Podcasts about rspb scotland

The British Veterinary Association and the Pig Veterinary Society have issued a new joint statement calling for farrowing crates to be banned. They say they should be phased out over the next 15 years to give the industry a chance to adapt. Farrowing crates are the small pens that 60% of sows in the UK are kept in around the time they give birth, to ensure the safety of their piglets. Animal welfare campaigners have been saying they should be banned for years, but farmers have concerns that replacing them with alternative systems will not only endanger the lives of piglets but also be costly and will put them at a disadvantage to farmers in other countries where the crates aren't banned. Conservation groups are urging ministers in Scotland to reject plans for an offshore windfarm which the developer predicts will kill tens of thousands of seabirds.  Five charities, led by RSPB Scotland, have written to the first minister to argue that approving Berwick Bank in the Firth of Forth would undermine efforts to protect nature.  SSE says it has already amended its designs to minimise any potential risks to Scottish seabirds. All week we've been discussing pulses, the dried seeds from plants like beans, lentils and peas all this week. Most of the pulses we buy in the shops are grown overseas. They're a valuable source of protein and there's a growing market for protein rich products in groups including runners, gym-goers as well as vegans So could UK farmers cash in? We visit a company which processes home-grown and imported pulses. Presenter = Caz Graham Producer = Rebecca Rooney

We first heard about the work of Reid the biosecurity dog five months back.  Conservationist and handler Rachel Cripps talks to presenter Kate Fairweather about Reid's work, visiting Scotland's islands during the course of the year, in all weathers, searching for evidence of rat incursions.  Rachel explains the plans for winter, when weather stops all island visits, and how she keeps Reid ticking over and his skills developing.  What is biosecurity? Biosecurity is the practice of protecting places from the threats to wildlife posed by the introduction of new diseases or types of plants or animals that do not naturally occur there. The work of Biosecurity for Scotland focuses on protecting 38 seabird islands around Scotland from invasive non-native mammalian predators, such as rats, mice, mink and stoat. These Scottish islands are remote, home to many globally important colonies of seabirds. Native seabirds, which have not evolved alongside predators and are vulnerable to invasive predators, which eat the eggs, chicks and sometimes adult birds. Thanks to Sophie at RSPB for introducing Reid and Rachel to the show.  NTS and NatureScot.Biosecurity for Scotland  is a partnership of RSPB Scotland, National Trust for Scotland and NatureScot. This project is supported by the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot. Other dogs working in conservation Reid the bio security dog - the original interview from May 2024; Skye, the stoat detection dog working to keep Orkney free from predators; A team of five detection dogs survey the Isle of May for ground nesting storm petrels; Barley the conservation dog and his international projects; Nica, Nettle and Phoenix, the Japanese knotweed detection dogs. Do you work your dog or dogs?  Get in touch with Kate at team@shineradio.uk with suggestions or introductions to working dogs to feature on the show - she's always interested to hear about dogs with interesting jobs. © & ℗ Kate Fairweather 2024See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We first heard about the work of Reid the biosecurity dog five months back.  Conservationist and handler Rachel Cripps talks to presenter Kate Fairweather about Reid's work, visiting Scotland's islands during the course of the year, in all weathers, searching for evidence of rat incursions.  Rachel explains the plans for winter, when weather stops all island visits, and how she keeps Reid ticking over and his skills developing.  What is biosecurity? Biosecurity is the practice of protecting places from the threats to wildlife posed by the introduction of new diseases or types of plants or animals that do not naturally occur there. The work of Biosecurity for Scotland focuses on protecting 38 seabird islands around Scotland from invasive non-native mammalian predators, such as rats, mice, mink and stoat. These Scottish islands are remote, home to many globally important colonies of seabirds. Native seabirds, which have not evolved alongside predators and are vulnerable to invasive predators, which eat the eggs, chicks and sometimes adult birds. Thanks to Sophie at RSPB for introducing Reid and Rachel to the show.  NTS and NatureScot.Biosecurity for Scotland  is a partnership of RSPB Scotland, National Trust for Scotland and NatureScot. This project is supported by the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot. Other dogs working in conservation Reid the bio security dog - the original interview from May 2024; Skye, the stoat detection dog working to keep Orkney free from predators; A team of five detection dogs survey the Isle of May for ground nesting storm petrels; Barley the conservation dog and his international projects; Nica, Nettle and Phoenix, the Japanese knotweed detection dogs. Do you work your dog or dogs?  Get in touch with Kate at team@shineradio.uk with suggestions or introductions to working dogs to feature on the show - she's always interested to hear about dogs with interesting jobs. © & ℗ Kate Fairweather 2024See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the RSPB releases its latest Birdcrime Report detailing the shocking ongoing illegal killing of birds of prey. In a special episode of RSPB Scotland's Nature News podcast host Stephen Magee talks to RSPB Scotland Head of Investigations Ian Thomson. They discuss the latest findings as well as the new legislation introduced in Scotland that sets out to tackle this criminality. You can find out more about the Birdcrime Report here https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/birdcrime

