Backlash as Springwatch spreads it wings

‘Please say we are getting the usually UK Springwatch or I’ll be turning off. Please don’t change the format’

SPRINGWATCH is facing a backlash after the BBC announced the programme was going “on tour” to Japan.

The programme has traditionally focused on British wildlife, so the announcement has prompted a social media backlash.

One viewer wrote on social media: “Please say we are getting the usually UK Springwatch or I’ll be turning off. Look forward to seeing all the UK wildlife every year. Please BBC don’t change the format and don’t bring us another foreign wildlife show.”

Another argued that other countries “can have their own Springwatch”, adding: “Like many others I hope Springwatch is in the UK”.

The show announced the decision in an animated video uploaded to its Facebook page on Tuesday night.

The video included the slogan “Springwatch in Japan, cherry blossom time”.

It is the first time a whole Springwatch show has been based abroad, although viewers have previously seen presenters in Africa looking at cuckoos and Estonia for Bewick swans.

The BBC has reassured viewers that they will still see British wildlife on the programme, as the special episode will run in addition to the usual UK ones.