c7d3b33c-f943-4afb-8665-b0b200e579f7 2408cbd1-5e3e-4cfd-9668-b2ac01612b58 00c5f501-6e7b-4a6d-8223-b2ac0167b333 7d0a5a62-0bf0-4933-ba06-b2ac0167b342 en-ie https://www.omnycontent.com/d/playlist/c7d3b33c-f943-4afb-8665-b0b200e579f7/00c5f501-6e7b-4a6d-8223-b2ac0167b333/7d0a5a62-0bf0-4933-ba06-b2ac0167b342/podcast.rss Derek Mooney and guests explore the natural world in all its forms. Listen live every Monday at 10pm on RTÉ Radio 1. https://www.rte.ie/podcasts episodic Derek Mooney and guests explore the natural world in all its forms. Listen live every Monday at 10pm on RTÉ Radio 1. radio radio.player@rte.ie RTÉ Radio 1 no https://www.omnycontent.com/d/programs/c7d3b33c-f943-4afb-8665-b0b200e579f7/00c5f501-6e7b-4a6d-8223-b2ac0167b333/image.jpg?t=1772120377&size=Large https://www.rte.ie/podcasts Robot Lawnmowers Impacting German Hedgehogs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Hedgehog numbers are falling across Europe, with the species now listed as Near Threatened after a 30% decline. In Germany, night-time robot lawnmowers are a major culprit. Dr Anne Berger joins us to explain the injuries they cause, the public backlash, and why banning after-dark mowing could help... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619854 3dd1bb15-80ca-4681-b765-b46400b159a8 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 730 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619854/ A Birdie On The Golf Course See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Terry Flanagan’s busy week continues as he heads to Blainroe Golf Club in Wicklow. Club captain Garry Kennedy brings him around the course to meet his most unusual playing partner — Jake, a remarkably tame Rook who’s made himself part of the golfing routine... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619855 983c6a23-0b1f-429b-9eec-b46400b1594c Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 910 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619855/ You Wait Ten Years For A Blue Tit To Turn Up, Then Seven Appear At Once See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> MGW listener Michael in Terenure finally has success with his garden nestbox after ten quiet years — a pair of Blue Tits moved in, built a nest and are now raising their brood on camera. Tonight, reporter Terry Flanagan visits to see the live feed and meet the newest stars of Michael’s garden... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619875 2a140467-84b6-4fde-afde-b46400b1594f Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 836 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619875/ A Blooming Good Time For BirdWatch Ireland See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Niall Hatch is sounding very hoarse tonight — the price of talking non-stop to crowds at BirdWatch Ireland’s buzzing Bloom stand! The effort paid off, with hundreds of new members, and a huge win for Ireland’s biggest conservation charity... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619884 1c7e8366-2332-47a7-be74-b46400b1595e Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 128 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619884/ A Banshee In Wexford? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Danny in Wexford shared a recording from his new home after spotting an owl circling overhead at night. The mystery caller turned out to be a Barn Owl seeking a mate — its eerie cries the same sounds that helped inspire Ireland’s famous banshee legend... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619881 2ae12488-7c0e-4c2c-906a-b46400b15940 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 340 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619881/ A Sneak Peek At A Greek Squeak See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Fresh from a BirdLife meetup in Lemnos, Niall Hatch followed some mysterious nighttime squeaks outside his rural hotel — only to discover a baby Long-eared Owl loudly demanding snacks. He filmed the adorable sounds on his phone, and tells us about this exciting encounter... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619883 a16fa9d4-f847-4c45-a442-b46400b15913 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 202 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619883/ Barn Owl In Co. Wexford See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Danny Martin-Carroll sent us in this recording of a Barn Owl he heard outside his home in Co. Wexford... full RTÉ Radio 1 22619717 6669ae53-10d0-458f-8ab1-b463011bdb44 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:00:00 +0000 55 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22619717/ Cruising The Skelligs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Cruising doesn’t have to mean the Bahamas or Antarctica — there’s magic on our own coast. This evening, ornithologist Jim Wilson joins us from the National Geographic Explorer, currently sailing around the Skelligs in search of Puffins, Gannets and other spectacular seabirds... full RTÉ Radio 1 22615843 a4d9982c-4679-4c7b-9c65-b45600183fbf Mon, 25 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 869 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22615843/ Bloom, Biodiversity & Invasive Species Bureau See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Éanna Ní Lamhna previews a MGW special recorded at Bloom 2026, airing on Bank Holiday Monday, June 1st, in which she explores the festival’s strong biodiversity focus and reflects on her family’s link to the show. She also chats about travelling the country for National Biodiversity Week, and the launch of the new Invasive Species Bureau... full RTÉ Radio 1 22615846 5e9c4dd6-30ba-4c87-88ae-b45600183fc2 Mon, 25 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 460 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22615846/ Badger-Watching In Dublin See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Mooney Goes Wild reporter Terry Flanagan meets up with wildlife enthusiast Gustavo Zoladz, who recently discovered two badger setts along the River Dodder in Dublin... full RTÉ Radio 1 22615845 6c7c60f8-3417-4ce6-b601-b45600183edc Mon, 25 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 873 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22615845/ Burren Archaeology Festival See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Burren’s vast limestone, wildflowers and ancient tombs shape a landscape where people and deep history meet. Heritage Keepers Coordinator Mary Dillon of Burrenbeo joins Derek, Richard and Terry to discuss the Burren Archaeology Festival, which takes place from June 20th–21st... full RTÉ Radio 1 22615844 4e4901a5-2979-4eb0-9a6a-b45600183f36 Mon, 25 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 472 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22615844/ Do Daddy Robins Feed The Chicks? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> During the week, we received a voice note from one of our listeners, Sean Murray. He had observed a family of Robins in his garden, with both Mammy Robin and Daddy Robin feeding the little chicks, and wondered - is it usual for Daddy Robins to feed the young? Dr. Richard Collins and Terry Flanagan give their thoughts on Sean's query... full RTÉ Radio 1 22615848 42da9dcd-cbc0-4b13-aa0e-b45600183e98 Mon, 25 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 444 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22615848/ Nature On One - Lapwing See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Ireland’s beloved Lapwing, long rooted in folklore and farming, is now on the Red List of endangered species. In this Nature On One special airing at midday on Bank Holiday Monday, June 1st, Karla Goodman explores its cultural role, the threats it faces, and the conservation work that could secure its future... full RTÉ Radio 1 22615847 51a2e6de-e04a-4c7f-9551-b45600183e6c Mon, 25 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 55 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22615847/ Whale Watch Ireland 2026: Saturday, May 23rd See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Whale Watch Ireland 2026 takes place next Saturday, with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group running free expert-led whale- and dolphin-watching events at 18 coastal sites from 17:00–19:00. IWDG Sightings Officer Pádraig Whooley outlines the event’s aims, the importance of sightings data and how listeners can get involved... full RTÉ Radio 1 22613586 6426b669-0825-403f-996f-b44f001d51b6 Mon, 18 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 638 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22613586/ What Are Those Starlings Up To? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Nikola Brady, from Co. Kildare, e-mailed mooney@rte.ie after spotting strange Starling behaviour outside her bedroom window and recording it. Curious, reporter Terry Flanagan visited Nikola to learn more about these scuffling Starlings... full RTÉ Radio 1 22613585 1d018241-ed98-4bd0-b7b4-b44f001d51ea Mon, 18 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 802 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22613585/ Back From The Brink See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> A new series of Derek's TV show, Back From The Brink, began last night on RTÉ One, in which he explores urban wildlife restoration across Europe. Episode two, airing next Sunday, brings us to Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral in Cork, where Peregrines Macheda and Solomon thrive thanks to conservation work by Sam Bayley and Alan McCarthy... full RTÉ Radio 1 22613587 0fa3d884-c4b1-4f3a-a3b3-b44f001d51d2 Mon, 18 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 282 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22613587/ The Conference Of Birds See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Two special performances of The Conference of Birds at the Mill Theatre in Dundrum highlighted the plight of Ireland’s Red-listed birds through theatre, music and art. It was performed by The Elders and Cór na Nóg. Derek, Niall and John MacKenna reflect on the moving show and its BirdWatch Ireland links... full RTÉ Radio 1 22613583 5e8254ee-10d1-4b0e-85cd-b44f001d51c1 Mon, 18 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 700 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22613583/ Did Derek Smell A Rat? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> On his way to the RTÉ car park, Derek briefly recoiled after spotting what he assumed was a Brown Rat. Moments later he realised it was actually a Grey Squirrel, and his revulsion disappeared. He asks the panel why his instinctive response to each rodent was so different... full RTÉ Radio 1 22613581 89292bb1-fc50-4004-b02e-b44f001d51c7 Mon, 18 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 255 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22613581/ Going Round In Circles: What Could Bee Causing It? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Henrietta Broderick filmed a Honeybee in her Galway garden pacing in tiny circles, releasing a mustard-yellow droplet before continuing. She chats about what she saw, and our panel discuss what the cause of this odd behaviour might be... full RTÉ Radio 1 22613584 0c338ea2-10ee-4a98-80dc-b44f001d51b9 Mon, 18 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 406 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22613584/ Remarkable Reefs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Coral reefs, often called the rainforests of the sea, support a third of visible marine life and host vast hidden biodiversity. A new Nature study reveals living reefs contain previously unknown biomolecules with potential for medicine and biotechnology. Professor Olivier Thomas of University of Galway explains the findings... full RTÉ Radio 1 22606616 904507a5-9882-4f00-98a2-b44100009699 Mon, 04 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1082 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22606616/ In A Walled Garden In Meath See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Reporter Terry Flanagan visits a walled garden in Stamullen, Co. Meath, with Ciarán de Buitléar. Ciarán grows his food in close partnership with wildlife and nature, and has written a book, Nature's Acre, to encourage others to do the same... full RTÉ Radio 1 22606615 f3a4c102-bb61-40ed-8c14-b44100009685 Mon, 04 May 2026 22:00:00 +0000 667 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22606615/ Swallows And Wrens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Madeline Carey, from Co. Clare, says a wren has taken over the swallow nest in her garage after 35 years of welcoming swallows. Worried that wrens may harm swallow eggs or chicks, she asks what she can do before the swallows return. Our panel share their advice on the bold intruder... full RTÉ Radio 1 22604933 d4fac4e6-f4e9-4876-8da3-b43a00a9f55a Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 633 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22604933/ April 1st No Fools Day For Salmon Of Knowledge See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Marine Biologist Ken Whelan, Vice President of the Atlantic Salmon Trust, chats to the panel about how Christmas Day and April 1st (which is co-incidentally his birthday!) are so important in the life cycle of Salmon... full RTÉ Radio 1 22604948 ecc0f14c-a497-4d48-bc8a-b43a00a9f4a8 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 729 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22604948/ Blue Tits, Cuckoos and Woodpeckers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> We received an e-mail to mooney@rte.ie from listener Helena Golden in Leitrim, aka the Willow Woman! She joins us on the line to tell us about her passion for weaving using natural materials, her Blue Tit nest box camera, and the cuckoo and woodpecker she has heard recently... full RTÉ Radio 1 22604946 48fb6bfb-58bf-4e27-9bf3-b43a00a9f45e Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 688 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22604946/ Mermaid's Purse Discovered By Schoolboy In Co. Kerry See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Called the “Ghost of the Sea,” the rare White Skate has reappeared in Kerry after vanishing from much of its range. Sixth-class student Rocco Stallard found a huge Mermaid’s Purse on