Scotland's first new vet school in over 100 years has opened to applicants. Mark went to visit the School of Veterinary Medicine at Scotland's Rural College in Aberdeen and spoke to the Dean, Professor Caroline Argo about how and why the school has been established.When you visit the Isle of Seil, one of the main visitor attractions is the An Cala Garden. The garden was created in the 1930s and Rachel was shown around by Sheila Downie who has owned it for the past 40 years.Earlier this month the European Land Art Festival was held in Dunbar. It's a week full of workshops, exhibitions and concerts, but the highlight of the week for some was the World Rock Stacking Championships. Katie Revell went along for Out of Doors and chatted to some of the competitors who had come from as far afield as Texas.Mark is in Grantown on Spey finding out that you don't always need a huge space to create a wildlife haven. Ranger Saranne Bish shows him one of the parts of the Highland Wildflower Meadow Mosaic Project and explains how it works.During the covid pandemic, a cancer diagnosis left Michelle Cloggie feeling isolated. A trip to do some alpaca trekking gave her husband an idea and soon they were welcoming three alpacas. Fast forward to the present day, and the family run Stormcloud Alpacas near Strathaven. Michelle tells Rachel how their flock has grown and what a great emotional support they are to her and many others.Last week a pod of 77 pilot whales died after washing ashore on a beach in Orkney. It was the biggest mass standing of the species in Britain and has had a big impact on the Sanday community. We chat live to Rob Flett from BBC Orkney about the stranding and how locals have worked together to deal with it.The Victoria Swing Bridge at the Port of Leith has recently reopened following a major refurbishment. Mark went to take a look and find out about the Grade A Listed structure's history and its new lease of life.In our latest Scotland Outdoors podcast, Rachel has been delving into the history of Osprey in Scotland. It's 70 years since the species began breeding here again following years of persecution. We hear an excerpt where Jess Tomes from RSPB Scotland tells Rachel the story of those behind Operation Osprey.Louise Aitken Walker became a household name when she became the first ever female World Rally champion in 1990. She grew up on a farm in Duns in the Scottish Borders where horses were really her first passion, and it was a jokey competition entry by her brothers that propelled her into the world of rally driving. She tells Mark about her life on and off the track.

In the early twentieth century, very few ospreys were breeding in Scotland. They had been persecuted for decades and their eggs stolen by collectors. In 1954, a pair successfully raised two chicks near Loch Garten which gave conservationists hope that they could return to Scotland as nesting birds. Operation Osprey was launched to protect them from those intent on raiding their nests, with volunteers watching the nest at Abernethy twenty four hours a day. It proved a difficult journey but seventy years on, there are now numerous nesting ospreys in the UK. Jess Tomes from RSPB Scotland talks about the effort involved in the operation and wildlife ecologist Roy Dennis recalls the role he played in the 1960s.

Stephen takes a trip to RSPB Scotland's Wood of Cree nature reserve. With the help of local expert Crystal Maw he hears some of the specialist birds that call this ancient woodland home. There's Pied Flycatcher, Redstart and the stunning song of the Wood Warbler. Crustal also explains how RSPB Scotland looks after this special place.Don't forget to leave us a review and subscribe. You cn get in touch using the email podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.uk

The agri-food company Moy Park, which supplies chickens throughout the UK and Europe, has breached environmental laws on more than 500 occasions without facing prosecution. A BBC Spotlight investigation into water pollution uncovered the breaches at three different sites in Northern Ireland - including Lough Neagh.Holidaymakers and walkers in Scotland are being warned not to light camp fires. Last year, a wild-fire tore through forestry at Cannich, south of Inverness. It burned for two weeks on the surface and even more damage was caused underground, as peat burnt beneath the soil. The commercial forest is now being felled, 20 years earlier than expected, and has lost 60 percent of its value. The fire also had a serious impact on the RSPB Scotland nature reserve, at Corrimony. As the election campaign continues, and politicians travel around the UK to drum up support, on Farming Today we've asked our correspondents this week to explain what the agricultural sector is looking for. Agriculture is devolved, so policies are drawn up separately in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England. Today we discuss what farmers are looking for in England.We're looking at pollinators all week: over the past ten years, honey bees have become an integral part of the way the 75,000 acre Lowther Estate in Cumbria is managed, with around 500 colonies producing between 12 and 15 tonnes of Lake District honey every year. As well as its home hives, the estate also sends out around 200 bee colonies to other local landowners, which feed from and pollinate arable crops throughout the Eden Valley. Cumbria's only producers of rapeseed oil, farmers Ben and Jannike Taylor, are accommodating some of the Lowther bees this spring.Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney

