Podcasts about rspb

This week we deep dive into a new report published by the RSPB and British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) on the impacts of climate change on UK birds. With recent heatwaves a reminder that our planet is changing, the new report explores how the climate crisis is already impacting UK birds and why restoring nature is key to their future. We are joined by Simone Mordue from the RSPB Conservation Science team and co-author of the report, and Bethany Chamberlain, RSPB Senior Policy Officer.

Which animals can you listen out for this month? Amelia discusses the harvest moon, swifts and more of August's nature.Learn more on the RSPB website - The year in nature: AugustImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

In this episode, host Sean Bean is back at RSPB Ham Wall with long-time birder Jeff Holmes to explore the changing fortunes of Britain's birds, from wintering whooper swans and cranes to the continental species arriving as our climate changes.We'll also hear from past guests including artist and comedian Jim Moir, actor Samuel West and ornithologist Dr Mya-Rose Craig as they share their favourite holiday birding spots.Plus, RSPB wildlife gardening expert Adrian Thomas shares simple ways to help birds during hot weather, composer Jason Singh explains why the hoopoe is a bird that gives him hope, and author Charlie Corbett reflects on how reconnecting with birds helped him through grief and inspired his book 12 Birds to Save Your Life.Produced by Hana Walker-Brown. The Executive Producer is Jane Gerber.This is a Get Birding production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's Scotland Outdoors podcast Mark meets author Cal Flyn, whose latest book is called The Savage Landscape – How we Made the Wilderness. We hear an excerpt of Cal explaining where her interest in exploring the meaning of wilderness came from.Rachel is on the North East coast on a seabird spotting safari run by the Aberdeen Countryside Ranger Service. The trips have become popular with visitors who arrive in the area by cruise ship.Over the last week the Glenmore area of the Cairngorm National Park has been severely impacted by wildfires. Mark went to speak with Duncan Ferguson, a resident of Glenmore who was evacuated to hear about his experience.Throughout the programme we also hear from Colin Simpson, Cairngorm National Park visitor experience manager about the response to the fires as well as Ben Jones from the RSPB who tells us about the impact on bird and wildlife in the area.For a few weeks every summer, you can experience the glorious sights and smells of lavender fields in Fife. Rachel went along to Scottish Lavender to hear about where the idea to grow lavender came from and what they use the plants for.The Johnshaven Heritage Museum on the Aberdeenshire coast are currently running an exhibition called Land and Sea. Mark went along to take a look and find out more about the fishing village and surrounding area.And as the Commonwealth Games kicks off in Glasgow, Mark went along to Pinkston Watersports to hear about Glasgow Canal Quest, one of the many family friendly events which are being held to celebrate the games.

Many young Brits are buying binoculars in hopes of encountering one of nature's most physically and audibly beautiful creatures - birds. You might think of birdwatching as an old-fashioned pastime most often enjoyed by the generations before you, but surveys conducted by the RSPB show a 47% increase in participation overall, with an even higher 1,088% surge by Gen Zers. So why do so many young people want to flock to the park to watch birds?许多英国年轻人购买双筒望远镜，希望能邂逅自然界中最美丽、最美丽的生物之一——鸟类。 您可能认为观鸟是您的前几代人最常享受的一种老式消遣，但 RSPB 进行的调查显示，观鸟总体参与度增加了 47%，其中 Z 世代的参与度增幅甚至更高，高达 1,088%。 那么为什么这么多年轻人愿意涌入公园观鸟呢？A group leader at RSPB Bristol highlighted how many students have joined his outings. He mentioned that some who join have 'never been out in their local nature spaces' and 'want to explore'. He added that the diversity of species you can find is impressive 'considering it's so urban' around the city. There is also the rise of a desire to disconnect from technology and go outside, or as Gen Z would call it touch grass, to help with mental health. Research from the University of Surrey has looked at how bird sounds restore attention and even alleviate stress.布里斯托尔皇家鸟类保护协会的一位小组负责人强调了有多少学生参加了他的郊游活动。 他提到，一些加入的人“从未去过当地的自然空间”并且“想要探索”。 他补充说，“考虑到城市周围是如此城市化”，你可以发现的物种多样性令人印象深刻。 人们越来越渴望摆脱科技的束缚，到户外去，或者正如 Z 世代所说的“接触草地”，以帮助心理健康。 萨里大学的研究探讨了鸟叫声如何恢复注意力，甚至缓解压力。Ironically, when interviewed by BBC Bristol, individuals mentioned how phones and social media have actually helped encourage the hype of this hobby. There are now a variety of apps in which you can record a birdsong and have it instantly identified. People also use social media to share knowledge and location for birds. A phenomenon known as 'bioblitzing', a combination of bio and blitzing, has emerged. This is when a walker documents as many birds and other species of animals as they can within a limited amount of time. It has been said to create a safe space in which birdwatchers can get into friendly competitions over who can spot the most! Furthermore, a buzz around the birdwatching hashtag has cultivated humour around turning 30 and entering your 'birdwatching era'.具有讽刺意味的是，在接受 BBC 布里斯托尔采访时，人们提到手机和社交媒体实际上有助于鼓励这种爱好的炒作。 现在有多种应用程序可以让您录制鸟鸣声并立即识别。 人们还使用社交媒体分享鸟类的知识和位置。 一种被称为“生物闪电战”的现象已经出现，它是生物和闪电战的结合。 这是指步行者在有限的时间内记录尽可能多的鸟类和其他动物种类。 据说，它创造了一个安全的空间，观鸟者可以在其中进行友好的竞赛，看看谁能发现最多！ 此外，围绕观鸟主题标签的热潮在 30 岁左右进入“观鸟时代”培养了幽默感。Whether it's the chance to reconnect with nature, improve mental wellbeing, or join a growing online community, birdwatching is no longer seen as a hobby reserved for older generations. Young people are embracing it in record numbers, using both technology and the outdoors to discover the wildlife on their doorstep. From identifying birdsongs with apps to competing in bioblitzing challenges, a modern twist has transformed the pastime into something fresh and accessible. It seems that for Gen Z and young millennials alike, birdwatching has become a hoot.无论是重新接触大自然、改善心理健康还是加入不断发展的在线社区的机会，观鸟不再被视为老一辈人的爱好。 越来越多的年轻人热衷于利用科技和户外活动来探索家门口的野生动物。 从使用应用程序识别鸟鸣声到参加生物闪电战挑战，现代的转变已将这种消遣变成了新鲜且易于理解的东西。 对于 Z 世代和年轻的千禧一代来说，观鸟似乎已经成为一种热门话题。

In this episode, Kate Cook discusses the distinctive and in many ways groundbreaking approach to climate justice adopted in Wales/Cymru. Her guest is the leading campaigner Ruth Chambers OBE, senior fellow of Green Alliance and honorary professor of practice at UCL's Centre for law and the environment as well as adviser to other organisations including River Action UK and the RSPB. Ruth is widely recognised for her work on helping to shape the post-brexit legal landscape for the environment. Kate and Ruth discuss the implications of recent Welsh legislation in this area, as well as the 2015 Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act. Against ongoing concerns relating to legacies from Wales's industrial past and the increasing impacts of climate change, how is Wales addressing climate justice and nature recovery in the broader context set by the 2015 Act?

