Forecasting the Future: From Changing Weather to Changing Habitats, with the Met Office

Make Space For Nature

The natural world is speaking to us through shifting species patterns, and Graham Madge from the Met Office is helping us translate. As both a climate communicator and lifelong wildlife observer, Graham brings a unique perspective to understanding how Scotland's changing climate is reshaping our beloved landscapes and wildlife.

Climate change isn't just about distant polar bears - profound transformations are already underway right here in Scotland. The Scottish crossbill, a finch found nowhere else on Earth, faces an uncertain future as warming pushes its suitable habitat northward, whilst Mediterranean species like little egrets and spoonbills are becoming increasingly common visitors to our shores.

Graham explores how extreme weather events accelerate these impacts, and how nature serves as both victim and potential saviour in our climate crisis. Scotland's peatlands and forests play crucial roles in carbon storage, while natural coastal defences help communities adapt to rising seas. Most importantly, he reveals how we can all help by creating connected habitats and recording the wildlife around us - turning every nature walk into vital climate science.

Information:

NatureScot – Climate Change

Met Office – Climate Change in the UK

Met Office – Effects of Climate Change

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1. Introduction to Climate's Impact on Wildlife (00:00:00)

2. Natural Variability vs Climate Change (00:02:10)

3. Understanding Extreme Weather Events (00:05:40)

4. Nature's Role in Climate Mitigation (00:09:30)

5. Species Range Shifts in Scotland (00:14:40)

6. Marine Changes and Building Resilience (00:22:40)

7. Citizen Science and Personal Action (00:28:10)