In the latest episode of our mini series How to Listen to Birds Stephen is visiting RSPB Scotland's Baron's Haugh reserve. Senior Conservation Officer Toby Wilson is his guide as he encounters the bewildering array of noises a Great Tit can make. There's also a chance to focus on one of the sweetest songs in the wood, the Robin. Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs are singing loudly. Toby also offers his expert take on why birds sing and the risks involved.Let us know how you're enjoying birdsong podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.ukBird ID including song https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/a-z

In Episode 3 of our miniseries How to Listen to Birds Stephen is visiting RSPB Scotland's Abernethy nature reserve. Assistant Warden Ewan Craig is his guide as they take a walk through the stunning pine forest. There's noisy Goldcrests making a sound that belies their tiny size. Ewan has an odd way to remember the song of the Chaffinch. And the pair luck out with a pine forest specialist, Crested Tit.We want to know what you want to hear about in the podcast. Drop us an email podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.ukThere's more about Bird ID including help with birdsong here https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/a-zVisit Loch Gartenhttps://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/loch-garten-abernethy

Stephen takes a trip to RSPB Scotland's Loch Leven nature reserve.  Site manager Vicky Turnbull and Assistant Warden Darran Dixon are on hand to help him identify what is singing in the woodland.There's a little bird with a loud voice,  a melodic warbler and a thrush with a complex song.Stephen also hears about some odd nesting decisions by Blue Tits at the reserve and discovers which bird sounds like a squeaky bike pump.Let us know what you think about the series and what you've been hearing podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.ukAnd don't forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts.Find out more about Loch Leven nature reserve here https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/loch-levenBirdsong info on the RSPB website https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/a-z

How to Listen to Birds is a new podcast mini series from RSPB Scotland. Join host Stephen Magee out and about for tips on how to identify birds by their song. He'll also hear from RSPB staff about how the sounds birds make help us understand their lives better. And Stephen will try to understand what it is about birdsong that moves and enthrals us.In Episode 1 we are at RSPB Scotland's Baron's Haugh reserve with warden David Anderson. He has tips on how to get started with birdsong. We encounter a tiny bird with a big song and David explains you don't need to go deep into the wild to enjoy the sound of birds.LINKSBirdsong Beginner video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-qJuNysUsUDavid's work with blind and visually impaired people https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfeXEmSgvgkRSPB Web resources about birdsong and ID generally https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/a-zDan Chorus https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/news/the-dawn-chorus-all-you-need-to-know-about-natures-big-show

Hear about the important work of Reid, an English springer spaniel who works as a rodent detection dog in the Scottish islands. Conservationist and handler Rachel Cripps talks to presenter Kate Fairweather about Reid's work, visiting nearly 40 islands during the course of the year, in all weathers, searching for evidence of rat incursions.  Thanks to Sophie at RSPB for introducing Reid and Rachel to the show.  Biosecurity for Scotland is funded by NRF, and is a partnership of RSPB Scotland, NTS and NatureScot. Biosecurity is the practice of protecting places from the threats to wildlife posed byintroducing new diseases or types of plants or animals that do not naturally occur there. The work of Biosecurity for Scotland focuses on protecting 38 seabird islands around Scotland from invasive non-native mammalian predators, such as rats, mice, mink and stoat. These Scottish islands are remote, home to many globally important colonies of seabirds. Native seabirds, which have not evolved alongside predators and are vulnerable to invasive predators, which eat the eggs, chicks and sometimes adult birds: Do you work your dog or dogs?  Get in touch with Kate at team@shineradio.uk with suggestions or introductions to working dogs to feature on the show - she's always interested to hear about dogs with interesting jobs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buglife's citizen science project, the Scottish Oil Beetle Hunt, needs your help. As part of the partnership programme, Species on the Edge, members of the public are asked to look out for these amazing beetles and record any sightings. Looking for the Scottish Oil Beetle Scottish records of oil beetles on iRecord more than doubled last year due to the combined effort of the Scottish Oil Beetle Hunt and surveying carried out by the Species on the Edge team. Survey work for Short-necked Oil Beetle in particular yielded over 100 records of individual beetles, with many new sites discovered for the species. The Black Oil Beetle was also confirmed from Scotland, following doubt about previous records due to issues with misidentification. In 2023, Short-necked Oil Beetle were found on Tiree for the first time by Ranger Hayley Douglas. Long thought to be present, this discovery is the latest new island site for the species, following on from populations found in North Uist in 2022, and Barra and Islay in 2021. Species on the Edge is an ambitious four-year programme for species recovery in Scotland that aims to take action for 37 declining and threatened species across Scotland's coasts and islands. It is a partnership programme of eight organisations, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The partnership consists of Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Bat Conservation Trust, Buglife, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Butterfly Conservation, NatureScot, Plantlife and RSPB Scotland. One of these threatened species is the Short-necked Oil Beetle, which has only been found in a handful of locations within Scotland - the Isles of Coll, Islay and Tiree (Inner Hebrides), as well as Uist and Barra (Outer Hebrides). Classed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, this species is at high risk of extinction and therefore it's imperative that we learn more about this amazing beetle to help improve its fortunes. Oil beetles are eye-catching, charismatic beetles that are so-called because they exude a yellowish oily substance from their leg joints when threatened. They have been described as looking like they're wearing an ill-fitting waistcoat; the 'waistcoat' being the short wing cases that do not fully cover the beetle's abdomen. Oil beetles are under threat. Populations have declined due to the loss of flower-rich habitats owing to changes in countryside management. As oil beetles are nest parasites of solitary bees, declines in populations of wild bees has worsened their fortunes further as they depend on them for survival. Scotland has fewer oil beetle records than both England and Wales, so it's possible that oil beetles are under recorded in Scotland. To get a better understanding of their current distribution in Scotland, it's important we keep a look at and hear about all sightings of oil beetles. Sally Morris, Buglife Conservation Officer, explains: "Last year was great for oil beetles in Scotland, but we're still far behind England and Wales for records - it's time we catch up! Have you ever seen a shiny black beetle that may be an oil beetle? Please send us a photo and help us to learn more about these amazing beetles within Scotland." Oil beetles have an amazing life cycle, intricately linked to that of solitary bees. After hatching, oil beetle larvae (known as triungulins) make their way onto a flower head where they lie in wait for a solitary bee. Using specialised hooks on their feet, they attach themselves to the back of a visiting female bee and when the bee returns to its underground nest, the triungulin disembarks and continues its development underground, eating through the bee's stores of pollen and nectar. Depending on species, they then emerge in the same or following year, as an adult oil beetle ready to start the life cycle all over again. There are five species of oil beetle in the UK, only three are found in Scotland, these are the Black Oil Beetle (Meloe proscarabaeus), Violet Oil Beetle (Meloe violaceus) and Shor...

