Wildlife Matters The Podcast

• The Benefits of Hedgerow; Nature's Corridors

  Hello and welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters podcast. In this episode, we explore Hedgerows and why they are vital for England's future, boosting biodiversity, combating climate change, and enhancing soil health.The enchanting world of hedgerows is a vibrant ecosystem that plays a crucial role in the British countryside. The discussion emphasises the historical significance of hedgerows, tracing their origins back to the Bronze Age. These natural corridors are not mere boundaries but vital habitats teeming with diverse wildlife. The episode delves into the importance of hedgerows in combating climate change, enriching biodiversity, and providing essential shelter for various species. We cover the alarming decline in hedgerow density caused by agricultural practices and urban expansion, with detrimental effects on wildlife populations and the overall ecosystem. We further explores the symbiotic relationships within hedgerows, illustrating how they facilitate pollination and soil health and serve as crucial refuges for numerous animals, including birds, mammals, and insects. The call to action is clear: the preservation and rejuvenation of hedgerows are imperative for sustaining the intricate web of life in our countryside and ensuring a resilient environment for future generations.We hope you have enjoyed our guide to hedgerows. If you do, please like, share, and leave us a review. Your support really helps to grow our community. If you don't already follow us on social media, join us as we count down our Top 10 episodes, and get ready as we will reveal our most listened to episode on Christmas Eve-we hope it sparks your curiosity.We've been absolutely thrilled by the incredible response to our older episodes. We truly appreciate all the comments and feedback we've received; it means the world to us! A warm welcome to our new listeners as well; we're so glad you're here on this journey with us. Keep the conversation going because we love hearing from you!Wildlife Matters will return in two weeks for our winter solstice special, and we have two traditional nature-based stories to share with you that we hope you will enjoy on a cold, dark winter's evening. But until then, stay curious, wild ones. This is Wildlife Matters signing off. Takeaways: Hedgerows serve as vibrant ecosystems, playing a crucial role in biodiversity and environmental health. The initiative 'Get Cumbria Buzzing' demonstrates the importance of engaging youth in conservation efforts. Operation Major aims to combat wildlife crime and raise awareness about the treatment of dogs involved. Most years yield abundant seeds and fruits, significantly impacting wildlife populations. The decline of hedgerows has severe consequences for various species and overall ecosystem stability. Hedgerows provide essential shelter for livestock and help farmers manage their agricultural land efficiently. Links referenced in this episode:getcumbriabuzzingcumbriawildlifetrustfibrousprojectgigabitoperationmajorbadgertrustleagueagainstcrueltysportsnaturewatchfoundation

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• Wildlife Matters Guide to: Caring for your Garden Wildlife this winter

  In this week’s Wildlife Matters podcast, we dive deep into the fascinating world of winter wildlife care in our gardens. Discover essential practices that not only nourish your garden’s ecosystem but also provide a haven for local creatures during the frosty months ahead.We’ll share a treasure trove of tips—ranging from creating cosy shelters to offering vital sustenance—that embrace the principle of minimal intervention. Our goal is to ensure that your garden remains a thriving sanctuary for wildlife, even when the temperatures dip.But that’s not all! We take time to unwind with our Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments, where you can immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of late autumn—a soothing escape that fosters tranquillity and a profound connection to nature’s rhythms.In our Nature News, we’ll bring you the latest stories from the world of wildlife and conservation. From groundbreaking conservation efforts to inspiring reintroduction successes, these updates highlight the remarkable strides being made to protect our planet’s biodiversity.Join us on this journey as we enhance the well-being of our garden ecosystems while revelling in the serene beauty of the natural world around us. Tune in and let’s celebrate the wonders of wildlife together!Takeaways: In this episode of the Wildlife Matters podcast, we provide essential guidance on nurturing wildlife within your garden and wildlife pond during the winter months. We discuss the importance of maintaining a clean wildlife pond to prevent the accumulation of harmful gases beneath the ice, which can endanger aquatic life. Prudent management of fallen leaves in the pond is necessary to prevent excessive algae growth, which can deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic ecosystems. Listeners are encouraged to create a welcoming environment for local wildlife by leaving parts of their garden wild and untidy, thus supporting biodiversity during challenging winter months. Companies mentioned in this episode: Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation Trees for Life Surrey Wildlife Trust Bugs Life Painshill Park Trust

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• Wildlife Matters guide to Hibernation: A Survival Strategy for Wildlife in Winter

