Explore every episode of the podcast Chris Skinner's Countryside Podcasts
Dive into the complete episode list for Chris Skinner's Countryside Podcasts. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Episode 1.3 - Anglo Saxons Parasitic Plants and Hornbeam Trees
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
In this first episode, farmer and nature lover Chris Skinner celebrates his 74th birthday. He looks back at the history of his home, High Ash Farm, and we're introduced to his pesky pal, Rat the dog.
Ask Chris a question by emailing Chris@highashfarm.com
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.13 - Winter Arrives But Where Has Rat Gone
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Kicking off 2025 with a fresh start, Chris and Matthew launch the new season of podcasts, now proudly produced by High Ash Farm itself!
As the calendar turns, they celebrate the arrival of The Flower of Hope - the snowdrop, marking the first whisper of spring. This delicate bloom not only heralds new beginnings but also brings a touch of beauty to the wintry landscape.
The duo then turns their attention to an intriguing inhabitant of the farm, Wormwood. This plant, known for its myriad uses, from medicinal to the infamously potent absinthe, is explored in depth. Will they venture into concocting this spirit? Let's hope not, or we might witness an unpredictable end to this episode!
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.18 - How Much Is That Doggy In The Window
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 2.2 - The Hazel's Whisper and the Jackdaw's Call
Chris and Matthew delve into the history of Hazel at the farm and some of the common uses before Chris heads out for an evening visit to the corvid roost.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.27 - The Wood Mouse - Budding Blackthorn and a Redwing Display
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.21 - Ash Dieback and the Cost of Carbon Offsetting
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
In this episode of The Countryside Podcast, Chris and Matthew witness the breath-taking spectacle of waterfowl arrivals at the pond, reminiscent of Heathrow Airport with birds coming from all directions. Chris observes Mallards with their distinctive bottle-green heads, Egyptian geese, and Teal, all descending from high above, circling around before making their approach. The pond, a historical feature dug in the early 1600s, serves as a central hub for these birds, their numbers reaching up to 250 by evening. Chris discusses the challenges these birds face with habitat loss due to land drainage and modern farming practices, while Matthew touches on the sporting aspect of waterfowl. Join Chris and Matthew as they marvel at the birds' skilful landings, even on ice, and learn how they use the wind to their advantage for a soft landing. This episode captures the beauty and complexity of nature's evening routine.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
In this episode, Chris Skinner takes us through the enchanting yet challenging winter landscape of High Ash Farm in Norfolk. The podcast begins with an evening exploration where Chris discusses the mysterious fall of mature ash trees, potentially due to ash dieback affecting their roots. Despite the grim start, the episode transitions to a more uplifting note as Chris introduces listeners to the playful antics of badger cubs, observed through his wildlife cameras. The narrative then shifts to the early morning, where the dawn chorus, led by a melodious Robin, signifies the start of a new day amidst the farm's natural chorus. Chris also shares insights on the life of robins, their significance in British culture, and the subtle signs of spring. The episode concludes with a hopeful note, as Chris and Matthew listen for owls, reflecting on the interconnectedness of farm life and wildlife. Additionally, Chris responds to listener queries, discussing small mammals and their impact on local environments.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.34 - Swifts Horse Chestnuts And Hawthorne
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.33 - Bluebells And Their Living Heritage
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 1.36 - Wild Garlic Early Purple Orchid And Tree Creepers
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 2.5 - Moss Magic Exploring the Miniature Forest
Join Chris Skinner on another enlightening episode of "The Countryside Podcast" at High Ash Farm. This week, Chris takes us on an adventurous journey, starting by exploring the unique life cycle of the moss Tortula muralis, perched high on an old roof accessed by a cherry picker. Discover how this resilient plant thrives in extreme conditions and its ecological importance. Later, Chris delves into the world of lichens, showcasing the vibrant Xanthoria parietina on old Norfolk clay pantiles. The episode concludes with a dawn chorus led by the Mistle Thrush in Cantley Hill plantation, and a visit to a magpie communal roost, offering insights into their behaviour and intelligence.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 2.6 - Barking Up the Right Tree - From Orchids to Old Oaks