Johnny Mac shares five good news stories: the San Diego Zoo gave rescued grizzly bear brothers Scout and Montana a snow day with industrial snowblowers, highlighting the need to secure food and trash in bear country; Scotland's Dalrymple family sold Bass Rock—home to major seabird colonies and described by David Attenborough as a top wildlife wonder—to conservationists so groups like the RSPB can better protect it; ETH Zurich researchers restored movement in mice with severed spinal cords using stem cells combined with magnet-responsive nanoparticles (“NPC bots”) guided by magnets to reconnect nerves; in Canada, Leah rescued a young crow with firefighters' help and has since received “gifts” and visits from local crows; in England, 11-year-old Charlie found a two-million-year-old extinct elephant relative's molar on a beach.5 Good News Stories is a daily podcast with five positive, uplifting news stories to brighten your day. New episodes every day. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Part of the Caloroga Shark Media networkJohn also hosts Daily Comedy NewsUnlock an ad-free podcast experience with Caloroga Shark Media!  For Apple users, hit the banner which says Uninterrupted Listening on your Apple podcasts app. Subscribe now for exclusive shows like 'Palace Intrigue,' and get bonus content from Deep Crown (our exclusive Palace Insider!) Or get 'Daily Comedy News,' and '5 Good News Stories' with no commercials! Plans start at $4.99 per month, or save 20% with a yearly plan at $49.99. Join today and help support the show!Get more info from Caloroga Shark Media and if you have any comments, suggestions, or just want to get in touch our email is info@caloroga.com

From the Plumage Wars to the Climate Crisis Guest: Stephen Moss Book Title: Ten Birds That Changed the WorldThe 19th-century plumage industry nearly drove the snowy egret to extinction to satisfy the fashion for feathered hats. The murder of warden Guy Bradley by poachers in Florida sparked international outrage, leading women to found conservation powerhouses like the Audubon Society and the RSPB. Today, the threat has shifted from direct hunting to the climate crisis. Moss notes that the emperor penguin faces 98% extinction by 2100 due to melting sea ice in Antarctica. These birds serve as "miners' canaries," signaling deeper environmental instability as migratory birds return to find their insect food sources have already peaked. Despite "apocalypse fatigue," Moss remains an optimist, believing that recognizing how our interference with birds "bites us back" is the first step toward a global realization that saving wildlife is ultimately about saving ourselves. (8)1963

In this ClimateGenn episode I am joined by Dr Simone Mordue, Conservaton Scientist at the Royal Society For The Protection Of Birds, and by Bethany Chamberlain, Senior Policy Officer, working on climate adaptation. We are discussing the new RSPB report titled ‘Climate Change And The UK's Birds – Impacts risks and Conservation Responses. Also attached is the Economic Case For Nature report.This report is an urgent call for everyone to get involved to help prevent the loss of over 70% of UK seabirds, as well as other species that are vulnerable to extreme weather events and cascading climate impacts that we see accelerating towards us.The report is only bleak if we collectively choose to do nothing. If we take action, we have a great deal of agency we can drive into this effort to try and prevent the worst outcomes. It includes citizens science, which we discuss, and also making sure we tell everyone around us, including politicians, that we really do care about nature.Conservation action is the hinge upon which the fate of so many birds rests and it is a critical topic in the UK. Tackling climate by working with nature pays big dividends both to nature and to humanity – so please find away to get involved.If you listen to this and have noticed changes in the wildlife around where you live, please do share in the comments. Also check out the notes for links to the report, additional reports supplied by Simone and Beth.Thank you to all subscribers, commenters and everyone who supports this channel. I do try to read every communication som please do get in touch via comments or social media. 

In this episode, we're exploring the reed beds of RSPB Ham Wall, where decades of habitat restoration have helped some of the UK's most spectacular wetland birds make a remarkable comeback.Host Sean Bean is joined by broadcaster Jeremy Vine, who proves you don't need to know your sparrows from your sparrowhawks to enjoy birdwatching. Sean also meets Stephen Couch from the RSPB to learn more about the wetlands and their inhabitants, and is introduced to a new friend of the show, lifelong birder Jeff Holmes, whose decades of watching—and listening to—the Somerset Levels have given him a unique insight into the wildlife that lives there. Plus, Dr Mya-Rose Craig is back to answer your birding questions, while nature beatboxer Jason Singh explores the unmistakable booming call of the bittern.Produced by Hana Walker-Brown. Executive Producer is Jane Gerber.This is a Get Birding Production. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the last 50 years, Britain has lost an astonishing 73 million wild birds from its landscape, according to the British Trust for Ornithology. Habitat loss, pesticides, disease, cats and the climate crisis mean there are fewer birds than ever before. For children and young people it can be difficult to appreciate the scale of the loss due to a psychological phenomenon called ‘shifting baseline syndrome', where each generation inherits a degraded version of the environment, and therefore doesn't notice the overall decline. But Gen Z are bucking the trend. Thanks to social media and the Merlin Bird ID app, birding has become cool. To find out what we're missing from the dawn chorus, and why young people are embracing birdwatching, Madeleine Finlay hears from the writer Robert Macfarlane and from Jess Painter, a member of the RSPB's youth council. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod

Summer is in full swing in this months Almanac, Amelia is here to share how July got it's name and some of the birds you can listen out for this month.Learn more on the RSPB website - The year in nature: JulyImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

