Steve Roud was Local Studies Librarian for the London Borough of Croydon and served as Honorary Librarian of the Folklore Society for over fifteen years. He has been researching British folklore for over thirty years and is the joint author of the Oxford Dictionary of English Folklore, plus other books on traditional drama and folk song, and the Penguin Guide to the Superstitions of Britain and Ireland, which won the Katharine Briggs Folklore Award in 2004. His publications include London Lore (2008) and The Lore of the Playground (2010). He also compiles the Folk Song Index and the Broadside Index, two internationally acclaimed computer databases of traditional folk and popular song. He lives in Sussex.

Steve Roud

PublicationStatus

Brand

Format

AgeRange

Series

Imprint

CategoryLabel

Lynne Truss

Three series of funny natural history tales from Lynne Truss, featuring a star cast of narrators 
 
Recorded in front of a live audience, these wry, funny tales introduce us to the varied creatures who make their homes on the shoreline, in garden ponds and in our attics. In 18 comic monologues, they reveal the truth about what life is really like in their respective habitats - and it's much more eventful than you might think... 
 
Tidal Tales from the Rock Pool features salty stories from a roving, joke-loving Periwinkle (Bill Wallis); a house-proud Hermit Crab (Geoffrey Palmer); a figure-conscious Sea Anemone (Alison Steadman); a tough talkin' Goby Fish (Sean Power); a poetic, love-struck Limpet (Samantha Bond) and a diligent Lugworm (Tony Robinson). 
 
In Gossip from the Garden Pond, we peek between the lily pads to meet a Tadpole who loves wiggling and doesn't want to grow up (Julian Rhind-Tutt); a beautiful, highly-sexed Dragonfly (Alison Steadman); a hotly pursued Water Boatman (Sandi Toksvig); a ferocious Great Diving Beetle (David Ryall); a timid, arachnophobic Garden Spider (Amanda Root) and a self-righteous Great Pond Snail (James Fleet). 
 
And in Rumblings from the Rafters, we venture into the draughty attic of a rambling old house in Amersham to hear from a subversive, head-banging Death Watch Beetle (Bill Paterson); a bossy, stressed Queen Wasp (Alison Steadman); a fast-thinking, acrobatic House Fly (Lee Mack); a big-hearted Soprano Pipistrelle Bat (Pam Ferris); an Edible Dormouse who's convinced he's a Russian spy (Hugh Dennis) and a Peacock Butterfly with a feisty past (Amanda Abbington). 
 
Written and introduced by Lynne Truss, with wildlife soundscapes by Chris Watson, these hugely entertaining, surprisingly informative anthropomorphic tales teem with drama and adventure - you'll never look at a rock pool, pond or roof space in the same way again... 
 
Written and introduced by Lynne Truss 
Produced by Sarah Blunt 
Sound design by Chris Watson 
 
Tidal Talk from the Rock Pool 
The Periwinkle and the Hermit Crab 
The Anemone and the Goby Fish 
The Limpet and the Lugworm 
 
Gossip from the Garden Pond 
The Tadpole and the Dragonfly 
The Water Boatman and Great Diving Beetle 
The Garden Spider and Great Pond Snail 
 
Rumblings from the Rafters 
Death Watch Beetle and Queen Wasp 
House Fly and Soprano Pipistrelle Bat 
Edible Dormouse and Peacock Butterfly 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 1-15 May 2012 (Tidal Talk from the Rock Pool), 7-21 Sept 2014 (Gossip from the Garden Pond), 26 June-10 July 2016 (Rumblings from the Rafters) 
 
© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Natter from the Natural World

A BBC Radio Comedy Collection

Brian Cox

Robin Ince

Four more series of the multi-award-winning science/comedy show 
 
Celebrating the wonders of the universe since 2009, The Infinite Monkey Cage combines wit and wisdom to explore scientific concepts in an entertaining, accessible way. In these four series, physicist Brian Cox and comedian Robin Ince are back to 'put a smile on the face of science' (The Independent). They're joined by a wealth of boffins, brainiacs and celebrity science enthusiasts, all keen to share their hard facts, soft theories and bold comic deviations. 
 
Beginning with the end of the universe, they tackle topics including black holes, the human brain, Neanderthals and the science of cooking - and attempt to answer profound philosophical questions such as 'What is life, and how did it start?', 'Is time an illusion?' and ''What is reality?' There's also an astronaut's guide to isolation, featuring Helen Sharman, Chris Hadfield, Nicole Stott and Apollo 9's Rusty Schweickart; a look back at 60 years of chimpanzee research with Jane Goodall; and a history of rock (not in the Rolling Stones sense, but actual rolling stones). 
 
Plus, the duo play Animal Top Trumps to find out whether we should prefer beautiful bats to much-maligned flies; travel deep below the ocean waves to see what lies beneath; discover how trees communicate using the Wood Wide Web; and learn why two brains are definitely better than one... 
 
Among their special guests are Eric Idle, Steve Martin, Matt Lucas, Tim Minchin, Bill Bailey, Mark Gatiss, Steve Jones, Ross Noble, Sara Pascoe, Prof Alice Roberts, Carlo Rovelli, Harold McGee, Dr Janna Levin, Dave Gorman, Brendan Hunt and Katy Brand. 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Brian Cox and Robin Ince 
Producer: Alexandra Feachem 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

The Infinite Monkey Cage: Series 22-25

Catherine Brinkworth

Kat Sadler

Jon Hunter

Jenny Laville

Nicky Roberts

Sue Perkins presents the 'Show and Tell' series that celebrates the natural world in alll its weird and wonderful eccentricity 
 
The world of wildlife is full of surprising and magical quirks - and Sue Perkins - comedian, broadcaster and Just a Minute host - is on a mission to discover them all. In this fantastic series, recorded at ZSL London Zoo and the Eden Project, she's joined by a diverse group of comedians and natural history experts for some entertaining sessions of 'Show and Tell'. 
 