Rachel is in East Lothian where local residents are campaigning for better access across the busy A1 road. For a considerable stretch there's no official pedestrian crossing linking the villages close to Dunbar with the coast. And as Rachel sees, it's a very busy road to try and cross as a cyclist or pedestrian.Mark visits Dean Castle in Kilmarnock and finds out about its fascinating history including being completely destroyed by fire before an impressive restoration in 2018.The Covid lockdown led to lots of people taking up new and different hobbies. For author Colin Liddell, his lockdown project was translating all the Gaelic place names noted on maps within 175 square miles of Pitlochry. Rachel chats to Colin about his project and what it has taught him.Earlier this week a new wildlife law aimed at protecting birds of prey and regulating the grouse shooting industry passed its final vote at Holyrood. BBC Scotland's Environment Correspondent Kevin Keane chats to Duncan Orr-Ewing from RSPB Scotland about why they are pleased The Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill will be introduced. And he also hears from Ross Ewing from Scottish Land and Estates about the impact this will have on Scottish estates and their concerns.Water voles have been present in Glasgow for hundreds of years. However recently, they have been found in some more unusual locations. Mark finds out about a thriving population of grassland water vole living in and around the Seven Lochs Wetland Park.And we hear more about other urban mammals when we chat live to Rose Toney from the North East Scotland Mammal Network about their new urban mammal groups.For several months now artist Chris Rutterford and several hundred people from the Alloway community have been creating giant paintings on boards, reflecting the local culture and heritage to improve a local railway tunnel. The work has just started to be put up on display, so Rachel headed for a look.In our latest Scotland Outdoors podcast Helen Needham wanders around Glasgow Green with musicians Laura-Beth Salter and Ali Hutton who have created a new album called 'From the Ground' as a response to climate change. We hear an excerpt.Point to point horse racing used to run every weekend between January and March. But now there are only two races in Scotland, both held at Overton Farm near Lanark. The first event is taking place this weekend and Mark went to take a look at the course and find out what's involved in a point to point race.

It's that time of year again! Big Garden Birdwatch is here. Stephen and Dan Snowdon from RSPB Scotland's Lochwinnoch nature reserve explain how to take part. There are also tips on how to work out what you're seeing out there.Stephen also travels to Dundee to meet staff and volunteers involved in inspirational work building connections with nature for people living in the city.More about Big Garden Birdwatch here https://t.co/tC0YFBrsRrFind out more about our work in Dundee Winter Wildlife in Dundee - Scottish Nature Notes - Our work - The RSPB Community

It's an important time for Scotland's birds of prey as the Scottish Government introduces legislation to license grouse moors in a bid to end raptor persecution.Raptor persecution - the illegal killing of birds of prey - continues in Scotland and around the UK. In this podcast Stephen meets those working to end this criminality. He hears from RSPB Scotland's Head of Investigations Ian Thomson, Ruth Tingay from the influential Raptor Persecution UK blog and campaigner Chris Packham.And there's the very latest on what's happening in the Scottish Parliament.And you can help too by putting pressure on your MSPs to follow through on delivering the legislation.LINKSGet in touch with your MSPhttps://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/scotland/posts/act-now-to-protect-birds-of-prey-and-peatlands Report an incidenthttps://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/how-to-report-crimes-against-wild-birds

