The UK's hedgehog population is receiving a significant boost from a project that combines artificial intelligence with volunteer efforts. The National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme, led by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society and the People’s Trust for Endangered Species, is using trail cameras and a special AI algorithm developed at Liverpool John Moores University to gather and analyze data. This initiative aims to provide the first reliable estimate of the UK’s hedgehog population and understand habitat preferences and causes of decline. Volunteers are invited to sort through images online via MammalWeb, contributing to a robust annual population estimate and long-term conservation efforts.

The podcast 'Windswept and Interesting' explores various aspects of conservation and nature restoration in Scotland. It features interviews with key figures such as Kate Holl from NatureScot, Nick Kempe, Rory Kennedy from the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, and Peter Cairns. Topics include woodland restoration, access laws, biodiversity, and marine conservation. The podcast also discusses the management of Glen Coe by the National Trust for Scotland and the role of rewilding in conservation efforts. The tone is a mix of factual reporting and personal opinions from the interviewees.

The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) is planning to apply for a licence to release over a dozen beavers in the upper Spey valley, marking the first reintroduction of wild beavers to the Cairngorms. This move aligns with the Scottish Government's policy to spread beavers across Scotland. While the CNPA highlights the environmental benefits, local farmers, represented by Ian Wilson of the National Farmers Union Scotland, express concerns about potential flooding and damage to farmland. Jamie Williamson, a nearby estate owner, fears the beavers could disrupt his land and infrastructure. The CNPA assures that mitigation measures will be in place, supported by NatureScot and park staff. The initiative has received mixed reactions from the public, with a majority supporting the reintroduction but local residents showing more apprehension.

Environmental groups are urging the Scottish Government to commit £500 million to save Scotland's unique temperate rainforest, with charities seeking at least £250 million in public funds to begin restoration efforts. The Woodland Trust Scotland estimates the total investment needed over ten years to be around £500 million, emphasizing the importance of this funding for ecosystem restoration, green jobs, and climate protection. The rainforests, remnants of ancient forests along the Atlantic coastline, are highly endangered and vital for biodiversity and flood protection. The funds would address issues like invasive species, deer management, and conservation work. Experts express optimism that the government will act on this urgent environmental issue.

The Cairngorms National Park Authority is planning to expand Scotland's wild beaver population into the Cairngorms National Park, with a licence application to release over a dozen beavers in the upper Spey valley. While the authority and a public consultation highlight the environmental benefits, local farmers express concerns about potential flooding and damage to farmland. The initiative aligns with Scottish Government policy to spread beavers across Scotland, but faces opposition from farmers worried about the impact on their land and livelihoods.

Pressure mounts on the Scottish Government to enforce deer culling in the Highlands to protect the environment. The John Muir Trust calls for compulsory cull targets, while some estates request government intervention against non-compliant neighbors. Deer overpopulation is linked to increased traffic collisions and environmental damage. The government plans to modernize deer management, with NatureScot reporting a significant rise in deer-vehicle collisions. The Hill To Grill program educates students on deer ecology and meat processing, fostering a deeper understanding of wildlife management.

The village of Kinlochleven is divided over the presence of wild deer, with some residents calling for a resumed cull due to health and safety concerns, while others oppose it, citing the beauty and uniqueness of the animals. The Kinlochleven Community Trust, along with NatureScot, Highland Council, and local landowners, is working to address the issue. The debate has caused significant tension within the community, with strong opinions on both sides.

Interest in climbing Scotland's Munros has surged, leading to significant path damage. Mountaineering Scotland and the Outdoor Access Trust For Scotland have launched a campaign to raise awareness and funds for path maintenance, highlighting the lack of public funding and the need for contributions from hill-walkers. The campaign stresses the importance of voluntary contributions to restore damaged paths, especially on private estates where government funding is absent.

The article discusses the potential reintroduction of wild lynx to Scotland within the next decade, led by rewilding advocates like Micklewright and supported by charities such as the Scottish Wildlife Trust. The initiative aims to address overgrazing in Scottish forests but faces strong opposition from livestock farmers and the National Farmers Union Scotland due to concerns about sheep predation. Micklewright suggests a trial reintroduction and government subsidies to mitigate farmers' concerns. The Scottish Government's stance remains uncertain, with previous pledges against lynx reintroduction.

Expanding Scotland’s wild beaver population into the Cairngorms National Park is facing opposition from local farmers who fear devastating impacts on their land. The Cairngorms National Park Authority plans to apply for a licence to release beavers in the upper Spey valley, aligning with Scottish Government policy. While the authority highlights benefits such as enhanced wetlands and flood prevention, farmers express concerns about potential flooding and damage to farmland. The National Farmers Union Scotland and local estate owners voice significant apprehensions, despite public consultation showing majority support for the reintroduction.