  Hello and welcome to this week's Wildlife Matters podcast. This week, we explore the complexities of hibernation. We will investigate why certain species, including hedgehogs, employ this survival method during the cold winter months. Then, in Part Two, we offer practical advice on how to improve your garden for hedgehogs as they prepare to hibernate, emphasising the importance of creating safe habitats and reducing disturbances. The Wildlife Matters podcast also examines the impact of Bonfire Night and fireworks on local wildlife. As the 5th of November approaches, a discussion arises about the historical origins of this event, particularly the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, which has evolved into a modern celebration that often causes distress to domestic pets and wild animals. The episode highlights the often-overlooked effect of fireworks on wildlife, including birds, foxes, and other creatures, who suffer extreme stress from loud noises and bright lights. To reduce such disturbances, the hosts suggest several measures to protect wildlife during this festive period, such as choosing public firework displays over private bonfires. They encourage creating safer environments by providing shelters for animals and advise against building bonfires in gardens where wildlife might seek refuge. This segment reminds us of our duty to the natural world and the importance of coexisting peacefully with wildlife during celebrations.

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• London's Wildest Places Greenwich Park

  The seventh series of the Wildlife Matters podcast kicks off with an essential milestone in wildlife policy: the government has officially ended the controversial badger culling program, a campaign we've passionately fought against for nearly fifteen years.Join us for our main feature as we confidently explore the rich biodiversity of Greenwich Park, the oldest Royal Park in London. Get ready for an exciting urban wildlife adventure amidst the vibrant autumn landscape.This week in Wildlife Matters Nature News, we will dive into the details of the Parliamentary debate that shaped this decision, before discussing updates on the impact on wild species and habitats from the proposed Planning and Infrastructure bill, before showcasing some of the projects that are recreating vital dew ponds across the South Downs National ParkTakeaways: The government has committed to ending badger culling, marking a significant policy shift in wildlife management. A new strategy will focus on enhanced cattle testing and vaccination to combat bovine tuberculosis. The creation of dew ponds in Hampshire aims to restore vital habitats for diverse wildlife species. Concerns have been raised regarding the proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill's impact on protected species. Wildlife and Countryside Link warns that environmental levies could undermine existing protections for endangered species. The podcast highlights the historical and ecological significance of Greenwich Park, emphasising its rich biodiversity. Companies mentioned in this episode: Protect the Wild Badger Trust British Cattle Veterinary Association DEFRA Wildlife and Countryside Link Wildlife Matters Organisation Frog Life National Lottery Heritage Fund Bannister Trust People's Postcode Lottery Want to get in touch? Our email is [email protected]

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• The Tragic Tale of the Pangolin The World's Most Trafficked Mammal

  In this week's Wildlife Matters podcast, we delve into the remarkable yet heart-wrenching story of the pangolin, the most trafficked mammal on the planet. My involvement with the CITES committee has given me deep insights into the numerous challenges these beautiful anteaters face. The episode outlines the four species of African pangolins: the Ground Pangolin, White-Bellied Pangolin, Giant Pangolin, and Black-Bellied Pangolin. Each species plays a unique ecological role and faces distinct threats. We examine their habitats, dietary preferences, and the crucial environmental functions they serve, particularly in controlling insect populations. As we address the realities of wildlife trafficking, the discussion highlights the global implications of the illegal trade in pangolin scales and meat, which is fueled by mistaken beliefs regarding their medicinal benefits. This grim reality is contrasted with a segment featuring a local African community, known for their vibrant red costumes, reminding us that wildlife conservation is inherently tied to cultural heritage and community identity. Through this episode, we aim not only to raise awareness about the pangolin's plight but also to inspire action, encouraging our listeners to advocate for the protection of these remarkable creatures and the ecosystems in which they thrive. Additionally, we will include our regular Mindful Moments, this time from the African bush, as well as the latest Wildlife Matters Nature News, which highlights the urgent need to address climate change and adopt sustainable practices to protect our planet's biodiversity. Key Takeaways: - This episode focuses on the pangolin, the most trafficked wild animal in the world, a species I have personally worked with as part of the CITES committee. - We emphasise the importance of protecting pangolins, as they play a critical role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations, particularly ants and termites. - Our Wildlife Matters Mindful Moments feature highlights a unique community in Africa, celebrated for its vibrant traditional red costumes, enriching our understanding of local cultures. - The episode discusses the severe threats faced by pangolins due to poaching and habitat loss, underscoring the urgent need for conservation efforts. - We examine the misconceptions surrounding the medicinal properties of pangolin scales, which lack scientific backing but persist in the illegal wildlife trade. - As we conclude Series Six, we invite listeners to engage with future episodes focused on wildlife conservation and the challenges of protecting endangered species. For more information, please visit: www.helpanimals.co.uk Companies mentioned in this episode: - Wildlife Trusts - Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs - Woodland Trust - CITES - Maasai - Wildlife Matters - British Hedgehog Preservation Society

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