The Birdy Bug Pod

Butterflies & Moths

Last year, the news that half of our butterfly species are in decline hit the headlines. Unpredictable seasons, habitat loss, and pollution our butterfly and moth populations face a lot of challenges, but it's not all bad news! Join us as we look in on our lepidopterans and see how they are doing. From the pressures to the heartwarming number of fantastic projects going on to help them. Habitat restoration, citizen science initiatives, species reintroductions, it is an incredible reminder that there are always incredible people and organisations working to protect our wildlife. It is great to be back after a bit of a hiatus (we explain where we've been), thank you to everyone who listens, we hope you enjoy this episode. Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links https://butterfly-conservation.org/news-and-blog/what-is-the-difference-between-butterflies-and-moths https://butterfly-conservation.org/butterflies/the-state-of-britains-butterflies https://www.gov.uk/government/news/work-to-save-rare-british-moth-from-extinction-in-england https://butterfly-conservation.org/moths/moth-conservation/legal-protection-for-moths https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c84zlnwppzgo https://www.royensoc.co.uk/news/large-blue-and-other-rare-insects-thriving-on-grasslands-restored-as-part-of-res-project/ https://butterfly-conservation.org/moths/moth-conservation/legal-protection-for-moths https://butterfly-conservation.org/our-work/conservation-projects/england/kents-magnificent-moths https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c84zlnwppzgo

Trichomonosis: How you can help our garden birds

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 touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links Trichomonosis | BTO Finch trichomonosis transmission in gardens The emergence and spread of finch trichomonosis in the British Isles - PMC Protozoan | Definition, Parasites, Diseases, Characteristics, Size, Kingdom, & Facts | Britannica

Ivy: Problem Plant or Wildlife Haven?

We see it everywhere. Climbing trees, clinging to walls, and carpeting woodland floors. Ivy is one of the most familiar plants in our landscapes, but is it really the garden nuisance it is often made out to be, or is it in fact an unsung biodiversity haven? Join us we take a closer look at ivy’s hidden world. From the surprising range of wildlife it supports to its deep-rooted cultural history, we explore why this resilient plant might deserve a little more respect. And there is even a link between ivy and our recent hiatus from recording. It's brilliant to be back after a bit of a break, we hope you enjoy listening! Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/43091/hedera-helix/details https://resjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/icad.12033 https://butterfly-conservation.org/news-and-blog/ivy-lifeline-for-autumn-moths https://www.bumblebeeconservation.org/learn-about-bumblebees/solitarybees/ivy-bee/

The UK's littlest owl

Small in size, big in personality, you can't help but love the Little Owl. While not native to the UK, this charismatic species has firmly established itself since its introduction, carving out a niche in our countryside and charming anyone lucky enough to spot one perched on a post. Sadly, however, Little Owl populations are seeing worrying declines, and the exact causes are not fully understood. So, grab a drink and join us as we explore the captivating world of the little owl: from its symbolic connection to ancient Greek mythology, to its journey to Britain, the challenges it faces today, and the fantastic conservation efforts working to help protect them. Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links Little Owl | BTO Little Owl Facts | Athene Noctua UK Little Owl Project Little owl | The Wildlife Trusts Little Owl (Athene noctua) - British Birds - Woodland Trust Little Owl Monitoring Network — Leigh Ecology Little Owl facts - The Barn Owl Trust

Blue whales bouncing back

Blue whales are the largest animal that has ever lived. Topping all kinds of charts and holding a host of impressive records in the animal kingdom. Yet despite their remarkable size, and partly because of it, they were driven close to extinction in the 20th century. But there is good news, as their numbers are beginning rise! Join us as we explore the incredible world of the blue whale. From their evolution from land-based mammals to the devastating impact of industrial whaling, and the conservation efforts working hard to support their recovery and returning numbers. Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links New research indicates blue whale population recovery - Curious Earth Blue whales: Facts, threats, and our conservation plan | IFAW fact_sheet_blue_whale_climate_change.pdf Whales evolved in three rapid phases, reveals largest study of its kind | UCL News - UCL – University College London First records of orcas seen killing and eating blue whales - Discover Wildlife Blue Corridors of the Eastern Pacific Ocean | World Wildlife Fund Antarctic blue whale numbers are recovering | WWF

