There's such a huge variety of podcasts out there it can be difficult to find specific ones. We've collated the reviews of wildlife and natural history podcasts from BBC Wildlife Magazine to make it easier for you to find and listen to them.
If you're new to podcasts, we've also put together a guide on how to listen to them at the end of this article.
You can read plenty more reviews on our website, including gifts for nature lovers, wildlife-themed games, books on insects and invertebrates, on marine and coastal wildlife, and books for children.
Best nature and wildlife podcasts in 2023
BBC Countryfile Magazine
In each episode, the BBC Countryfile Magazine team take listeners along whilst they explore the countryside, look for wildlife, and discover fascinating historical sites. They often meet interesting rural people along the way, and discuss the big issues facing the countryside.
They also regularly have a famous guest or guest-host on the show. Past guests include bush craft expert Ray Mears, sheep-farming opera singer Gwawr Edwards, and comedian Paul Whitehouse.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
BBC Science Focus Magazine
The podcast arm of the BBC Science Focus magazine, this series covers all sorts of science topics, from the workings of the human brain to how to tackle climate change. In each episode the team talk to experts in science, technology, and health about the latest ideas, news, and breakthroughs.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
BBC Earth
The BBC Earth podcast is back with a bang. Now hosted by elephant scientist Rutendo Shackleton and spider scientist Sebastian Echeverri, the show recently relaunched and it’s a delight to listen to. The two hosts are full of enthusisam and there is a natural chemistry between them that invites listeners into this audio appreciation of the natural world.
Each episode focuses on a different topic, kicking off with safaris in episode one – which features a spider safari in central Bristol, plus a guest host slot for naturalist Lucy Hodson who explores the Isle of Bute. (We interviewed Lucy about her role as a junior researcher and prop- maker for Autumnwatch in our November 2022 issue). Whilst the focus is on wildlife and the environment, the series also covers comic books, spirituality and music.
And as well as interviewees from the world of science, including entomologists, pathologists and ecologists, there are also some less expected interviewees. For example, in episode one, Sebastian speaks to Eric Stonestreet, an Emmy award-winning actor probably best known for his role as Cameron Tucker in the American television sitcom Modern Family. But he is also an animal lover and shares one of his favourite wildlife encounters, and why he loves visiting natural landscapes.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial and digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
30 Animals That Made Us Smarter
This 30-part BBC World Service series hosted by acclaimed natural history presenter Patrick Ayree chronicles the amazing things we have learnt from animals, discussing species that have inspired us in one way or another when it comes to designing new technologies.
This includes how the kingfisher influenced the design of the Japanese bullet train, how the idea behind a pain free surgical needle came from the mouthparts of the mosquito, and how albatrosses inspired drone design.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
Galwad Cynnar
For Welsh-speaking listeners out there, there is Radio Cymru's weekly nature and wildlife discussion, Galwad Cynnar. Hosted by TV presenter Gerallt Pennant, it has also featured well known welsh naturalists such as Iolo Williams as guest hosts. Episodes have covered hay meadows in Pembrokeshire, a dedicated tower for swallows in Cardiff, and the Celtic Rainforest.
- For even more great podcasts from the BBC, including The Life Scientific, Ramblings, Costing The Earth and Inside Science, head to the BBC Science and Nature Podcasts page.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
The War on Wildlife
This straight-talking, impassioned podcast poses the question, ‘Is there a war on wildlife?’ For co-presenters Charlie Moores, a birdwatcher, and Ruth Peacey, a wildlife filmmaker, the answer is a resounding yes. But through the twelve-part series they invite activists, researchers and campaigners to share their opinions too.
Autumn marks the opening of shooting seasons across the UK. Fittingly, episode one launches head-first into the plight of the Highland grouse and the 50 million pheasants and partridges imported to our countryside every year. From satellite-tagging to snaring and ‘general licences’, Charlie and Ruth clearly explain the terms, unpick the statistics and expose the ecological damage surrounding the industry.
At just under an hour long, you will need to dedicate time to these podcasts – the pace is gentle – but it is an illuminating and worthwhile listening.
Reviewed by Catherine Smalley, production editor, BBC Wildlife
Trees a Crowd
This gentle but inspirational podcast by David Oakes (profiled in the September 2019 issue) is billed as ‘A podcast for those curious about the world around us’. It started as a series of informal conversations with artists, scientists and wildlife enthusiasts.