Camp Beach, evidence that White Skates may be using local bays as a nursery ground, as Ken Whelan and our panel explain its importance... full RTÉ Radio 1 22604947 c1481701-36ef-4a67-a44b-b43a00a9f431 Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 484 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22604947/ Dawn Chorus - RTÉ Radio 1 and RTÉ lyric fm | Sunday, May 3rd 2026 | 00:00 - 07:00 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> RTÉ marks International Dawn Chorus Day this Sunday as nature lovers join one of its most atmospheric broadcasts. From midnight to 7am, RTÉ Radio 1 and RTÉ lyric fm share seven hours of live birdsong, insight and music, capturing the moment Ireland wakes and daylight slowly takes hold... full RTÉ Radio 1 22604939 3bfbe043-463e-494f-9cce-b43a00a9f42a Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 227 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22604939/ Nature On One: Talking Birds (Bank Holiday Monday, May 4th 2026 at midday) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Cobh natives Jim Wilson and Seán Ronayne return to Cuskinny Marsh, the place that sparked their love of nature. In this Nature on One special, they explore its rich habitats as Seán works to record a year of its wild sounds, reflecting on why this Cork Harbour sanctuary still matters so deeply. full RTÉ Radio 1 22604940 0121e39e-ca9d-4787-a1a5-b43a00a9f41e Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 215 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22604940/ Happy Birthday, Dr. Collins See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Happy Birthday to Dr Richard Collins — our brilliant fountain of knowledge, charming gentleman, and cherished friend. From Derek, the Mooney Goes Wild team, and all our listeners, we wish him many happy returns… and yes, his birthday cake even features special swans! full RTÉ Radio 1 22602784 327d2fbb-8ab4-403c-81a2-b433000dc9a4 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 106 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602784/ Counting Rooks See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Reporter Terry Flanagan meets Dr Fionn Ó Marcaigh in Kildare as he surveys local rookeries for an NPWS nationwide count. Fionn, who is author of Encounters With Corvids, highlights why monitoring rook populations matters... full RTÉ Radio 1 22602786 15657f51-ebb2-4ee1-973f-b433000dbb53 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 570 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602786/ A Chorus Of French Frogs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Niall Hatch chats to Derek, Eanna, Richard and Ken Whelan about his recent visit to the Camargue region of France, and some of the wildlife that can be found there, including the fabled horses, lesser flamingos, Chetty's warblers, and 'edible' frogs... full RTÉ Radio 1 22602790 1e0903ea-3845-4e44-b025-b433000dba94 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 571 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602790/ Wild Dublin Art Exhibition At Rathmines Library See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Wild Dublin, a free week-long exhibition running at Rathmines Library until April 27th, showcases artist Fiona Phelan’s work alongside paintings by her primary school students, and celebrates the city’s diverse wildlife. MGW researcher Michèle Browne visited to meet Fiona and the young artists... full RTÉ Radio 1 22602792 a963d173-d7db-4f1c-8b96-b433000dba2b Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 241 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602792/ Greenland Shark Washes Up On Irish Coast For First Time See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> A Greenland Shark stranded in Co Sligo last week - the first such recording on Ireland’s coast - made news headlines around the world. Leaving Cert students Hammad Chaudhry and James Winters O’Donnell reported it to the IWDG, and they join us to share what they found, while Emilie de Loose of Atlantic Whale Deal provides further analysis... full RTÉ Radio 1 22602787 a926c189-a742-41a7-bc9b-b433000db99a Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 714 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602787/ Farmer Moth Monitoring Scheme See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Ireland’s moths boast wonderful names — from Heart & Dart to Mother Shipton — and much of what we know about the 1,500 species comes from the Farmer Moth Monitoring Scheme, a citizen-science project run by the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Project Officer Dr Tim Butter joins us to explain how it all works... full RTÉ Radio 1 22602788 379a6ed6-8649-4741-8a33-b433000db96e Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 538 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602788/ The Cork Crow Conundrum See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Last Tuesday, Derek and Jim Wilson appeared on the RTÉ Today show on RTÉ One, to chat about birdboxes and nesting season. Whilst in the make-up chair, Derek spoke to make-up artist Kate about a rather aggressive crow that is attacking her window, and waking her each morning! She asks our panel what can be done to get the bird to stop this... full RTÉ Radio 1 22602789 3db4fb77-186a-434d-a5fb-b433000db92e Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 320 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602789/ Our Marvel-ous New Sig Tune! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> RTÉ Radio 1 has unveiled new signature tunes as part of its refreshed on-air sound. In the Irish Times, Ed Power joked that the new Mooney Goes Wild theme “sounds like it was scored by the people behind the latest Marvel blockbuster” — fitting for a show that brings epic stories from the natural world! full RTÉ Radio 1 22602791 6fe7dff5-36e2-4321-bac0-b433000db920 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 136 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22602791/ Trying To Save New Zealand’s Albatrosses From Extinction See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Albatrosses, the world’s largest-winged seabirds, face severe declines, with up to 100,000 killed yearly by longline fisheries. UCC researcher Dr Jamie Darby tracked endangered Antipodean Albatrosses on the remote Antipodes Islands, revealing far higher mortality rates that could push the species toward extinction... full RTÉ Radio 1 22599186 1e3c5c09-6625-41fa-ac5c-b42401898a5f Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1962 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22599186/ Pine Martens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Niall Hatch recently saw six dead Pine Martens while driving from Wicklow to Tipperary, highlighting how strongly the once-rare species has rebounded. He later spotted a live one near Loughlinstown, a rare record inside the M50, which particularly interests Éanna Ní Lamhna given past absence reports... full RTÉ Radio 1 22599201 e818df14-6ccc-46ef-8bdd-b42401898b48 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 398 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22599201/ Make A