The Anton Savage Show

Wildlife in Winter with Éanna Ní Lamhna

Dec 13, 2025
Éanna Ní Lamhna, an Irish biologist and wildlife specialist, shares fascinating insights into winter wildlife behavior. She explains how animals, like the Brent geese, migrate to Ireland and emphasizes the intelligence of crows using tools. Discover the quirks of female reindeer retaining their antlers, and the creative blue tits that peck milk bottles for cream. Éanna also advises on helping injured crows and highlights the cautious instincts of squirrels in the face of predators. A treasure trove of animal wisdom awaits!
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ADVICE

Use Chilli To Protect Bird Feeders

  • Put chili powder on nuts to deter grey squirrels from bird feeders.
  • Éanna Ní Lamhna says birds can't taste the capsaicin so they still eat the nuts.
INSIGHT

Why Brent Geese Visit Ireland

  • Brent geese migrate from Arctic regions to Ireland to feed on grass in winter.
  • Éanna Ní Lamhna links their presence to sparse Arctic feeding grounds covered in snow.
INSIGHT

Santa's Reindeer Are Probably Female

  • Reindeer females keep antlers through Christmas while males drop theirs earlier.
  • Éanna Ní Lamhna explains Santa's reindeer are likely female because they still have antlers at Christmas.
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