The episodes explore how the countryside has shaped and inspired their careers. Guests include Dr Fay Clark, animal welfare scientist at Bristol Zoo, and Mark Frith, BAFTA-winning documentary maker and Artist.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
No Such Thing as A Fish
Perhaps the best known of all science and nature podcasts, this award-winning and chart-topping mash-up of comedy and fascinating facts comes from the brains behind the hit TV series QI. Every episode each of the researchers (known as "The QI Elves"), present their favourite fact that they have discovered that week.
It has become so popular and well-loved that the hosts now perform live-shows on stages around the world, and release a book each year about some of that year's events.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
Species
If you want an in-depth exploration of different animal species, this is the podcast for you. Each episode focuses on a particular species, taking a deep dive into its biology, behaviour and ecology, and presenting all sorts of fun facts and anecdotes.
Having now surpassed its 100th episode, you have plenty of species to choose from, including the Humboldt squid, the snow leopard, and the blobfish and many, many more.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
Animalia
Animalia is a science podcast about ‘the weird and interesting things that animals do’. Previous episodes include ‘My Favourite Parasite’ which covered mind-controlling viruses, vampire fish and crab-castrating barnacles, and ‘Sleep’ where the presenters explored the different and fascinating ways in which animals slumber.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
Ologies
Ologies is a comedic science podcast, where the host Alie Ward (an award-winning science correspondent) “asks smart people stupid questions”. Episodes include ‘Potterology’ where Alie talks to a electrochemist about the science of the wizarding world, and ‘Cucurbitology’ where she discusses the folklore, planting, care, and cooking of pumpkins with author Anne Copeland.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
Nature’s Voice by the RSPB
This award-winning podcast from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) presents features, interviews, and news about birds and other wildlife, tackling big issues such as the climate strikes, and Brexit related environmental policies, as well as giving you fascinating facts about birds from around the world.
They also sometimes interview special guests, such as Bill Oddie and Kate Humble, who talk about their love for wildlife.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
Songbirding
If you want to improve your bird identification skills then this is the podcast for you. This immersive series hopes to teach the art of 'birding by ear', as bird guide Rob Porter takes the listener out in the field with him to listen to and learn bird song. With its in-the-field birdsong recordings taken in the Great Lakes region of Canada it takes you as close as you can be to the field without leaving your sofa.
It is a new series (as of October 2019), so there are not yet many episodes to listen to, but new instalments will be released weekly, and the first episode which features red-eyed vireos, American redstarts and common yellowthroats is a relaxing and inspiring introduction.
It is also available as "Songbirding Under 5kHz" for those with high-frequency hearing loss.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
Life, death, and taxonomy
Each episode of this family friendly podcast focuses on one particular animal species and the amazing abilities and hidden talents it has. Every episode begins with an explanation of where this species fits into the animal kingdom tree - that's the taxonomy part.
Examples of animals covers include the red-lipped batfish and his ridiculously rouged pout, the Emei Mustache Toad and his fabulous facial accessories, and the strange, stubby nosed, tapir.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
The Matthew Maran Podcast
Award-winning wildlife photographer, Matthew Maran chats to the creative people at the intersection between the visual arts and wildlife – including designers, photographers and conservationists. Laidback and friendly but full of useful advice and tips for photographers (as well as anyone interested in creating visual content and protecting wildlife), this podcast really feels like the place to go to learn from the leaders in their field.
Reviewed by Leoma Williams, primatologist and science writer
UK Wildlife Podcast
In each episode of this new podcast, photographers Victoria Hillman and Neil Phillips discuss their sightings, the latest wildlife news, and examine a topic or two in detail, such as migratory animals, and engaging adults with nature.
Listening to them feels like being in a cafe, gossiping about wildlife with friends, along with the occasional tangents and rants that naturally come with such a chat. It’s very easy to listen to, though occasionally, complete beginners may struggle to follow when species’ names are shortened.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
The Stubborn Lights of Things
Join nature writer Melissa Harrison on her countryside walks during lockdown. Living in rural Suffolk, Melissa records her encounters with the local wildlife and plant life. There’s an almost constant backing track of birdsong – some of which Melissa picks out and reveals how to recognise the avian vocalists in question.
There are even special guests (recorded separately, due to COVID-19), including authors and poets who share their work. Listening to Melissa’s soothing narration is likely to be a real tonic for those who can’t access nature first-hand at the moment.
Reviewed by Angharad Moran, former production editor, BBC Wildlife
The Bearded Tit's Podcast
Following the COVID-19 lockdown, wildlife photographer Jack Perks decided to take advantage of his new-found abundance of free time by starting a podcast, to “give me something to do and stop me murdering my family,” he jests. With his peers dialling in for a chat, Jack covers an eclectic mix of topics and issues, such as underwater and eco photography, rewilding and the reasons why everyone should love frogs, to name a few.
