S3: E1 - Steve Backshall: An ocean special!

Zoologist and author Jules Howard tells the stories of sex on Earth. We find out some of the flirting techniques of the animal kingdom, how has sex shaped life on earth and what happens when animals don't sexually reproduce?

In this special episode we head to our Nature Nursery to find out about outdoor learning. We speak to the children and staff about why this nursery is so special. We also hear from author Patrick Barkham about his book Wild Child: Coming Home to Nature and his experiences as a Forest school volunteer and as a father. Patrick also tells us why he believes it is so important that children explore the natural world.

Springwatch presenter and zoologist Megan McCubbin tells us about her new book 'An Atlas of Endangered Species'. We hear about the work of pioneering conservationists, her own wildlife stories, and those of endangered species in their battle to come back from the brink.

In this marine special of The Wildlife Explorer we chat about some of the wonders of the underwater world. We also discuss some of our fantastic marine projects at Essex Wildlife Trust, including the ENORI oyster project, our work with seagrass and the problems caused for marine species by plastics.

In this episode we talk with Hilary Jeffkins from Silverback Films who was a series producer of the BBC Wild Isles documentary narrated by Sir David Attenborough. We find out what went on behind the scenes of making this spectacular nature series, about the fascinating lifecycle of the large blue butterfly and what we can do to help save our wild isles.

Steve Backshall joins us for an ocean special. We find about his favourite wildlife experiences throughout his career, the importance of connecting with the nature on our doorsteps and even create our own version of Deadly-60! We also find out what was scarier...coming face to face with a 4.5 metre crocodile or wearing the sparkly spandex on Strictly Come Dancing! Steve also shares about his upcoming projects, including his Ocean live theatre tour: https://www.stevebackshall.com/liveshows

We have reached our 20th episode! 🥳 On today’s show, (the last of Season 2) we will be delving into the secret world of our nocturnal nature. While we’re all tucked up in our beds, the day is just beginning for some of our best-loved creatures. Snuffly hedgehogs scuttle around on little legs, badgers begin their night time quest for snacks and bats swirl in the skies hoovering up unsuspecting insects. But why do they keep such anti-social hours? What do they get up to in the wee hours of the morning? Let's find out... https://www.essexwt.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/nature-neighbours https://www.essexwt.org.uk/whats-on https://www.wildlifewatch.org.uk/activities https://www.essexwt.org.uk/actions

Welcome to a Halloween special edition episode of The Wildlife Explorer podcast full of myths, legends and ghosts. Lock your doors, shut the curtains and settle down for some spooky Essex tales. This month, we're on the hunt for ghosts (of the owl variety!) and trying to solve some ancient Essex wildlife mysteries. From a scourge of mice with venomous teeth, to the slaying of a dragon. We'll be helping you to ID some of the UK's spookiest bird calls too - they can give you quite a fright! 

Today's show is a foodie special, finding out about some of the Essex companies that are working towards putting eco-friendly eating firmly on the map. We'll be talking to Fairfields crisps and Barn Farm Drinks to see how they produce the products we know and love on a mass scale. What considerations do they give to the wildlife that often share their farms and how are they striving for a more sustainable future?

On this month's episode of The Wildlife Explorer podcast, we look at some of the wonderful species and places that are special to Essex. Take a tour around the spectacular Edwardian gardens of Warley Place, once home to famed horticulturist Ellen Willmot, get lost in the heather haven that is Tiptree Heath nature reserve and learn about what makes our native oysters far more than just an expensive starter. Thank you for all your support for the show so far. If you enjoy listening, keep spreading the word and help us to reach more nature lovers in Essex and beyond. Find out more about Warley Place and plan your visit - https://www.essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/warley-place Get lost in the heather haven that is Tiptree Heath nature reserve - https://www.essexwt.org.uk/nature-reserves/tiptree-heath