BBC Springwatch returns with special tribute as fans all rush to say same thing

BBC's beloved wildlife programme Springwatch has kicked off its 20th anniversary series, with Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan returning as hosts.

Broadcasting from a new location in the picturesque Peak District, the duo introduced the first episode on May 26 with a nostalgic montage of clips featuring familiar faces, including Kate Humble and Bill Oddie, from the show's debut in 2005.

In his signature style, Chris Packham donned a bucket hat and peppered his opening segment with Oasis puns, teasing viewers that they were in for a treat: "You'll want to be here now as we're about to bring you the Champagne supernova of wildlife TV, starting tonight."

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To celebrate two decades on air, the show has introduced a new feature, Springwatch Street, which delves into the secret lives of urban wildlife, showcasing the thriving populations of foxes and swifts in city environments.

Within minutes of the episode airing, fans took to social media platform X to share their delight at the show's return. One enthusiastic viewer exclaimed: "Springwatch at 20! Absolutely love this show! Great recap of the start and all of the amazing presenters that the show has had!" reports .

Another loyal fan commented: "Springwatch is 20 - and I think I've watched every series."

A third viewer praised the show's hosts, saying: "Wonderful #springwatch is back - @ChrisPackham4 and @michaelastracha are national treasures."

Others welcomed the show's return, posting: "Lovely to have #Springwatch back on our screens. And from the #PeakDistrict too!" and "Ssshhhh it's finally #springwatch time! Welcome back."

Chris had fans buzzing with his not-so-secret Oasis theme, with one viewer tweeting: "@ChrisGPackham clearly on an Oasis kick tonight."

Others chimed in: "Oasis songs then Chris?" and noted: "Sneaky Oasis references in the first 10 minutes."

Some even teased: "Some might say that Chris is naming Oasis songs."

Meanwhile, Welsh presenter Iolo Williams drew attention with a new look as he checked in from a damp Belfast, saying: "My beard and I, we're going to take you on a Northern Ireland road trip," before outlining the wildlife features ahead, including foxes and seals.

"So Chris and Michaela we have got three wildlife-packed weeks coming up for you," Iolo declared, prompting a handover back to the Peak District. There, Michaela shared her approval of his new look: "I know, more rain, more hair - I like it. I almost think you look quite handsome actually Iolo."

Chris offered his humorous take: "I think he looks like a Norwegain resistance fighter in the Second World war personally."

Fans didn't hesitate to weigh in on Iolo's beard, with comments such as: "Liking the beard!" and "Loving @IoloWilliams2's beard."

Another added: "Silver fox sighting on #Springwatch already, Iolo definitely needs to keep the beard."

Springwatch is on BBC Two weeknights at 8pm