Date For Dawn Chorus 2026: Sunday 3rd May See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The dawn chorus, nature’s great global sunrise concert, returns for International Dawn Chorus Day on 3 May. Mooney Goes Wild will broadcast live from midnight to 7am, with Derek Mooney in RTÉ and Jim Wilson and Niall Hatch in Cobh, joined by contributors nationwide and listeners’ own birdsong recordings... full RTÉ Radio 1 22599187 8b67d22b-1c32-468b-ac9c-b424018989e4 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 85 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22599187/ Terry Has A Tree-mendous Time At The National Botanic Gardens See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin are a free, year-round haven of global plant collections, including remarkable trees often explored on guided tours. For tonight’s programme, Terry Flanagan visits the Gardens to join guide Eoin O’Reilly, who shows him some of the site’s most spectacular arboreal highlights... full RTÉ Radio 1 22599188 f54d016e-3956-40b3-9db1-b42401898a33 Mon, 06 Apr 2026 22:00:00 +0000 772 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22599188/ Old Irish Goat Carries 3,000 Of Irish History See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> New UCD–QUB research reveals the Old Irish Goat has a continuous Irish lineage dating back 3,000 years. Dr Kevin Daly joins the programme to discuss the study, the history of Ireland’s wild goats and the traits that made goats among the earliest animals domesticated by humans... full RTÉ Radio 1 22597294 33e656a4-53f2-47ce-acb7-b41d017e87a7 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1379 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22597294/ On The Trail Of Cuskinny’s Kingfishers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Jim Wilson, Cork-based author, broadcaster and wildlife photographer, has captured striking Kingfisher images at Cuskinny Marsh, Co. Cork. On the programme he explains how careful planning, close observation and a dedicated hide made these stunning shots possible... full RTÉ Radio 1 22597292 7ecd34d6-13db-491a-b888-b41d017e87ca Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 846 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22597292/ Bidding Farewell To Our Brent Geese See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Early spring is a busy transition for birdwatchers, with summer migrants arriving as winter visitors depart. Brent Geese, iconic in Dublin, are gathering in Ballyfermot’s Le Fanu Park to feed before flying to Arctic Canada. Terry Flanagan meets Eric Dempsey there to explore their habits and migration... full RTÉ Radio 1 22597293 b9c3ee1a-61d4-476d-b54a-b41d017e87c7 Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 851 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22597293/ A Bed Of Lettuce? We Look At Foods That Can Make You Sleepy See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Our food choices can shape how well we sleep. Éanna highlights snacks that disrupt rest, like late-night cheese, and others that make us sleepy. Turkey and lettuce are rich in tryptophan, which helps form serotonin and melatonin, and carbs enhance the effect - hence the classic post-Christmas-sandwich snooze... full RTÉ Radio 1 22597295 113948d1-0ab0-4e00-8684-b41d017e874c Mon, 30 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 116 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22597295/ Dublin’s Rare Surviving Elms Offer New Hope Against Dutch Elm Disease See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Trees are vital for biodiversity, yet many Irish species have declined, including the Wych Elm, devastated by Dutch elm disease. But four mature elms in Rathmines appear to have survived. Arboricultural Consultant Joe McConville is investigating whether their genetics could help restore elms across Ireland... full RTÉ Radio 1 22595190 f7103803-7850-4bba-8184-b417000db9b8 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1493 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22595190/ Backyard Badgers And Flowerbed Foxes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Last August, we visited Martin in South Dublin, whose garden attracts nightly visits from local badgers and foxes—normally shy animals made bolder by his regular food offerings. In tonight’s programme, reporter Terry Flanagan returns to see how Martin and his nocturnal guests are getting on... full RTÉ Radio 1 22595191 0cd3e96e-f2a3-4f33-a8e3-b417000db957 Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 747 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22595191/ Meet The Woodcock: The Wader That Doesn’t Wade See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Woodcock is one of Ireland’s most elusive birds, its nocturnal habits and superb camouflage making it hard to study. Post-doctoral researcher James O’Neill of UCC has published new findings on its population and joins us to discuss how the species is faring and what can help it thrive - once even appearing on Ireland’s old 50p coin... full RTÉ Radio 1 22595192 19b13d64-57d6-42d0-90d3-b417000db9ba Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 997 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22595192/ Keeping Track Of Ireland’s Squirrels And Pine Martens... And You Can Help! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Grey Squirrels introduced in 1911 have impacted Ireland’s Red Squirrels, but the Reds are now rebounding due to increased Pine Marten numbers. The 2026 All-Ireland Squirrel and Pine Marten Survey has been launched, and Colin Lawton, Ecology Lecturer at the University of Galway, joins the programme to explain the project... full RTÉ Radio 1 22589444 df57e93d-c8d3-45e4-96bc-b4020140fc40 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1155 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22589444/ E-mails From Listeners See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Tonight our experts respond to some of your e-mails and queries about ducks in California, Woodpeckers in Cavan, Buzzards in Waterford and the life span of garden birds, including Robins... full RTÉ Radio 1 22589442 309c3e84-f322-403f-be0f-b4020140fd64 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 867 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22589442/ Grey Squirrels In Ireland: How Did They Get Here? