Small in size, big in personality, you can't help but love the Little Owl.

While not native to the UK, this charismatic species has firmly established itself since its introduction, carving out a niche in our countryside and charming anyone lucky enough to spot one perched on a post.

Sadly, however, Little Owl populations are seeing worrying declines, and the exact causes are not fully understood.

So, grab a drink and join us as we explore the captivating world of the little owl: from its symbolic connection to ancient Greek mythology, to its journey to Britain, the challenges it faces today, and the fantastic conservation efforts working to help protect them.

Get in touch

Don't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!

Follow us @thebirdybugpod

Links

Little Owl | BTO

Little Owl Facts | Athene Noctua

UK Little Owl Project

Little owl | The Wildlife Trusts

Little Owl (Athene noctua) - British Birds - Woodland Trust

Little Owl Monitoring Network — Leigh Ecology

Little Owl facts - The Barn Owl Trust

Blue whales are the largest animal that has ever lived. Topping all kinds of charts and holding a host of impressive records in the animal kingdom. Yet despite their remarkable size, and partly because of it, they were driven close to extinction in the 20th century. But there is good news, as their numbers are beginning rise!

Join us as we explore the incredible world of the blue whale. From their evolution from land-based mammals to the devastating impact of industrial whaling, and the conservation efforts working hard to support their recovery and returning numbers.

Get in touch

Don't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!

Follow us @thebirdybugpod

Links

New research indicates blue whale population recovery - Curious Earth

Blue whales: Facts, threats, and our conservation plan | IFAW

fact_sheet_blue_whale_climate_change.pdf

Whales evolved in three rapid phases, reveals largest study of its kind | UCL News - UCL – University College London

First records of orcas seen killing and eating blue whales - Discover Wildlife

Blue Corridors of the Eastern Pacific Ocean | World Wildlife Fund

Antarctic blue whale numbers are recovering | WWF

With so much bad news in our daily feeds, it’s easy to forget that people around the world are working tirelessly to protect nature, wildlife, and the environment.

So, before 2025 fades completely in the rear-view mirror, we’re taking one final look back at the year’s good news for the planet. From species making remarkable recoveries and long-lost wildlife being rediscovered, to major habitat protections and hard-won environmental policies, there’s far more hope than the headlines often suggest.

Join us for a relaxed and chatty episode featuring some brilliant wins for nature, many mispronounced place names, and a hopeful start to 2026.

Our annual positive news roundup is always one of our favourite episodes to research and record, we hope you enjoy listening.

Get in touch

Don't forget to follow The Birdy Bug Pod over on Instagram. And please do feel free to contact us with any questions, feedback, comments, or just to say hi!

Follow us @thebirdybugpod

Links

Thermal Cameras and AI Help Protect Rhinos in Kenya | World Wildlife Fund

Nepal Reports Stable Snow Leopard Population | World Wildlife Fund

Devon pine marten kits born in 'historic moment' on Dartmoor - BBC News

Smallest otter in the world rediscovered in Nepal after 185-year absence | Discover Wildlife

Gorongosa Conservation Progress and Success 2025

Rediscovered in a Forgotten Park: The Elusive Upemba Lechwe - African Conservation Foundation

Mountain Gorillas: Rising From the Brink of Extinction | World Wildlife Fund

Seal Greece: 1,000 Miles for the 1,000 Mediterranean Monk Seals Left on the Planet - Seal Greece