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In Your Nature

In Your Nature

Written by: By BirdWatch Ireland
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The In Your Nature Podcast brings you conversations about birds & wildlife, wild places, the work of BirdWatch Ireland and wildlife conservationists. The podcast features Ricky Whelan, biodiversity officer with Offaly County Council in conversation with Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland with regular expert guests. BirdWatch Ireland is Ireland's largest independent conservation organisation. Episodes are released in seasons (three per year) with six episodes in each, dropping weekly (Monday mornings) in spring, summer, and autumn. Topics discussed vary, with birds and wider biodiversity at the heart of it all, each episode finishes with the "Bird of the Week" feature in homage to this wonderful group of animals. To give feedback, suggest topics or ask a question you can email us at info@birdwatchireland.ie .

The series is supported by Laois, Offaly and Westmeath County Councils through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage - Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF) and the Heritage Council.

The series is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.



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Episodes
  • In Your Nature Ep 64 - Pádraic Fogarty
    Aug 24 2025

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    In Your Nature returns with a thought-provoking new episode featuring Ricky in conversation with Pádraic Fogarty—ecologist, author, and one of Ireland’s most influential voices for nature. The discussion centres on Pádraic’s long-standing work advocating for more ambitious and meaningful conservation efforts across Ireland, from rewilding landscapes to reforming environmental policy.

    Together, they explore the state of Irish biodiversity, the systemic challenges facing conservation, and the urgent need to restore ecological integrity. Pádraic shares insights from his time with the Irish Wildlife Trust, his writing, and his vision for a future where nature is prioritised and protected. The episode offers a compelling look at how Ireland can move beyond token gestures and embrace real change for its wild places and species.

    The Gannet is the featured Bird of the Week—an iconic seabird known for its spectacular plunge-diving and striking appearance. Nesting in dramatic cliff colonies around Ireland’s coasts, the Gannet is a powerful symbol of our marine heritage and a reminder of the richness that lies just offshore.

    In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.

    The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.

    For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.


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    57 mins
  • In Your Nature Ep 63 - Birds of the Falkland Islands
    Aug 17 2025

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    In Your Nature returns with a captivating new episode recorded live from Global BirdFair 2025, where Niall Hatch is joined by two seasoned nature guides with deep ties to the Falkland Islands—Andy Pollard, a Falklands native and expert birder, and Martin Anstee, a conservationist and expedition leader with decades of experience in the region.

    Together, they explore the unique biodiversity of the Falklands and surrounding South Atlantic islands, from windswept tussac grasslands to rugged coastal cliffs teeming with life. The conversation dives into the islands’ remarkable endemic bird species, including the Cobb’s Wren and Falkland Steamer Duck, and expands to cover the broader ecological richness of the region—penguins, seals, and the delicate balance of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Andy and Martin share stories from the field, insights into conservation challenges, and reflections on what makes the Falklands such a special place for wildlife and wildness.

    The Johnny Rook is the featured Bird of the Week—a bold and intelligent raptor also known as the Striated Caracara. Endemic to the Falklands, this curious bird is famed for its cheeky behavior and problem-solving prowess, often seen investigating backpacks or stealing unattended items. A true symbol of the islands’ wild spirit, the Johnny Rook is both a conservation icon and a favourite among visiting birders.

    A special thanks goes to Charlie Bingham and Oscar Henderson for the invitation to record at Global BirdFair 2025 and for facilitating us at the Whinchat Podcast Stage over the weekend.

    In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.

    The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.

    For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.


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    38 mins
  • In Your Nature Ep 62 - Ealing (London) Beaver Project
    Aug 10 2025

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    In Your Nature returns with a fascinating new episode spotlighting the Ealing Beaver Project, a pioneering urban rewilding initiative bringing these charismatic ecosystem engineers back to West London after a 400-year absence.


    Niall is joined (recorded live from Global BirdFair 2025) by Dr Sean McCormack, founder of the project and a native of County Kildare. Together, they delve into the story behind the beavers’ return, from the inspiration and planning stages to the challenges of introducing them into a highly urbanised setting. They explore how these remarkable animals are helping to restore wetland habitats, boost biodiversity, and reconnect city dwellers with the wild. Dr McCormack shares insights into the community’s enthusiastic response, the ecological benefits already emerging, and his hopes for the project’s future.

    The Hobby is the featured Bird of the Week, a small and agile falcon known for its dazzling aerial hunting displays. Often seen swooping after dragonflies or darting after swifts in summer skies, this elusive bird is a thrilling symbol of wildness returning to landscapes where nature is given space to thrive.

    A special thanks goes to Charlie Bingham and Oscar Henderson for the invitation to record at Global BirdFair 2025 and for facilitating us at the Whinchat Podcast Stage over the weekend.

    In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.

    The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.

    For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.


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    42 mins
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