BBC Autumnwatch Returns, Highlighting Autumn’s Sensory Richness

Chris Packham, the presenter of BBC Autumnwatch, is scheduled to return to television screens for a partial revival of the series, which will focus on his favorite season. The naturalist stated, “I go for autumn because of the smell. It’s like a great, rich fruitcake made of nature.” Autumnwatch will be broadcast for three evenings on BBC1’s The One Show, following the series’ cancellation in 2023 due to financial constraints. The live broadcasts, originating from Wytham Great Wood near Oxford, will feature badgers, the importance of nature for mental well-being, and creatures traditionally associated with Halloween. Packham commented, “Our mission really is to overturn the idea that autumn is a time of death and decay.” He continued, “It’s a time of beautiful plenty. It’s a treat for the senses. Visually, you’ve got all of these colours.” “In terms of sounds, you’ve got deer rutting, you’ve got tawny owls calling.” Packham added, “And then you’ve got the smell. I mean, just breathe it in. Autumn is a time to exercise your nose.” The University of Oxford states that Wytham Woods is recognized as one of the most extensively researched woodland areas globally. A particular study conducted within the wood has observed 40 generations of great tits, marking it as one of the world’s longest-running animal-tracking investigations. Badgers, which Packham anticipates might appear live on Tuesday’s broadcast, have also been subjects of study to understand their adaptation to environmental shifts. The naturalist mentioned that a segment of the series would explore the “uplift in interest in natural health” observed since the Covid pandemic. He recommended, “Don’t underestimate the value of a simple weekend walk in nature in autumn.” Packham further explained, “You may well just think you’re enjoying the colours but you’re breathing in chemicals which are improving your immune system.” The broadcast scheduled for Thursday, coinciding with Halloween, will showcase bats, toads, and other creatures often “demonised.” Packham stated, “There’s nothing more beautiful than a bat.” He added, “Many of our species are in critical decline. We’ve got to love them more in order to protect them.” In 2023, pre-recorded Autumnwatch segments were aired on The One Show after the BBC cancelled live broadcasts, attributing the decision to “challenging times financially.” This year’s series is scheduled to air from Tuesday through Thursday on The One Show at 19:00, available on BBC1 and iPlayer. For updates, BBC Oxfordshire can be followed on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.