The BBC has ended its seasonal wildlife series Winterwatch after 14 years, with the final edition airing in early 2026.
The decision, announced on July 2, 2026, is part of a broader commissioning strategy driven by funding constraints.
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The program, which first aired in 2012 to document British wildlife during January and February, will be replaced by a new year-round video podcast called Naturewatch.
The weekly show will launch this autumn on BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and BBC Sounds.
New Format Aims for Year-Round Engagement
Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning for Specialist Factual, said the change is designed to expand the broadcaster's natural history content across multiple digital platforms.
"Nature never stops – and neither should we," Bootle stated.
Naturewatch will provide weekly coverage of seasonal wildlife developments and environmental news across the United Kingdom.
"Every week, Naturewatch will give Springwatch fans – and all wildlife lovers – a new way to stay connected to the natural world," Bootle added.
The BBC emphasized that the new format aims to foster a deeper connection between audiences and local ecosystems throughout all four seasons.
A spokesperson noted that the multi-platform strategy is structured to navigate a competitive media landscape.
"The Watches is a much-loved BBC brand and our newest addition to the family is Naturewatch," the spokesperson said.
"This will allow us to deliver greater value to audiences by connecting them to British wildlife, all year round."