The RSPB has recently advised people to temporarily remove many garden bird feeders to help slow the spread of Trichomonosis, a disease affecting some of our most familiar garden birds.But what exactly is Trichomonosis? How does it spread, which species are most at risk, and why are bird feeders part of the problem?In this episode, we explore the science behind the disease, its impact on bird populations, and the practical steps we can all take to help protect the birds visiting our gardens.Get in touchDon't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!Follow us @thebirdybugpodLinksTrichomonosis | BTOFinch trichomonosis transmission in gardensThe emergence and spread of finch trichomonosis in the British Isles - PMCProtozoan | Definition, Parasites, Diseases, Characteristics, Size, Kingdom, & Facts | Britannica

Helen Meech is Executive Director of the Climate Coalition, the UK's largest group of organisations dedicated to action on people, climate and nature. Over 130 member organisations, from the National Trust to Oxfam to Save the Children, plus a network of around 3,500 community organisers across the UK. And yet most people have never heard of them. As Helen explains, that's deliberate.We talk about Great Big Green Week, the Coalition's flagship campaign, running this year from 6 to 14 June. It has more than doubled in size every year for three years: 250,000 people, then 600,000, then 1.2 million last year, with around 2 million expected this year. The stat that matters most: over a third of attendees had never engaged with climate or nature before. They came because someone they knew organised something, or because it was free to do with the kids on a Saturday.We also dig into where power actually sits. Helen's framing, "creating the space for politics to move into," challenges the idea that change is something politicians do to us. And we compare notes on the People's Emergency Briefing, which we recently screened at the Grange Hub, and the tension every communicator in this space wrestles with: realism versus hope.The post-interview chat gets into Tom's view that the era of being polite about the emergency is over, Chloe's case for hope grounded in community rather than technology, and why we still don't have a Help for Heroes equivalent for the climate movement.About the guestHelen Meech is Executive Director of the Climate Coalition. She has spent 25 years in environmental campaigning and movement-building, including roles at the National Trust and the RSPB, where she was Head of Movement Building and led the development of the People's Plan for Nature. Her work is built on a single belief: people are powerful, especially when they come together.The Climate Coalition: theclimatecoalition.org Great Big Green Week: greatbiggreenweek.comChapters00:00 - Welcome and intros 01:30 - Grange update: screening the People's Emergency Briefing at the Hub 04:30 - Watching hard truths in community, and why that changes the experience 06:55 - Tom's case: the days of being polite about the emergency are over 07:30 - Wilder Connections summer programme: co-design with young people 10:57 - Who is the Climate Coalition? 14:59 - Why most people haven't heard of the Climate Coalition (on purpose) 17:24 - "Creating the space for politics to move into" 20:05 - Everyone has power: protest, community organising, media, culture 22:18 - Great Big Green Week: nightclubs, litter picks, fetes and school assemblies 23:59 - The infrastructure behind 6,000 local events 29:54 - Flooded pitches: why grassroots sport is organising 30:30 - The unexpected challenge: keeping the big NGOs on board 32:43 - Greenwashing and a brand with a life of its own 34:15 - The Coalition's three policy asks 36:50 - The five million target, and matching Children in Need for awareness 39:43 - Helen's reaction to the People's Emergency Briefing 42:28 - Rebecca Solnit and hope as an action 44:35 - How to get involved in Great Big Green Week 46:03 - Tom and Chloe debrief: community action vs direct action 48:27 - The 3.5% rule, and whether the research still holds 50:45 - The school drop-off apology problem: why we need a safe movement to belong to 53:40 - Hope vs fear: did the briefing get the balance right? Key takeawaysOver a third of Great Big Green Week attendees have never engaged with climate or nature before. They come because the event is organised by someone they know, connected to a community they're already part of, or simply free to do with the kids. Over 80% of those newcomers wanted to do more afterwards.Great Big Green Week has more than doubled in size every year for three years, and reached a media audience of over 60 million last year. Around 11% of the UK population recognises it when prompted, on a par with campaigns that have run for decades.Helen's core argument about power: if we say politicians are the only ones with power, we're handing ours to them. The Coalition's job is to make the public mandate visible so politicians have space to move into.The Coalition's three policy asks: climate finance flowing where it's most needed, fairness at the heart of climate action (bills, jobs, just transition), and the urgent protection and restoration of nature.Fear needs to be combined with agency. Helen cites the Branding Biodiversity report: hard-hitting information without a path to action paralyses people. Twenty-five years into her career, the People's Emergency Briefing still made her cry. Her response was to write a to-do list.Hope is an action, not a mood. Rebecca Solnit's framing: pessimists and optimists both excuse themselves from doing anything.Resources and links mentionedOrganisations and campaignsThe Climate Coalition: theclimatecoalition.orgGreat Big Green Week (6-14 June 2026): greatbiggreenweek.comNational Emergency Briefing / People's Emergency Briefing, including the screening map and how to host one: nebriefing.orgWilder Connections, Chloe's charity growing a movement for nature connection in young people: wilderconnections.charityClimate Psychology Alliance (facilitation training Chloe mentioned): climatepsychologyalliance.orgMore in Common (audience segmentation partner): moreincommon.org.ukBristol Stepping SistersNational Trust, RSPB, Oxfam, Save the Children, Co-op (Coalition members referenced)Ideas and referencesRebecca Solnit, Hope in the DarkJoanna Macy, Active Hope: activehope.infoBranding Biodiversity report (Futerra): fear combined with agencyThe 3.5% rule (Erica Chenoweth's research on nonviolent resistance)The People's Plan for Nature: peoplesplanfornature.orgCome and stay with usIf this conversation has you craving time somewhere slower, our off-grid cabins sit in a quiet corner of Monmouthshire surrounded by 80 acres of recovering nature. Visit grangeproject.co.uk and click "Stay with us" in the top right corner.

How do people around the world celebrate the summer solstice? What does the nightjar sound like? Amelia is back with the monthly almanac.Learn more about birdsong and the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation CharityImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

RSPB Executive Director Katie Luxton and Senior Lecturer Anna Gilchrist join AMBS Research Communications Officer, Jim Pendrill to talk about Business and Biodiversity as part of a special event during IBPES 12 held in Manchester. Launched during IPBES 12 , the Business and Biodiversity Assessment is the first major global scientific framework examining how businesses depend on and impact nature.

