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 62 - Ealing (London) Beaver Project
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.