A Dunedin-based wildlife filmmaker has diverted his focus to what we hear, rather than what we see, when exploring our natural environment.
Karthic SS hosts OAR FM programme and podcast Tune Into Nature, telling stories of wildlife and conservation in Otago.
The COVID-19 pandemic, and coming to terms with immense global and local changes, has made our connection to nature more central than ever, he says.
“Through natural soundscapes and local stories of conservation, Tune Into Nature aims to entertain and inform listeners, and strengthen our relationship with the natural world.
“This project involves conservation activists and volunteers telling their stories, and sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for Otago’s unique natural environments. We hear about the work of numerous community organisations, and hopefully inspire our communities to support important conservation work.”
Field recordings of natural phenomenon are woven through each episode, transporting the listener into a variety of wild environments. Early editions have featured the dawn chorus at Orokonui Ecosanctuary, birdsong at the Aramoana saltmarsh, and the sounds of urban green spaces during lockdown.
Tune Into Nature is made possible through funding from the Otago Regional Council Eco Fund, with support from the University of Otago Centre for Science Communication. The show airs every second Tuesday at 9.30am on OAR 105.4FM and 1575AM.