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Grey Squirrels, introduced to Ireland in the early 1900s, are now widespread and have impacted the population of native Red Squirrels. They are long believed to descend from a dozen released in Longford in 1911. Our panel discusses whether later deliberate or accidental introductions also added to their numbers and genetics... full RTÉ Radio 1 22589441 512e8e34-7b3f-4831-b6d3-b4020140fbcd Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 310 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22589441/ Terry Goes On A Wild Goose Chase In Co. Wicklow See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Derek Mulrooney, greenkeeper at Druids Glen, Wicklow, reports a gaggle of Greylag Geese returning after food was put out for ducks. He wonders if they’re from the original flock and how they knew food was back. To investigate, Terry Flanagan visits the course as the panellists consider possible explanations... full RTÉ Radio 1 22589443 64140425-44cb-4cd8-8c1e-b4020140fb3d Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 870 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22589443/ Looking Forward To Nature Nights Live On RTÉ Radio 1 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Nature Nights Live returns to RTÉ Radio 1 from March 9th–13th, at 10–11pm, in partnership with the Tree Council of Ireland for National Tree Week. The programme will share event updates, celebrate native trees and nocturnal wildlife, feature expert guests, and invite listeners to ask questions and share sightings. full RTÉ Radio 1 22589445 d0a88007-a6e1-45ea-8b9b-b4020140fc5d Mon, 02 Mar 2026 22:00:00 +0000 46 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22589445/ Woodpeckers And Electricity Don’t Mix See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Residents in parts of Co. Clare have been suffering a spate of power outages. The culprit: recently arrived Great Spotted Woodpeckers that have been excavating holes in wooden electricity poles, causing some of them to weaken and then snap in bad weather, bringing the power lines down with them. Derek and the panel discuss this unusual problem... full RTÉ Radio 1 22587995 f8216f8d-0647-468b-aed7-b3fd00e2f2e5 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 976 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22587995/ The Brent Goose: A Natural Symbol Of Dublin See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Brent Goose, which breeds in High Arctic Canada, arrives in Dublin each autumn, gathering in estuaries, parks and green spaces to graze on grass. Ireland is crucial to this far-northern breeder. Ornithologist Kendrew Calhoun explains how public sightings help track populations, migration and breeding success for conservation... full RTÉ Radio 1 22587998 34acdb26-4985-46ab-ace1-b3fd00e2f23e Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1262 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22587998/ Naturescapes: Getting A Helping Hand From The Natural World See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Naturescapes is a European project using nature-based solutions at landscape scale to tackle socio-economic challenges, boost biodiversity and address climate change. Along the River Dodder, innovations like pocket forests are underway. Terry Flanagan met Mairéad O’Donnell of Trinity College Dublin to learn more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22587996 75207d7e-0042-4a98-9065-b3fd00e2f291 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 663 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22587996/ Have You Been Feeling Under The (Extraordinarily Wet) Weather Lately? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Recent weeks have seen severe, localised flooding across Ireland, especially in counties Wicklow, Wexford and Dublin. Yet, as Éanna notes, Met Éireann says it was only the wettest January since 2018. Our panel discusses climate change, extreme weather and nature-based flood solutions... full RTÉ Radio 1 22587997 ad40a341-8d88-4a26-853f-b3fd00e2f1d2 Mon, 23 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 312 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22587997/ Dinosaurs: What Happened To Them? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Dr. Matthias Sinnesael, Assistant Professor in Geology at Trinity College Dublin, is one of the participants in a study trying better to understand the dinosaur extinction event and whether it was caused purely by the asteroid, or if extreme volcanic activity may also have played a role. He joins Richard, Eanna and Niall in studio to explain... full RTÉ Radio 1 22585089 18c8cc55-e9b2-4de1-a28d-b3f4001a6db5 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1482 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22585089/ The Collared Dove: An Avian Success Story See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> While on holiday recently in Valencia, Spain, Derek noticed a species of bird that has become one of the staple performers in the Irish Dawn Chorus each year: the Collared Dove. First breeding in Ireland in 1959, they now consistently feature each winter in the Top 20 of BirdWatch Ireland’s Irish Garden Bird Survey... full RTÉ Radio 1 22585090 fe9e3c6f-4df7-4fb9-abfe-b3f4001a6dc5 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 528 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22585090/ Report - Ireland’s First "Living Seawall" In Cobh See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Ireland’s first Living Seawall at Kennedy Pier, Cobh Harbour, was developed by UCC, Research Ireland and the Port of Cork. Featuring habitat-rich panels with unique patterns of cups, ridges and depressions, it boosts marine life and water quality. Naturalist Jim Wilson speaks with marine ecologist Dr. Louise Firth from UCC BEES about the project... full RTÉ Radio 1 22585091 0cc11876-1fda-44c1-be87-b3f4001a6ce8 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 761 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22585091/ Peregrine Falcons In Cobh See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Peregrine Falcon, the world’s fastest animal at 389 km/h, nearly went extinct due to the pesticide DDT but has recovered strongly in Ireland and worldwide. In recent years, a pair nested in the 300-ft belfry of St. Colman's Cathedral, successfully breeding in 2024. On tonight’s programme, Jim Wilson tells us more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22585092 46c01f75-a3cc-49ea-ba26-b3f4001a6d55 Mon, 16 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 331 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22585092/ Dr. Matthew Jebb is back... it’s about lime! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Derek, Richard, Eanna and Niall are joined by recently retired Director of the National Botanic Gardens, for a panel discussion about Lime trees: their characteristics, their ecology and their place in the Irish landscape... full RTÉ Radio 1 22583238 1f1142cb-f632-4567-9af5-b3ed015d7670 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 329 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22583238/ Biophilia at the Bots See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> "Biophilia", or "love of life", is used to describe the innate tendency of humans to connect with nature. At the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, guide Eoin O’Reilly organised a tour entitled Biophilia. We sent Terry Flanagan and Richard Collins along to learn more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22583240 c0b82390-1676-41d5-bf8b-b3ed015d7657 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1132 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22583240/ Ancient shamrock at the Trinity College Herbarium See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Dr. Peter Moonlight is the Curator of the Herbarium at Trinity College Dublin's School of Botany, which holds half a million dried plant