In celebration of World Fish Migration Day (WFMD), this episode of Nature Connects explores the lives of two remarkable migratory fish species found in the River Tamar: the Atlantic Salmon and the Allis Shad. These species are not only vital to the river’s ecosystem but also represent the resilience and interconnectedness of nature. WFMD is a global biannual event; however, awareness and engagement around fish migration are promoted annually to keep the spotlight on these critical ecological journeys. Our guests are Angela Gall, Marine Senior Officer at Natural England and author of the children’s book Allis the Shad Who Wouldn't Give Up, and Dr. William Darwall, Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme Manager and past researcher with International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Angela brings a unique perspective that blends science and storytelling, while Will shares insights from his work on the red listing of the Atlantic Salmon and the broader implications for freshwater biodiversity. We follow the epic journey of the Atlantic Salmon, from their freshwater beginnings to their oceanic travels and back again. These fish face numerous challenges, including habitat fragmentation and climate change, and conservation efforts are focused on improving connectivity and protecting genetic diversity. Will’s research has been instrumental in the recent IUCN red listing of the species, highlighting the urgent need for action. We also learn about the Allis Shad, a lesser known but equally fascinating species that migrates from the sea to spawn in freshwater. Angela’s book brings their story to life for younger audiences, and she shares how storytelling can inspire conservation. Efforts to protect the Allis Shad include monitoring populations, improving fish passage, and addressing threats like pollution and habitat loss. This episode is a celebration of migration, resilience, and the importance of healthy, free-flowing rivers. Angela and Will offer inspiring perspectives on how local and global conservation efforts are making a difference and how each of us can play a role in supporting these incredible species. To learn more, visit the World Fish Migration Day website, explore the IUCN Red List, or discover the work of the Tamara Landscape Partnership. You can also find Angela’s book through local booksellers and conservation groups. Your host Ginnette Sutherland, Community Engagement Officer (intern), Tamar Valley National Landscape/Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (National Lottery Heritage Fund supported) Our guests Angela Gall, Marine Senior Officer and Author (Natural England) Dr William Darwall, Scheme Manager (Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme (Tamar Valley National Landscape project, supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund) With thanks Thank you to Ross Sinclair and Jim Baldwin from Fotonow FOTONOW CIC - Fotonow CIC for their technical support.   Links Find out more… World Fish Migration Day – Connecting fish, rivers and people IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Natural England - GOV.UK Atlantic Salmon Trust - The Atlantic Salmon Trust Allis The Shad Who Wouldn’t Give Up - Westcountry Rivers Trust Ocean Conservation Trust | An Ocean Conservation Charity The Fading Away of Westcountry salmon - Westcountry Rivers Trust WRT Home - Westcountry Rivers Trust    Habitat mapping and monitoring of allis shad on the River Tamar - NERR1947 Allis shad (Alosa alosa) - Special Areas of Conservation Tamar catchment research to aid increase in salmon smolt numbers - Westcountry Rivers Trust   Tamara Landscape Partnership scheme - https://tamaralandscapepartnership.org.uk/ Tamar Valley National Landscape - https://www.tamarvalley-nl.org.uk/ Tamar Valley National Landscape’s Nature Recovery Plan 2023-2030 - https://www.tamarvalley-nl.org.uk/our-work/projects/nature-recovery-plan/ University of Derby Natural Connectedness research - https://www.derby.ac.uk/research/themes/zero-carbon/zero-carbon-nbs-research-centr