Her special guests all bring along their amazing objects from the wild world and the stories that go with them - sparking lively, enlightening and hilarious discussion. There are also fun games and challenges, and in the episodes not recorded during lockdown, we hear from members of the public and staff as they share their own intriguing items, fascinating facts and amusing anecdotes. 
 
Among the celebrities taking part are zoologists Lucy Cooke and Billy Heaney, naturalist Nick Baker, actress Sally Phillips, and comedians Dave Gorman, Felicity Ward, Jessica Fostekew, Lucy Porter, Sindhu Vee, Desiree Burch, Josie Long and Shaparak Khorsandi. Their show and tell delights include a porcupine's spine, the jaw of a tiger shark, the fossilised eardrum of a whale, a beaver's anal gland, the feather of a lesbian albatross - and a head of broccoli from Tesco... And in an extended Christmas Special, actor Stephen Mangan helps Sue make sense of the gifts brought to her by presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan and ethnobotanist James Wong - including reindeers, robins, turtle doves, holly and partridges. 
 
Find out why geckos have dispensed with the patriarchy, why menopausal orcas are so aspirational, why male redback spiders somersault during mating, how ergot could have caused the Salem Witch Trials, how the giant water lily changed the face of modern architecture - and more. You'll learn about our planet's astonishing flora and fauna, while at the same time having a giggle - so gather round the nature table and prepare to be amazed... 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Sue Perkins 
Written by Catherine Brinkworth, Kat Sadler, Jon Hunter, Jenny Laville and Nicky Roberts 
Music by Ben Mirin 
Sound Recordist &amp; Editor: Jerry Peal 
Additional sounds provided by The Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology 
Produced by Simon Nicholls 
 
&copy; 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Sue Perkins: Nature Table

Series 1-4 of the BBC Radio 4 Comedy Show

Chris Packham

Lionel Kelleway

Brett Westwood

Wildlife presenter Chris Packham leafs through the Living World archives, revisiting classic episodes and bringing them up to date 
 
For over half a century, landmark natural history series Living World has provided an inspiring introduction to the flora and fauna of Great Britain and beyond. Filmed on location at key ecological sites, it sees BBC wildlife presenters joined by guest experts for enthusiastic discussions and close encounters with our native wildlife. 
 
These classic archive programmes have all been specially selected by Chris Packham, who introduces each episode and gives us an overview of the places, people and species featured on the show. Twenty are hosted by veteran broadcaster Lionel Kelleway, with the remaining two presented by Brett Westwood. Accompanied by ornithologists, biologists and a host of other specialists, they take us on a tour around the British Isles in search of amazing plants and animals. 
 
Among their discoveries are swifts, stag beetles, sticklebacks and red squirrels - as well as the endangered white-clawed crayfish; the slumbering dormouse or 'seven-moth sleeper'; the diminutive wren (known as the King of the Birds) and the under-appreciated wasp (more benign and beneficial than people realise). In addition, they hunt for crabs in a Scottish rockpool; take a festive look at mistletoe; await the arrival of roosting rooks and listen to the call of the booming bittern. 
 
Full of fascinating facts and surprising stories, this carefully curated collection will transport you to Britain's mountains, moorlands, woodlands and coasts, immersing you in the wonder and importance of our natural world. 
 
Production credits 
Produced by Andrew Dawes 
 
Episode guide 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
Swifts 3 May 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Chris Perrins 
Mayfly and the Chalkstream 12 July 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Mike Ladle 
The Stag Beetle Hunt 26 July 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Jonathon Spencer and Roger Key 
The Seven-Month Sleeper 11 October 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Michael Woods 
Water Vole 18 October 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Rob Strachan 
Lichens of Scotland 25 October 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Brian and Sandy Coppins 
Herons 8 November 2015 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway 
The Wader with the Crest 10 January 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Andy Wilson 
A Life of Slime 17 January 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Mary Seddon 
Rooks and a Winter Roost 24 January 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Joe Cullum and Ian Henderson 
Sticklebacks 12 June 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Iain Barber 
The Highland Midge 19 June 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Alison Blackwell 
The Ways of the Wasp 21 August 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Tom Ings 
Catching Crabs 11 September 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Stephen Wiseman 
Crayfish 4 December 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Martin Frayling 
Red Squirrels 11 December 2016 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Jason Reynolds 
A Very Berry Christmas 18 December 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Jonathan Briggs 
Wren Hunt 25 December 2016 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Matthew Evans 
Fieldfares in a Winter Orchard 1 January 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Steve Dodd and Dave Cocker 
Freshwater Pearl Mussels 5 March 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Mary Seddon 
Toads (The Toad) 12 March 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Julia Wycherley 
Booming Bitterns 19 March 2017 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Ian Hawkins and Ken Smith 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Chris Packham’s Living World from the Archives

A BBC Radio 4 nature series

Josie Long

Josie Long presents four entertaining and educational comedic essays, aided by Maeve Higgins and special guests 
 
Award-winning comedian Josie Long has performed nine hit stand-up shows at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, subsequently touring them around the UK and internationally. This BBC Radio series was adapted from her hit 2009 stage show, and finds her attempting to unravel the mysteries of the universe through ad hoc research. Using the knowledge she's gleaned, she gives us the lowdown on her selected subject - with the help of her special guests, who join in with questions, illustrations and interruptions. 
 
