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This episode of Wild Conversations is all about catching up with the whirlwind that is daily life at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park. Jess sits down with Steve to chat through the never-ending list of jobs, challenges, and surprises that have been keeping the team busy.

Between ensuring the welfare of hundreds of parrots, responding to the daily needs of animals across the park, and managing staff, you’d think there wouldn’t be much room left for anything else. But in true LWP style, the development team have started on two enclosure refurbishments at the same time — because why do one job when you can do two? Jess laughs with Steve about the chaos that comes with it, while Steve admits it’s just another week in the parks version of normal.

The real excitement, though, comes with a spoiler Steve finally lets slip: a new resident is on the way. After weeks of keeping it under wraps, the secret is out — a young Eurasian Lynx will soon call the park home. For those who remember the emotional journey with Nigel the Puma, this moment feels like history repeating itself. The team are already bracing themselves for another character who’s bound to steal hearts and make his mark.

It’s a lively, honest, and sometimes chaotic chat that perfectly sums up what life behind the scenes of a busy wildlife park is really like.

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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo #lynx #whitetiger 

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Hosted (sort of) by Jessica Newton

In a refreshing twist to the usual format, this week Steve grabs the mic — figuratively, of course — and flips the script, putting podcast host and zoologist Jessica Newton in the hot seat.

What unfolds is a light-hearted, engaging profile of the woman who’s been guiding listeners through the sanctuary’s journey. Steve delves into Jess’s university days, her path into zoology, and ultimately how she came to be such an integral part of the team. There's plenty of laughter as they reflect on her early days at the park — including the long-standing joke that Steve “remembers interviewing her all those years ago.” Jess, of course, knows full well he hasn’t the foggiest memory of it — but she lets him have his moment.

As Jess shares stories from her studies and her first impressions of the sanctuary, the episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at her passion for animal care, conservation, and education. It also reveals the camaraderie that’s grown throughout the team at the sanctuary.

Episode 17 is more than just a fun role reversal — it’s a chance for listeners to meet the heart and humour behind the mic. And yes, Steve manages to get a few cheeky digs in before the credits roll.


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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

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Email: [email protected]

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Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

In this deeply moving episode our wonderful host, Jess Newton sits down with Steve for what is, without doubt, one of the most heartfelt chapters in the sanctuary’s story.

This episode is dedicated to Dehra — the very first tiger to arrive at the sanctuary, and the one who would go on to carve a permanent place in Steve’s heart. With raw emotion, laughter, and moments of reflection, Jessica does her best to hold it together as Steve opens up about the extraordinary connection he shared with this magnificent animal.

Dehra wasn’t just a tiger. She was a teacher, a comforter, and — in many ways — a mirror to Steve’s own journey. What began with cautious steps and uncertain boundaries soon blossomed into a friendship that defied explanation. Through Dehra, Steve discovered a new side to animal care — not just the logistics of housing a big cat, but the emotional bond that could form between human and predator.

Listeners are taken on an intimate journey through the early days of Dehra’s arrival, her unique personality, her quirks, and ultimately the moment everyone dreads — saying goodbye. It’s an episode full of warmth, loss, and legacy.

If you’ve ever wondered whether animals truly connect with us, this episode will leave no doubt. Dehra wasn’t just a part of the sanctuary — she was a cornerstone. And her spirit lives on in every tiger that followed.

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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo #tiger

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

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Email: [email protected]

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Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

In this powerful and poignant episode,  Zoologist, Jess Newton sits down once again with Steve Nichols BCAv and founder of the UK's largest parrot sanctuary, to explore a moment that changed the course of the sanctuary’s future — and Steve’s life — forever.

This heart-warming episode marks the arrival of something far bigger than feathers: tigers. And not just any tigers, but the first big cats to call the sanctuary home. What began as a bold decision quickly turned into a cocktail of nerves, excitement, and no small dose of self-doubt. With candid honesty, Steve recounts the whirlwind of preparing for their arrival — the logistical chaos, the emotional toll, and the sheer weight of responsibility that came with caring for one of the world’s most powerful predators.

But this isn’t just about cages and permits. It’s about connection. This episode also introduces the beginning of an extraordinary bond between man and beast — a relationship forged not through dominance, but through trust, respect, and an unspoken understanding that would go on to define Steve’s work with big cats.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to welcome a tiger into your care — and into your heart — this episode delivers insight, heart, and a few laughs along the way. From the sanctuary grounds to the emotional ground zero of a life-changing decision, it’s one you won’t want to miss.
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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

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X
Facebook
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Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to help us.

Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

In this deeply moving episode of Wild Conversations, join our host, Jess Newton, as she speaks with Steve Nichols, the compassionate founder of Lincolnshire Wildlife Park, one of the UK's largest animal sanctuaries. Together, they bravely revisit the heartbreaking decision to say farewell to Uganda, one of the sanctuary's magnificent white lions, after a prolonged and difficult illness. Jess and Steve share the raw emotions and poignant memories surrounding Uganda's final days, offering listeners a glimpse into the profound bond that can form between humans and these incredible creatures.

Beyond the sorrow, this episode shines a light on the extraordinary compassion and unwavering support offered by dedicated veterinary professionals during such sensitive times. Steve recounts the remarkable empathy and care shown by Uganda's vets, highlighting the crucial role they play in easing suffering and providing comfort in the face of loss.

Prepare for an emotional journey as Jess and Steve honour Uganda's memory and reflect on the difficult realities of animal welfare and end-of-life care within a sanctuary setting. This is a testament to the love, dedication, and sometimes painful choices involved in protecting and caring for wild animals.

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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Wallabies, Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #animalsanctuary #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo #rottwieler #lincolnshirewildlifepark #whitelion #lion #tiger

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

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Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to help us.

Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

Join our ever-enthusiastic host, Jess, in this poignant yet ultimately heartwarming episode of In Wild Conversations. This time, Jess sits down with Steve, the passionate founder of our beloved animal sanctuary, as he recounts a distressing period in the sanctuary's history – the time they were burgled. While thankfully none of the sanctuary's vibrant parrots were stolen, the incident had its own chaotic aftermath. A few feathered escapees took flight, eventually being found a surprising three miles from home. The damage inflicted on the aviary was significant, leaving Steve and his team reeling.

However, from this setback emerged an unexpected silver lining. In a moment of inspired action, Steve reached out to a friend in need of a guard dog. Little did he know, his friend would arrive not with one, but six utterly adorable Rottweiler puppies! For anyone who has followed Steve's incredible journey, the next chapter will come as no surprise. With his boundless compassion, Steve took all six under his wing.

What began as a mischievous litter of pups blossomed into a formidable and devoted pack of guard dogs. For over twelve years, these strapping Rottweilers maintained a perfect security record, their presence a comforting reassurance to the sanctuary's precious residents. In a moment that leaves Jess visibly moved, Steve delves into the darker history of parrot protection in the 1990s, revealing some truly horrendous incidents involving security dogs. This episode is a testament to resilience, the unexpected blessings that can arise from adversity.

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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Wallabies, Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #animalsanctuary #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo #rottwieler #lincolnshirewildlifepark 

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

Website
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X
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Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to help us.

Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

Welcome to episode 12 of Wild Conversations! Join your host, Jess Newton, as she delves into the fascinating story behind the creation of one of the UK's largest animal sanctuarys. In this episode, Jess continues her chat with Steve, the passionate founder of the sanctuary, uncovering the surprising reason why visitor numbers were initially very low. Prepare to be charmed as Steve reveals how the arrival of a wonderful meerkat family sparked an incredible surge in popularity, drawing people to the park in droves.

Steve also shares a heartwarming tale about the mental health charity, The Shaw Trust. Hear how a group of dedicated volunteers arrived and ended up becoming an integral part of the sanctuary for a couple of years, playing a vital role in the construction of their first walk-through aviary.

Ever wondered about the sanctuary's catchy strap-line, "There's More Than Just Parrots at the Parrot Zoo"? Steve finally reveals the amusing origin of this famous ditty and how its unexpected popularity after being aired on local radio station Lincs FM both delighted and slightly overwhelmed him. Tune in for an insightful and heartwarming episode filled with animal antics and community spirit!

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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

#parrot #parrots #parrotzoo #triton #cockatoo #birds #sanctuary #animals #zoo

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

Website
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X
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Twitch

Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to help us.

Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

Welcome back to "Wild Conversations"! In episode 11, our ever-enthusiastic host, Jess, dives deep into the heart of the sanctuary's daily dramas and triumphs with the incredible Steve, its founder. This week, a heart-wrenching tale unfolds as Steve recounts the rapid rehoming of a baby Blue and Yellow Macaw, purchased on a whim and surrendered within 24 hours. This incident sparks a vital conversation about the responsibilities of exotic pet ownership, highlighting the often-overlooked challenges of noise and long-term care.