specimens, including possibly the world’s oldest shamrock specimen! Who else would we send to chat to Peter about all of this but our resident botanist Éanna Ní Lamhna? full RTÉ Radio 1 22583241 9bc1e350-032c-47fb-acba-b3ed015d76b7 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 598 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22583241/ Designated deer: Sika added to the list of EU invasive alien species See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The EU has added Sika deer to the list of invasive alien species of concern in Ireland. But what does this mean in practice for deer management here? Damien Hannigan of the Irish Deer Commission joins us on tonight’s programme to tell us more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22583239 3b909d65-2b07-43be-937d-b3ed015d75b4 Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 927 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22583239/ The Great Big Garden Birdwatch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Throughout the day on RTÉ Radio 1, as part of our celebration of RTÉ 100 (marking 100 years of radio in Ireland), we have been discussing the comings and goings of the various different birds visiting Jim Wilson’s bird tables and bird feeders... full RTÉ Radio 1 22581115 34fa85fa-5044-4427-b4ab-b3e6017df913 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 755 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22581115/ The Importance Of Biological Recording See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Terry Flanagan visits Éanna ní Lamhna in her garden in Terenure, Dublin, to chat about Éanna’s time working as a wildlife recorder in An Foras Forbatha and the importance of "citizen science" projects... full RTÉ Radio 1 22581116 c1788eaa-9282-4c27-925e-b3e6017df95e Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 930 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22581116/ The Robins Of Richie Ryan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Jim Wilson introduces us to his neighbour, retired naval officer Richie Ryan, who has become famous on social media for his charming videos of wild Robins feeding from his hand... full RTÉ Radio 1 22581118 54ccd32c-c9ed-49c4-a5ce-b3e6017dfa45 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 684 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22581118/ What On Earth Is "Biophilia"? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Naturalist, broadcaster, author and wildlife photographer Eric Dempsey explains in a special reflection why immersion in the natural world plays such an important role in the maintenance and improvement of both mental and physical health... full RTÉ Radio 1 22581117 c544493b-08ad-4b47-a816-b3e6017df9bd Mon, 02 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000 508 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22581117/ Happy Retirement To Dr. Matthew Jebb See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> As he retires as Director from the National Botanic Garden, we're joined in studio by friend of the programme Dr. Matthew Jebb, to chat about some of the highlights of his three decades of working at "The Bots", and the importance of botanical gardens as powerhouses for conservation and genetic diversity... full RTÉ Radio 1 22578854 900513d9-9628-4cad-9566-b3df0100f175 Mon, 26 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1035 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22578854/ The Great Big Garden Birdwatch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> On Bank Holiday Monday, Feb 2nd, RTÉ Radio 1 will celebrate The Great Big Garden Birdwatch, as our experts feature across programmes on the station throughout the day. The highlight will be our Nature On One Garden Bird Special at 12 noon. Jim Wilson joins us to tell us what we might expect to see on his garden bird feeder live stream... full RTÉ Radio 1 22578851 9f495839-1815-4c04-903b-b3df0100f08f Mon, 26 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 813 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22578851/ The Living And The Dead See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The latest book from naturalist and author Conor W. O’Brien, entitled The Living and the Dead, is an account of his travels both to seek the traces of Ireland’s extinct wildlife and to discover our country’s greatest conservation success stories. He joins us tonight to explain more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22578853 61f4eeb7-8a4e-4ed4-a1da-b3df0100f15f Mon, 26 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 1111 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22578853/ What’s On Éanna’s Burns Night Menu? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Last night, Sunday January 25th, was Burns Night, a key celebration in Scotland’s calendar which commemorates the nation’s most famous poet and proponent of the Scots language, Robert Burns (1759 – 1796). As mother-in-law of a proud Scotsman, our Eanna hosted a very special dinner party last night in celebration of the great Scottish poet... full RTÉ Radio 1 22578852 8a06d065-a912-4e64-a0a5-b3df0100f0f4 Mon, 26 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 333 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22578852/ Dolphins Thrill Spectators In Cork City See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Our colleague Rory Cobbe sent us a video of a pod of 6 Common Dolphins swimming in the River Lee in Cork. We speak to Dr. Simon Berrow, CEO of the Irish Whale & Dolphin Group, about the increase in Common Dolphin numbers in Irish waters over the past decade... full RTÉ Radio 1 22576613 a3eee4ef-5777-4ce5-9dd5-b3d800eb018b Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 725 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22576613/ What’s The Key To Taking Great Photos Of Kingfishers? Patience! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> MGW listener and 6th Year Belvedere student Yuming Lian sent us some fantastic photos of Kingfishers that he had taken recently, and posed some questions for our panel about their feeding habits, which prompts plenty of discussion on tonight’s programme... full RTÉ Radio 1 22576614 d7a88d8c-30ca-4ad5-b496-b3d800eb01ec Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 616 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22576614/ Coping With A Confused woodpecker See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Ger Deering from Co. Wexford got in touch with us about a Great Spotted Woodpecker that has taken to pecking loudly, not on wood, but rather on the PVC facia of his house. Ger has had to spend considerable money and time repairing the damage and would like to know whether there is anything he can do to deter the misguided bird... full RTÉ Radio 1 22576611 444140f8-493c-4217-b67c-b3d800eb018e Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 658 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22576611/ A Mob Of Meerkats See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Meerkats are highly social and inquisitive mammals hailing from southernmost Africa that just so happen to have an endearingly