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Join Rat Skinner, Farmer Chris and Matthew Gudgin at High Ash Farm for the latest episode of 'Gulps of Fresh Air,' where the countryside comes alive. This week, we're treated to the lively antics of Chris's boisterous terrier, not quite the sheepdog the flock behind us would prefer, as they prepare to move off the farm after a successful winter. Dive into the world of lambing with a remarkable 182% lambing rate, explore the rich tapestry of local history, from WWII radar stations to the transformation of farming practices, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area with its panoramic views, new orchid species, and the melodious song of the skylark. We'll also discuss recent changes in land use, from traditional farming to embracing stewardship and the advent of solar farms. The episode wraps up with a stroll through the emerging spring flora, highlighting the wild pansy and groundsel, and a nod to the farm's wildlife, including the ever-present hares. A special thank you goes out to listeners for their support in funding this series, contributing to conservation efforts like the new oak bench at Fox's Grove. Tune in for a blend of nature, history, and the evolving story of rural life.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/16582076-episode-2-6-barking-up-the-right-tree-from-orchids-to-old-oaks.mp3?download=true

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Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
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This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
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or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

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Join Chris Skinner on another enlightening episode of "The Countryside Podcast" at High Ash Farm. This week, Chris takes us on an adventurous journey, starting by exploring the unique life cycle of the moss Tortula muralis, perched high on an old roof accessed by a cherry picker. Discover how this resilient plant thrives in extreme conditions and its ecological importance. Later, Chris delves into the world of lichens, showcasing the vibrant Xanthoria parietina on old Norfolk clay pantiles. The episode concludes with a dawn chorus led by the Mistle Thrush in Cantley Hill plantation, and a visit to a magpie communal roost, offering insights into their behaviour and intelligence.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/16531872-episode-2-5-moss-magic-exploring-the-miniature-forest.mp3?download=true

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Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

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In this episode, Chris Skinner takes us through the enchanting yet challenging winter landscape of High Ash Farm in Norfolk. The podcast begins with an evening exploration where Chris discusses the mysterious fall of mature ash trees, potentially due to ash dieback affecting their roots. Despite the grim start, the episode transitions to a more uplifting note as Chris introduces listeners to the playful antics of badger cubs, observed through his wildlife cameras. The narrative then shifts to the early morning, where the dawn chorus, led by a melodious Robin, signifies the start of a new day amidst the farm's natural chorus. Chris also shares insights on the life of robins, their significance in British culture, and the subtle signs of spring. The episode concludes with a hopeful note, as Chris and Matthew listen for owls, reflecting on the interconnectedness of farm life and wildlife. Additionally, Chris responds to listener queries, discussing small mammals and their impact on local environments.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/16495679-episode-2-4-the-tangled-roots-of-high-ash.mp3?download=true

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
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or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

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In this episode of The Countryside Podcast, Chris and Matthew witness the breath-taking spectacle of waterfowl arrivals at the pond, reminiscent of Heathrow Airport with birds coming from all directions. Chris observes Mallards with their distinctive bottle-green heads, Egyptian geese, and Teal, all descending from high above, circling around before making their approach. The pond, a historical feature dug in the early 1600s, serves as a central hub for these birds, their numbers reaching up to 250 by evening. Chris discusses the challenges these birds face with habitat loss due to land drainage and modern farming practices, while Matthew touches on the sporting aspect of waterfowl. Join Chris and Matthew as they marvel at the birds' skilful landings, even on ice, and learn how they use the wind to their advantage for a soft landing. This episode captures the beauty and complexity of nature's evening routine.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/16442300-episode-2-3-the-duck-pond-serenade.mp3?download=true

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Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

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Chris and Matthew delve into the history of Hazel at the farm and some of the common uses before Chris heads out for an evening visit to the corvid roost. 

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/16414292-episode-2-2-the-hazel-s-whisper-and-the-jackdaw-s-call.mp3?download=true

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
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or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

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Kicking off 2025 with a fresh start, Chris and Matthew launch the new season of podcasts, now proudly produced by High Ash Farm itself!

As the calendar turns, they celebrate the arrival of The Flower of Hope - the snowdrop, marking the first whisper of spring. This delicate bloom not only heralds new beginnings but also brings a touch of beauty to the wintry landscape.

The duo then turns their attention to an intriguing inhabitant of the farm, Wormwood. This plant, known for its myriad uses, from medicinal to the infamously potent absinthe, is explored in depth. Will they venture into concocting this spirit? Let's hope not, or we might witness an unpredictable end to this episode!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432378/episodes/16376642-episode-2-1-flower-of-hope.mp3?download=true

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

Send us a text

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

Send us a text

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

Send us a text

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm

Send us a text

Support the show

Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to
[email protected]

This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm.
Support us here:
https://donorbox.org/podcast-12
or from the Podcast page here:
Podcast | High Ash Farm