Steve also shares the hilarious and determined lengths he went to in the sanctuary's early days to spread the word. From unexpected appearances on Channel 4's "Big Brother" to the serene landscapes of "Escape to the Country," he left no stone unturned in his mission to raise awareness.

And, as a delightful teaser, Jess and Steve give us a sneak peek into a future episode that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds! Get ready for "Nandays," the sanctuary's very own animal kitchen, where culinary creativity meets parrot-inspired charm. Prepare for a feast of stories, laughter, and perhaps a few feathered food critics such as Jamie Polyver or even Ainsley Parriot! Get ready for another heartwarming glimpse into the lives of the animals and the dedicated humans who care for them

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Lincolnshire Wildlife Park is one of the UK's largest animal sanctuarys and is now the county’s premier animal attraction highlighting the joys of offering long-term sanctuary to animals from all over Europe.

Enjoy an amazing day out full of animals, set within 25 acres LWP is home to The National Parrot Sanctuary where you can get to see over 1000 talkative parrots. We also house the only White Lions in Northern England & our beautiful Bengal Tigers.

But there’s more than just Parrots and Tigers here… you will also see Meerkats, Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Reptiles, Tapir, Puma, Leopard, Otters, Turtles and many more.

Support the show

Connect with Wild Conversations

Many thanks to our patient host Jess

Website
Instagram
X
Facebook
TikTok
Twitch

Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to help us.

Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

Welcome to another "Wild Conversations," where host Jess delves into the extraordinary stories behind one of the UK's largest animal sanctuaries. In this episode, Jess sits down with Steve Nichols BCAv, the remarkable founder of the sanctuary, for a candid and hilarious chat from the early days. Steve takes us back to the sanctuary's humble beginnings on opening day, a whirlwind of activity back in 2003, where one crucial detail slipped through the cracks: chairs for the cafe. To make matters worse, limited funds meant Steve's opening-day dash resulted in a collection of delightfully wobbly, cheap plastic chairs and tables – a testament to the sanctuary's early struggles and Steve's resourceful spirit.

But the episode isn't just about comical seating arrangements. Jess also uncovers the fascinating story of how the world-renowned mentalist, Derren Brown, became an integral part of the sanctuary's journey. Steve shares the tale of how their paths crossed, leading to Derren becoming their esteemed patron, a role he's held for over 20 years. Listen as Steve recounts heartwarming and often amusing anecdotes from his enduring friendship with Derren, offering a glimpse into the unexpected connections that make the sanctuary so special.

And to top it all off, we end the podcast with a delightful and funny story about Winston Churchill's parrot, a surprising and entertaining historical tidbit that's sure to leave you smiling. Join Jess and Steve for an episode filled with laughter, heartwarming memories, and the remarkable story of a sanctuary built on passion, resilience, and a touch of historical whimsy.

Support the show

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Many thanks to our patient host Jess

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Email: [email protected]

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Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.

Send us a text

Welcome back to a slightly unexpected episode. Jess usually uses her clever wit to tempt the sanctuary stories out of Steve. This week? Let's just say Steve decided to test the structural integrity of his own spine. Spoiler: it failed. Hours before recording, he took a 'gravity-assisted shortcut' resulting in a fractured back. So, yeah, we're pivoting. Hard.

Forget the parrot advice folks for this week. We're trading squawks for squeaks of pain. Steve, bless his cotton socks (and his morphine drip), bravely recounts his 'epic dismount,' detailing the immediate 'oh crap' moment and the subsequent diagnosis that's turned his world upside down. Jess, ever the professional, attempts to navigate this minefield of awkwardness, trying to balance sympathy with the burning question: 'Who's going to clean the parrots now'?

This episode is less 'cute animal antics' and more 'existential dread with a side of painkillers.' We'll delve into the human cost of running a sanctuary, when a key person is down, the sheer panic of 'what now?'. We discover that this man really isn't a robot but fortunately for Steve, he has an amazing team that will continue as though nothing's happened..."The odd bit of sympathy wouldn't go amiss though"!! 

Support the show

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Many thanks to our patient host Jess

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Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to help us.

Thank you and keep Podcasting!!!

Copyright: © 2025 Wild Conversations. All rights reserved.