This episode of Wildlife Matters presents a critical examination of the dynamic interplay between climate change and wildlife health, set against the backdrop of the unprecedented weather records in the UK during 2025.

With spring emerging as the most temperate and sun-drenched on record, and June establishing itself as the hottest month in England's history, the episode introduces listeners to the urgent realities faced by wildlife as they struggle to adapt to these rapid environmental changes.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's findings serve as a stark reminder of the human-induced factors contributing to global warming, compelling us to acknowledge climate change as an immediate threat rather than a distant concern. Transitioning from the broader climate narrative, the podcast delves into the specific challenges posed by Avian Influenza, a virus that has demonstrated an alarming capacity for interspecies transmission.

This segment not only addresses the biological implications of the virus but also highlights the broader ecological consequences, urging listeners to consider the interconnectedness of all living beings. The episode concludes with a reflective invitation to engage with nature, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the wildlife that inhabits our shared environment, especially in light of the mounting pressures from climate change and emerging diseases.

Takeaways:

• The year 2025 has already established itself as a record-breaking year for warmth and sunshine in the UK, significantly impacting wildlife and ecosystems.
• Human activities are unequivocally contributing to climate change, necessitating immediate and concerted efforts to mitigate its effects on wildlife.
• Avian influenza has evolved to infect mammals, posing a serious threat to wildlife populations and raising concerns about its potential spread to humans.
• Heatwaves can dramatically disrupt wildlife, leading to food scarcity and dehydration, thereby threatening the survival of various species.
• The establishment of the Wealdon Heaths National Nature Reserve signifies a significant step towards landscape-scale conservation and connectivity of vital habitats.
• Effective monitoring and reporting of avian influenza cases in wildlife are crucial for understanding its impact and preventing future outbreaks.