The BBC has confirmed that Winterwatch, the popular nature spin-off from Springwatch, will end after 14 years on air. The show will be replaced by a new weekly video podcast called Naturewatch, which will run all year round across TV, iPlayer, and BBC Sounds.
Winterwatch Axed as Part of BBC Cuts
Winterwatch first aired in 2012, focusing on British wildlife during harsh winter conditions. The decision to cancel the show comes as the broadcaster recently announced 2,000 staff redundancies. Springwatch will continue as normal and is scheduled to return in May 2027.
Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual at the BBC, said: "Nature never stops - and neither should we. Every week, Naturewatch will give Springwatch fans - and all wildlife lovers - a new way to stay connected to the natural world, whether that's on TV, iPlayer or Sounds."
New Naturewatch Format
Naturewatch will be a year-round video podcast, expanding the Watches brand to make BBC Natural History content more accessible. Bootle added: "The BBC is committed to celebrating British nature across all our platforms, and we hope this new series will encourage audiences to fall in love with the natural world around them. By expanding the Watches brand we are making the BBC's brilliant Natural History content even more accessible."
Viewer Reaction
The announcement sparked disappointment among fans. One viewer wrote on social media: "Such a shame to lose Winterwatch. I hope Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams will still be involved with the new format." The BBC has not yet confirmed whether the presenters will return for Naturewatch.
Related News: Jules Hudson Pulls Out of Event
Separately, Escape to the Country presenter Jules Hudson was forced to cancel a work engagement due to a family crisis. He posted on social media: "It's with huge regret that owing to a sudden and serious family illness we've had to postpone my evening this Friday at the Blake Theatre in Monmouth. Your tickets can of course be refunded, but we have agreed a new date, Saturday the 12th September. It's hugely disappointing to have to change plans, but I hope you'll understand on this occasion, and hopefully we can all get together in a few short months."