In Astronomy for Dummies, Josie uses the textbook of the same name to try and get to grips with the complexities of the solar system. As she flicks through its pages, she learns how to identify constellations, joins the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence - and finds her cosmic twin... The Enlightenment sees her pondering the history of collecting things. From her childhood frog collection to the Pitts Rivers Museum, she considers why we love acquiring, categorising and displaying objects - and how doing so makes us better people... 
 
In Obscure Animal Facts, Josie attempts to level up, and become unbeatable at Trivial Pursuit. Sharing her favourite facts about the animal kingdom, she recalls her animal-activist past, interrogates her father over his quiz-buff history and reflects on the deep joy of being dorky. And in Propriety, Plants, Grandparents and Growing Your Own, she finds out how being outside connects us to nature, muses on apple names and adventure botanists, and discovers how her granny's gardening book holds the key to al fresco happiness. 
 
Among Josie's special guests are The Infinite Monkey Cage's Robin Ince; German comedian Henning Wehn; Josie's dad Geoff Long; and the host of Jordan, Jesse, Go!, Jesse Thorn. 
 
Production credits 
Written by and starring Josie Long 
Produced by Colin Anderson 
With Maeve Higgins, Robin Ince, Professor Stephen Maran, Henning Wehn, Daniel Harkin, Chris Neil, Jesse Thorne, Geoff Long, Isy Suttie 
 
First broadcast BBC Radio 4, 18 February-11 March 2009 
 
© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

All of the Planet's Wonders

A BBC Radio 4 Comedy Series

Will Young

Dermot O’Leary

Sue Perkins

Monty Don

Bird lovers including Will Young, Samuel West, Dermot O'Leary, Greta Scacchi and Sue Perkins introduce us to their favourite birds - plus, Alison Steadman presents The Twelve Tweets of Christmas 
 
Since 2013, Tweet of the Day has been a daily delight for early risers, with its 90 seconds of beautiful birdsong and fascinating ornithological stories. But what of the people who tune in to this avian chorus? In this collection, we bring to the airwaves the conversational voices of an array of wildlife enthusiasts, all eager to recount their encounters with birds - among them 'Birdgirl' Mya-Rose Craig, writers Joe Harkness, Amy Liptrot, Melissa Harrison and Mark Cocker, Springwatch host Lindsey Chapman and the staff at Slimbridge Wetland Centre, the RSPB, BirdLife International and the British Trust for Ornithology. Together, they guide us through the year, from May to March, and introduce us to the birds that have inspired them. 
 
We also hear from some unexpected celebrity sources, who share stories of the birds that catch their eyes - and their ears. Will Young tells us about seeing a Woodland Kingfisher as a child in South Africa; Sue Perkins recalls coming face to face with a Great Horned Owl and Greta Scacchi reveals her fondness for the magnificent Goldfinch. 
 
Other famous names include Samuel West, who counts the turkey-like Capercaillie and the dapper, white-bibbed Dipper among his ten picks; and Dermot O'Leary, whose five choices include 'the Alsatian of the skies', the Greater Black-Backed Gull. Jimi Goodwin, the lead singer in Doves, swerves his band's titular bird in favour of the Cuckoo and the Mallard; while musician Fyfe Dangerfield celebrates the two birds that gave his bands their names - Guillemots and Gannets - along with eight others, and uses his own birdsong recordings to experiment in music. 
 
Also featured is The Twelve Tweets of Christmas, in which Alison Steadman provides a selection of festive editions inspired by the well-known carol 'The Twelve Days of Christmas'. 
 
Production credits 
Produced by Maggie Ayre, Miles Warde, Tom Bonnett, Eliza Lomas, Mark Ward, Karen Gregor, Tim Dee, Sarah Blunt and Andrew Dawes 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Tweet of the Day

A Year of Bird Lovers

Award-winning wildlife presenter Brett Westwood explores our relationship with birds and reptiles, and their impact on human culture and society 
 
Ever since the first prehistoric artist etched animal paintings onto a cave wall, humans have been inspired by the living world. It has enriched our lives in science, art, literature and music, defining society at every level across the globe. In these 13 episodes from Radio 4's groundbreaking Natural Histories, presenter Brett Westwood looks at two remarkable types of animals: birds and reptiles, who share a common ancestor and are often thought to belong to the same group. 
 
His imagination takes flight as he considers the rich, tangled life of the cuckoo; soaks in the sound bath of a nightingale's song; and probes the paradox of the pigeon with fellow presenter Verity Sharp. Brett also explores a bird that has become a byword for male beauty: the peacock, and guides us through the history of the ethereal swan, from ancient Greece to Swan Lake to Putin's Russia. Plus, he analyses birds' eggs as a symbol for new life, a metaphor for the origin of the universe - and a delicious staple of cookery. Turning to the reptile world, Brett tracks down nature's master of disguise, the chameleon; learns how the crocodile can boast of being a god, a sports logo, a sly trickster and a comic book hero; and marvels at the magnificent dinosaurs, who ruled the earth for 160 million years and still captivate us today. 
 
