Beloved BBC nature series returning to screens in just weeks with new live episodes
A POPULAR nature series is making its return to screens in the coming weeks.
Springwatch began in 2005 and showcases British wildlife during the changing of the seasons in the United Kingdom.
A total of 19 series have aired to date, with the 20th edition soon to be shown on TV.
The three-week series will begin airing on BBC Two on Monday, May 27.
The episodes will air on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8pm, as well as Fridays at 7.30pm.
Presenters Chris Packham, Michaela Strachan and Iolo Williams will be returning.
In its format, Springwatch broadcasts live from locations across the UK with the previous series covering Devon, Dorset and North Wales.
The show’s popularity over the years spawned spin-offs Autumnwatch and Winterwatch.
Autumnwatch began as a one-off, but was expanded into its own series from 2006 to 2022.
Last year, the Beeb cancelled Autumnwatch citing budget concerns and having a smaller audience than its counterparts.
A statement from the broadcaster at the time said: “These are challenging times financially and we need to make difficult decisions and focus our resources on content that has the highest impact.
“Sadly, this means that Autumnwatch will not be continuing. Instead, we are investing more money into Springwatch and Winterwatch as they are most popular with audiences.”
Winterwatch began back in 2012 and returned for its 12th series earlier this year.
The original presenting line-up for Springwatch included comedian and conservationist Bill Oddie, television presenter Kate Humble and naturalist Simon King.
Bill, known for his work with The Goodies, exited the programme in 2008, followed by Simon in 2010 and Kate in 2011.
Presenter and naturalist Chris Packham and presenter Michaela Strachan joined the show from 2009 and 2011 onwards, respectively.
Previous episodes of Springwatch are available to watch on BBC iPlayer.