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Migration and Conservation with Ben Watt

October 14, 2026·31 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

In this episode, host Sean Bean returns to RSPB Arne in Dorset, where autumn migration is bringing birds in from further north. We’ll discover why Poole Harbour is such an important winter haven for waders and waterfowl, and get to know some of the reserve’s remarkable birds of prey.Plus, we’ll meet musician Ben Watt, best known as a member of Everything But The Girl, as he takes us around his local patch at Brent Reservoir in North London. Ben shares how he fell in love with birding and why he’s campaigning to protect the wildlife and habitats on his doorstep.We’ll also hear about the devastating wildfires at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk and their impact on the birds and habitats that will take years to recover. Meanwhile, the BTO’s satellite-tagged cuckoo, Bean, continues his remarkable journey south.Dr Mya-Rose Craig is back with her dad, Chris, to answer your birding questions about migration after dark, and Maya takes a closer look at spotting scopes and what might be best for your birding. Produced by Hana Walker-Brown. The Executive Producer is Jane Gerber.Learn more about Ben Watt’s environmental group, Cool Oak https://www.cooloakgroup.com/And the Brent Resovoirhttps://canalrivertrust.org.uk/canals-and-rivers/places-to-visit/brent-reservoir-welsh-harpTrack our satellite tagged cuckoo, Bean. https://www.bto.org/get-involved/volunteer/projects/cuckoo-tracking/bean Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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