highlight the broader implications for wildlife protection. As they transition to the main feature, the captivating world of starling murmurations takes centre stage.
The hosts describe the breathtaking visual display of thousands of starlings soaring through the dusk sky, effortlessly manoeuvring in intricate patterns. This mesmerising behaviour is not merely for show; it serves vital functions in predator evasion and social cohesion among the flock. Using scientific insights, the podcast explains the evolutionary advantages of such collective behaviour, leaving listeners in awe of nature's ingenuity.
Conclusively, the episode wraps up with heartwarming listener stories, particularly that of a robin named Scruffy, who provided companionship during challenging times. This personal connection to wildlife underscores the importance of nurturing our relationships with nature, reinforcing the podcast's overarching theme of conservation and appreciation for the natural world.
Takeaways:
The recent government initiative banning trail hunting represents a significant advancement in animal welfare legislation, addressing long-standing concerns surrounding wildlife protection.
The Cheshire Wildlife Trust's ambitious restoration project aims to revitalise floodplain grazing marshes, enhancing biodiversity and mitigating flood risks for local communities.
Jackie's heartwarming account of her bond with a scruffy robin illustrates the profound impact that nature can have on human well-being during challenging times.
Starling murmurations, a mesmerising natural phenomenon, serve as a remarkable demonstration of collective behaviour among birds, captivating observers throughout the UK during autumn and winter.
The decline of starling populations, which has seen an alarming reduction of over 80% since the 1970s, necessitates urgent conservation efforts to preserve these remarkable birds.
The Wildlife Matters podcast continues to engage a global audience, fostering a community passionate about wildlife and nature, while looking forward to new adventures in 2026.

Companies mentioned in this episode:
Cheshire Wildlife Trust
Environment Agency

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, encouraging introspection and gratitude for the past year. In this special episode, we share two captivating stories from folklore, beginning with the tale of St. Mungo, the revered patron saint of Glasgow, and his remarkable encounter with a robin, which illustrates the enduring bond between humanity and the natural world. Join us around the metaphorical campfire as we delve into these narratives that resonate with the spirit of this remarkable juncture in our annual calendar.Takeaways:
The Winter Solstice serves as a pivotal moment for reflection and introspection regarding our relationship with nature.
Celebrating the Winter Solstice allows us to honour life's cyclical nature and anticipate the return of light.
Through storytelling, we connect with ancient traditions that emphasise gratitude and mindfulness during this season.
The tales shared honour the profound bond between humanity and the natural world, illustrating the importance of kindness and community.

Links referenced in this episode:
wildlifematters
naturestoryteller