Conversations contain details of personal experiences and wildlife encounters (as well as some colourful language unsuitable for younger ears), and provide plenty of interesting insights and professional tips for those with a passion for photography.
Reviewed by Angharad Moran, former production editor, BBC Wildlife
Women Birders: Happy Hour
In this new podcast, Hannah Buschert from the Hannah and Erik Go Birding podcast interviews a range of women birders, to highlight the amazing things they are doing, and to inspire others. Guests so far include fellow birding podcasters and ornithologists.
For each episode, Hannah takes one of the birds mentioned by her guest and adapts a drink recipe to suit the species, such as a limonana for a lammergeier and a Texas prairie fire shot for a black-capped vireo. Talking over the internet to each other, there’s a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere – ideal for the ‘happy hour’ vibe that Hannah is aiming for.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
Will and Ben The Wildlife Men
Scientists Ben Porter and Will Hawkes first met while studying in Cornwall and now they’ve got together to make a podcast. Each short episode brims with infectious enthusiasm as the friends bring to light ‘those species we often overlook or don’t even notice’.
They take it in turns to focus on a subject of personal fascination, all of which are described in lyrical detail, delving into a mix of scientific observations and folklore. I enjoyed the wildlife chit-chat and sharing of stories that bookends the episodes. This is not a super slick production but it’s pleasingly authentic, and you can’t help but warm to this very likeable pair of young naturalists.
Reviewed by Catherine Smalley, production editor, BBC Wildlife
What Planet Are We On?
Environmental podcasts have experienced a surge in popularity over the past few months. What Planet Are We On? (BBC Radio 5 Live) leads listeners through some of the most contentious climate-based conversations – offering tangible solutions when we need them most. Wildlife presenter and broadcaster Liz Bonnin chairs a dynamic trio of hosts, including BBC Environment Correspondent Matt McGrath and Science Correspondent Victoria Gill, who guide us through the (at times) intimidating waters of the climate crisis with fantastic pace and comradery.
The impressive array of guests, from celebrities to journalists, world business leaders and leading academics, serves to emphasise the all-encompassing nature of climate change - helping listeners to feel included and part of the solution. Sir David Attenborough kickstarts the series by emphasising the connectivity between the climate, the planet and our own health – a key message repeated throughout the podcast.
The lively discussion lacks the classic ‘doom and gloom’ felt in other climate-based content. It encourages listeners of all backgrounds to be more mindful consumers and to nurture a healthier relationship with themselves and the natural world. The colourful edit and friendly tone of the presenters leaves you feeling empowered, informed and confident that simple adjustments to daily decision-making really can make a meaningful difference to the state of the planet.
Reviewed by Sophie Pavelle, zoologist and author
The Knepp Wildland Podcast
If you have read and enjoyed Isabella Tree’s ‘Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm’ – an account of the rewilding project happening at Knepp Estate in West Sussex – then now is the time to delve a little deeper into the stories of fascinating fauna that live there. Ecologist Penny Green expertly does so in her Knepp Wildland podcast, in which she speaks onsite to staff, specialists and volunteers on the topics of nightingales, dung beetles, bees, reptiles and more, to reveal how and why these creatures have thrived at Knepp.
Each episode is between 30 minutes to an hour in length, and is therefore ideal for an educational time-out to learn more about this unique project and its curious inhabitants. The episodes on the successful white stork breeding programme (with landowner Charlie Burrell) and the feisty purple emperor butterfly (with the eloquent and hilarious Matthew Oates) are particularly recommended.
Reviewed by Chloé Valerie Harmsworth, nature writer and artist
The Plight of the Pangolin
Student Jack Baker created this podcast series for his MSc in Conservation Studies at the University of St Andrews. Each episode looks at a different element of the unique creatures, from behaviour to conservation - even their links with Covid 19. Jack imparts his knowledge and boosts it with interviews featuring a global collection of specialists who bring insights from the field, alongside academic and personal perspectives.
Some of the interviews are a little dry in places, like an overheard conversation between faculty members, but they are balanced out with livelier exchanges with Jack’s closer contacts. It lacks the high-end production values and slick editing of more professional fare, but for fans of the scaly creatures and those looking to learn more, it is packed with facts. I was really impressed by Jack’s efforts to include a variety of voices to paint a more nuanced portrait of the pangolin’s plight.
Reviewed by Ella Davies, nature writer
Coffee with Conservationists
Now in its second series, this bi-monthly podcast covers diverse topics from climate justice and urban greening, to raptor persecution and the role of visual media in wildlife conservation. Hosted by George Steedman Jones, a student of Marine and Natural History Photography at Falmouth University, the podcast features ecologists, activists and wildlife filmmakers, exploring how their love of the natural world began and how their interests influence their work.