Weaving together nature, history, biology and biography, these fascinating programmes illuminate the complex connections between human beings and our feathered and scaly friends, revealing the unexpected ways we have interacted with them, and how they have changed the way we see the world. 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Verity Sharp (Pigeon) 
Produced in partnership with the Natural History Museum, London 
Producers: Andrew Dawes, Sarah Blunt, Melvin Rickarby, Tim Dee, Tom Bonnett, Sarah Pitt 
Series producer: Mary Colwell 
 
Episode guide 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
Birds Eggs 1 September 2015 
Peacock 31 July 2018 
Parrots 22 September 2016 
Hornbill 13 October 2015 
Honeyguide 18 October 2016 
Swallow 3 October 2017 
Cuckoo 8 August 2017 
Nightingale 12 September 2017 
Swan 25 September 2018 
Penguin 18 September 2018 
Dinosaurs 28 July 2015 
Crocodiles 29 September 2015 
Chameleon 11 October 2016 
 
© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Natural Histories: Birds and Reptiles

A BBC Radio 4 nature collection

Derek Jones

Derek Jones meets celebrities with a love of wildlife in these 38 episodes from the classic nature-themed interview showBetween 1970 and 1980, broadcaster Derek Jones invited a host of famous names to chat about their enthusiasm for nature and their encounters with animals. Delving into the BBC Sound Archive to select some of their favourite natural history recordings, they reveal their hitherto unknown passions – from birds and butterflies to the countryside and conservation.In these specially selected shows, Brian Blessed talks about his fascination with dinosaurs, keeping big cats and overcoming his fear of mountaineering, Bing Crosby tells us about wildfowling, ‘Mister Meadowlark’, naming racehorses and landing salmon; distinguished actress Dame Flora Robson speaks of her years in Hollywood, and her worries that the Los Angeles smog is killing the local flora and fauna; and Goon Show stars Harry Secombe and Spike Milligan let us in on their love for travel and wildlife photography (Harry) and ridiculous animal noises and names (Spike).Many of Jones’ guests share an interest in twitching, including Eric Morecambe, who relates how his curiosity about birds began when he went fishing with his father in Morecambe Bay, and Bobby Charlton, who developed his bird-spotting hobby while becoming a Manchester United legend. Humphrey Lyteltton reminisces about observing birds on holidays in North Wales, on tour with the band and in his back garden, and Peter Cushing recalls rescuing red shanks and watching oystercatchers and whimbrels on the Kent estuary with his late wife Helen. And, thirty years before Springwatch was a twinkle in Auntie’s eye, Bill Oddie confesses that when he wasn’t busy being a Goodie, he was busy birdwatching.Whether they’re mad about ornithology or hooked on angling, every one of the celebrities featured has a wealth of compelling personal stories to share, and fascinating insights to impart. Part natural history show, part nostalgic memoir, this wonderfully entertaining series is sure to inspire and delight.Cast and creditsPresented by Derek JonesProduced by John Burton and Michael Bowen 
 
 
Guests in episode order:Robert Dougall, Cyril Fletcher, Nigel Stock, Kenneth Allsop, Humphrey Lyttelton, Percy Edwards, Peter Cushing, Barbara Mullen, Virginia McKenna & Bill Travers, Spike Milligan, Bernard Cribbins, Marghanita Laski, Adam Faith, Roger Whittaker, Flora Robson, Derek Nimmo, James Robertson Justice, Bobby Charlton, Bill Oddie, Susan Hampshire, Brian Blessed, Derek Waring, Sir Martin Furnival-Jones, Eddie Braben, Eric Morecambe, Henry Longhurst, Harry Secombe, Lord Home of The Hirsel, Bing Crosby, Eva Rueber-Staier, Esmond Knight, Andrew Sachs, Frank Thornton, Dulcie Gray, Norman Thelwell, HRH Prince Bernhard of The Netherlands, The Marquess of Bath, Windsor DaviesFirst broadcast on BBC Radio 4 from 3 May 1971 to 10 December 1980.© 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2024 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

Sounds Natural

Award-winning wildlife presenter Brett Westwood explores our relationship with mammals, and their impact on human culture and society 
 
For as long as humans have existed, animals have got under our skin, enthralling us with their wildness, enriching our lives and influencing art, literature, science and religion. And we feel perhaps the deepest connection with mammals, as we too are members of this same vast group. In these engrossing episodes from Radio 4's landmark series, Natural Histories, Brett Westwood tells the stories of 10 of the most mesmerising mammals, illuminating the often surprising ways they have shaped society. 
 
Looking at our closest relatives, monkeys and apes, he discovers how they reflect our humanity, and how, from King Kong to the PG Tips chimps, we have exploited them for entertainment. Meeting an enthusiastic lurcher named Trevor, Brett finds out how dogs have changed us and vice versa, as he unpacks our close companionship with man's best friend. Drawing on tales of Dracula and Batman, he investigates our obsession with bats, and, in company with Verity Sharp, he gets up close to one of the weirdest, most endangered primates on Earth: the aye-aye. Plus, Brett experiences the magic of sloths with Joanna Pinnock; examines what a furry stuffed toy can teach us about our association with bears; and analyses how our perception of the enigmatic whale has undergone a transformation, from feared beast to icon of conservation. 
 
Packed with fascinating facts about the biology and cultural history of each animal, this carefully curated collection celebrates the wonder and infinite variety of mammals, and shows how our past, present and future are inextricably intertwined with theirs. 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Joanna Pinnock (Sloth) and Verity Sharp (Aye-Aye) 
Produced in partnership with the Natural History Museum, London 
Producers: Tom Bonnett, Melvin Rickarby, Sarah Blunt, Beth O'Dea 
Series producer: Mary Colwell 
Additional sound recordings of Narwhals courtesy of Dr Susanna Blackwell, Greeneridge Sciences Inc. 
 
