Barra's Return of the Wild

The natural world around us is in crisis, and biodiversity is in shocking decline – but all is not lost. This series, presented by Barra Best, shows how when we humans change our behaviour, the natural world can spring back surprisingly quickly. A way forward that works for both humans and the natural world is possible.

Barra Best explores how biodiversity can be safeguarded by looking at several projects. In the north channel off the coast of Northern Ireland, the elusive flapper skate is making a comeback after decades of overfishing, while in County Kerry, ospreys are being reintroduced from Norway after being hunted to extinction 150 years ago.

Wildfires are a growing problem across Europe, but in Ireland, the wild goat is part of the solution. In Slovenia, the ptarmigan is at risk from walkers in the national park, but the solution is to educate people to stay on the paths. The German dormouse has been in decline, but a new survey by citizen scientists is helping shed light on this elusive creature.