We are joined by Alexis Johnson, Nature and Wellbeing Officer at RSPB, to talk about RSPB's work in social prescribing and how creativity plays a part. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I don't know about you, but May is my favourite month: spring in its pomp and the blessing of light, warm days to come! And with ‘international dawn-chorus day' tomorrow, too, it's an invitation to hear nature's songs of praise sung from the treetops afresh.If you struggle to rise early, you could follow the advice of journalist Henry Porter and drink a lot of water before you go to bed.Though some may not have been to bed at all! — a report out this week says that birdwatching is now the second most popular hobby among “Gen Z”. Almost three quarters of a million 16-29 year-olds bird-watch regularly, which has to be good news. A young woman called Jess Painter, of the RSPB youth council, said that by pausing “to be curious, to watch, listen and learn, you open yourself up to endless small moments of wonder.”With so much strife in the world, it's surely one profound way of clearing our heads.Yet as Jess hints, getting out to watch the birds, or to listen to the dawn chorus, is not merely escape from what's wrong, but embrace of what's right: nature calls to our own better nature, too — to give the gift of our attention, so desperately fought over by the tech giants, to what's natural, beautiful. And as a Christian I'd say to sense the Creator's presence, too, within the awe-inspiring symphony of Creation.Such awe is so good for us — our ego knows it can't possibly compete with a choir of blackbirds, robins, warblers, even a nightingale if we're very lucky — so it quietens, and lets the soul stir to become part of ‘the family of things' again, as the poet Mary Oliver puts it.And in such moments, shift happens. Recently, I interviewed the eminent ecologist Tom Crowther, who says that nature is filled with feedback loops — some of which are destructive, when the balance of an ecosystem has been upset (so often by humans); while other loops are restorative, regenerative — and we can be part of them.As a scientist, he said that it's crucial his discipline learns spiritual practices of contemplation, meditation, prayer, as ways to help break the circuit, to step out of our personal feedback loops of despair, into ones of hopeful uplift instead.Take joy in nature, as we rediscover our own nature singing its song, too. Watch the birds of the air, as Jesus said for good reason.It may start simply with setting an alarm for tomorrow — or by drinking that large glass of water tonight. Whatever helps us best to catch this polyphonic wake up for the soul.

As International Dawn Chorus day approaches, how can birdsong boost your wellebing?Amelia gets tips from RSPB Wildlife Expert Beth Dean ahead of International Dawn Chorus day.Learn more about International Dawn Chorus Day on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation CharityImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

Today we're getting wild in the garden and taking a look at some of the abundance that's on display as spring hits its peak. The RSPB's Emma Marsh joins us to unpack the results of this year's Big Garden Birdwatch, offering a revealing snapshot of the health of some of our most cherished garden visitors. Emma also shares how new research is informing New RSPB advice on feeding birds seasonally and safely. One key food source for young chicks at this time of year is juicy caterpillars; RHS Principal Entomologist Dr Hayley Jones shares her advice on how to live with these misunderstood critters, and why moths in general deserve some more credit in the garden. And finally, we turn to a seasonal highlight: crab apples. Nurseryman Nick Dunn of Frank P Matthews nursery joins us to celebrate these remarkable trees as they burst into bloom, offering beauty, abundance and a vital source of food for birds, insects - and even us. Host: Guy Barter Contributors: Emma Marsh, Dr Hayley Jones, Nick Dunn Extra links: Wild About Gardens: magical moths RHS Wildlife gardening advice Remembering Nigel Dunnett

Mixing trees and farming in agro-forestry: why the key to resilient farming could be trees. We're looking at this all this week and today we hear from a British pioneer. A week today millions of people will head to the polls to vote in a number of local council and mayoral elections in England, while voters in Scotland and Wales will elect representatives to their national parliaments.  Farming policy is largely devolved to the governments in Edinburgh and Cardiff, and having heard the latest from the campaign trail in Scotland yesterday, today we turn to Wales.This Sunday is International Dawn Chorus day. The RSPB is using the occasion to celebrate a rise in the number of young people bird watching, though the British Trust for Ornithology warns that there are fewer birds for them to see and hear. Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

Executive Director at the RSPB, Emma Marsh, joins Ben for a conversation that connects leadership, late autism diagnosis, and the often-overlooked role of nature in how we regulate and function.Diagnosed autistic in 2023, Emma reflects on what it means to navigate senior leadership as an autistic woman, the decision to disclose at work after years of masking, and how that moment reshaped both her identity and the way she leads.Ben and Emma dive into the power of nature and how fundamental it is for neurodivergent brains. From birdsong and the dawn chorus to simple ways of reconnecting with the natural world, Emma explains why nature can feel like a reset for the nervous system in ways modern environments often can't.They also explore why so many workplaces still unintentionally exclude neurodivergent people - and what it looks like to move beyond awareness into systems that actually support people and their brains.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen FullerThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benEmma Marsh RSPB LinkedInhttp://www.rspb.org.uk/If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we're following the vast, invisible highways that birds carve across our skies each spring, and the extraordinary journeys that bring them back to us.We'll learn how birds navigate thousands of miles using scent, memory and instinct—and what these epic journeys reveal about survival in a rapidly changing world.Along the way, Sean is joined by actor and RSPB ambassador Samuel West, broadcaster Johnny Vaughan on the thrill of a fleeting kingfisher sighting, and Chris Hewson from the British Trust for Ornithology tracking cuckoos across continents.Plus, Dr Mya-Rose Craig answers your birding questions and Zoologist Megan McCubbin shares important new advice on feeding birds safely as seasons change.Beyond the birds themselves, conservationist Nadia Shaikh and birding instructor George Joseph dig into the deeper story—how our relationship with land shapes who gets to experience nature, and why reclaiming that connection could be key to protecting it.Produced by Hana Walker-Brown. Executive Producer is Jane Gerber.This is a Get Birding Production. BTO Cuckoo Tracking Projecthttps://www.bto.org/get-involved/volunteer/projects/cuckoo-trackingRight to Roam https://www.righttoroam.org.uk/Decolonising Birdinghttps://goldengatebirdalliance.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/goldengatebirdalliance/event.jsp?event=14193The podcast is made in collaboration with Forest Holidays, which encourages birdwatching as part of their guests' stays, with nature sensitive cabins available in 13 incredible locations across the UK. Use the code GETBIRDING26 when booking, for £40 off a 3-night break or £60 off a 4 or 7 night break. The code expires on 30 June 2026 and is for breaks bookable until 1 October 2026.To find out more, visit www.forestholidays.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A symphony of beautiful birdsong will take place on the 3rd of May, but how can you recognise birds using their song? Amelia gets tips from RSPB Wildlife Expert Beth Dean ahead of International Dawn Chorus day.Tune in again to learn how birdsong can boost your wellbeing.Learn more about International Dawn Chorus Day on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation CharityImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