Positive Nature News from 2025

With so much bad news in our daily feeds, it’s easy to forget that people around the world are working tirelessly to protect nature, wildlife, and the environment. So, before 2025 fades completely in the rear-view mirror, we’re taking one final look back at the year’s good news for the planet. From species making remarkable recoveries and long-lost wildlife being rediscovered, to major habitat protections and hard-won environmental policies, there’s far more hope than the headlines often suggest. Join us for a relaxed and chatty episode featuring some brilliant wins for nature, many mispronounced place names, and a hopeful start to 2026. Our annual positive news roundup is always one of our favourite episodes to research and record, we hope you enjoy listening. Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links Thermal Cameras and AI Help Protect Rhinos in Kenya | World Wildlife Fund Nepal Reports Stable Snow Leopard Population | World Wildlife Fund Devon pine marten kits born in 'historic moment' on Dartmoor - BBC News Smallest otter in the world rediscovered in Nepal after 185-year absence | Discover Wildlife Gorongosa Conservation Progress and Success 2025 Rediscovered in a Forgotten Park: The Elusive Upemba Lechwe - African Conservation Foundation Mountain Gorillas: Rising From the Brink of Extinction | World Wildlife Fund Seal Greece: 1,000 Miles for the 1,000 Mediterranean Monk Seals Left on the Planet - Seal Greece

Release the beavers!

We've mentioned them a lot but now it is time they get their very own episode. They're ecosystem engineers, climate change protectors, master builders, and have a tail with more functions than you'd think. You can't help but love them. So, join us as we dive into the fascinating world of beavers. From their unrivalled ability to shape landscapes and support entire ecosystems, to their extinction in the UK and the inspiring efforts to bring them back, we cover it all in this deep dive into one of our favourite animals. Get in touch! Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/saving-species/beavers https://beavertrust.org/beaver-basics/beaver-impacts/ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/11/beavers-save-czech-taxpayers-by-flooding-ex-army-training-site https://www.cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/events/cornwall-beaver-project https://www.norfolkriverstrust.org/case-studies/returning-beavers-to-the-glaven https://rewildingeurope.com/blog/beaver-benefits/ https://news.westernu.ca/2020/08/ancient-beavers-cut-trees-for-food-first-not-to-build-dams/ Beavers: How and why they build dams - YouTube

Much (more) ado about Curlews

If you’ve been listening to the pod for a while, you’ll know we have a real soft spot for curlews. They were even the topic of our second ever episode back in September 2022! Since then, lots has happened in the world of curlews. There’s been some sad news about the slender-billed curlew, but also lots to celebrate, with some great conservation projects underway. And on The Birdy Bug Pod front, Steve has a very exciting curlew update of his own. So, grab a drink and join us as we explore the latest curlew developments and chat about Steve’s new curlew venture. Get in touch! Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links Curlew Action – Action Now for Curlews Tomorrow HOME - Curlew LIFE Slender-Billed Curlew: The Latest Bird Extinction Explained Resources | Curlew Recovery Partnership Man treks 53 miles in bird costume costume to raise awareness about endangered Eurasian Curlew | New York Post

Help the humble bumble bee

Big, round, and adorably fluffy, is there a more charming visitor to our gardens than the bumble bee? We don’t think so! Sadly, these incredible and vitally important pollinators are in trouble. 2024 was the worst year for British bumble bee populations since records began, with many species facing growing pressures from habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. Grab a drink and join us as we explore the fascinating world of bumble bees. From their remarkable adaptations and surprising cultural impact to the threats putting them at risk. We also highlight the crucial work being done to protect them and share simple ways that each of us can help our bumble bees thrive, right in our own gardens and communities. And of course, we tackle the big question: do they really defy the laws of physics when they fly? We had a great time recording this episode, we hope you enjoy it. Get in touch! Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links The UK's bumblebees are in crisis - Bumblebee Conservation Trust The national monitoring BeeWalk scheme - Bumblebee Conservation Trust UK bumblebee numbers fell to record low in 2024 - Agriland.co.uk Multiple habitats need protecting to save UK bumblebees, finds 10-year citizen science study - BES Genus-Wide Characterization of Bumblebee Genomes Provides Insights into Their Evolution and Variation in Ecological and Behavioral Traits | Molecular Biology and Evolution | Oxford Academic

