The multi-award-winning podcast helping everyone, everywhere connect with nature by discovering more about the birds around us. Hosted by actor and longtime birder, Sean Bean. Get Birding’s purpose has been recognised by awards including: British Podcast Awards 2022 & 2025: Climate & Sustaina
In this episode, host Sean Bean is joined by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage at RSPB Arne, where they explore the reserve and discover how Dartford Warblers have bounced back, from just two pairs at Arne in 1965 to 97 pairs last year. Simon talks about how birds have found their way into his poetry, his love of their names, and one very questionable identification during a 24-hour bird race. We’ll also get ready for October Big Day with Stephen Menzie from Merlin, as birders around the world head out on 10th October to record the birds they see. We’ll hear how hundreds of thousands of people…
In this episode, we’re exploring generational birding and how a love of nature is passed down through families. Sean Bean is joined by lifelong birders Dr. Mya-Rose Craig and her dad Chris at RSPB Arne, who share memories of birding together, from Mya-Rose’s first twitch at just nine days old to an overnight trip to Orkney to see a rare Sandhill Crane. We’ll also meet 16-year-old conservationist Joe Scorey and his dad Paul in Bushy Park, where they reveal how birdwatching has brought them closer in a digital age when father-son relationships can be difficult, giving them a way to talk,…
In this episode, host Sean Bean is joined by wildlife biologist and broadcaster Dan O’Neill at RSPB Ham Wall, where they explore the wildlife of this wetland habitat, from ospreys and cormorants to marsh harriers, kingfishers and dragonflies. They also reflect on their shared childhood passion for birds of prey and how spending time in nature can put life into perspective. We’ll also meet Donna Davis and Rufus, the Harris Hawk who has worked at Wimbledon, Westminster Abbey and Lord’s Cricket Ground, to discover how falconry is used to deter gulls and pigeons in urban environments. Plus, Dr…
In this episode, host Sean Bean is joined by broadcaster and lifelong birder Kirsty Gallacher to explore the seminal moments that have shaped her love and appreciation for birds, from peregrines and racing pigeons to a powerful encounter with an owl during a time of grief. We’ll also hear from bestselling author Amy Tan about The Backyard Bird Chronicles and the year she spent observing, drawing and keeping a journal of the birds in her garden transformed the way she understood survival, habitat and our relationship with the natural world. Plus, wildlife writer and communicator Lucy McRobert…
In this episode, host Sean Bean is back at RSPB Ham Wall with long-time birder Jeff Holmes to explore the changing fortunes of Britain's birds, from wintering whooper swans and cranes to the continental species arriving as our climate changes. We'll also hear from past guests including artist and comedian Jim Moir, actor Samuel West and ornithologist Dr Mya-Rose Craig as they share their favourite holiday birding spots. Plus, RSPB wildlife gardening expert Adrian Thomas shares simple ways to help birds during hot weather, composer Jason Singh explains why the hoopoe is a bird that gives him…
I n this episode, the Get Birding team are headed to Rutland Water and the Global Bird Fair, where birders, conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world come together to share ideas and inspire action for nature. We’ll hear from Global Bird Fair founder, Tim Appleton and Mya-Rose Craig is on the ground discovering the latest innovations in birding gear, and learning why the birdwatching community is more diverse and welcoming than ever. We’ll also meet Tim Sexton and Tim Mackrill from Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust to learn how the pioneering Rutland Water…
In this episode, we're exploring the reed beds of RSPB Ham Wall, where decades of habitat restoration have helped some of the UK's most spectacular wetland birds make a remarkable comeback. Host Sean Bean is joined by broadcaster Jeremy Vine, who proves you don't need to know your sparrows from your sparrowhawks to enjoy birdwatching. Sean also meets Stephen Couch from the RSPB to learn more about the wetlands and their inhabitants, and is introduced to a new friend of the show, lifelong birder Jeff Holmes, whose decades of watching—and listening to—the Somerset Levels have given him a…
