The Plodcast

Join the host on a tranquil ramble through the Menai Straits in North Wales, encountering rare butterflies and curlews. Explore a forgotten peninsula with a mix of wildlife and historic landscapes, including old docks and forts. Experience the calming sounds of the environment and the beauty of wildflower-filled sand dunes.

Horrible Histories, Ghosts, and Detectorists star Simon Farnaby discusses his new children's book 'The Wizard in My Shed' blending history with nature. He explores the importance of connecting with nature, writing for children, and his roles in Horrible Histories. Simon also reflects on the discovery of Richard III's remains and shares filming experiences in countryside-based comedies. Additionally, he talks about his favorite part of Britain and British wild animal preferences.

Join storyteller Martin Maudsley on a spooky dusk walk in Dorset as he shares eerie tales of spirits, strange events, and weird wildlife. From the mysteries of Blood Lane to haunting folk tales and ancestral memories in a graveyard, be prepared to be thrilled and chilled this Halloween season.

Hunter-naturalist Rob Yorke discusses wildlife, farming, hunting, and rewilding in the Black Mountains. They explore the unique landscape, conservation efforts, modern farming practices, changing bird populations, challenges in rewilding upland areas, and the complexities of food waste and environmental impact.

Nature writer Helen Macdonald discusses her new book 'Vesper Flights' and her passion for wildlife. Topics include her childhood connection to nature, academic journey, glowworms, favorite British landscapes, and themes of belonging and hope in her latest book.

Meet Mya-Rose Craig, aka Birdgirl, a leading environmental campaigner who takes listeners on a birdwatching tour in Somerset. The podcast covers her passion for wildlife, family influence on birdwatching, gap year plans, strategies to connect with nature, bird blogging adventures, urban vs. rural living, and the importance of providing nutritious food for birds.

Ornithologist Steve Roberts leads an expedition to find honey buzzard nests in a Welsh forest. Topics include tracking bird movements with GPS tags, climbing trees to reach nests, close encounters with honey buzzards, and discussing nesting behavior and habitat importance.

Season 7 of the podcast explores encounters with wildlife, chats with farmers, Dark Age wizards, Napoleonic battles, and the incredible Birdgirl. Topics include environmental activism, nature writing, farming, and a new children's story set in the countryside.

Discover the fascinating world of the common toad on the River Usk in Monmouthshire. From exploring pools full of warty wanderers to delving into literary associations, this episode celebrates the clever amphibian. Learn about their resilience in ponds and their portrayal in famous works of literature.

Explore the enchanting world of Hampshire chalk streams with Dr. George McGavin and learn about the diverse wildlife, from mayflies and damselflies to bullheads and leeches. Discover the vital role of key species, like stickleback fish and burr reed flowers, in this unique ecosystem. Hear about efforts to protect rivers amidst challenges like water abstraction and climate change. Dive into the intricate aquatic life of the stream, including diatoms, water fleas, and caddisflies, emphasizing the importance of preserving these precious habitats.