Episode guide 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
Monkeys And Apes 2 June 2015 
Bears 8 September 2015 
Whales 17 November 2015 
Elephant 27 September 2016 
Bat 1 August 2017 
Giraffe 7 November 2017 
Reindeer 21 November 2017 
Dog 4 September 2018 
Sloth 18 October 2019 
Aye-Aye 29 November 2019 
 
© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Natural Histories: Mammals

Patrick Aryee

Season 1 of the hugely successful BBC radio series about the natural world and the awesome ways it has inspired us. 
 
 Over billions of years, animals have evolved and adapted, learning through trial and error the best strategies for surviving and thriving. So who better to help us humans when it comes to solving our own challenges? In this fascinating series, biologist and wildlife filmmaker Patrick Aryee tells the incredible stories of some remarkable animals, and the surprising ways they have enabled us to make technological and scientific breakthroughs. 
 
 From the kingfisher whose beak led to a redesign of the bullet train, to the spider's web that may help us detect the earth's vibrations and turn them into electricity, the animals in these 30 episodes all have extraordinary abilities that could revolutionise our world. There's the bloodsucking mosquito whose mouthparts might hold the key to a future of painless injections; the woodpecker whose hard head has given us ideas for better bicycle helmets and black box recorders; the shark whose scaly skin could show us how to fight superbugs, the tenacious mussel that could make risky foetal surgery safer and save lives - and many more. 
 
 And in the final, live show, we dig deeper into the world of biomimicry, and hear from listeners about other creatures who could spark innovation - including scorpions, tarantulas and hibernating bears... 
 
 Full of brilliant, bingeable tales and astonishing revelations, this mind-blowing natural history series will thrill animal lovers, science fans and anyone who's curious about our wonderful natural world. 
 
 
 Production credits 
 Presented by Patrick Aryee 
 Series producer: Sarah Blunt 
 Produced by Amelia Butterly 
 Live show produced by Mark Ward 
 Series and live show editor: James Cook 
 Music and sound design by Dan Pollard 
 Sound recordist: Chris Watson 
 
 First broadcast on the BBC World Service on the following dates: 
 
Track Listing 
 Kingfisher and bullet train 25 March 2019 
 Octopus and camouflage 1 April 2019 
 Mosquito and surgical needle 8 April 2019 
 Woodpecker and black box 15 April 2019 
 Bat and visual aid 22 April 2019 
 Tardigrade and vaccine transport 29 April 2019 
 Firefly and lightbulb 6 May 2019 
 Mussel and plywood 13 May 2019 
 Termite and ventilation system 20 May 2019 
 Cod and antifreeze 27 May 2019 
 Desert spider and Mars robot 3 June 2019 
 Sea otter and wetsuit 10 June 2019 
 Stenocara beetle and water collector 17 June 2019 
 Albatross and drone 24 June 2019 
 Shark and hospital surfaces 1 July 2019 
 Spider and rescue robot 8 July 2019 
 Gecko and adhesives 15 July 2019 
 Whale and wind turbine 22 July 2019 
 Spider and window glass 29 July 2019 
 Bat and unassisted flight 5 August 2019 
 Bombardier beetle and fuel injection 12 August 2019 
 Fish schools and windfarm 19 August 2019 
 Bat and robot 26 August 2019 
 Dolphin and tsunami detector 2 September 2019 
 Butterfly and butterfly house 9 September 2019 
 Mussel and foetal surgery 16 September 2019 
 Ant and networks 23 September 2019 
 Peacock and computer screen 30 September 2019 
 Butterfly and paints 7 October 2019 
 Spider and remote sensing 14 October 2019 
30 Animals LIVE 21 October 2019 
 
 ©2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

30 Animals That Made Us Smarter

Amazing things humans have learnt from the animal kingdom

Lucy Cooke

Lucy Cooke examines the survival strategies adopted by animals to gain an evolutionary advantage 
 
Award-winning broadcaster, bestselling author and zoologist Lucy Cooke has produced and presented numerous natural history shows on TV and radio, and has been tipped by The Times as 'the next David Attenborough'. In this BBC Radio 4 series, first broadcast under the title The Power Of..., she delves into the animal kingdom, exploring what gives certain species the evolutionary edge over their rivals. 
 
Over the course of 8 episodes, she probes the science behind our seeming obsession with all things cute; unleashes her inner sloth to discover the surprising benefits of being slow; learns that honesty isn't always the best policy, whether you're a chimp, a squid or even a human being; and finds out why being small can give you step up on the evolutionary ladder. 
 
She also investigates the animal communities that thrive on co-operation and peaceful behaviour, and considers why it works for them; looks at the power of celibacy and meets nature's ultimate self-cloning sisters; discovers how some species make a success out of going solo; and asks why it can pay to stir once the sun goes down - and whether future survival for many diurnal animals may depend on a nightlife. 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Lucy Cooke 
Produced by Alexandra Feachem, Beth Eastwood and Adrian Washbourne 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
The Power of Cute 17 May 2016 
The Power of Sloth 26 December 2017 
Power of Deceit 6 August 2019 
Power of Petite 13 August 2019 
Power of Peace 20 August 2019 
The Power of Celibacy 4 January 2021 
The Power of One 11 January 2021 
The Power of Night 18 January 2021 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

The Evolutionary Edge

Award-winning wildlife presenter Brett Westwood explores our relationship with fish and invertebrates, and their impact on human culture and society 
 
Throughout the ages, human beings have had a profound fascination with the natural world. It has influenced all aspects of our civilisation, from science and religion to music, art, literature and film. These 12 episodes, taken from Radio 4's epic series Natural Histories, find presenter Brett Westwood exploring two major groups of animals - fish, who have lived on Earth for over 450 million years, and invertebrates, who make up 97 percent of all species worldwide - to find out how our perception and representation of them has changed over time. 
 