In this episode, we're following a new generation — from fledgling birds leaving the nest for the first time to young people discovering the natural world for themselves. Host Sean Bean is joined by conservationist and author Dr Mya-Rose Craig, who explores the rapid rise of birding among Gen Z, how spending time with nature can support mental wellbeing, and why making the outdoors accessible to everyone is more important than ever. Jenny Shelton from the Wildlife Trusts reveals the remarkable journeys young birds take as they prepare for their first flight, from branching owls to…
In this special episode, our resident birder, composer and nature beatboxer Jason Singh heads into the Sussex woods after dark for Singing with Nightingales — a unique experience that draws guests and musicians back year after year to witness one of nature’s most enchanting performances. For a brief period between mid-April and the end of May, around five thousand pairs of nightingales migrate from Sub-Saharan Africa to southern England, where males fill the night air with their remarkable courtship songs. Alongside folk singer, nature activist and founder of Singing with Nightingales, Sam…
In this episode, we’re exploring the connection between birds, nature and mental wellbeing — and why spending time outdoors can help us feel calmer and more connected. Host Sean Bean is joined by singer and actor Will Young, who reflects on rediscovering nature, gardening and the comfort birds have brought him through difficult times. Nature beatboxer and composer Jason Singh shares how birdsong creates a living symphony, while Kings College Professor Andrea Mechelli explains the science behind nature’s positive impact on stress, mood and loneliness. Plus, Dr Mya-Rose Craig answers your…
Join The Flock for exclusive content: https://getbird.ing/starling-payment-form/ In this episode, we’re tuning into one of nature’s greatest performances—the Dawn Chorus—and the remarkable reasons birds fill the early morning with song. Along the way, host Sean Bean is joined by singer and actor Will Young, who reflects on rediscovering his love of birds, and sound artist Alice Boyd on finding inspiration in listening closely to the natural world. Plus, Dr Mya-Rose Craig answers your birding questions, and Jenny Shelton from the Wildlife Trusts shares how changing landscapes are reshaping…
In this episode, we’re following the vast, invisible highways that birds carve across our skies each spring, and the extraordinary journeys that bring them back to us. We’ll learn how birds navigate thousands of miles using scent, memory and instinct—and what these epic journeys reveal about survival in a rapidly changing world. Along the way, Sean is joined by actor and RSPB ambassador Samuel West, broadcaster Johnny Vaughan on the thrill of a fleeting kingfisher sighting, and Chris Hewson from the British Trust for Ornithology tracking cuckoos across continents. Plus, Dr Mya-Rose Craig…
In this episode we’re turning our ears—and our attention—to birds in danger, and the thinning of our skies. From the unmistakable, haunting call of the curlew to the growing gaps where birdsong used to be, we explore the story behind one of the UK’s most threatened species, and why World Curlew Day matters now more than ever. Along the way, we’ll be exploring how art, music and storytelling can help us reconnect with the natural world—and maybe even change the way we care for it. Sean will be joined by artist and big time birder, Jim Moir, ornithologist Dr Mya-Rose Craig, Singer David Gray,…
Sean Bean’s love of birding began when he was a lad growing up on an estate in Sheffield. Long before he was an actor, he was a boy fascinated by books on dinosaurs and Sunday nights watching The World About Us with his Dad. From discussing the magic of the iconic film Kes to debunking myths about helping fledglings, this episode explores how a childhood connection to nature stays with you for a lifetime. Sean is joined by a flock of guests who discovered their passion at a young age: TV and Radio Presenter, Johnny Vaughn, Wildlife Biologist and Broadcaster, Dan O’Neill, Ornithologist and…
As spring arrives, the skies begin to shift. Birds are on the move—and their journeys tell us what’s changing around us. To take a closer look (and listen) Sean is joined in his garden by artist, comedian and keen birder, Jim Moir and ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig . From the return of the chiffchaff to deeper conversations around conservation, this episode explores the ties between birds, the places they pass through, and the people who care for them including our resident beatboxer and nature sound artist Jason Singh , zoologist and conservationist Megan McCubbin and…