The guests, many of whom are towards the beginning of their careers, discuss complex and often contentious issues with knowledge, dedication and a positivity that is truly inspiring. Previous guests include intersectional climate activist and mental health advocate Tori Tsui, zoologist and presenter Megan McCubbin and conservationist and ranger James Mwenda.
Each episode ends with the story of a sustainable and ethical coffee that George has been enjoying during the interview, championing independent producers and indigenous coffee-growing communities.
Reviewed by Nic Wilson, nature writer
Women in Ecology and Evolution
This new podcast explores the lives and research of women working in ecology and evolution. The first guest on each episode is interviewed about their overall career path, while the second goes into detail about a recent publication, covering subjects as diverse as wallabies, poison frogs and Madagascan mongooses!
The conversations have the gentle, chatty feel of getting to know a new friend, or asking a colleague what they have been working on recently. They give an insight into other people’s working lives, and are sure to inspire women who are just starting a career in science. Finally, more guests are brought in for a group discussion, covering topics such as mentorship, starting a family in academia, and non-academic career paths.
The guests are drawn from a range of backgrounds and nationalities, and subjects such as race, disability, and, of course, the issues facing working women are covered, through exploring people’s personal experiences.
Reviewed by Kate Risely, ornithologist
Golden Grenades
For a podcast that pivots around the central theme of an environmental apocalypse, Golden Grenades remains remarkably upbeat. The premise is simple: each week a bird lover chooses five birds which they would like to save from this impending disaster, and at the end of the show, one of their birds must go head to head with presenter Kit’s favourite - the Peregrine Falcon. But, as epic as this showdown may be, the real joy of Golden Grenades is found in the heart-warming, fascinating and at times truly bizarre stories of the chosen birds, and why they mean so much to the guests.
From sky burials to vomiting fairies, once in a lifetime sightings to garden regulars, Golden Grenades covers them all. Kit is a natural presenter, and his friendly approach fills this roughly 40-minute podcast with bags of charm, helped along with music and sound effects by Will Rose. Highly recommended.
Reviewed by Kerrie-Ann Gardner, artist and writer
Wild Crimes
Sadly the murky world of wildlife crime is big business, and is worth $23 billion every year. This ten-part podcast series from the Natural History Museum, London, is hosted by evolutionary biologist Tori Herridge and science communicator Khalil Thirlaway, and features a range of including other scientists at the museum as well as guests from other institutions and wildlife charities.
Each episode focusses on a species or a group, starting with the pangolin – the world’s most trafficked mammal, with all eight species facing extinction due to the illegal trade in their scales. Other topics including bird of prey persecution, reptile and eel smuggling, the ivory trade, and the harvesting of orchids.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
Going Wild with Dr Rae Wynn-Grant
Teaming up with broadcaster PBS, carnivore ecologist and science communicator Rae Wynn-Grant discusses her career as a wildlife biologist. She’s tracked lemurs in Madagascar, had her tent circled by a lioness in Kenya and given CPR to a bear. The National Geographic explorer also reveals some of the obstacles she’s faced and how she’s overcome her fears to get where she is today.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
Get Birding
Hosted by birder and conservationist Mya-Rose Craig (AKA BirdGirl) in the first season, and then by wildlife cameraman and presenter Hamza Yassin in the second season, this podcast sprung into life during the pandemic lockdowns. It aims to “help everyone, anywhere” get into birding and nature, and features a range of special guests including Chris Packham, Susan Calman and Amir Khan.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
The Lodge Cast
Very suitably named (since a lodge is a beaver’s home), this podcast from the Beaver Trust enters its third season this year. The hosts, Sophie Pavelle and Eva Bishop, discuss beaver news and research, and look at a variety of topics relating to beavers.
Previous guests include environmentalist and actor David Oakes on why trees and woodland are fundamental, scientist Emily Fairfax on how the habitats created by beavers can create natural firebreaks, and GP Amir Khan on the connection between spending time in nature and our mental health.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
BatChat
Now in its third season, the Bat Conservation Trust’s BatChat, hosted by Steve Roe, immerses listeners in the world of these fascinating flying mammals, covering everything from bat behaviour and conservation to how to attract them to your garden.
Each fortnight, the podcast features experts in the field, heading to locations such as Chester Zoo and the National History Museum, London, as well as visiting important bat roost sites. There are also chats with conservation heroes including Chris Packham and children’s book author Emma Reynolds.
Reviewed by Samantha Stocks, freelance writer
How Many Geese?
