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Conservation and ScienceA podcast about human-wildlife interactions and our relationship with nature. We talk about biodiversity, conservation, hunting and fishing, rewilding and more. Author: Tommy's Outdoors
Are you tired of one-sided narratives about nature and conservation? Simplified takes that ignore the nuance and complexity of matters? This show brings you diverse perspectives on environmental stories, examining their ecological, social and political dimensions. Listen and become a well-rounded voice, empowered to foster dialogue and create change. I'm Tommy Serafinski and this is the Conservation and Science podcast, where we take a deep dive into topics of ecology, conservation and human-wildlife interactions (which, in most cases, means human-wildlife conflict). I talk with world-class scientists, members of environmental organisations, practical conservationists, farmers, nature writers, and last but not least, hunters and anglers. My conversations cover biodiversity, conservation, hunting and fishing, rewilding and more. Start with the acclaimed episode 163, The EU Review of Wolf Protection Status. Its the perfect introduction to what this podcast has to offer. Language: en Genres: Nature, Science, Sports, Wilderness Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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209: Beavers vs Salmon - Balancing the Scales with Rob Needham
Monday, 25 August, 2025
Can beavers save Britain's dying rivers? Are these ecosystem engineers the key to reversing the catastrophic decline of Atlantic salmon, or do their dams create impassable barriers for struggling fish populations? With salmon numbers plummeting by 70% in just 20 years and predictions they could vanish entirely within two decades, the stakes couldn't be higher. The reintroduction of beavers to British waterways has sparked heated debate about their impact on our most threatened migratory species.In this episode, our guest is Dr Rob Needham, and we talk about his research from Scotland. Rob's long-term study reveals how beaver-modified streams support larger, healthier trout populations, with tagged fish successfully navigating multiple beaver dam crossings. We also talk about research from Norway, and North America that's providing crucial insights for British conservation efforts. For example Rachel Malison’s work in Norway demonstrates that beavers and salmon coexist successfully for past decades on some of the world's most productive salmon rivers. The evidence suggests these species co-evolved together and co-existed for millennia, creating complex ecosystems that benefit both.From the western United States, Bridge Creek's remarkable restoration story demonstrates nature's incredible capacity for self-repair, with 200% increases in fish abundance following beaver reintroduction. Meanwhile, cutting-edge environmental DNA research is mapping salmon and beaver (and other species) distribution across Scottish catchments, showing how ecosystems can recover. As climate change intensifies pressure on freshwater habitats, the ecosystem engineering by beavers offers hope for building resilient river systems. The message is clear: collaboration between conservationists, researchers, and local communities is essential if we're to harness beavers' restorative power while protecting our precious migratory fish.Further reading:Balance The Scales - Launch TrailerSubscribe to Tommy's Outdoors: Conservation and Science NewsletterSupport the Podcast and Buy Me a Coffee.Recommended Books: tommysoutdoors.com/booksMerch: tommysoutdoors.com/shopFollow Tommy's Outdoors on Bluesky, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook
