Countryfile presenter Hamza Yassin recently took part in a remarkable conservation achievement by assisting in the release of a rare woodlark back into the wild. During an episode aired on BBC Two on Sunday, 5 July, Hamza visited the RSPB-managed Coquet Island off the coast of Northumberland, a crucial sanctuary for tens of thousands of seabirds.
While fellow presenter Anita Rani explored bird habitats on Essex’s Northey Island, Hamza made his way to Coquet Island, a protected refuge known for hosting thousands of breeding seabirds including puffins, Common, Sandwich, and Arctic terns. Notably, it remains the UK’s only nesting site for the rare Roseate tern.
Hamza expressed his enthusiasm, calling the visit “one of the best parts” of his job, eager to explore the stunning island and participate in its conservation efforts during the offseason when birds migrate away. Accompanied by site manager Stephen Westerberg, Hamza witnessed the successful capture of a rare woodlark using a mist net — a fine mesh device designed to safely trap birds in flight.
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Woodlarks are unusual visitors to Northumberland, with only eight recorded sightings in the past 30 years. Stephen highlighted that the bird Hamza helped release could be the very first woodlark ever ringed in the region. The species usually resides year-round in Britain, though northern populations often migrate to milder climates during winter, possibly traveling all the way from Scandinavia.
Hamza was thrilled by the experience: “Just landing on the island is a privilege, and to end it with a woodlark – it’s pretty cool.” Although he had seen woodlarks before, this was his first chance to handle one up close, an opportunity that left him and the team excited. With Stephen’s guidance, Hamza was honored to return the delicate bird safely to its natural habitat.
Reflecting on the moment, Hamza remarked, “This is such a privilege to release this woodlark. Thank you for giving me the opportunity.” After setting the bird free, he couldn’t hide his delight: “How cool is that?”
Countryfile continues to showcase the beauty and importance of Britain’s natural landscapes every Sunday on BBC One and via iPlayer.