Beginning with one of our most iconic predators, he dives into the world of sharks, showing how Jaws gave them a reputation as fearsome killers - and signed the death warrant for millions of their number. Brett also meets the closest thing to an alien lifeform: an octopus, discovering how the sea monster of historical myth is now emerging as an animal worthy of respect and understanding. Plus, he goes in search of the obscure burbot, Britain's forgotten freshwater fish; looks at the rise and demise of the flea circus; and explains why we have eulogised the butterfly from time immemorial. Meanwhile, author Lia Leendertz uncovers the story of bees, looking at ancient Greek poetry, Victorian moral allegory, and the laws and superstitions around beekeeping... 
 
Taking in documentary, biography and fiction, these riveting programmes will delight, surprise and amaze. You'll never look at fish and invertebrates in the same way again... 
 
Production credits 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Lia Leendertz (Bee) 
Produced in partnership with the Natural History Museum, London 
Producers: Sarah Blunt, Andrew Dawes, Beth O'Dea, Sarah Pitt, Maggie Ayre, Tom Bonnett 
Series producer: Mary Colwell 
 
Episode guide 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
Sharks 9 June 2015 
Eel 22 August 2017 
Burbot 7 July 2015 
Octopus 15 August 2017 
Leech 2 August 2016 
Earthworm 25 July 2017 
Snail 5 September 2017 
Fleas 10 November 2015 
Beetles 27 October 2015 
Bee 25 October 2019 
Butterflies 16 June 2015 
Cricket 1 November 2016 
 
© 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2023 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Natural Histories: Fish and Invertebrates

David Attenborough

Collected together for the very first time, this is the complete Series 1 and 2 of Life Stories, written and presented by Sir David Attenborough. 
 
One of the nation's most popular presenters, Sir David examines 40 marvels of the natural world from his extraordinary and pioneering experiences. 
 
What was Sir David's first pet? Which animal would he most like to be? How did he track down a giant earthworm? Why does he respect rats? And what did he do when confronted by a ten-foot-long reptile? 
 
His enthusiasm is as infectious as ever, and conveys a unique fascination on topics as diverse as the sloth, monstrous flowers, the platypus, dragons, the fire salamander, the coelacanth, the dodo, bird's-nest soup and the large blue butterfly. So listen to these stories to find out the real reason why animals sing, the story behind a 150-million-year-old feather, and what it is about snakes that really unnerves Sir David. 
 
©2021 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd (P)2021 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

David Attenborough's Life Stories

The Complete Collection

BBC Natural History Radio

The complete first series of Tweet of the Day, with introductions by Sir David Attenborough, Chris Packham, Kate Humble and many others. 
 
First heard every weekday morning at 5.58am on BBC Radio 4, Tweet of the Day captured the imagination of early risers and bird lovers, proving so popular that it was named Radio Programme of the Year 2014. Each episode begins with a bird call or song, followed by fascinating ornithological detail about its owner. 
 
This collection contains every edition from the first series, British Birds. The songs of over 260 birds can be heard over the course of a year, from the Cuckoo's call in spring to the summer seaside sound of the Herring Gull, the autumn song of the Robin and the Song Thrush's voice of hope in the depths of winter. 
 
Featuring a mix of native birds, such asthe Blackbird and Tawny Owl, and migrant visitors including the Icterine Warbler and Ortolan Bunting, the series provides memorable insight into their behaviour and habits, explains their literary or folkloric associations, and tells stories of scientific or conservation success. 
 
Presented by wildlife experts including Miranda Krestovnikoff, Steve Backshall, Michaela Strachan, Brett Westwood, Chris Watson, Martin Hughes-Games, John Aitchison and Bill Oddie, Tweet of the Day is a treat for the ears.

A Year of British Birds

Becky Ripley

Emily Knight

Science meets storytelling in this brilliant BBC radio series exploring the mystery and astounding complexity of the natural world 
 
'Mindboggling in the best possible way' Independent.ie 
 
Presenters Becky Ripley and Emily Knight mull over a multitude of bewildering and brain-teasing questions as they try to make sense of what we humans are all about - with a little help from some other species. What can the swirling patterns in a starling murmuration tell us about the way our ideas spread? Can ants teach us anything about avoiding a pandemic? And how could a brainless, single-cell slime mould help to solve our trickiest problems? 
 
Journeying into the realms of philosophy, they break down the illusion of self via the humble sea sponge, examine individualism through the colonial Portuguese man o' war and find out who controls our thoughts and actions - us, or the creatures living inside us... They also take lessons in love and fidelity from the tiny vole, discover what dog poo can teach us about navigation, and investigate the diversity of the gender spectrum, aided by birds, bees, angler fish and dragon lizards. 
 
Packed with staggering facts about the animal kingdom - and ourselves - this amazing series will blow your mind and open your eyes to the astonishing wonders of nature. 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd

NatureBang

The secret life of nature

David Attenborough reads his own bestselling memoir 
 
'An enthralling autobiography from one of the linchpins of television' Good Book Guide 
 
David Attenborough is the acknowledged voice of nature, loved and revered worldwide for his groundbreaking wildlife documentaries. Over the course of his long BBC career, David has risen from trainee producer to award-winning film-maker, and in Life on Air, he tells the extraordinary stories of the people and animals he has met along the way. 
 
