How can we better coexist with large mammals such as red deer, Highland cattle and wild boar in the Netherlands? This is the central question in the new podcast: Samen Wild, an initiative of the WildlifeNL project.
In Samen Wild, environmental philosopher Martin Drenthen takes listeners on his quest for answers to this question. And naturally, he doesn't do this alone. Different guests join each episode to share their knowledge and vision and explore the topic further together. In the conversations that emerge, you hear from conservationists, hunters, farmers, researchers, policymakers and other stakeholders.
More than just research
In varying combinations, the guests highlight both the latest scientific insights and the social debates surrounding the return and presence of large mammals in our country. Think, for example, of dilemmas concerning the population management of wild boar or the conflicts that sometimes arise between visitors and large grazers. And when is an animal actually 'wild'? In this way, the podcast paints a rich picture of the challenges that coexisting with these animals brings.
'Large mammals are once again fully present in the Netherlands and are increasingly coming into contact with people. However, not everyone has the same view on how we should deal with this. With this podcast, we therefore want not only to share our research, but above all to engage in the broader dialogue. By inviting guests with different perspectives, the diverse viewpoints of the debate are extensively addressed,' explains Mark Zwartkruis, producer of Samen Wild and communications officer at WildlifeNL.
Curious?
The first episode of Samen Wild was released on 4 October and can be listened to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube and other podcast platforms.