

Words of the Wild
Scottish Wildlife Trust
Hear how Scotland’s leading nature conservation charity is protecting and restoring wildlife across Scotland.
For 60 years, the Scottish Wildlife Trust has been taking action to protect wildlife. Join hosts Ed and Rachel to hear about the breadth of work the Trust does, from practical action on its network of over 100 wildlife reserves to engaging with communities and campaigning for better protection of Scotland’s land and sea.
For 60 years, the Scottish Wildlife Trust has been taking action to protect wildlife. Join hosts Ed and Rachel to hear about the breadth of work the Trust does, from practical action on its network of over 100 wildlife reserves to engaging with communities and campaigning for better protection of Scotland’s land and sea.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 12, 2025 • 19min
Bonus episode 2: Stories from the Falls of Clyde
Talk a walk at the Falls of Clyde as we wander to the waterfall of Corra Linn.Words of the Wild is a podcast from the Scottish Wildlife Trust hosted by Ed Turpin and Rachel Faichnie, produced by Ed Turpin and Pete Haskell with editing support from Bespoken Media.Thanks to Phenotypic Recordings for the music in this podcast, which is taken from James Ross’ work entitled Landscape to Light. This music, as well as the full album by the same name, is available on all major streaming platforms.

Sep 12, 2025 • 24min
Bonus episode 3: Stories from Carstramon Wood
Join our fantastic volunteers for a closer look at the history and wildlife of Carstramon Wood in Dumfries and Galloway.Words of the Wild is a podcast from the Scottish Wildlife Trust hosted by Ed Turpin and Rachel Faichnie, produced by Ed Turpin and Pete Haskell with editing support from Bespoken Media.Thanks to Phenotypic Recordings for the music in this podcast, which is taken from James Ross’ work entitled Landscape to Light. This music, as well as the full album by the same name, is available on all major streaming platforms.

Sep 12, 2025 • 19min
Bonus episode 1 : Stories from Montrose Basin
We head to Montrose Basin on a sunny June morning for a walk out to the mudflats.Words of the Wild is a podcast from the Scottish Wildlife Trust, hosted by Ed Turpin and Rachel Faichnie, produced by Ed Turpin and Pete Haskell, with editing support from Bespoken Media.Thanks to Phenotypic Recordings for the music in this podcast, which is taken from James Ross’ work entitled Landscape to Light. This music, as well as the full album by the same name, is available on all major streaming platforms.

12 snips
Aug 26, 2024 • 42min
Invasive species, red squirrels and stories from Carstramon Wood
Hazel Forrest, a Species Advocacy Officer focused on invasive species, joins the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels team dedicated to conserving Scotland’s beloved red squirrels. They discuss the significant threats posed by invasive non-native species like Rhododendron ponticum and how community volunteers are crucial in monitoring and protecting red squirrels from grey squirrels and disease. The conversation also delves into the ecological balance in woodland habitats, emphasizing the importance of public involvement in conservation efforts across Scotland.

4 snips
Aug 19, 2024 • 41min
Conservation in Cumbernauld, the Falls of Clyde and folk tales from Largiebann
Angus Martin, a poet, writer, and historian, shares his passion for nature and wildlife inspired by Scotland's landscapes. He discusses the Cumbernauld Living Landscape's role in enhancing green spaces and community connections. Listeners are taken on a scenic journey to the Falls of Clyde, where Angus highlights its ecological and historical significance. He intertwines personal wildlife experiences with enchanting poetry, inviting a deeper appreciation for local folklore and the restorative power of nature.

Aug 12, 2024 • 48min
Snorkel trails, the mudflats of Montrose and the community that bought an island
Join Ed and Rachel as they dive into Scotland's marine wonders! Discover the snorkel trails connecting the community to vibrant underwater life. Hear about the inspiring community buyout of the Isle of Eigg and its dedication to wildlife conservation. Experience the breathtaking migration of pink-footed geese at Montrose Basin, a key stop for these majestic birds. The beauty of coastal ecosystems and community engagement in marine preservation take center stage in this captivating exploration!

7 snips
Aug 5, 2024 • 42min
Nectar networks, conservation grazing and a walk round Shewalton Wood
Laura MacGregor, a conservation shepherd, highlights the essential role of livestock in habitat restoration. She discusses innovative grazing techniques and their impact on biodiversity and climate change. The conversation takes listeners on a journey through Shewalton Wood, transformed from a landfill to a thriving wildlife reserve. The Ayrshire Nectar Network is introduced, focusing on boosting pollinator populations through creative initiatives like wildflower meadows. Personal anecdotes and local conservation efforts spark hope and community engagement in protecting nature.

6 snips
Jul 29, 2024 • 38min
Peatlands, nature-based solutions and creating a nature network in Edinburgh
Rebekah Strong, Terrestrial Policy Manager at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Leo Charlesworth from the Edinburgh Nature Network, and Julian Warman, a peatland reserves expert, dive into nature's transformative power. They discuss the vital role of urban biodiversity in Edinburgh, focusing on innovative landscape management. Rebekah highlights nature-based solutions to climate challenges, while Julian emphasizes the ecological significance and preservation of lowland raised bogs. Listeners gain insights into engaging with local initiatives and fostering a deeper connection with nature.

6 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 39min
Riverwoods, beavers and stories from our largest wildlife reserve
Explore the Riverwoods project and Scottish Beaver Trial impacts. Hear stories from Ben Mor Coigach and how locals are connected to the land. Discover the beauty of Akulti Bui and the surrounding wildlife.

Jul 15, 2024 • 43min
Origins, ospreys and one of the largest landscape-scale projects in Europe
Jo Pike and Kenny Taylor from the Scottish Wildlife Trust discuss the Coigach and Assynt Living Landscape project. They chat about ospreys, beavers, and volunteers at Loch of the Lowes. Learn about nature's recovery, distinguishing ospreys, unexpected beaver arrivals, emotional connections to nature, and the Cuyacán Ascent Living Landscape project in Scotland.