On the 3rd of May many birds will sing together in a symphony, Amelia is here to learn more about how to enjoy the dawn chorus with Beth Dean from RSPB.Tune in again for tips on identifying birds by their song and how listening can boost your wellbeing.Learn more about International Dawn Chorus Day on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation CharityImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

We hear more from Mark's time with forager Mark Williams. They met up at Wigtown Bay on a rather wet and blustery day and headed along the coast to look for sea radish.Rachel meets up with Rosie Beetschen from Cairngorms Connect and Ross Watson from Forestry Land Scotland to hear all about some of the oldest and most interesting trees, Granny Pines. They take a wander in Glenmore to find a rather impressive specimen.About four years ago, fisherman Hans Unkles took the engine out of his boat, Lorna Jane, and replaced it with an electric motor and batteries. Mark caught up with Hans in Fraserburgh to hear how successful his electric boat has been and whether any other fisherman have been persuaded to copy him.Every week, poet and musician Bobby Motherwell visits RSPB Lochwinnoch to volunteer. He was also poet in residence at the reserve and has written a book all about his time there. Rachel met up with him in one of the hides and heard some of his tales and poems.The Ledge in Inverness is the Highland's largest climbing gym and a National Bouldering and Performance Centre which has been built on the foundations of community, inclusivity and positivity. Phil Sime headed along to hear all about the different activities on offer and push himself out of his comfort zone with a shot at climbing.Recently the RSPB issued new advice around feeding wild birds. The charity wants people to: Feed seasonally. Feed safely. We're joined live by Ross Hunter from RSPB Scotland to hear what that means practically.Plus a tribute to the late George Skinner, Aberdeenshire Farmer and font of agricultural knowledge. We dip into the archive to share his knowledge on neeps.And in this week's Scotland Outdoors podcast, Rachel hears the story of Ioana Ticu, an experienced mountaineer who found herself in a situation where she had to call Mountain Rescue at the summit of Ben More. We hear an excerpt of her story.

Which birds can you celebrate this month? Can you tell your warblers apart? Amelia is here with the April almanac.Learn more about the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation CharityImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Spring's on the turn, and the birds are getting busy.From the surprisingly wild love life of the dunnock to bowing and puffed-up chests on city balconies — we explore what courtship really looks like in the bird world. We'll also get practical about nestboxes — where to put them, who they're for, and how even a balcony can help the next generation fledge. With expert advice from the RSPB, we look at the small changes that can make a real difference as breeding season begins.Sean will be joined by ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig with guests including Lucy Lapwing on her coastal patch, City Girl in Nature in South East London, comedian Toussaint Douglass making the case for our feathered city-dwelling friends, and Jason Singh on the unmistakable rhythm of the wood pigeon.Produced by Hana Walker-Brown. The Executive Producer is Jane Gerber.This is a Get Birding Production. The RSPB Guide to Nestboxes Toussaint Douglass: Accessible Pigeon Material runs from Thu 26 – Sat 28 Mar 26 at the Soho Theatre, London. “Love Is A Toad: Exploring our relationship with nature” by Lucy Lapwing is available for pre-order now.The podcast is made in collaboration with Forest Holidays, which encourages birdwatching as part of their guests' stays, with nature sensitive cabins available in 13 incredible locations across the UK. Use the code GETBIRDING26 when booking, for £40 off a 3-night break or £60 off a 4 or 7 night break. The code expires on 30 June 2026 and is for breaks bookable until 1 October 2026.To find out more, visit www.forestholidays.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March is here which means another monthly almanac from Amelia. Here are some celebrations and birdsongs to look forward to…P.S. Don't forget the clocks go forward on Sunday the 29th March too!Learn more about the nature you can enjoy all year round on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation CharityImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Welcome back to Healing 101. Today I'm joined by Alexis Johnson, Nature & Wellbeing Officer at the RSPB, and we're talking about something I found genuinely eye-opening: nature prescriptions - a simple, supportive way for healthcare professionals (and other trusted adults) to encourage people to use nature as part of their wellbeing toolkit, without it feeling like yet another thing to “get perfect.”We unpack what nature prescriptions actually look like in practice, how they're different from being referred into a group or service, and why nature doesn't have to mean a countryside walk - it can be as small as noticing light moving across your wall, listening to rain at night, or spotting weeds pushing through the pavement. If you're feeling overwhelmed, time-poor, or not remotely a “nature person,” this episode is full of low-lift ways to reconnect, reset, and feel a little more grounded.Find out more about Nature Prescriptions: https://www.rspb.org.uk/helping-nature/what-we-do/nature-prescriptionsStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bees are buzzing and Grey Herons are with us! Amelia returns to explore the many celebrations in February and share some returning friends from nature.Learn more about the nature you can enjoy each month on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation Charity Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

This week, Plodcast host Fergus sets out to find signs of spring in seldom-visited woodland in south Monmouthshire. Listen on for a mindful Plodcast full of eerie midwinter atmosphere. Later, Fergus returns to his garden to record a Big Garden Birdwatch for the RSPB. The BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast is the Publishers Podcast Awards Special Interest Podcast of the Year 2024 & 2025 and the PPA Podcast of the Year 2022. If you've enjoyed the plodcast, don't forget to leave likes and positive reviews. Contact the Plodcast team and send your sound recordings of the countryside to: theplodcast@countryfile.com. If your letter, email or message is read out on the show, you could WIN a Plodcast Postbag prize of a wildlife- or countryside-themed book chosen by the team. The Plodcast is produced by Jack Bateman and Lewis Dobbs. The theme tune was written and performed by Blair Dunlop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week we're rolling up our sleeves to look at how we can support our garden visitors, while also preparing for the burst of life that spring will bring. The RSPB's Emma Marsh is back to share how monitoring projects like the Big Garden Bird Watch can make a real difference when it comes to helping our declining species. Gareth Richards pops in with his top tips for growing one of his allotment favourites (and a firm favourite with bumblebees too) the humble raspberry. And Olivia Drake shines a spotlight on the RHS Wildlife Wonders plant for January: the shrubby honeysuckle. Host: Nick Turrell Contributors: Emma Marsh, Gareth Richards, Olivia Drake Links: Sign up to the Big Garden Bird Watch RSPB free guide and ID chart How to grow raspberries Why you need a shrubby honeysuckle in your garden

