This week we release once again all about Snowy Owls. With their striking white plumage and piercing yellow eyes, snowy owls are one of the most captivating birds in the avian world. Found predominantly in the Arctic tundra, these magnificent creatures are well-adapted to their icy habitat. Their feathers are not just beautiful but also serve as insulation, allowing them to survive extreme cold. Snowy owls are currently vulnerable. Climate change poses a significant threat to their Arctic home, ...
Dec 23, 2024•1 hr 20 min
In this episode Chris discusses the Apple TV series 'The Secret Lives of Animals' and its fascinating depiction of animal behavior and physiology. Chris is joined by Matt Brandon, series editor and showrunner, and Mark Flowers, series producer. They delve into their backgrounds, the advanced technology used in filming, and the captivating moments captured in the series. The discussion includes anecdotes about exotic animals, their behaviors, and the challenging yet rewarding process of filming i...
Dec 18, 2024•46 min
On this throwback Monday, we target the Great Hammer Shark. Sadly, while there are 9 species of hammerhead sharks, all are on a trajectory to extinction. Alarmingly, the largest of the family, the Great Hammerhead, is critically endangered. Due to the pressures of overfishing, shark finning, by catch, and others, the Great Hammerhead is in deep peril. These incredibly unique sharks with their hammer heads deserve our attention and they need your help. You can learn more about these incredible sh...
Dec 16, 2024•1 hr 14 min
This week we return to update you on the fascinating world of giraffes, focusing on their unique biology, behavior, and the alarming conservation challenges they face. The discussion covers the distinct species and subspecies of giraffes, their evolutionary history, incredible physiological adaptations, such as their cardiovascular system, and social behaviors. Highlighting significant threats like habitat loss, poaching, and population decline, the episode emphasizes the urgency for conservatio...
Dec 11, 2024•1 hr 18 min
Global Conservation Force is on the front lines in Africa and other areas throughout the world fighting poaching and wildlife trafficking. Mike Veale founded Global Conservation Force in 2014. As an organization, Global Conservation Force has grown and is fighting hard to save our disappearing wildlife. Well worth a listen to learn the truth of poaching in Africa. Biography Mike Veale is a southern California native who has worked extensively with animals for the majority of his conservation car...
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Chris welcomes back Leif Cox, founder of the Orangutan Project and a renowned orangutan specialist. Leif discusses his 35-year journey in orangutan conservation, highlighting the self-awareness and cultural intelligence of orangutans. The conversation explores the urgent need for habitat preservation, the impact of palm oil plantations, and the detrimental effects of climate change on orangutan populations. Leif also stresses the importance of integrating local communities into conservation effo...
Dec 04, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In this throwback episode, we bring back the Marine Iguana. One of the most unique reptiles in the world that feeds and lives in and out of the ocean around the Galapagos Islands. These truly unique reptiles teach us much about how so many animals can carve out unique niches. Sadly, these special lizards are vulnerable to extinction. Yet, Ecuador and many organizations are working hard to preserve the marine iguana and other unique wildlife on the Galapagos Islands. You can learn more on our web...
Dec 02, 2024•1 hr 24 min
Chris interviews New York Times Bestselling author David Lipski about his book, 'The Parrot in the Igloo: Climate and the Science of Denial.' They delve into the complex history of climate change science, the frustrating rise of climate science denial, and the influence of fossil fuel industries. Through engaging stories and substantial research, Lipski highlights the tactics used by denialists, the role of historical figures in climate science, and the legislative and societal challenges in add...
Nov 27, 2024•1 hr 35 min
The colorful Mandrill amazes any that are fortunate to see it. Located in Central Africa, Mandrills are some of our distant cousins that are in danger of extinction. They also display some of the most amazing colors in the animal kingdom and just how they do this will amaze you. Mandrills belong to the Cercopithecidae family, which are Old World Monkeys. There are 24 different genera and estimated 138 species belonging to this group. Sadly, Mandrills are listed as Vulnerable to extinction and un...
Nov 25, 2024•1 hr 22 min
Chris and Angie delve into the fascinating world of the European turtle dove. The discussion covers the dove's symbolic connection to peace and love, its historical significance in the story of Noah's Ark, and its plight in the modern world, where populations have drastically declined due to habitat loss and hunting. They detail the turtle dove's migratory patterns, recent conservation efforts to protect the species, and the importance of such work for maintaining biodiversity. Additionally, the...
Nov 20, 2024•1 hr 9 min
We interviewed Alison in 2018 about her experiences in Africa helping to rewild Black Rhinos. She is an example of how people continue to fight and experience some hardship in helping endangered species. For sure this is an inspirational interview for anyone interested in how endangered species are trained to go back home, the wild!! You can learn more about Alison on our website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. Y...
