Sean's Wild Life
Unwelcome wildlife!
In this episode I talk about unwanted wildlife, the vilified and unwelcome guests to these shores with Jack Baddams, naturalist, ornithologist and wildlife researcher at the BBC Natural History Unit. We discuss the narratives that dominate talk of non native and invasive species, and the discrepancies and at times hypocrisy of how we view certain species against others.
Jack share his recent thoughts having read a book that challenged all his strongly held beliefs on native Vs non-native debate, and whether we should celebrate all biodiversity in this day and age, no matter where it originated. Can it be that introduced species actually help us build more diverse ecosystems? Although many conservationists and naturalists are strongly opposed to introduced species – some of our most loved species are introduced – rabbits, hares, little owls (which we're now concerned are decreasing!), mandarin ducks, poppies, sweet chestnuts to name a few.
It's a controversial topic, and one which prompts passionate debate. It was certainly a thought provoking chat with Jack and challenged some of my preconceptions too. I hope you too will enjoy it!
Sean's Wild Life podcast is produced and edited by Thomas Ntinas. Title track 'A Wild Life' kindly composed and donated by Mark Rose. Production costs are self funded by Sean McCormack, but donations to fund future episodes are welcome at www.patreon.com/seanswildlife or here on Acast Supporter.