Get Birding is back for a brand new, fortnightly season—hosted by actor and longtime birder Sean Bean. In this opening episode, Sean grabs his binoculars and invites listeners into his garden to slow down, look up, and join the UK's biggest citizen science event, the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.He is joined by NHS doctor and RSPB President Dr Amir Khan, fellow birder, Elbow frontman and BBC 6 Music DJ Guy Garvey; ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig; YouTuber City Girl in Nature; and beatboxer and nature sound artist Jason Singh.The Big Garden Birdwatch runs from 23–25 January. All you need is one hour, a view outdoors, and a kettle on.Produced by Hana Walker-Brown. Executive Producer is Jane Gerber.This is a Get Birding Production. The podcast is made in collaboration with Forest Holidays, which encourages birdwatching as part of their guests' stays, with nature sensitive cabins available in 13 incredible locations across the UK. Use the code GETBIRDING26 when booking, for £40 off a 3-night break or £60 off a 4 or 7 night break. The code expires on 30 June 2026 and is for breaks bookable until 1 October 2026.To find out more, visit www.forestholidays.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A garden that has to look good in every season is the Horatio's Garden at Musgrave Park Hospital in south Belfast. Two years after it was planted up, David Maxwell chats to head gardener Matthew Lee about how the garden continues to change, and about the great groundcover plants that help keep weeding to a minimum. Adam Frost begins his new ‘Bulb of the month' series with the common snowdrop, Galanthus nivalis. Ahead of the Big Garden Birdwatch, the RSPB's Claire Barnett visits David's garden to find out what's coming to his feeders. In studio, gardener Anna Hudson, brings some seasonal highlights from the Ballywalter and answers questions live. Contact the programme on gardenerscorner@bbc.co.uk

Today, we're joined by the RSPB's Emma Marsh, who shares how she has made her garden into a haven for birds. We'll also conclude Nick Turrell's countdown of the most influential plants that have shaped human culture, and history around the globe. Plus, now is the best time to get outside and prune your freestanding apples and pears. The RHS's Jim Arbury gives us a masterclass on exactly what you need to do to keep your trees productive and in shape for the year ahead. Host: Guy Barter Contributors: Emma Marsh, Nick Turrell, Jim Arbury Links: Plants for birds Apples and pears: winter pruning

The RSPB's annual Big Garden Birdwatch is one of the world's biggest citizen science projects and provides incredible insights into the populations of our common birds.To find out more, Plodcast host Fergus meets the RSPB's Chief Operating Officer James Robinson in beautiful RSPB Nagshead Nature Reserve in Gloucestershire. As they listen out for winter birdlife, James explains to Fergus why the Birdwatch matters and how to get involved – and provides a fascinating insight into the work of this great conservation organisation. You can find out more about this year's Big Garden Birdwatch here: https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatchThe BBC Countryfile Magazine Plodcast is the Publishers Podcast Awards Special Interest Podcast of the Year 2024 & 2025 and the PPA Podcast of the Year 2022. If you've enjoyed the plodcast, don't forget to leave likes and positive reviews. Contact the Plodcast team and send your sound recordings of the countryside to: theplodcast@countryfile.com. If your letter, email or message is read out on the show, you could WIN a Plodcast Postbag prize of a wildlife- or countryside-themed book chosen by the team. The Plodcast is produced by Jack Bateman and Lewis Dobbs. The theme tune was written and performed by Blair Dunlop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How do people around the world welcome the new year? Which red animals will appear this month? Amelia is back with the first almanac of 2026.Learn more about the birds and nature you can enjoy this month on the RSPB website - The year in natureImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

In this pre‑Christmas episode, hosts Chloe and Tom sit down with Tom Clark and Alex Brocklesby from the National Trust at Purbeck.Purbeck is one of the UK's most biodiverse areas, yet many residents remain disconnected from the nature on their doorstep. Tom and Alex explain how varied geology; including Pool Harbour, chalk ridges and heathlands, creates an incredible range of habitats.They describe how the Purbeck Heaths, the UK's first super national nature reserve, unites 3500hectares of heathland owned by NGOs, statutory bodies and private landowners. The conversation explores why connecting local communities to this landscape is as important as ecological restoration, highlighting systemic barriers like work pressures and lack of time.Key topics & chapter markers:Each bullet below begins with the approximate start time for that segment:[00:05] Welcome & purpose of the Wilder Podcast. Chloe and Tom explain that the podcast has evolved from documenting their family's rewilding journey to exploring wider systemic challenges—education, community, economy and eco‑entrepreneurship.[04:20] Conservation sheep and lessons in rewilding. Chloe and Tom recount borrowing six conservation sheep, difficulties moving them between fields and why most commercial sheep aren't suited to rewilding. Conservation breeds like the Castlemilk Moorit nibble less and promote diverse grasslands.[16:55] Introducing Purbeck's biodiversity. Tom Clark and Alex Brocklesby describe Purbeck as one of the most biodiverse parts of the UK because of its varied geology—harbours, chalk ridges, heathlands and limestone cliffs. They note the long‑standing presence of organisations like Natural England, the National Trust and RSPB.[19:17] Super National Nature Reserve. The guests explain that the Purbeck Heaths are the UK's first super national nature reserve. The reserve unites several smaller reserves into a continuous 3500 hectare landscape that includes private landowners, demonstrating collaboration beyond NGOs.[20:54] – Experiences on the Isle of Purbeck. Visitors can see snakes, lizards, puffins, eagles, beavers and butterflies; picnic in flower‑rich meadows; explore sheltered beaches with seahorses; wander ancient woodlands; watch sunsets; or go coasteering along the Jurassic Coast. Four million people visit each year because the region offers so many ways to connect with nature.[22:55] – Why local people aren't more connected to nature. Despite living in a biodiverse landscape, Purbeck residents aren't any more nature‑connected than people elsewhere. Nearly 40 % of local children start school without ever having been to the beach. Tom and Alex discuss building trust with schools, community groups and businesses and reflect on the need for community‑led approaches, rather than top‑down conservation.[27:19] – Systemic barriers & opportunities. Modern lifestyles—commuting, low‑paid seasonal work, high numbers of second homes—leave little time for nature connection. Society is structured around nine‑to‑five routines rather than natural rhythms. The guests urge listeners to co‑create solutions that make time in nature accessible to everyone.About the guests:Tom Clark Land & Outdoors Manager for the National Trust's Purbeck portfolio. He leads teams responsible for nature conservation, habitat restoration and visitor engagement across the Purbeck Heaths. Tom is passionate about collaborative, community‑led rewilding and believes the future of conservation depends on partnerships between NGOs and local people.Alex Brocklesby Community & Volunteering Manager for the National Trust at Purbeck. With a background in...