Join Rat Skinner, Farmer Chris and Matthew Gudgin at High Ash Farm for the latest episode of 'Gulps of Fresh Air,' where the countryside comes alive. This week, we're treated to the lively antics of Chris's boisterous terrier, not quite the sheepdog the flock behind us would prefer, as they prepare to move off the farm after a successful winter. Dive into the world of lambing with a remarkable 182% lambing rate, explore the rich tapestry of local history, from WWII radar stations to the transformation of farming practices, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area with its panoramic views, new orchid species, and the melodious song of the skylark. We'll also discuss recent changes in land use, from traditional farming to embracing stewardship and the advent of solar farms. The episode wraps up with a stroll through the emerging spring flora, highlighting the wild pansy and groundsel, and a nod to the farm's wildlife, including the ever-present hares. A special thank you goes out to listeners for their support in funding this series, contributing to conservation efforts like the new oak bench at Fox's Grove. Tune in for a blend of nature, history, and the evolving story of rural life.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 2.7 - Hidden in Plain Sight: The Silent Work of Nature’s Tiny Heroes
"Hidden in Plain Sight: The Silent Work of Nature’s Tiny Heroes" dives into the often overlooked yet crucial roles played by nature's smallest inhabitants. Join hosts Chris Skinner and Matthew as they explore High Ash Farm, uncovering the secrets of the ecosystem. From the heat of compost heaps teeming with brandling worms to the fascinating hares that roam the fields, this episode celebrates the foundational species that support the entire ecological pyramid. Discover the unseen beauty of mosses, lichens, and the surprising world of snail hibernation in oak trees. This podcast not only educates about the biodiversity beneath our feet but also entertains with tales of worm charming and the natural cycles of life in the British countryside.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
"Travelers Above, Toilers Below" bids adieu to winter’s visitors and unearths the quiet laborers of the countryside. Join Chris Skinner and Matthew Gudgin at High Ash Farm under February’s low sun as they watch fieldfares and redwings fuel up for their North Sea journey, their cinnamon-speckled breasts aglow. Beneath the pastures, moles toil in darkness, shaping the soil with their velvet-clad strength and leaving mole hills as evidence of their unseen empire. From the warmth of apricity to tales of a mole felling a king, this episode weaves natural history with wonder. A teaser of harvest mice nesting in shredded grass hints at spring’s approach, while Rat the terrier adds his playful chaos. Celebrate the fleeting beauty of migration and the steadfast work below in this heartfelt farewell to February.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
Episode 2.9 - Gravestones and Orchids: Echoes of Earth
Episode 2.9 - Gravestones and Orchids: Echoes of Earth Step into the shadow of Caistor St. Edmund’s ancient churchyard with Chris Skinner and Matthew Gudgin, where weathered gravestones murmur tales of High Ash Farm’s toilers—men like “Happy” Holden and a boy who ploughed with horses before sailing to New Zealand. History fades into nature’s embrace as the duo tread a pollen field ablaze with bee orchids, their sudden bloom a riddle from centuries past, whispered through soil and fungal threads. Redwings flicker like embers across the hillside, woodpeckers drum spring’s arrival, and listeners’ queries unveil moths, robins, and deer in motion. From ancestral echoes to the wild’s quiet miracles, this episode stitches time and tide into Norfolk’s living tapestry.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm
In this vibrant episode of the Countryside Podcasts, recorded on a glorious spring morning in early March at High Ash Farm, Chris Skinner and his co-host immerse listeners in the thriving world of nature. From the mobile bird hide (Chris’s farm truck), they observe the bustling High Ash Rookery, where rooks are busy rebuilding nests and laying eggs in ash and oak trees, adapting to the loss of their beloved elms due to Dutch Elm disease. The episode captures the rooks’ fascinating social dynamics, including their pecking order and playful thievery, set against a backdrop of Norfolk’s picturesque countryside. The journey continues to a luxurious bird hide, where an array of buntings—corn, reed, and the dazzling yellow hammer—feast on a bountiful spread, offering close-up views of these colourful species. Finally, by Chris Skinners Lake, signs of otters spark excitement, with plans to capture footage of these elusive visitors. Packed with vivid descriptions, ecological insights, and a celebration of biodiversity, this episode is a joyful ode to spring’s awakening.
Please email any questions for Chris to answer on the podcast to Chris@highashfarm.com
This podcast is brought to you by High Ash Farm. To support our efforts in creating this content, please consider making a small monthly or one-off donation. Your contributions help us with production costs, and after expenses, every penny goes towards conservation and maintaining free public access at High Ash Farm. Support us here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-12 or from the Podcast page here: Podcast | High Ash Farm