Join Dr Nick Askew on a serene springtime walk through the woodlands bordering the River Nene in Northamptonshire, UK. In this inaugural episode of The Nature Escape, Nick shares his observations and insights as he reconnects with nature during his lunchtime stroll.​

Highlights of the Episode:

Spring Awakening: Experience the rejuvenation of the natural world as plants bloom and animals become more active.​

Birdsong and Identification: Learn to recognize various bird calls, including those of blackbirds, song thrushes, chiffchaffs, and the elusive goldcrest—the smallest bird in Europe.​

Goldcrest Spotlight: Discover fascinating facts about the goldcrest, such as its minuscule size (weighing only 5-6 grams) and distinctive golden crown.

Signs of Badger Activity: Observe evidence of badgers in the area, including freshly dug setts and latrines, indicating their presence and territorial behavior.​

Butterfly Sighting: Witness the season's first brimstone butterfly, a vibrant sign of spring's arrival.​

Throughout the episode, Nick emphasizes the importance of listening to nature, using tools like the Merlin app to identify bird songs, and appreciating the subtle cues that signal seasonal transitions. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher or a casual nature enthusiast, this episode offers a peaceful escape into the wonders of the British countryside.​

Tune in and let the sounds of nature guide your senses.

Credits

• Image by Kev from Pixabay
• Goldcrest - Ulf Elman xeno-canto.org
• Willow Warbler - Arjun Dutta xeno-canto.org
• Blue Tit - Paul Kelly xeno-canto.org
• Long-tailed tit - Jarek Matusiak xeno-canto.org
• Fieldfare - Jarek Matusiak xeno-canto.org
• Redwing - Susanne Kuijpers xeno-canto.org
• Chiffchaff - Vincent Pourchaire xeno-canto.org