In Your Nature
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.
In Your Nature
In Your Nature Ep 61 - Return to Nature Clare Church Biodiversity Project
In Your Nature returns with a heartening new episode exploring the Return to Nature Clare Church Biodiversity Project, a community-driven initiative transforming churchyards into havens for wildlife and reflection.
Ricky is joined by Barry O’Loughlin, Biodiversity Officer with Clare County Council, to discuss the origins of the project, its progress to date, and the vital role of community involvement in its success. Together, they reflect on how with the bishops blessing, these sacred spaces are being reimagined as biodiversity hotspots, blending heritage with habitat.
Later in the episode we meet Jennie Drysdale and Anne McLaughlan, two local champions of the project. On location in Doonbeg, they share their experiences of embracing the initiative, the positive changes already visible in their community, and their hopes for the future. Their story is a testament to the power of grassroots action and the beauty that emerges when people and nature reconnect.
The Hedgehog is the featured species of the week, chosen by special request from Jennie. These charming nocturnal mammals are increasingly reliant on connected green spaces like churchyards for foraging and shelter. Their presence is a hopeful sign of a healthier, more hospitable landscape for all wildlife.
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.