In this episode of the Fundraising Everywhere Podcast, host Simon Scriver sits down with Jake Massey, the winner of IWITOT 2025 (“I Wish I'd Thought of That”). Jake, Senior Innovation Executive at the RSPCA, shares his journey to the top of this year's event and reveals the story behind his winning idea: the RSPB's viral “Bird of the Week” TikTok campaign. Tune in as Jake discusses how a fun, meme-driven social media campaign turned into a fundraising and branding phenomenon, generating not just revenue but also national buzz and community engagement. Discover the power of creative risk-taking, the value of sharing ideas across the charity sector, and why collaboration and innovation are more important than ever for fundraisers. Click here to subscribe to our email list for exclusive fundraising resources, early access to training, special discounts and more If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to hit follow and enable notifications so you'll get notified to be first to hear of future podcast episodes. We'd love to see you back again! And thank you to our friends at JustGiving who make the Fundraising Everywhere Podcast possible.

This week's Dare Day episode was inspired by an unexpected quiet moment.An early morning drive.No traffic. No radio. nd the sudden realisation that I could hear birds singing — from inside the car.That small moment led to a bigger question: when did we stop noticing what's around us?In this bonus episode, Michelle shares a simple but grounding story about an early winter morning, a red sky, a cup of tea in the garden, and how listening — properly listening — shifted her entire day.The episode also connects to insights from Episode with Georgia, who described a chance visit to an RSPB hide that made her realise how much of the natural world she'd been missing simply because she'd never stopped to notice it.This isn't sentimental fluff. There's real science behind why moments like this feel so powerful.In this episode, we cover:Why natural sounds like birdsong calm the nervous systemHow most of us live in low-level fight-or-flight without realisingThe concept of “soft fascination” and why nature restores a tired brainHow listening grounds us in the present and eases anxietyWhy nothing has to change around you for something to shift internallyThis Week's Dare:Take 5–10 minutes early in the morning.Before your phone. Before conversations. Before the world gets loud.No music. No podcasts. No scrolling. Make a tea or coffee if you like. Sit outside, on a doorstep, balcony, or by an open window.Close your eyes. And listen.Birds, wind, distance, silence — whatever is there.You're not trying to relax. You're not fixing anything. You're simply reminding your nervous system that it's safe.If you've stopped hearing the birds, there's a good chance you've been carrying too much noise for too long.Want weekly dares like this?Dare Club is free to join and lands these weekly dares straight in your inbox, along with early access to live events and special announcements.You can sign up via the link in the episode description or through Instagram.Thanks for listening — and enjoy this week's dare.Join Dare Club https://stan.store/shewhodareswins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Georgia didn't just dare — she bolted. At 22 she booked a one-way ticket to Australia, spent seven years travelling the world, worked in one of Queensland's roughest pubs, wandered through Africa, and accidentally built the resilience most people try to buy in paperback form.A decade later, one spontaneous visit to an RSPB reserve flipped a switch she didn't know she had. In just one year, she's become a standout wildlife photographer, built a community of new-age birders, and is now leading her first international birding trip — all while navigating the tension between passion and monetisation.This episode is all about daring to start something completely new, letting curiosity lead the way, and remembering that the wild isn't “out there”… it's been on your doorstep the whole damn time.Key Takeaways (Condensed)How a single meme and a toxic relationship pushed her to book that one-way ticket.The seven years of travel that shaped her grit, confidence, and worldview.The unexpected moment birding clicked — and why it hit so hard.Her rise in wildlife photography despite zero formal training.The ethics, chaos, and surprising humour inside the birding world.Why she's not rushing to turn her passion into a full-time job.How community, nature, and curiosity helped her find her thing.Timestamps0:00 – Welcome + Georgia's biggest dare 0:12 – Why she booked a one-way ticket to Australia at 22 3:20 – Seven years on the road: Africa, New Zealand, Canada & chaos 4:55 – Working in one of Queensland's “roughest pubs” 7:30 – The accidental moment she discovered birding 12:50 – Why wildlife photography hooked her instantly 15:40 – The challenge of keeping passion and monetisation separate 18:45 – Building a new kind of birding community + UK wildlife loveShop www.shewhodareswins.comJoin Dare club Community Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conservationists have accused the government of turning its back on nature in the new planning bill which is making its way through parliament. The RSPB says the legislation is creating a new tried and untested process which will put nature and nature markets at risk.We often talk about exports of produce like beef and dairy but exporting farm animal genetics is also big business. The industry estimates that around 70 per cent of the world's farmed poultry orginates from UK breeding stock, while UK cattle genetics are now exported to 100 countries around the world. A new agreement with Kenya will see sheep and goat genetics exported there. The UK Export Certification Partnership is a public-private grouping which promotes the export of livestock products, breeding stock and genetics. All this week, we're checking in with the dairy industry. Over the last 30 years, the size of the UK dairy herd has been gradually falling, while average milk yields, that's the number of litres a cow produces, has been steadily increasing. That increase is partly down to using new technology like on-demand robotic milking machines. We visit a herd of indoor cows in Wiltshire.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

Episode 328 Not only has the mRNA covid vaccine saved 14 million lives, it may also help our bodies fight off cancer. A study of cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy treatment showed those who received an mRNA vaccine lived nearly twice as long - and this effect was discovered by accident. In a trial of cancer vaccines, Elias Sayour's team at the University of Florida used standard mRNA vaccines as a control - they weren't meant to do anything. Except they did - and the effect was huge. It's still early days, but as we await more trial results, people are beginning to speculate how this might transform cancer treatment. Ahead of COP30, the World Resources Institute has published the State of Climate Action 2025 report - and it doesn't make for good reading. It finds that we have failed to meet any of the goals laid out in the Paris agreement to avoid breaching 1.5°C of global warming. From deforestation to coal use, we're not moving fast enough on anything. Hear from the authors of the report, who offer an important message of hope. Why do birds sing the dawn chorus? Many theories exist - 11 in fact - but a new one has emerged, after scientists were studying zebra finches in the lab. Hear their conclusion while enjoying the serenity of birdsong, recorded at some of the RSPB's nature reserves. Chapters: (00:00) Intro (00:34) How mRNA vaccines fight cancer (10:00) State of Climate Action report (21:13) Why birds sing the dawn chorus Hosted by Rowan Hooper and Penny Sarchet, with guests Michael Le Page, Clea Schumer and Sophie Boehm. To read more about these stories, visit https://www.newscientist.com/ Learn more about Yakult at www.yakult.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Farmland bird populations in England have seen a 'rapid nosedive' says the RSPB. It's worried by new Government figures showing an 11% decrease in farmland bird numbers between 2019 and 2024. Meanwhile, farmers in Scotland have been trialling tweaks to conservation scheme options which could help the Corn Bunting.And, new techniques to make Plum growing more profitable by using resources more efficiently.Presenter: Anna Hill Producer: Sarah Swadling