human-like appearance that many of us find extremely cute. You might think you already know a lot about them, but as Derek, Jim, Eric and Niall discuss on tonight’s programme, there is more to Meerkats than meets the eye... full RTÉ Radio 1 22576610 bba68c7d-2c8c-46b1-8ec9-b3d800eb01da Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 397 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22576610/ Making Your Own Nature Reserve See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Ecologist Donna Mullen bought a farm with the intention of converting it into a haven for flora and fauna. She created Golashane Nature Reserve, which is home to hundreds of plants, birds, mammals, insects and amphibians. Reporter Terry Flanagan, recently travelled to the reserve to see for himself what Donna has achieved... full RTÉ Radio 1 22576612 3abbd4fd-7670-4d9c-9393-b3d800eb019b Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 834 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22576612/ Wetland Birds See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> On Jan. 2nd, we broadcast a special edition of Mooney Goes Wild from Harper's Island Wetlands Nature Reserve in County Cork, where Derek, Jim Wilson, Niall Hatch and Decland Murphy took a close-up look at the remarkable world of wintering wetland birds. It was filmed by Donal Glackin, and you can watch it here https://tinyurl.com/4uza4h65. full RTÉ Radio 1 22572682 a3bb4b5a-e557-4798-b79e-b3cb010c8ee8 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 969 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22572682/ Dead Zoo See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Natural History Museum in Dublin, known fondly as the 'Dead Zoo', is currently closed for refurbishment works. So where have the animals and exhibits gone? Reporter Terry Flanagan met with curator Emma Murphy to find out... full RTÉ Radio 1 22572681 82b7c5e9-f815-4a1b-9e10-b3cb010c8ee6 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 639 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22572681/ When Is The Right Time To Have A Baby Bat? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Dr. Megan Power from UCD joins us to tell us about her research on Greater Horseshoe Bats, and whether it's better for bats to breed earlier or later in life... full RTÉ Radio 1 22572680 73bc12cb-606a-4b6f-81ac-b3cb010c8f98 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 872 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22572680/ Great Spotted Woodpeckers See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Fionnuala contacted us about the possibility woodpeckers in Naas, doing damage to a cherry blossom tree in her garden. So why is it that woodpeckers sustain head damage when drumming? Niall, Eanna and Richard explain... full RTÉ Radio 1 22572679 b4bbe178-c915-4319-ba14-b3cb010c8ea3 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 22:00:00 +0000 744 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22572679/ Wildlife Stories From Sweden See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Derek, Richard, Niall and Eanna are joined by Sweden-based Irish journalist Philip O'Connor to chat about edible road salt, wild animals in traffic and the Great Moose Migration! For more, see rte.ie/mooney. full RTÉ Radio 1 22570658 06634455-fd5d-4dd6-a718-b3bc0011055a Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 3258 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22570658/ Green bus shelters in Ljubljana, Slovenia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> While filming in Ljubljana recently, Derek discovered a project boosting urban biodiversity: 56 bus shelters have been greened with native, drought-resistant plants. Led by the University of Ljubljana with city partners, the initiative supports insects and wildlife. Derek spoke to project lead Dr Blanka Ravnjak... full RTÉ Radio 1 22568811 e52be88d-6f7a-42c0-b07b-b3b500abc64a Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 803 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22568811/ The Great Irish Fossil Hunt See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Ireland holds some of the world’s oldest and rarest animal fossils. Terry Flanagan and Prof. Maria McNamara explored fossils in Clonmel’s courthouse and told us about the Great Irish Fossil Hunt. Listeners responded, including Barbara Doyle, who found urban fossils in St Peter’s Church, Phibsborough, in Dublin... full RTÉ Radio 1 22568809 2d3e7f68-ff23-4eaf-8279-b3b500abc588 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 609 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22568809/ Ten Thousand Years Deep: The Story of Ireland's Peatlands See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Over 20 years ago, German nurse Carsten Krieger moved to Ireland and became captivated by bogs near his home. After decades researching and photographing peatlands, he wrote 'Ten Thousand Years Deep: The Story of Ireland’s Peatlands'. Michele Browne met him at Griston Bog, Co. Limerick... full RTÉ Radio 1 22568810 7fbef063-04d7-435a-b371-b3b500abc5f1 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 686 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22568810/ Batman and Robin! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Most European bats eat insects, but one hunts birds. Researchers led by Aarhus University found the Greater Noctule catching small songbirds mid-air. Tagged bats revealed a three-minute chase of a night-flying robin, which was caught, dismembered and eaten, as Niall Hatch explains... full RTÉ Radio 1 22568808 c2578445-fbde-4288-b733-b3b500abc5a8 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 806 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22568808/ Weir-y seals! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> After a recent report of a grey seal in Dublin’s River Liffey, listener Barry McCarthy shared evidence of seals hauling themselves over the Islandbridge weir. He even filmed it with his kids. Éanna returns to discuss Barry’s observations and how well seals move on land... full RTÉ Radio 1 22568812 6dc06a25-3b1b-41c7-9580-b3b500abc596 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 314 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22568812/ Nature Book Suggestions For Christmas See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> A book at Christmas is a moment of calm, so we're encouraging you (and your small ones!) to take a break from the screens, and relax into a book all about the natural world. We have asked our regular contributors to pick a book that they think might be of interest to you, or your nearest and dearest... For all details, see rte.ie/mooney full RTÉ Radio 1 22566684 bb7c7502-b401-483a-956b-b3ae00127eef Mon, 08 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 3195 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22566684/ The Unnatural History of Animals: Tales from a Zoological Museum See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Unnatural History of Animals: Tales from a Zoological Museum by Dr Martyn Linnie, curator of Trinity College Dublin’s Zoological Museum, brings to life the many tales