Spring’s on the turn, and the birds are getting busy. From the surprisingly wild love life of the dunnock to bowing and puffed-up chests on city balconies — we explore what courtship really looks like in the bird world. We’ll also get practical about nestboxes — where to put them, who they’re for, and how even a balcony can help the next generation fledge. With expert advice from the RSPB, we look at the small changes that can make a real difference as breeding season begins. Sean will be joined by ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig with guests including Lucy Lapwing on her…
Host Sean Bean swaps the perfectly pruned for the beautifully wild, discovering how ponds, hedgerows and a little untidiness can transform your garden into a haven for wildlife. Along the way he's joined by broadcast legends and keen gardeners Zoë Ball and Jo While , ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig , and NHS doctor and RSPB President Dr Amir Khan to explore why “messy” gardens are better for birds — and for our own heads too. We head to the Forest of Dean with a Forest Holidays ranger, hear from our resident beatboxer and nature sound artist Jason Singh on the great…
From the distinctive whistle of the Blackbird to the drumming of a Great Spotted Woodpecker, in this episode we’re tuning into the soundscape of the natural world. Host Sean Bean is joined by an all-star chorus of birders, broadcasters, and musicians to discover how listening to birdsong doesn't just lift the soul—it physically lowers your blood pressure. With contributions from NHS doctor and RSPB President Dr Amir Khan, music broadcast legends Zoë Ball and Jo Whiley , Elbow frontman and keen birder Guy Garvey, ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig , YouTuber City Girl in…
Get Birding is back for a brand new, fortnightly season—hosted by actor and longtime birder Sean Bean. In this opening episode, Sean grabs his binoculars and invites listeners into his garden to slow down, look up, and join the UK’s biggest citizen science event, the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch. He is joined by NHS doctor and RSPB President Dr Amir Khan, fellow birder, Elbow frontman and BBC 6 Music DJ Guy Garvey ; ornithologist and environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig ; YouTuber City Girl in Nature ; and beatboxer and nature sound artist Jason Singh. The Big Garden Birdwatch runs from 23–25…
The UK is nature-depleted and degraded, and the globe is living through climate crisis. How can we get where we need to be, empowered and living as part of a flourishing ecosystem? As Get Birding closes its third series, Kwesia learns about the citizen's assembly that created the People's Plan for Nature , which sets out a public vision for reversing declines in Britain’s biodiversity. Meanwhile she goes on a London nature walk with The Guardian's biodiversity writer Phoebe Weston , and chats to Southwark councillor James McCash about action required to protect nature. Finally, Nemone…
Can paying attention to birdsong improve our music-making skills? And why do birds sing anyway? Indie artist Albertine Sarges reveals how birdwatching in a Berlin park made her a better musician (and friend!) Professor of philosophy & music David Rothenberg goes out in the world to improvise with the wildlife. Meanwhile Nemone Metaxas - radio legend & therapist - delivers a mindful birdsong meditation. Get Birding believes that access to nature is a universal right, not a privilege. Series 3 of the podcast is a Peanut & Crumb production, presented by Kwesia aka City Girl In Nature , and…
Why is the outdoors so often still seen as a male realm? How can women feel protected and at ease when out in nature? What are the risks when birding alone, and how should we mitigate them? Kwesia aka City Girl In Nature finds out ... BBC Springwatch naturalist Lucy Lapwing details a horrible incident of sexual assault she experienced whilst birding, while Sheridan Alford discusses why she set up a Black Birders Week. Get Birding believes that access to nature is a universal right, not a privilege. Series 3 of the podcast is a Peanut & Crumb production, proudly supported by Canada Water .…
Iconic actor Alison Steadman and bestselling author Jonathan Franzen talk about how a love of birds inspires creativity. Meanwhile host Kwesia aka City Girl In Nature delivers some nature-inspired spoken word poetry. Get Birding believes that access to nature is a universal right, not a privilege. Series 3 of the podcast is a Peanut & Crumb production, proudly supported by Canada Water . Fly over to Twitter & Instagram for more updates & photos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As well as being a podcast presenter & wildlife ambassador, Kwesia aka City Girl In Nature is a new mother & qualified doula. In this episode she asks what we can learn about parenting by observing birds with their chicks. Nathalie Mahieu shows how to spot Peregrine Falcons nesting in the heart of London. Writer and podcaster Charlie Bingham gives tips on how to get kids engaged with nature. And behavioural ecologist Antone Martinho-Truswell gives his expert analysis on the similarities between birds & humans giving birth. Get Birding believes that access to nature is a universal right, not…