We hear of his earliest days in television; his stint as Controller of BBC2, during which he introduced colour TV to Britain; and his encounters with luminaries such as Montgomery, Anthony Eden, Benjamin Britten and the Queen. Here, too, are tales of his travels to some of the most far-flung corners of the globe, including New Guinea, Borneo, Paraguay and the Australian outback, and the rare creatures he captures on film: from the exotic birds of paradise and the elusive Indri lemurs to the endangered Komodo dragon. 
 
Featuring behind-the-scenes accounts of the making of his landmark natural history series, beginning with the pioneering Zoo Quest and concluding with Life in Cold Blood, this wonderful memoir - read by David Attenborough himself - recounts the highlights of a remarkable life in broadcasting. 
 
Production credits 
Read by David Attenborough 
 
© 2010 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2010 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

David Attenborough Life On Air: Memoirs Of A Broadcaster

Lindsey Chapman

Peter France

Michael Scott

Wildlife presenter Lindsey Chapman relives selected archive highlights from the popular nature series 
 
For over five decades, Living World has been introducing audiences to the astonishing diversity of British wildlife. Its veteran presenters have travelled the length and breadth of the British Isles, venturing far and wide with their microphones to immerse the listener and capture the excitement of getting close to nature. 
 
Hosted by Lionel Kelleway, Brett Westwood, Peter France and Michael Scott, these 15 archive episodes are hand-picked by Lindsey Chapman, who also gives an introduction to each one, bringing us up to date on developments since the initial broadcast. Recorded on location in some very special places, from South Harris in the Outer Hebrides to the River Exe in Devon, the programmes all feature guest experts with specialist knowledge of the local environment and its flora and fauna. 
 
Guiding our presenters through a particular habitat, they discuss the species who have made it their home, and set out to track them down. While a quest to find the great yellow bumblebee proves problematic, they revel in seeing a hen harrier on the wing; encounter the world's largest slug; experience a remarkable raven roost and catch a rare glimpse of wild boar. Plus, they discover the biology behind pigeon migration; learn why jays are key to the rejuvenation of the UK's forests and take a timeline walk from sea edge to dry land along Dungeness' shifting shingles. 
 
Full of amazing sights, sounds and stories, this specially curated collection will take you on an awe-inspiring journey through Britain's natural world, and encourage you to embark on your own wildlife adventures. 
 
Production credits 
Produced by Andrew Dawes 
 
Episode guide 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
The Machair of the Western Isles 10 June 2018 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Martin Scott 
Catch the Pigeon 17 June 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Chris Armstrong 
Woolston Eyes 24 June 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Brian Martin 
Blackbirds 1 July 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Will Cresswell 
Hen Harrier 23 September 2018 
Presented by Brett Westwood wth Iolo Williams 
The World's Largest Slug 30 September 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with John Walters 
Underwater Architects 7 October 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Ian Wallace 
The Oak Tree Planters 14 October 2018 
Presented by Brett Westwood with John Tulley 
Dungeness 21 October 2018 
Presented by Peter France with Erica Towner and David Harper 
Avocet 9 December 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Malcom Davies 
Caledonian Pine Forest 16 December 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Roy Dennis 
Winter Ravens 23 December 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Leo Smith and Tom Wall 
Wild Boar 30 December 2018 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Dr Martin Goulding 
The Green Isle 3 March 2019 
Presented by Michael Scott with Dave Dick and Peter Moore 
Stoats 11 March 2019 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Robbie MacDonald and Becky Wright 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Lindsey Chapman’s Living World from the Archives

Sarah Pitt

Joanna Pinnock

Trai Anfield

Chris Sperring

Paul Evans

Miranda Krestovnikoff

Wildlife presenter Brett Westwood revisits selected highlights from the Living World archive 
 
Since 1968, the BBC's iconic Living World has been introducing listeners to the best natural history Britain has to offer. Its veteran presenters have criss-crossed the country in all weathers and through all terrains, in search of remarkable species and extraordinary stories. 
 
Introduced and updated by Brett Westwood, these classic archive programmes are hosted by Lionel Kelleway, Trai Anfield, Chris Sperring, Paul Evans, Peter France, Joanna Pinnock, Miranda Krestovnikoff, Sarah Pitt and Brett himself. Each show is filmed on location, in places ranging from Dartmoor to the Celtic rainforest, and features a guest naturalist eager to share their expertise with the presenters and us. 
 
Together, they uncover an array of natural wonders, including the elegant black-tailed godwit, the enigmatic glow worm and the industrious mason bee that makes its nest in a snail shell. They also hunt for adders in Loch Lomond, experience the sights and sounds of a Sika deer rut and a starling eruption, witness the small bands of Red Admiral butterflies flying in from the sea and find that night time is the right time for mountain hares. 
 
Immersive, inviting and informative, this specially curated collection will provide fascinating insight into Britain's wonderful wildlife, and inspire you to seek out your own encounters with nature. 
 