As the days shorten wintering ducks, geese and swans are making their way back to Scotland. Stephen is at RSPB Scotland's Loch Leven nature reserve to see some of the birds that make this time of year so special. He's joined by Site Manager Vicky Turnbull and Assistant Warden Darran Dixon to chat about Pintail, Smew and Wigeon.Stephen also travels to the Slammanan Plateau in search of the UK's rarest goose. Conservation officer Scott Shanks and volunteers Angus Maciver and Billy Thomson help him to find Taiga Bean Geese in fields near Cumbernauld.LINKSMore about our work on CorncrakesCattle on Lewishttps://youtu.be/87RIV7Q4qO8RSPB Scotland Oronsay nature reservehttps://youtu.be/sMDBUpeVV6ELet the Scottish Government know you want better legislation to protect and renew nature https://t.co/DjDHX7Zz1VSee the volunteers at Kinnordy in actionhttps://youtu.be/ulMPni4aiZA

In this special edition of the podcast Stephen is in Orkney to hear about work to protect its special, native wildlife.Orkney  has its own native Vole species and also hosts globally important populations of seabirds, waders and other species. But that wildlife is under threat from an invasive predator, the Stoat. RSPB Scotland is part of a groundbreaking project that has set out to eradicate Stoats and protect native wildlife. Stephen hears from those involved in trapping, monitoring and biosecurity as part of this enormous undertaking.The Orkney Native Wildlife Project is a partnership between RSPB Scotland, NatureScot and Orkney Islands Council with generous support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and EU LIFE (LIFE17 UK/NAT/000557) as well as in kind and financial contributions from partners. The mop-up methodology trial was supported by the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot.

This episode is a deep dive into the crisis facing seabirds around Scotland's coasts. Stephen is joined at the seaside by Head of Species Paul Walton and Head of Marine Policy Helen McLachlan. They explain why Scotland is so important globally for seabirds and the threats they face.Stephen also travels to RSPB Scotland nature reserves in Orkney, Fowlsheugh and Troup Head to hear what the impact of bird flu has been on birds like Gannets and Kittiwakes.There's lots you can do to help and to find out more about what's happening to seabirdsLet the Scottish Government know what you think about closing the Sandeel fisheryhttps://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/rspb-news/rspb-news-stories/hope-for-struggling-seabirds/More about seabirdshttps://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/natures-home-magazine/birds-and-wildlife-articles/features/enjoy-a-seabird-spectacular/More about the Climate Crisis and what you can dohttps://www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/campaigning/climate-change-effects-on-nature-and-wildlife/

Stephen and Kate are visiting RSPB Scotland's Loch Leven reserve to find out how to really connect to nature. Freya and Daniel from the visitor experience team at the reserve explain the difference between just spending time in nature and connecting with it. Stephen tags along with a group of blind and visually impaired people who are learning about birdsong. There's nature news and a lot of chat about peewits.LINKSThe latest on Bird Flu https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/advice/how-you-can-help-birds/disease-and-garden-wildlife/avian-influenza-updates/Find out more about Visibility Scotland https://visibilityscotland.org.uk/Watch Daniel and other staff from RSPB Scotland Loch Leven connect to naturehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PvzmKm59bA

Stephen and Kate are looking back at the amazing wildlife featured in the Wild Isles series. They are also looking forward to the plans being made to protect and renew it. James How from RSPB Scotland's Loch Gruinart nature reserve on Islay gives us the inside story of how the Wild Isles team filmed White Tailed Eagles hunting Barnacle Geese. Stephen chats to one of the people who has taking part in putting together the People's Plan For Nature. And there's all the usual nature news.LINKSSearch for Saving Our Wild Isles on the BBC iplayer https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayerLearn more about the People's Plan For Nature https://peoplesplanfornature.org/Read more about the gamekeeper case we discuss here https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/gamekeeper-pleads-guilty-to-shooting-sparrowhawk-on-scottish-grouse-moor/

Scotland's rainforest is an amazing place but it's under threat. Stephen and Kate take a trip to see the habitat for themselves at RSPB Scotland's Inversnaid nature reserve. Stephen has been to the Morvern peninsula on Scotland's west coast to hear about an exciting new RSPB Scotland project working with communities to protect, restore and expand the forest there. Kate is feeling hopeful about spring and Stephen is learning to love lichens.LINKSSave Our Wild Isleshttps://www.saveourwildisles.org.uk/Alliance for Scotland's Rainforesthttps://savingscotlandsrainforest.org.uk/

Stephen and Kate take a trip to RSPB Scotland's Lochwinnoch nature reserve. They're joined by Senior Conservation Officer Toby Wilson who has some tips for things to keep an eye out for as we head into winter. Warden Dan Snowdon shows off his new scrapes which are proving to be a home for all kinds of wildlife. The team also has all the latest nature news.LINKSIf you want to see the scrapes at Lochwinnoch watch this video https://youtu.be/rChb6zIsFz8 This project is supported by the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot. It's also part of the wider Garnock Connections project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund.Find out more about the Birdcrime report here https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/BirdCrimeReportLaunched/Info on the Nature of Scotland Awards https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/at-home-and-abroad/scotland/nature-of-scotland-awards/