Get Birding returns for another series, making birdwatching & nature accessible for all. Your new host is the inspirational Kwesia aka City Girl In Nature. Episode 1 finds Kwesia exploring busy, bustling London, in search of emotional wellbeing, nature, and feathered friends. What better first guest than David Lindo , who made his name as the original Urban Birder? Lindo spells out some home truths about the lack of diversity in wildlife media. Meanwhile Nemone Metaxas - radio legend & therapist - delivers a mindful meditation for city dwellers. Kwesia also hears from record breaking global…
Get Birding is back! Following in the footsteps of Dr Mya-Rose Craig & Hamza Yassin, our host for Series 3 is the brilliant Kwesia aka City Girl In Nature . Get Birding is a Peanut & Crumb production. Series 3 is sponsored by Canada Water . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this special one-off episode featuring a host of voices, Get Birding celebrates the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch 2022 in collaboration with the charity for their annual citizen science event. Presenter Hamza Yassin encourages anyone in the UK to spend an hour spotting birds in their local park, green space or garden as part of this yearly weekend event. In 2021 over 1 million people took part, spotting 17 million birds. Nature legend Chris Packham explains how to take part whilst RSPB President and nature presenter Miranda Krestovnikoff reveals how the data we gather in the BGBW is vital…
Being in lockdown has unleashed our love for nature. Get Birding is a podcast for budding birdwatchers and aims to help everyone, anywhere, discover more about the birds on our doorsteps. We want to break down barriers to birdwatching and believe that access to nature should be a right, not a privilege. In this, the last in the current series of Get Birding, Hamza is settling in for the winter. With his guests he explores what can be a difficult time for birds, and starts to look towards spring. Earlier this series Hamza spoke to the RSPBs Adrian Thomas about his passion for birds and shared…
Hamza lives in the west coast of Scotland by the sea and has a small brackish loch just yards from his house. He’s surrounded by birds of many different kinds. But water attracts birds in whatever environment you live in, from your local pond, to a puddle at the side of a busy street. This week Hamza meets people who live in or near water and explores the varied birdlife that they encounter. Ajay Tegala was a guest in the first series of Get Birding. In this episode we visit him at his home in the Norfolk Fens and get to know him a little better. He talks us though his daily work as a ranger…
Being in lockdown has unleashed our love for nature. Get Birding is a podcast for budding birdwatchers and aims to help everyone, anywhere, discover more about the birds on our doorsteps. We want to break down barriers to birdwatching and believe that access to nature should be a right, not a privilege. In this episode of Get Birding Hamza considers the way in which birds are important to us as families and explores his passion for inspiring children about the magic of birds and the natural world with his guests. Rachel Ball and her daughter Hope are avid listeners of Get Birding. The…
About Get Birding
The multi-award-winning podcast helping everyone, everywhere connect with nature by discovering more about the birds around us. Hosted by actor and longtime birder, Sean Bean. Get Birding’s purpose has been recognised by awards including: British Podcast Awards 2022 & 2025: Climate & Sustainability Audio Production Awards 2024: Best New Voice, & Climate Anthem Award 2022 & Lovies Award 2023: Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Past hosts include BBC Wild Isles presenter & Strictly winner Hamza Yassin; 23 year old ornithologist & environmentalist Dr Mya-Rose Craig; and YouTuber City Girl in Nature, and our supporters include RSPB, National Trust, Natural History Museum, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Get Birding is a English tech & science podcast from Peanut & Crumb. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.
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