How the UK's largest bird of prey came back from extinction

Once widespread across the UK, the white-tailed eagle was driven to extinction by the early 20th century, but now, they are making a comeback! 2025 marks 50 years since the first reintroduction, when young eagles from Norway were released on the Isle of Rùm. Since then, the population has steadily grown, with birds now breeding across Scotland, and more recently even returning to raise chicks in England for the first time in over two centuries. Join us as we look back at the decline and disappearance of these magnificent birds, uncover the story of their return, and celebrate the dedicated organisations and tireless individuals who worked to bring the sea eagle back. Get in touch! Don'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! Have you seen a white-tailed eagle? We'd love to hear about it. Follow us @thebirdybugpod Links Return: Our White Tailed Sea Eagle Reintroduction Documentary White-tailed eagle reintroduction project | Forestry England White-tailed eagle reintroduction & conservation | Rewilding Britain White-tailed Eagle Reintroduction on the Isle of Wight - Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation White-tailed eagle saga - Dave Sexton

Birds ARE dinosaurs

Did you know that birds are dinosaurs? Not just their descendants, but the last living branch of one of the most successful animal groups to ever walk the Earth. In this episode, we sit down with paleo artist, keen birdwatcher, and lifelong dinosaur enthusiast Sean Hennessy (aka Speed Thief) to uncover the fascinating evolutionary link between modern birds and their prehistoric relatives. We dispel some common dino myths and misunderstandings, explore how dinosaurs capture the public imagination, and discuss why they remain vital ambassadors for natural history and science. We also chat to Sean about how he sees paleo art as a powerful form of science communication and learn more about his fantastic paleo comics. Sean has probably had more mentions on the podcast than anyone else, we've been wanting to have him on for ages. It was brilliant to finally have him in the studio and chat all things dinosaur (prehistoric and living). Sean's art and socials: https://linktr.ee/speed.thief @speed.thief Get in touch! Don'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 @thebirdybugpod

Discussing Dragonflies

Ancient, agile, and unmatched in the air, dragonflies have ruled the skies for over 300 million years. But in today’s rapidly changing world, how are they faring? In this episode, we explore the world of these remarkable insects, from their perfectly-adapted anatomy and impressive hunting skills, to the art, poetry, and legends they have inspired across centuries and cultures. We examine the state of the UK’s dragonfly populations, where some species are in steep decline while others are on the rise, revealing important clues about the health of our ecosystems and the effects of climate change. And we of course, highlight the brilliant work of the dedicated people and organisations striving to protect these extraordinary insects and restore the habitats they need to survive. Get in touch! Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links British Dragonfly Society - British Dragonfly Society Rare dragonfly introduced into a hidden corner of Cumbria Dragonfly species are colonising the UK 'at a greater rate than ever before' | Natural History Museum UK’s dragonflies are benefiting from climate change | UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Rare dragonfly introduced into remote area of Cumbria to reverse its decline | Conservation | The Guardian Rare dragonfly introduced into remote area of Cumbria to reverse its decline | Conservation | The Guardian

Cuckoos & the challenges they face

A symbol of spring with its unmistakable call, the cuckoo is one of our most intriguing birds. From their truly unique (and brutal) breeding habits to their remarkable migrations, the life of a cuckoo is absolutely fascinating and steeped in folklore. Join us as we step into their world of brood parasitism, how they trick another species to raise their young for them and mostly get away with it. We discuss which bird species are more susceptible to becoming hosts and which ones have got wiser to having a rogue egg dropped on them. It's evolutionary warfare at its most captivating. Unfortunately, our cuckoo populations are facing a variety of challenges as complex as themselves. As the climate changes, disrupting their routines, they are struggling. But there is still hope. As we always try to do, we look at the brilliant projects being carried out to help these remarkable birds and hope they succeed in saving this iconic bird. Spring without the sound of a cuckoo is unthinkable. ** And a little game, while you listen. Matthew made a slight, and rather funny, error in the episode. Can you spot it? Get in touch! Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links Cuckoo Bird Facts | Cuculus Canorus Change in host rejection behavior mediated by the predatory behavior of its brood parasite | Behavioral Ecology | Oxford Academic Cuckoo Tracking Project | BTO Epic 7,500-mile cuckoo migration wows scientists - BBC News A call for the cuckoo: how to help an endangered bird | Gardens | The Guardian Population decline is linked to migration route in the Common Cuckoo, a long-distance nocturnally-migrating bird | BTO

Our 50th episode!