of the museum’s history and that of its permanent residents. Richard Collins spoke to Dr. Linnie to find out more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22564918 eaaf2d8e-08f6-4d0c-b7c0-b3a8012dff13 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 609 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564918/ Feeding Hooded Crows See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listener Mary O'Reilly got in touch to tell us about the ever-increasing number of hooded crows who come to her in St. Anne's Park, Dublin, as she walks her dog each week. Intrigued, we sent reporter Terry Flanagan along to find out more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22564917 24db4f0d-5eb6-4b6d-b3f9-b3a8012dff45 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 741 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564917/ Wildlife along Dublin’s River Dodder See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> MGW listener Des McLoughlin contacted us about a Cormorant on the River Dodder in Dublin, which was holding out its wings while standing bolt upright, flapping them back and forth - but why? Derek and panel discuss... full RTÉ Radio 1 22564912 5dbb83b3-d381-47bb-a137-b3a8012dff28 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 385 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564912/ Harper’s Island Wetlands Nature Reserve livestream See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> BirdWatch Ireland's Cork Branch are streaming a live video feed from Harper's Island Wetlands Nature Reserve near Glounthaune, Co. Cork. Our man in Cork and a person who was instrumental in setting up both the reserve and the livestream, Jim Wilson, tells us more... full RTÉ Radio 1 22564915 866ce25b-00c5-4e65-92e9-b3a8012dff28 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 455 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564915/ Red Squirrel without a tail See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> We were sent a video by Senan and Quinn taken near Lough Dan in Co. Wicklow. It shows an unfortunate Red Squirrel that has somehow completely lost its tail, usually the most striking feature of a squirrel. What might have happened to it, they ask, and will the poor creature survive? full RTÉ Radio 1 22564914 986314f6-abc5-4500-b6ec-b3a8012dff50 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 412 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564914/ BirdWatch Ireland’s Irish Garden Bird Survey starts today See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The Irish Garden Bird Survey, carried out by conservation charity BirdWatch Ireland, is Ireland’s largest nature-themed "citizen science" project. This winter’s survey season – its 37th – begins today, and as Niall Hatch tells us, it's a great way to learn more about the birds that come to your home... full RTÉ Radio 1 22564916 73be36bd-1e70-4789-8dad-b3a8012dff23 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 288 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564916/ A seal in the River Liffey? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Listeners Michael and Sinéad Judd were walking recently along Dublin’s River Liffey towards Chapelizod and were astonished to see what they believe to be a seal swimming in the water. Could it be a seal? full RTÉ Radio 1 22564913 6d918d2c-ec9e-45bc-974e-b3a8012dfe7f Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:00:00 +0000 228 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22564913/ Dragonflies of Britain and Ireland: 5th edition See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The 5th edition of the bestselling photographic field guide 'Dragonflies of Britain and Ireland' has just been published; we speak to co-author David Smallshire about the fascinating lives of these amazing insects.. full RTÉ Radio 1 22562506 b42a9f8a-145d-4217-8df6-b3a10022d2b5 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:00:00 +0000 884 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22562506/ Domain of the Dinosaurs exhibition See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Domain of the Dinosaurs is the biggest fossil exhibition ever held in Ireland, and the first to feature Irish dinosaurs. Recently launched at The Glucksman art gallery in UCC, it will feature over 5 tonnes of material, including nine huge skeletal casts and over 250 real fossils of dinosaurs and other long-extinct creatures... full RTÉ Radio 1 22562504 52a2ea71-0762-4382-b6ad-b3a10022d210 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:00:00 +0000 807 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22562504/ Roger Casement: patriot, diplomat, poet, human rights campaigner . . . and naturalist? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The celebrated Irish patriot Roger Casement was also a dedicated and talented naturalist, a side of his life that is perhaps less well known today. Many of the biological specimens he collected on his extensive travels can still be found in the Natural History Museum in Dublin today, as Eric Dempsey explains... full RTÉ Radio 1 22562503 c4546350-b348-4c87-9a9d-b3a10022d17e Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:00:00 +0000 67 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22562503/ After 25 years, Puffins return to the Isle of Muck See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> Thanks to the stalwart efforts of Ulster Wildlife, the Northern Irish conservation charity, Puffins have returned to nest on the Isle of Muck off the coast of Co. Antrim for the first time in 25 years. This was made possible in part by the systematic eradication of non-native Brown Rats from the tiny island... full RTÉ Radio 1 22562502 9883aab5-938b-4223-bd62-b3a10022d1b3 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:00:00 +0000 643 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22562502/ Up close and personal with Ireland’s largest oak tree See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> MGW researcher Michele Browne recently met arborist Bernard Carey in Mountshannon, Co. Clare; they discussed his Treeconomics report about the financial value of trees. They also visited Ireland’s largest oak tree, the Be Binn, and spoke with Aileen Dunne of local business Oak House Ceramics... full RTÉ Radio 1 22562505 53d131bd-8285-41d4-b238-b3a10022d1c4 Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:00:00 +0000 660 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22562505/ Bird 'flu update: is it safe to feed garden birds? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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]]> The advice on bird feeding from BirdWatch Ireland is that it is still perfectly safe to feed birds in your garden, noting that, unlike birds packed together in seabird colonies or wetlands, the species of bird that typically visit gardens are very unlikely to come into contact with the H5N1 virus. Niall Hatch explains why... full RTÉ Radio 1 22562501 feb7c4cb-246f-43c7-a5cc-b3a10022d1cd Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:00:00 +0000 187 https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22562501/