Stephen and Kate are joined by RSPB Scotland's Head of Species Paul Walton to discuss the unfolding bird flu outbreak. They discuss the latest from the seabird colonies most affected, hear from RSPB staff on the ground in Shetland and talk about what we all can do to help.LINKSKeep up to date with bird fluhttps://rspb.org.uk/birdfluDonate to the Appealhttps://rspb.org.uk/join-and-donate/donate/appeals/avian-flu-emergency-appeal/?from=morelikethisLearn about biosecurity on islandshttps://biosecurityforlife.org.uk/

Stephen and Kate are joined by Head of Conservation Science Jen Smart to chat about migration. On a steamy day at RSPB Scotland's Loch Leven Nature Reserve the team talk about why birds migrate and some of the mind boggling distances covered. We also delve into Jen's obsession with waders. Stephen shares his recordings of corncrakes in the Hebrides. Kate has been admiring gannets.SHOW NOTESRSPB information on Avian Influenzahttps://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/advice/how-you-can-help-birds/disease-and-garden-wildlife/avian-influenza-updates/CITY NATURE CHALLENGEhttps://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/scotland/posts/city-nature-challenge-2022---the-results-are-inCurlew Video at Insh Marsheshttps://youtu.be/w-5LyNSzuMI

Episode 124 of the Common Weal Policy Podcast You can download the episode directly here.This week, Craig talks to Andrew Start - Land Policy Officer at RSPB Scotland. RSPBS and Common Weal are both members of the Scottish Food Coalition who have recently been campaigning to improve the Good Food Nation Bill presently moving through the Scottish Parliament. Andrew discusses the impact that this bill and other food policy developments in Scotland will have on food production and consumption in Scotland and how they may impact Scottish local communities.You can learn more about the Scottish Food Coalition here.They recently held a Day of Action outside the Scottish Parliament which was attending by many people including 26 MSPs.Craig refers to Policy Podcast episode #80 - A Half Wild Scotland.Common Weal's work is only possible thanks to our generous supporters who regularly donate an average of £10 per month. If you would like to help us build our vision of an All of Us First Scotland, you can do so here: https://commonweal.scot/product-category/support-us/The Policy Podcast would like to discuss all of Common Weal's policy papers in detail as well as other major policy stories in and around Scotland so if there are any topics that you would like to see covered or if you have an interesting policy story to tell and would like to be a guest on the show, please contact Craig at craig@common.scotYou can also find us on iTunes, Spotify, Castbox, Stitcher, Tunein, iHeart Radio and other major podcast aggregators.You can also add the podcast to your RSS feed using this link: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/264906.rssTheme"Hiding Your Reality" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Support the show

For many of you, Megan Rowland needs no introduction. She is a Deer Management Officer for NatureScot, Scotland's nature agency. Before that, she worked as a surveyor for RSPB Scotland where she surveyed the entire suite of Highland bird species. She has also been a volunteer for the Scottish Wildlife Trust, a local Raptor Study Group, the Scottish Mink Initiative, and the British Red Cross. Megan is a founding member of the Scottish Crofting Federations' Young Crofters. Moreover, she's The Youth Ambassador for the Highland branch of the British Deer Society and a Lantra Scotland Game & Wildlife Industry Champion.That is a really impressive resume and I am excited to bring you my conversation with Megan. We started our chat with a general discussion about the red deer situation in Scotland and related land use and land management issues. From there I asked a few questions related to deer stalking in the Highlands. So, those of you who dream about a Highland stag might pick up some useful tips. Finally, we ended up talking about rewilding since no podcast about land management in Scotland would be complete without this topic.You can find more from Megan by visiting her website Wayfaring and Wandering or by following her on one of the social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn.Support the Podcast and Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/tommysoutdoorsRecommended Books: tommysoutdoors.com/the-best-nature-books/T-shirts: tommysoutdoors.com/tommys-outdoors-t-shirts/Follow Tommy's Outdoors onTwitter: twitter.com/outdoorspodcastInstagram: instagram.com/tommysoutdoorsFacebook: facebook.com/tommysoutdoorsTikTok: tiktok.com/@tommysoutdoorsYouTube: youtube.com/tommysoutdoors See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Stephen and Kate are seeing early signs of Spring. They are joined by young naturalist Sorrel Lyall to talk about what it's like to work on North Ronaldsay ringing birds. Stephen also takes a walk on RSPB Scotland's Loch Leven Nature Reserve with Senior Habitats and Species officer James Silvey to see what evidence of spring there is amongst the sleet. Stephen apologises to some ducks and Kate makes a Celtic connection.LINKSInteresting organisations looking at nature and inclusionhttps://www.flocktogether.world/https://www.bootsandbeards.co.uk/North Ronaldsay Observatory https://www.nrbo.org.uk/ Garganey https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/garganey/Orkney MPAs https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/about-us/media-centre/press-releases/important-orkney-waters-finally-granted-protection/

A deal is done! Stephen is joined by RSPB staffer Melanie Coath who has been working for nature throughout the summit. They analyse the final agreement and reflect on the last two weeks. I f you've enjoyed these podcasts don't forget to listen to Nature News from RSPB Scotland and make sure you like and subscribe. You can find it in this fed or anywhere you get podcasts.

