The new landmark natural history series, Wild Isles, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, unveils a previously unseen wild side of the UK, emphasising the global significance of Britain’s natural environment. Among the remarkable wildlife featured in the series are the badgers of Sussex, beautifully captured in their native habitat by wildlife photographer, Badger Trust Youth Ambassador and conservationist, Rachel Bigsby.
For over four years, Rachel has been closely observing a particular clan of badgers residing in an ancient woodland known for its stunning bluebells and abundant wildlife. When Silverback Films approached her to share her cherished location with the world, she hesitated. The woodland and its inhabitants were precious to her. However, with British badgers facing unprecedented threats, Rachel recognised the importance of contributing to the series. Her involvement would not only spotlight the challenges these creatures face but also emphasise what could be done to protect and restore badger populations and the wider ecosystem of Britain’s wild isles.
Badgers in Bluebells on Location
Filming this sequence was entrusted to acclaimed cameraman Simon King, who worked closely with Rachel, relying on her expertise and familiarity with the badger clan. Together, they managed to capture a captivating sequence showcasing Britain’s most iconic mammal amidst the beauty of its most iconic wildflower, the bluebell.
From a carefully constructed hide made from natural materials, the pair spent ten days in the woodland, working tirelessly from mid-afternoon until nightfall. While Simon focused on filming, Rachel photographed the badgers, with both alerting each other to the animals’ movements and behaviors. Rachel’s intimate knowledge of the badgers—understanding their tolerance levels, habits, and the importance of staying downwind—was key to their success in capturing these mesmerising images.
Badgers in the Book
While filming, Rachel’s attention was also on creating a series of photographs for the Wild Isles book and press coverage. She had been pursuing the perfect shot of badgers amongst bluebells since 2020—a vision of capturing wild animals at just the right moment, in perfect conditions, within the brief window of the bluebell season.
The journey was not without challenges. Her first attempt in 2020 was thwarted by uncooperative weather, with rain and low light preventing the badgers from emerging. However, her persistence paid off. Over the next two years, Rachel’s growing familiarity with the badgers' behaviour, and their increasing trust in her presence, allowed her to achieve the photographs she had been working towards. By the bluebell season of 2022, she finally succeeded. Warm, calm weather drew the badgers out before dusk, and Rachel captured enchanting images of the sows gathering bluebells for bedding material—an iconic and intimate glimpse into their daily lives.
Sussex on the Screen
Rachel’s dedication and perseverance were finally rewarded when Wild Isles premiered in 2023, showcasing her badgers and bringing the beauty of Sussex to audiences far and wide.
The sight of her images promoting the series on BBC News, in Radio Times, and BBC Countryfile magazine was thrilling, but nothing compared to seeing her name in the credits of the episode itself.
This project not only highlights Rachel Bigsby’s contribution to wildlife photography but also celebrates the resilient and intricate relationship between Britain's wildlife and its landscape, a story masterfully told through the lens of Wild Isles and narration of Sir David Attenborough.
^ On the screen at the Royal Geographic Society
The five-part series will explore and celebrate the UK’s four key habitats – grasslands, woodlands, freshwater, and marine. Filmed over three years, the series uses the very latest technology to showcase dramatic new behaviour and previously unseen wildlife spectacles from across our wild isles – from battling butterflies to hunting sea eagles and killer whales.
Discover more about our wild isles > https://www.wwf.org.uk/wild-isles
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