The White Spotted Wedgefish

This Water Vole is part of a series commissioned by University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness Research Group for The River Derwent. The water vole is under serious threat from habitat loss and predation by the American mink. Found along our waterways, it is similar-looking to the brown rat, but with a blunt nose, small ears and furry tail. (find out more from The Wildlife Trusts) With many thanks to artist, photographer and author, Christine Gregory, such a font of knowledge on Water Voles as well as Brown Hares. Christine's book on the Water Vole.

The bee-flies are out and about in the UK doing their crazy, cool hovering displays and they're great mimickers of bumble bees. But, don't be fooled, wait until you hear about what they do with their babies...

Red squirrels are our native species and have lived in the UK for around 10,000 years. They are facing a population decline, primarily due to competition from the invasive grey squirrel. With thanks to David Mills who really does make a charming red squirrel. Some of the experts in Messages from the Wild suit their animal down to the ground and David is one of them. If we could imagine what a red squirrel might sound like, this, to me is it. Visit The British Wildlife Centre and support their conservation and breeding programmes for our wildlife. Producer, Presenter [email protected]

Bumblebees are at their peak right now and this Buff Tailed is fairly easy to spot. Keep a look out. This was originally recorded for the collection at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, called Voices from the Lost Gardens. Jimmy Docherty really makes me laugh and he knows his stuff too - farmer, entomologist, television presenter and I would add comedian. Visit Jimmy’s Farm and support the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Producer, Presenter [email protected] Illustrations by Annabazyl www.fiverr.com/annabazyl

It’s World Ocean Week, an important yearly event for the future of all marine life. Ocean animals need our attention. They need to be heard. Please spread their messages far and wide. This series, Voices from the Ocean, was commissioned by Gallifrey Foundation in collaboration with Mission Blue, with special thanks to Antoinette Vermilye for her unending support. And many thanks to marine conservation biologist, author, science communicator, ocean advocate Christine Figgener, for embodying The Leatherback Turtle so beautifully. presenter/producer: [email protected]