Messages from the Wild

The Dipper

This Dipper is part of a series commissioned by Derby University's Department of Nature Connectedness for The River Derwent.  With many thanks to Mark Cocker, author and naturalist.   further info: [email protected] 

The Mayfly

This Mayfly is part of a series commissioned by Derby University's Department of Nature Connectedness for The River Derwent.  With many thanks to Charles Foster, author and academic.   further info: [email protected] 

The Water Vole

This Water Vole is part of a series commissioned by Derby University's Department of Nature Connectedness for The River Derwent.  With many thanks to Christine Gregory, writer, photographer and painter. The Water Vole: The Story of One of Britain's M…

The Fairy Shrimp

This episode is especially made to accompany the work of the painter and print maker, Frances Gynn, for her exhibition on Fairy Shrimps as part of her Public Erasures series. It's powerful stuff so please go along if you can. Public Erasures at the R…

The Earthworm

Earthworms are arguably our most vital animal. They're quite funny too. (This one has been added to the podcast for a second time to be used in Derby City as part of their Wildlife Festival.) With many thanks to Nicky Scott, aka Dr Compost, Food Wast…

The Wood Ant

Our largest ant species explains how vital ants are to our survival, despite his seemingly lazy life, he manages to make the effort. With many thanks to Professor Adam Hart, Entomologist & Professor of Science Communication, University of Glouces…

The Maggot

Vital to our existence and yet maggots have never been a very popular creature but, Dr Erica McAlister makes this particular maggot seem almost adorable. With many thanks to Dr Erica McAlister, Entomologist, Senior Curator at the Natural History Muse…

The Woodlouse

Curious creatures woodlice, well I think so. I'm so happy I finally got to talk to one, I'd always wondered if they actually did eat their own poo. This one comes from the collection I made for The Lost Gardens of Heligan. With many thanks to Lucy La…

The Badger

After listening to this badger I think you'll realise that they don't deserve the bad press they seem to get. This one comes from the collection I made for The Lost Gardens of Heligan. With many thanks to Steve Backshall, Naturalist, Presenter, Autho…

The Broad Bodied Chaser Dragonfly

Dragonflies are out and about in all their glory across Britain now so keep your eyes peeled for them. This one comes from the collection I made for The Lost Gardens of Heligan, called Voices from the Lost Gardens. With many thanks to Steve Jones, Au…