As a draft deal is published Stephen is joined by RSPB Scotland's COP26 Project Manager Lottie van Grieken and Parliamentary Manager Patrick McGlinchey to examine this first indication of what a deal might look like. They ask whether nature is being given the attention it needs. Stephen also takes a trip to one of Glasgow's many parks with Dr Scott Shanks to get an insight into the role urban green spaces play in tackling the nature and climate emergency.Don't forget to like and subscribe and get in touch podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.ukFind out more about our work in Glasgow https://www.rspb.org.uk/about-the-rspb/at-home-and-abroad/scotland/giving-nature-a-home-in-glasgow/

Stephen is actually at COP26, or at least just the other side of the security fence. But fear not as he has guests who have been inside making the case for nature. He's joined by Milly Hayward, a residential volunteer from RSPB Scotland's Forsinard Flows nature reserve who is in Glasgow to share her enthusiasm for our peatlands. The podcast also features a chat with Paul Walton from RSPB Scotland and John Martin from RSPB Northern Ireland about how peatlands are fast becoming a key focus of this summit. Don't forget to subscribe and review and let us know what you think about COP26 podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.ukLINKSAnimation about Forsinard https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTtEseJZFP0Milly's guide to the work at Forsinard https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1jBm3DO3S4

Stephen and Kate are joined by RSPB Scotland's Director Anne McCall to look ahead to the COP26 summit. There's also news of snow buntings, a grouse based confrontation and a wildlife mystery to solve. Star of CBeebies, Rory Crawford also shares some tips about engaging kids with nature. Send us your nature news podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.uk LINKSTake the Peat Free Pledge https://t.co/YqYLngFsq0?amp=1Day of Action on November 06th Join the Global Day of Action on 6 November 2021 | The RSPBPaper on grouse behaviour https://britishbirds.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/article_files/V57/V57_N04/V57_N04_P137_170_A027.pdf

In this week's episode Kate and Stephen talk to Dr Francis Daunt of the UK Centre for Hydrology and Ecology about why seabirds are behaving strangely - and even dying - down the UK's East Coast. Over the last few weeks reports have come in of birds feeding in unusual areas and members of the public have been finding dead guillemots and razorbills along the coastline. We explore whether climate change is involved and the theory that toxic algae may be playing a part in these disturbing events.Kate and Stephen also hear from Sarah-Jayne Foster about the exciting new green space being constructed in Glasgow's Botanic Garden as part of RSPB Scotland's campaigning around COP26.LINKSRSPB Scotland blog on dead seabirds including how to report.https://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/scotland/posts/an-update-on-seabirds-on-the-east-coast?CommentId=f22418cc-336b-4ae8-90e7-81f23b1513e6Dr Francis Daunthttps://twitter.com/FrancisDaunt?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorBiodiverity Banner on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQAUkXH6R0Q

Kate and Stephen discuss Eco-Anxiety in the wake of the IPCC report on climate change, the success of the Edinburgh Swift City Project and hear about a new wetland on RSPB Scotland's Loch Lomond nature reserve. They also reflect on some of their own nature moments from the last couple of weeks.The Swift City Project is supported by ScottishPower Foundation.The Loch Lomond wetland is being created in partnership with Froglife and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the RSPB . We would like to thank the players of the National Lottery and the members of the RSPB for making this possible. Find out more about the Loch Lomond project here https://community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/scotland/posts/making-a-splash-at-rspb-loch-lomondKeep an eye on our YouTube playlist for video about the work soon https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6TyuYG9WmfWngjkGjbQ0aWlhNcllbvqFFind out more about the RSPB's policy on shooting https://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/policy-insight/gamebird-review/ 

Kate and Stephen share their nature news after some hot weather brings out all that's good and slightly less welcome from the world of invertebrates. There's advice on how to help birds in warm weather. We look ahead to a vital climate conference in Glasgow. And we hear from a young woman who has fallen in love with the peat bogs at RSPB Scotland's Forsinard reserve. Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review. And get in touch with your nature news podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.ukYou can also find out more about how to get involved in campaigning for action on the nature and climate emergency at these linksClimate Scotland https://climatescotland.org/SCCS https://www.stopclimatechaos.scot/Climate Fringe https://climatefringe.org/