If you’re worried the wildlife world is getting a little too serious, try listening to the How Many Geese? podcast. Branding itself as “a comedy nature podcast for more than just nature nerds”, the show looks at wild stories from the natural world.
Learn about weird and wonderful species of antelope, or what happened to Pablo Escobar’s cocaine hippos. Each episode wraps up with one of the hosts – Jack Baddams and Roddy Shaw – deciding how many of a specific species they could take on in a fight.
Reviewed by Freya Parr, freelance writer
The Whole Tooth
Do sharks have friends? How do they reproduce? Do they glow in the dark? Sometimes the natural world can be so full of questions it can be overwhelming! Zoologist and shark specialist Dr Isla Hodgson tackles some of the big questions in this podcast by the Save Our Seas Foundation, debunking myths and giving you the whole truth – or whole tooth. She’s joined by a series of leading experts in marine science and conservation to dig into the fascinating world of sharks and rays.
Reviewed by Freya Parr, freelance writer
Start A Ripple
When we move in nature, there’s a ripple that’s made – a ripple for our mind, body and the environment around us. That’s the philosophy of yoga teacher India Pearson, the host of the Start a ripple… podcast.
In each episode, India sits down with a guest to discuss their approach to moving in nature. There are athletes like wakeboarder Lex Balladon and runner Elise Downing, but there are also professional mermaids, adventurers and open-water sea swim coaches, and conservationists such as Megan McCubbin. In turn, they share their stories of connecting with nature and how their various forms of movement have helped heal and soothe them during times of hardship.
Reviewed by Freya Parr, freelance writer
Beneath the Baobab
The award-winning wildlife cameraman and presenter Gordon Buchanan steps up to the microphone to host this podcast from conservation and communities charity Jamma International.
Across the episodes, he delves into the world of community-led projects and how indigenous peoples are working to conserve wildlife both now and for future generations. The podcast doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, such as the legacy of colonial land use or the role of the media in sharing misinformation.
Reviewed by Megan Shersby, editorial & digital co-ordinator, BBC Wildlife
What is a podcast?
A podcast is essentially a non-live radio show that you can listen to on the internet. There are podcasts out there on just about any topic you can think of, including wildlife, history, TV, economics, and true crime. Radio stations will often make their regular series available as podcasts, such as BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour and Ramblings, or even turn a short radio programme into a longer podcast.
All you need to listen to them is a device with an internet connection to either download and listen to later, or stream (to listen without downloading).
Once downloaded onto a phone or tablet, they can be listened to anywhere, whether you're on public transport, driving in a car, going for a walk or run, or just in the comfort of your own home.
Where can I find and listen to them?
On a website
One of the most straightforward ways to listen to a podcast is via the creator’s website. You can use your usual web browser such as Chrome, Safari or Microsoft Edge to find a website that hosts podcasts you like, like BBC Countryfile Magazine for example. This can be done either via your computer or the web browser on your phone.
Then find the player on the web page, click play on the episode you want to listen to (making sure your sound is turned on) and get listening!
On your iPhone or iPad
If you have an Apple iPhone or iPad you can listen to podcasts via the Apple podcasts app. This should already be installed on your device, but if not, it can be found in the app store.
This app has a vast library of podcasts (over 750,000 shows!), but you can either use the search function (the magnifying glass at the bottom of the page) to find the podcast you want to listen to or browse through the categories. Apple podcasts has a Natural Science category, as well as charts that will tell you what the top-rated shows in that category are.
Once you have clicked on your chosen podcast you will see a list of the most recent episodes. All you need to do next is click on an episode to play. You can download episodes to your device or simply listen via your internet connection.
If you find a podcast that you particularly like you can subscribe to it. That means that as soon as a new episode is uploaded your device will automatically download it to your podcast library.
On your Android phone
If you have an Android phone the easiest way to listen is via the google podcasts app. This may already be downloaded on your device, but if not click on the play store app, search for ‘google podcasts’ and hit download.
The front page of the app will show you the top and trending podcasts, as well as those in various categories, but you can use the search function (magnifying glass in top left corner of screen) to find particular podcasts.
Once you have found a podcast all you need to do is click the play button on the episode you want to listen to.
On Spotify (and other listening apps)
If you have Spotify (a music streaming service) downloaded on your iOS or Android device, this now has a podcast section. Just use the search function, or ‘browse all’ podcasts to look through their huge selection.
Other similar listening apps you can use include; Stitcher, Acast, Podcast Addict, and RadioPublic. Audible (Amazon’s audiobook subscription service) also has their own selection of podcasts that are free to subscribers.
Main image: © Getty