Fans of the BBC's beloved wildlife programme Winterwatch have received excellent news as the series prepares to make a triumphant return to screens this month. This eagerly anticipated comeback follows a period where one of the show's presenters received an outpouring of public support after sharing details of a recent hospital visit.
A Significant Broadcast Shake-Up
When the long-running natural history series resumes on Tuesday evening, January 20th, viewers will immediately notice a substantial and exciting change. This announcement arrives shortly after one of the programme's presenters highlighted two straightforward actions that individuals can implement to help safeguard our environment.
Historic Relocation to Mount Stewart
In a groundbreaking first for Winterwatch, the primary live broadcast will originate from the magnificent Mount Stewart estate, which is beautifully situated along the shores of Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland. The BBC has elaborated on why this particular location was selected for this year's edition, emphasising that the National Trust-managed site represents nothing less than a wildlife treasure trove.
The broadcaster released an enthusiastic statement, declaring: "Winterwatch is ready to showcase it like never before. Its mild microclimate, ancient woodlands, rich wetlands and proximity to the beautiful Strangford Lough create the perfect stage for a winter spectacular."
The statement continued with vivid anticipation: "Expect a dazzling cast of species and a host of seasonal behaviours as animals power through the toughest months of the year. Whether under crisp frosts or storm-laden skies, Mount Stewart teems with life."
Presenter Enthusiasm for the New Location
The familiar and cherished presenting trio of Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams are all returning to front the show. According to reports from Belfast Live, they have expressed tremendous enthusiasm about filming at this fresh and inspiring location.
Discussing what audiences can expect from the new series, Chris Packham described Northern Ireland as an unspoilt corner of the United Kingdom, having personally explored the region extensively since the early 1990s.
He expressed his excitement, stating: "It's magnificent in terms of its natural resources and it has some exceptional species. Obviously, since that time, some things have got worse, but some have got better, and so we're going to celebrate those things that have improved."
Packham added with palpable enthusiasm: "It's got incredible coastal regions and loughs and a wonderful range of species, some of which we don't see frequently across the UK, so very excited to be heading there."
Timely Wildlife Narratives and Climate Focus
Throughout the four-night series, BBC viewers will be guided through timely and compelling wildlife stories by the experienced presenter trio. The coverage will tackle pertinent topics including climate-induced migration changes and the various struggles faced by local species in an increasingly warm world.
In addition to the live broadcasts from Mount Stewart, the BBC has announced a series of pre-recorded segments. A spokesperson explained: "To celebrate winter beyond Northern Ireland and across the UK, Winterwatch will also showcase a range of pre-recorded films that document the season and the diverse species that inhabit our shores."
The spokesperson further noted: "We'll be celebrating the passionate people going the extra mile to preserve and protect threatened wildlife."
Winterwatch makes its welcome return to BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from Tuesday, January 20th, through to Friday, January 23rd. The programme will air at 7pm each evening, offering four consecutive nights of captivating wildlife observation and storytelling from its new Northern Irish home.