Mark is in Aberdeenshire with RSPB's Hywel Maggs to try to catch a glimpse of the Common crane and to find out why numbers of the birds are increasing in North East Scotland.Naturalist and Educator Dan Puplett reads the Scottish landscape to track wildlife. Jenny Graham meets him Rafford, near Forres to search for evidence of local species.‘Clouds', a new book by Dr Edward Graham explores cloud formations, the science behind them and even the famous artists who have painted them. Mark meets author Eddy to take a look at the formations floating in the sky above Glasgow Green.Crafted entirely from upcycled materials, a new statue by Helen Denerley is bringing the story of one of Scotland's most notorious historical figures back to life. Phil Sime joins Shirley Neild in Kingussie to chat about the history of Alexander Stewart marked by the structure.On a recent trip to Norway, Jenny Graham hopped on her bike in the Fosen district to adventure through Fjord territory.The Balmoral Estate is home to a series of Royal commemorative cairns, including a structure that's more reminiscent of ancient Egypt than Scotland. Mark explores with Heraldist Gordon Casely.Red grouse numbers continue to be low in Scotland. Mark and Jenny are joined by Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust Director for Scotland Dr Nick Hesford to talk about their latest research on the grouse population.Every summer the Woodland Trust announces its shortlist for UK Tree of the Year. The National Contest aims to highlight how vital trees are. Mark meets instrument maker Steve Burnett at Napier's Craiglockhart Campus in Edinburgh to discover the history behind a sycamore with connections to famous war poet Wilfred Owen.

Salted pig's trotter? Brains on toast? Why the carcass balance is important to farmers. We like steak but we're not so keen on tripe, and we eat a lot of chicken but not the feet. To both reduce waste and get the best price for the whole animal or bird we need to do something with the offal. This is carcass balance, balancing the sale of the popular bits with finding markets for the bits that are less desirable here. Those parts that can't be sold are sent for rendering, using heat to separate them into fats and proteins to be sold as animal feed, fertiliser or go into things like cosmetics.Shooting clubs on Salisbury Plain say they may have to close because they can't get a licence to release game birds. Clubs near protected areas, like Sites of Special Scientific Interest, now need a special licence from Natural England to release birds like pheasants and that's now harder to get because of the threat of bird flu. The British Association for Shooting and Conservation says the licensing system is legally flawed and it's issued legal proceedings against Natural England. However, the RSPB would like to see the licensing regime extended. New rules to make trade fairer for pig producers came in this week. A series of recent difficulties in the industry revealed that many farmers didn't have proper contracts for their stock. The new system aims to change that.Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Beatrice Fenton.

Shooting clubs on Salisbury Plain say they may have to close because they can't get a licence to release game birds. Clubs near protected areas, like Sites of Special Scientific Interest, now need a special licence from Natural England to release birds like pheasants and that's now harder to get because of the threat of bird flu. The British Association for Shooting and Conservation or BASC says the licensing system is legally flawed and it's issued legal proceedings against Natural England. However the RSPB would like to see the licensing regime extended. It's called for all game bird releases to be stopped this year because of the risks. In the meantime, clubs say no shoots means no money coming in which means some, like the Bulford and Tidworth Garrison Shoot, are at risk of folding.All week we're looking at what's known as the 5th quarter - this is the name given to the offcuts of meat which, though edible, the British palate isn't keen on. Carcass balance is about finding a use for offal and things like ears or trotters both to combat waste and to get the best price for the whole animal and that means exports. British consumers may not want to eat this sort of thing, but in other parts of the world there is a market so in recent years greater emphasis has been put on seeking out new buyers to get the best out of animal carcasses. Presenter = Charlotte Smith Producer = Rebecca Rooney

In a couple of weeks, swifts will leave our skies and depart for their wintering grounds in Africa. Author and naturalist Mark Cocker has spent a lifetime observing them and Rachel meets him in Crail to chat about the migrating birds and his new book One Midsummer's Day - Swifts and the Story of Life on Earth. Never a stranger to getting his hands dirty, Mark grabs a trowel and joins community volunteers on an archaeological dig on East Lomond Hill in Fife. Chairman of the Falkland Stewardship Trust Joe Fitzpatrick unearths the history behind some significant Pictish findings on the hill and chats to Mark about the importance of volunteer excavators. Producer Phil gets on the saddle with the Highland Blind Tandem Club for a cycle along the canal tow path in Inverness. Rachel's on a hunt for the egg cases of the critically endangered flapper skate. She meets marine biologist Dr Lauren Smith at Cairnbulg Harbour near Fraserburgh to hear about the work going on to safeguard these huge creatures and map exactly where they are. Mark visits the National Museums Collection Centre in Edinburgh to discover how changes at the site are supporting the local urban biodiversity. We hear how the Museum is monitoring wildlife around the Centre from Curator of Entomology Ashleigh Whiffin. An Irish teenager has just become the youngest person to swim the North Channel from Northern Ireland to Scotland solo. 15-year-old Oscar Black joins Rachel and Mark to share his experience battling the currents to reach Scottish shores While following the Whithorn Way, Mark and Rachel stop at Prestwick, Ayrshire to visit Bruce's Well, named after Robert The Bruce, King of Scotland from 1306 to 1329. They meet Julia Muir Watt of the Whithorn Way Trust and local historian Alasdair Malcolm to explore King Robert's connection to the well. In 2003, part of a sea wall at Nigg Bay on the Cromarty Firth was deliberately breached to reconnect an area of land to the sea. Rachel catches up with Steph Elliot from the RSPB to discover how the intertidal habitat created is now benefiting bird life.

The Whithorn Way follows an ancient pilgrim route from Glasgow to Whithorn in Dumfries and Galloway. In this episode, Mark and Rachel start with a quick stop off at Renfrew to contemplate the motivation for pilgrimage in medieval times. Then they head to Paisley Cathedral to learn about the unearthing of a drain which revealed a slate containing musical notation from the 1400's. And they end up at the RSPB's Lochwinnoch Nature Reserve for a bit of wildlife watching and poetry.