Welcome back to Book of Leaves! I'm kicking off season 7 and episode 136 with renowned wildlife rescuer Pearse Stokes. He volunteers with Kildare Wildlife Rescue who I've had on the podcast before - I recommend going back to give that one a listen too to find out more about how the charity works! In this chat we delve deeper into systemic and social changes that need to happen to strengthen wildlife populations. You can follow Pearse on Instagram @pearse_stokes and KWR @kildarewildliferescue. You can also keep an eye on ticket sales for their 2026 conference here.
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[04:50] The interview begins with an introduction from Pearse
[11:35] Having a sense of duty and how that can encourage people, especially young men to the wildlife cause
[17:50] Pearse’s take on hunting
[22:50] Malcolm Noonan’s new motion to increase wildlife rescue and rehabilitation funding
[24:20] The perception between conservationists and wildlife rescue & rehabilitators and what needs to change about it
[34:20] The clear reasoning (and science!) in favour of banning fox hunting
[41:30] How to help KWR
[44:30] Pearse’s favourite rescues
[47:20] Leaves people can take from Pearse’s book
Also mentioned:
Wildlife Rescue Cork
Kildare Biodiversity Conference
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