Nathans Wild Blog

Light pollution is increasingly recognised as a significant threat to nocturnal ecosystems, particularly affecting moth populations and the essential pollination services they provide. Moths play a crucial role in pollinating both wild plants and crops, the encroachment of artificial light into natural habitats poses serious ecological challenges. The Role of Moths in Pollination Moths are vital nocturnal pollinators, contributing to the reproduction of a diverse range of plant species. Their nocturnal activity complements diurnal pollinators like bees, ensuring that pollination occurs around the clock. In the UK, moths have been found to pollinate plants such as honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.), heather (Calluna spp.), and various fruit-bearing crops. Their role is indispensable for maintaining biodiversity and supporting agricultural productivity. Impacts of Light Pollution on Moth Behaviour and Populations Artificial light at night disrupts moth behaviour in several detrimental ways: ...

As we approach 2025, the health of our planet remains a pressing concern. Decisions made by global leaders today will shape the fate of wildlife, ecosystems, and our collective ability to combat climate change. With recent political shifts in both the United Kingdom and the United States - the newly elected leaders demonstrate contrasting approaches to environmental policy, which paint a mixed picture of the year ahead. In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged to lead a green revolution. His government’s policies aim to prioritise biodiversity, renewable energy, and sustainable development. Investments in rewilding projects, the creation of wildlife corridors, and stricter habitat protections are key components of this strategy. These measures are expected to benefit iconic but vulnerable species, such as hedgehogs, red squirrels, and bats, by creating safe spaces and restoring ecosystems. Beyond wildlife, Starmer’s administration is targeting ambitious net-zero carbon goals ...

As the year begins to draw to yet another inevitable close, many of us find ourselves reflecting on what has been and what may lie ahead. For me, I can say this year has been nothing short of productive. From changing jobs to diving into the crystalline waters of the Red Sea, it has been eventful, to say the least. But my focus now is firmly on the horizon and what the future may hold for me and my career. Of course, I possess no crystal ball to predict how my story will unfold, but I do have an idea of the chapters I hope to write. For a decade, I shaped my personality and honed my interests within the pet industry, with aquatics becoming my niche and passion. Over time, and after meeting a kaleidoscope of colourful and marvellous people, I made the significant decision to leave this industry midway through 2024, embarking on a journey to pursue what truly matters to me. For years, I invested in my education through various degrees, and it finally felt like the right time to put that ...

So how exactly do we go about living alongside nature? No matter how big or small an act is, it all collects into one lasting result. Whether you're a multi billion dollar company cutting down on your single use packaging, or you’re a household choosing to cut down on your meat consumption, there are always things that we can do to help make this world that little bit greener. Way back in July of this year (2024), I returned from a trip to London with my partner to see one of our favourite musical artists live on stage. Prior to the event, we decided to pay the museum of natural history a visit. During this time, an exhibit was being held which showcased the weird and wonderful world of birds and how they lived in the days of old, up to the modern day. Towards the end of this exhibit, something of a ‘potential glimpse into the future’ was showcased. A digital illustration, a video of the modern world living alongside nature. Three environments were shown; the outskirts of the city,...

As winter settles over the British countryside, wildlife is faced with a big challenge: how to survive freezing temperatures and food shortages. Some species embrace one of nature’s most fascinating survival tactics - hibernation - while others use unique strategies to stay active and alive during the harshest months. In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of hibernation in British wildlife, explain how it works, and take a closer look at why some animals don’t hibernate at all. From hedgehogs to bats, and even non-hibernating species like foxes and deer, you’ll discover how these animals manage to make it through the winter. Which Animals Hibernate in the UK? Several British species rely on hibernation to get through the winter. This process allows them to conserve energy and survive when food becomes scarce, and temperatures drop dangerously low. The most well-known hibernators in the UK include: Hedgehogs: These charming creatures hibernate from November to April, nestling in ...