We’ve hit the big 5-0, and we’re absolutely chuffed! When we started this podcast, neither of us had ever recorded one before and we had no idea what to expect. But 50 episodes in and we're absolutely loving it. In this episode, we’re taking a moment to celebrate and reflect. We chat about how it all began, where the podcast name came from, and why Steve’s all about birds while Matthew’s mad about bugs. We also talk about why we love podcasting and who our dream guests would be. Plus, we throw in a few fun facts about our favourite creatures and challenge each other with a couple of quiz questions to see how well we really know our own, and each other’s, specialties. A relaxed and chatty episode to mark hitting 50. Come celebrate with us and get to know us and the pod a little better. A huge thank you to everyone who has listened so far! Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links Amazing! Bird Sounds From The Lyre Bird - David Attenborough - BBC Wildlife

Incredibly Important Invertebrates

They may not have backbones, but invertebrates are the unsung heroes of the natural world, shaping landscapes, driving ecosystems, and even influencing the behaviour of top predators. In this episode, we journey into their fascinating and often overlooked world. We explore how termites engineer entire ecosystems, how ant behaviour can influence lion hunting patterns, and why a specific rainforest bee is the key to every Brazil nut you’ve ever eaten. While many invertebrates are now in decline, it's not all bad news. We share some hopeful conservation stories, organisations working hard to protect our invertebrate populations, and highlight simple ways we can all help support these vital animals. Researching this episode took us down all sorts of unexpected rabbit holes, something you’ll definitely hear reflected in the conversation. We hope you enjoy listening What’s your favourite invertebrate fact, story, or encounter? Come share it with us over on Instagram. We’d love to hear from you @thebirdybugpod. Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Links 'We cannot survive without insects' – DW – 06/22/2018 How loud is YOUR penis?! The waterboatman and his mighty member! Stream Lesser Water Boatman, the loudest underwater insect by terranova | Listen online for free on SoundCloud Figs & Wasps | How Are Figs Pollinated? | FoodUnfolded Letting grass grow long boosts butterfly numbers, UK study proves | Butterflies | The Guardian Ecological feedbacks. Termite mounds can increase the robustness of dryland ecosystems to climatic change - PubMed

The Scottish Wildcat: On the edge of extinction

Mysterious, fierce, and teetering on the edge of extinction, the Scottish Wildcat is one of the UK’s rarest and most elusive mammals. Nicknamed the Highland Tiger, this striking predator once prowled across much of the UK. But today, it's hanging on by a thread. In this episode, we take a closer look at what makes this cat so special, from its huge personality and charismatic scowl to its deep roots in Scottish culture and folklore. We explore the threats it faces, uncover the reasons behind its decline, and shine a light on the passionate conservationists working to bring this iconic species back from the brink. Contact: As always, please do feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions, feedback, comments, or just want to say hi! The easiest way to get in touch is to ping us a message on Instagram: Follow us @thebirdybugpod Links: European wildcat | RZSS Wildcat conservation in Scotland | Saving Wildcats | Saving Wildcats Wildcat Haven Wildcats | NatureScot Wildcats released in Scottish Highlands in effort to prevent extinction in UK | Rewilding | The Guardian https://treesforlife.org.uk/

The value of volunteering

Everyone can play a role in conservation, from protecting wildlife to contributing to real scientific research. Volunteering and its powerful branch, citizen science, is making a real difference for the environment. In this episode, we explore the incredible impact of these efforts across the UK. From bird counts and river monitoring to tree planting and habitat restoration, passionate people are tackling climate change, preserving biodiversity, and shaping environmental policy. We also discuss how volunteering benefits individuals and communities and share our own experiences with these initiatives. By the end, you’ll probably guess that we’re big fans of volunteering! We hope you enjoy the episode and would love to hear about your own experiences or projects you’re passionate about. Contact: As always, please do feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions, feedback, comments, or just want to say hi! The easiest way to get in touch is to ping us a message on Instagram: Follow us @thebirdybugpod Links: The Big River Watch | The Rivers Trust Home - Earthwatch Europe Take part in a project | BTO - British Trust for Ornithology https://www.rspb.org.uk/helping-nature/what-you-can-do Join the Great British Spring Clean | Keep Britain Tidy Big Butterfly Count From farm to forest: the volunteers planting 100,000 trees in Somerset | Trees and forests | The Guardian Nature's Calendar - Woodland Trust The Conservation Volunteers