Production credits 
Produced by Andrew Dawes 
 
Episode guide 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
Nest Finder of Dartmoor 11 June 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Mark Lawrence 
Adders of Loch Lomond 18 June 2017 
Presented by Trai Anfield with Chris McInerny 
A Shell Nesting Bee 2 July 2017 
Presented by Trai Anfield with John Walters 
Glow Worms 9 July 2017 
Presented by Chris Sperring with Robin Scagell 
Waxcap Grasslands 24 September 2017 
Presented by Paul Evans with Dr Gareth Griffiths and Bruce Langridge 
The Late Arrivals 8 October 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Richard Fox 
Sika Deer 22 October 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Dr Anita Diaz 
Godwits 17 December 2017 
Presented by Chris Sperring with Pete Potts 
Ancient Holly 24 December 2017 
Presented by Joanna Pinnock with Sara Bellis and Carl Pickup 
Ponds in Winter 31 December 2017 
Presented by Miranda Krestovnikoff with Jeremy Biggs 
Mountain Hares 7 January 2018 
Presented by Sarah Pitt with Derek Yaldon 
The Snowdrop 4 March 2018 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Christine Skelmesdale 
A Starling Eruption 11 March 2018 
Presented by Trai Anfield and Simon Clarke 
Essex Geese 18 March 2018 
Presented by Peter France with Graeme Underwood and Chris Tyas 
The Celtic Rainforest 25 March 2018 
Presented by Paul Evans with Ray Woods 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Living World: Through the Seasons

Chris Watson

When he was fourteen years old, some friends of his parents gave wildlife sound recordist, Chris Watson, ‘The Observer's Book of Birds’. Flicking through the pages, Chris was captivated by the description of a bird which sang at night. The bird was a Nightingale; and since first reading about it, Chris has been fortunate enough to hear Nightingales both in Britain and Europe but always as part of a chorus of birds.  Now, in this programme, he tries to get a microphone really close to a Nightingale to record its remarkable song - a rich, mellow series of notes.  The location is Rutland Water. There are two areas here which are regularly frequented by Nightingales - the Lyndon Reserve on the South Shore and Hambleton Wood, which is on a peninsula extending out into the Reservoir. Having been guided by the Wardens from the Nature Reserve to the areas of scrub where Nightingales have been heard singing, Chris is able to rig up microphones near potential song posts. The result, after several sleepless nights and a battle with brambles and nettles is the most astonishing clear, beautiful recording of a Nightingale.  In ‘Hunt for the Nightingale's Song’, the story of Chris's quest to find and record a Nightingale is inter-cut with a commentary featuring Rob Thomas (Cardiff University), and Rob Fuller (British Trust for Ornithology) about the song of the Nightingale, its composition and function.  Produced by Sarah Blunt.

Hunt For The Nightingale's Song

Wildlife presenter Brett Westwood revisits selected highlights from the Living World archive 
 
Since 1968, the BBC's iconic Living World has been introducing listeners to the best natural history Britain has to offer. Its veteran presenters have criss-crossed the country in all weathers and through all terrains, in search of remarkable species and extraordinary stories. 
 
Introduced and updated by Brett Westwood, these classic archive programmes are hosted by Lionel Kelleway, Trai Anfield, Chris Sperring, Paul Evans, Peter France, Joanna Pinnock, Miranda Krestovnikoff, Sarah Pitt and Brett himself. Each show is filmed on location, in places ranging from Dartmoor to the Celtic rainforest, and features a guest naturalist eager to share their expertise with the presenters and us. 
 
Together, they uncover an array of natural wonders, including the elegant black-tailed godwit, the enigmatic glow worm and the industrious mason bee that makes its nest in a snail shell. They also hunt for adders in Loch Lomond, experience the sights and sounds of a Sika deer rut and a starling eruption, witness the small bands of Red Admiral butterflies flying in from the sea and find that night time is the right time for mountain hares. 
 
Immersive, inviting and informative, this specially curated collection will provide fascinating insight into Britain's wonderful wildlife, and inspire you to seek out your own encounters with nature. 
 
Production credits 
Produced by Andrew Dawes 
 
Episode guide 
 
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on the following dates: 
 
Nest Finder of Dartmoor 11 June 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Mark Lawrence 
Adders of Loch Lomond 18 June 2017 
Presented by Trai Anfield with Chris McInerny 
A Shell Nesting Bee 2 July 2017 
Presented by Trai Anfield with John Walters 
Glow Worms 9 July 2017 
Presented by Chris Sperring with Robin Scagell 
Waxcap Grasslands 24 September 2017 
Presented by Paul Evans with Dr Gareth Griffiths and Bruce Langridge 
The Late Arrivals 8 October 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Richard Fox 
Sika Deer 22 October 2017 
Presented by Lionel Kelleway with Dr Anita Diaz 
Godwits 17 December 2017 
Presented by Chris Sperring with Pete Potts 
Ancient Holly 24 December 2017 
Presented by Joanna Pinnock with Sara Bellis and Carl Pickup 
Ponds in Winter 31 December 2017 
Presented by Miranda Krestovnikoff with Jeremy Biggs 
Mountain Hares 7 January 2018 
Presented by Sarah Pitt with Derek Yaldon 
The Snowdrop 4 March 2018 
Presented by Brett Westwood with Christine Skelmesdale 
A Starling Eruption 11 March 2018 
Presented by Trai Anfield and Simon Clarke 
Essex Geese 18 March 2018 
Presented by Peter France with Graeme Underwood and Chris Tyas 
The Celtic Rainforest 25 March 2018 
Presented by Paul Evans with Ray Woods 
 
© 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd. (P) 2022 BBC Studios Distribution Ltd.

Showing results for: ‘Steve Roud’

Filters

Category

Publication Date

Format

Series

Imprint

Follow penguin

Follow ladybird

Follow puffin

Sign up to the Penguin newsletter