Join Stephen and Kate as they mark midsummer by hearing about the "Simmer Dim" in Shetland. The podcast also covers recent nature news including a mass influx of rosy starlings and how to make sure you and your dog enjoy the outdoors without causing problems for wildlife. Let us know what you think of the podcast and what you want us to cover @RSPB Scotland on twitter or podcast.scotland@RSPB.org.uk

The first in a series of short episodes about the activities of the Rare Invertebrates in the Cairngorms project. Listen in to hear about nature conservation in the UK's biggest National Park. This project is being part-financed by the Scottish Government and the European Community LEADER 2014-2020 programme. You can find us on facebook and on twitter to learn more. Facebook: www.facebook.com/RareInvertebrates/ Twitter: twitter.com/RareInverts6 Thank you to Norden's Ark for hosting us in Sweden, James Silvey from RSPB Scotland and Ben Harrower from the Zoological Society Scotland. Presented, Recorded and Edited by Gabrielle Flinn. Theme Music by Tristan Lohengrin Thunder Sounds by Nimlos (freesound.com) Bird Sounds by Inchadney (freesound.com)

The government is seeking views on the future of farming.  Michael Gove, secretary of state at the department of farming, food and rural affairs wants the UK to become a global leader when it comes to protecting the planet and on this episode of Nature’s Voice Jane Markham talks to Vicki Swales, head of land use policy for RSPB Scotland, about how farming policy post Brexit could change the countryside for the better. And in Curlew Crisis Month she meets farmer David Bonnar whose work on his upland farm in Northern Ireland is helping the plight of this critically endangered wader. 

When humans move species from one part of the world to another it can cause all sorts of problems - from non-native rodents wiping out entire seabird colonies to non-native water weeds choking our rivers. On this month’s Nature’s Voice Jane Markham meets three people who are coping with the impact of these invaders on a daily basis. Laura Bambini is an RSPB Scotland seabird recovery officer, Kelly Thomas, a reserves ecologist who has advice on how to recognise a new threat from the asian hornet and Danny Heptinstall, who as an RSPB policy officer, specialises in invasive non native species and biosecurity.

Ever since her first encounter with a Scarf as they are known locally when she was a child and her Mum rescued a casualty of an oil spill, Helen Moncrieff, Shetland Manager for RSPB Scotland has had a particular fondness for these birds seeking them out in in the darkness of sea caves where they nest on ledges and fill the air with their strange sounds. Producer: Sarah Blunt Photograph: Paul Lee.

Ever since childhood, Helen Moncrieff, Shetland Manager for RSPB Scotland has been fascinated by the ways in which Shetland Starlings can mimic not only other birds but other sounds including a squeaky toy belonging to her own dog! Producer: Sarah Blunt Photograph: John Dixon.

Fulmars defend their nests by launching their stomach contents at an intruder. Now this may not seem like an appealing behaviour but as Helen Moncrieff, Shetland Manager with RSPB Scotland describes, it was a tactic she used to her advantage as a child and has felt protective of these cliff-nesting birds ever since. Tweet of the Day has captivated the Radio 4 audience with its daily 90 seconds of birdsong. But what of the listener to this avian chorus? In this new series of Tweet of the Day, we bring to the airwaves the conversational voices of those who listen to and are inspired by birds. Building on the previous series, a more informal approach to learning alongside a renewed emphasis on encounter with nature and reflection in our relationship with the natural world. Producer: Sarah Blunt Photograph: Andrew Thompson.

Known locally as Sten-shakker or Chek after their alarm call, Northern Wheatears never cease to delight Helen Moncrieff, Shetland Manager for RSPB Scotland when they return to Shetland for the breeding season. Tweet of the Day has captivated the Radio 4 audience with its daily 90 seconds of birdsong. But what of the listener to this avian chorus? In this new series of Tweet of the Day, we bring to the airwaves the conversational voices of those who listen to and are inspired by birds. Building on the previous series, a more informal approach to learning alongside a renewed emphasis on encounter with nature and reflection in our relationship with the natural world. Producer: Sarah Blunt Photograph: Sonia Johnson.

Helen Moncrieff, Shetland Manager for RSPB Scotland recalls some of her encounters with the Black Guillemot or Tystie as they are known locally in Shetland after their piercing whistle. These include watching one disappear into the jaws of an Orca. Producer: Sarah Blunt Photograph: Brian Burke.

Corncrakes are secretive birds - you’re far more likely to hear their rasping calls than see one. They were once widespread throughout the UK but their numbers declined catastrophically during the 20th century. By the 1990s they were only found breeding in the Hebrides, Orkney and some parts of the Scottish West Coast including Durness.  Since then, thanks to close collaboration between RSPB Scotland, government bodies, farmers and crofters, corncrake numbers are on the rise. On this month’s Nature’s Voice Jane Markham talks to the RSPB’s John Bowler who monitors corncrakes on Tiree in the Hebrides and meets Paul Walton, head of habitat and species for RSPB Scotland to discover more about these birds and their changing fortunes