UK Species in the Red

How are the UK's animals really doing? In this episode, we dive into the IUCN Red List, the world’s most comprehensive assessment of species at risk of extinction, to uncover which of our birds, mammals, invertebrates, fish, and more are struggling. Some of the findings won't come as a surprise, but others might shock you, as a few of our most familiar and commonly seen birds are in fact on the Red list. Rather than focusing on a single species, this episode takes a step back to reveal the bigger picture of wildlife decline in the UK. But it’s not all bad news! We also highlight conservation success stories, celebrating species that are making a comeback thanks to dedicated efforts. Join us as we uncover the challenges, surprises, and inspiring efforts to turn the tide for the UK’s wildlife. Contact: As always, please do feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions, feedback, comments, or just want to say hi! The easiest way to get in touch is to ping us a message on Instagram: Follow us @thebirdybugpod Links: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Peoples Trust for Endangered Species UK fish and chip shops are selling endangered sharks, DNA tests prove | Sharks | The Guardian Vendace and powan | NatureScot Endangered UK crayfish released into the wild at secret river site in Hampshire | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust The State Of Britain's Moths | Butterfly Conservation

2024: Positive nature news from around the world

Amid the constant stream of negative headlines, we’re keeping our annual tradition alive and spending an episode reflecting on the positive environmental strides made in 2024! From newly established marine protected areas to passionate local communities defending nature, this episode is packed with inspiring stories. We've got dam removals, flying scientists teaching birds how to migrate, species reintroductions, and much more. As we move into a new year, join us for this uplifting look back at the brilliant work being done worldwide to protect and restore our nature. We love recording these episodes as they are a reminder that dedicated people everywhere are working tirelessly to make a real difference for the environment, wildlife, and people... and that is worth celebrating. What was your favourite positive nature story of 2024? Get in touch, we would love to know 👇 Contact: As always, please do feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions, feedback, comments, or just want to say hi! The easiest way to get in touch is to ping us a message on Instagram: Follow us @thebirdybugpod Links Denmark will plant 1 billion trees and convert 10% of farmland into forest | AP News Scientists taught this once-extinct bird how to migrate by guiding them across Europe | Euronews Herd of 170 bison could help store CO2 equivalent of 43,000 cars, researchers say | Rewilding | The Guardian As Zambia schools take on climate change, one teen is spreading the word in sign language | The Independent How a tribe brought back its sacred California condors - BBC Future Japan develops plastic that disappears within hours in the sea and boosts soil health - Times of India Amazon rainforest: Deforestation rate halved in 2023 - BBC News Wild tiger population increases in Thailand

We chat with wildlife hero Reuben Martin

Passionate young conservationist, dedicated reptile surveyor and winner of the BBC Springwatch Under 18s Wildlife Hero Award 2024, Reuben Martin joins us on The Birdy Bug Pod. Grab a coffee and tune in for a fantastic chat with Reuben as we learn all about his conservation work, his love for our native reptiles, the experience of appearing on BBC Springwatch and what it was like getting recognised in public for the first time. This episode is packed with reptile facts, inspiring projects, and some brilliant stories from Reuben's surveys. In true Birdy Bug Pod style, we wrap up with some heart warming conservation stories, shining a light on the incredible efforts being made to protect and restore our wildlife. We were thrilled to have Reuben as a guest. Seeing someone so young and passionate making a real difference for nature is truly inspiring. Make sure you check out Reuben's YouTube channel: Reuben’s Reptiles - YouTube And don't forget to follow him over on Instagram: @reubens_reptiles A huge thank you to Reuben and his Dad for travelling down to record with us! Get in touch Don'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 @thebirdybugpod Timestamps 00:00:00 Meet Reuben Martin 00:06:42 Reuben's wildlife heroes 00:08:40 All about our reptiles 00:15:25 Reuben's conservation work 00:24:51 Winning Springwatch's Wildlife Hero award 00:32:16 Future career & Reuben's YouTube channel 00:38:29 Positive conservation news 00:53:59 What's next & wrap up Links: Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Garden Dragon Watch | Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Home | Steyning Downland Scheme https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/help-your-heaths/heathlands-reunited/

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