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In this weeks episode, Ricky and Niall bring us something very new - an Avian Eurovision Song Contest! The pair have selected 12 contestant birds. Nine of these are based on the Eurovision 2022 finalists national birds, with the other three national birds hand-picked by Ricky and Niall. 

The birds representing each country are; European Robin - UK; Blackbird - Sweden; Italian Sparrow - Italy; White-throated Dipper - Norway; Black-tailed Godwit - Netherlands; Barn Swallow - Estonia; European Roller - Azerbaijan; Whooper Swan - Finland; Northern Lapwing - Ireland; Eurasian Skylark - Denmark; Hoopoe - Israel, and Goldcrest - Luxembourg.

Each contestant is given the chance to shine. Niall and Ricky discuss each species musical virtuousity and facets of their behaviour and ecology that might sway listeners in the contestants favour, or in some cases, perhaps push some listeners the other way.

The interval act for the Avian Eurovision Contest 2023 is the Nightingale, this weeks Bird of the Week and one whose song is sure to steal the show. 

In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, biodiversity officer with Offaly County Council in conversation with  Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland  and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly. The series is supported by Laois, Offaly and Westmeath County Councils and the Heritage Council.

For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.