BBC viewers were left feeling "sad" and emotional as Springwatch concluded its run for the year. The beloved series, marking its 20th anniversary in 2025, broadcasted its final episode.
Presenters Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan said their goodbyes to the nests, while Iolo Williams completed his Northern Irish adventure. Fans expressed disbelief at how quickly the last three weeks had passed, with the finale providing a comprehensive recap of various nests and their development.
Following the cancellation of Autumnwatch last year due to budgetary constraints, the 2025 season of Springwatch kicked off on May 26, airing four times weekly from Monday to Thursday.
One viewer lamented on social media, "Last episode of #Springwatch tonight, I'm so sad," and another remarked, "Last episode of #Springwatch tonight, three weeks have gone quick."
Another fan shared their surprise, stating, "I cant believe it's the last one already #springwatch," reports the Express.
An additional enthusiast suggested online, "We do need a one-off special to celebrate 20 yrs of #Springwatch. With no #Autumnwatch, the savings the BBC have could be used for a one-off special to welcome back all the team & crew for a superb party and memories! Maybe aired across Xmas!".
Earlier in the week, the programme sparked controversy when Springwatch broadcasted rather "savage" and "distressing" clips featuring a tawny owl and songthrushes. Chris Packham informed viewers that on May 28, the two songthrushes were looking after their chicks, who by the end of the week had grown significantly.
One chick decided to fly the nest while its sibling remained, which Chris noted was a "big mistake."
The audience was then exposed to unsettling scenes of a tawny owl attacking one of the songthrushes, followed by footage of the predator using its talons on the defenceless chicks in their nest.
The graphic nature of the events did not sit well with viewers, leading to disappointment among the fanbase. An aggrieved viewer vented on social media platform X, wishing ill upon the owl: "Hopefully owl falls out tree and dies #springwatch."
Another lamented the fate of the thrushes, expressing sadness with a tweet: "Oh no not the thrushes :( #springwatch."
While a third comment criticised the programme sharply: " Well done #springwatch Tens of thousands of children now crying and in distress! They're not all heartless like you. Horrible BBC."
Springwatch is available on BBC iPlayer