Nov 18, 2024•51 min
Chris and Angie reunite to discuss the Indian rhinoceros, also known as the greater one-horned rhino. The podcast delves into their experiences with rhinos, highlighting the unique physical characteristics, behaviors, and habitat of the Indian rhino. They discuss the threats these animals face, including poaching and habitat degradation, and celebrate the conservation successes in India and Nepal. The episode also emphasizes the importance of ecotourism, awareness, and support for organizations ...
Nov 13, 2024•1 hr 11 min
On our throwback Monday, its the Saiga! Out of all the species we have covered, the Saiga's conservation story is critical to understanding out wildlife. Due to dangerous low population levels, Saiga are prone to infectious diseases. In 2015, hundreds of thousands Saiga died within a few weeks. To understand the Saiga story, is critical to understand the pressures many species are facing!! You can learn more with our Show Notes HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- A...
Nov 11, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Chris welcomed a new addition to his family this weekend. Thus, in light of the election in the United States of America, we are releasing our older episode on Bald Eagles. These magnificent birds are not only symbolic, they also have an incredible conservation success story! A great podcast to revisit for a worthy bird. Show notes on new website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "go...
Nov 06, 2024•1 hr 19 min
Dr. Chris Mortensen delves into the importance of wildlife and animal conservation by discussing this year's Living Planet Index. He recounts a story about Allan Savory's transformation in understanding the role of elephants in ecosystems, illustrating the complexities of conservation. The podcast also highlights the alarming decline in global wildlife populations over the past 50 years, emphasizing the loss of biomass and its impact on biodiversity. Chris stresses the need for global and local ...
Oct 30, 2024•59 min
Sea snakes while highly venomous, are rather docile living in our oceans. When we first released this in 2020, we learned so many amazing facts about the history of this species and just how they survive, and even thrive, in the ocean. Some species of sea snakes are critically endangered, and we need to know more about them to help save them. You can learn more about sea snakes on our website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon ...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Chris interviews filmmaker Alexandra Lexton about her latest film, 'Fool's Paradise Lost,' which highlights the therapeutic benefits and profound beauty of nature. They discuss how Alexandra's upbringing in Northern California and personal challenges inspired her film, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with the natural world for emotional and psychological well-being. The conversation explores the science behind nature's healing effects, featuring influential figures like John Francis a...
Oct 23, 2024•43 min
On this throwback Monday, we dive deep into the fascinating world of Komodo dragons, the largest living lizards on Earth. Join us as we explore the rich history of these ancient reptiles, tracing their evolution and presence on the Indonesian islands. We'll discuss the Komodo dragon’s unique physiology, including their venomous bite, powerful jaws, and remarkable senses that make them apex predators. You'll learn about their diet, from scavenging on carrion to hunting large prey like deer and wi...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Dr. Chris Mortensen explores the multifaceted climate crisis, from increasing natural disasters to the politicization of climate science. Chris explains his rigorous academic journey, illustrating the dedication required to produce reliable scientific data. The episode addresses the roots of climate change denial, drawing parallels with misinformation tactics of the tobacco industry. Discussions include the consensus on human-caused climate change, debunked myths, and the severe consequences of ...
Oct 16, 2024•55 min
Moo Deng, the baby Pygmy Hippopotamus was born in 2024 and became a world-wide sensation. This birth is critical to their species!! With so few numbers, each Pygmy Hippo born under human care is a lifeline to their wild counterparts. This is because sadly, with as few as 2000 Pygmy Hippos left in the world, we are losing one of natures often forgotten large herbivores. Though one tenth the size of their larger cousins the Common Hippopotamus, the Pygmy Hippo is no small runt. Weighing in as much...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 10 min
Chris & Angie discuss the latest updates on Bengal tigers, highlighting the successful conservation efforts in India that have nearly doubled the tiger population over the past 20 years. The podcast explores the critical ecological role of tigers, the cultural significance in Asia, and the impact of conservation projects on local communities and economies. Together, we emphasize the importance of continuing efforts and global collaboration to protect these majestic big cats and their habitats. F...
Oct 09, 2024•1 hr 18 min
Back in 2018 we were privileged to speak with World Wildlife Fund Scientist Dr. Sunarto. He is on the front line of helping to save Sumatran Tigers, among many other species on the brink. We are bringing this interview back to you for a listen about how these conservationist work tirelessly to preserve endangered species. Sunarto has gained field experiences studying and conserving wildlife, including Sumatran tigers, Sumatran elephants, rhinos, orangutans, bears and birds, in various places in ...
Oct 07, 2024•59 min
Angie engages in a conversation with Alice Stroud, the Director of Global Conservation Programs at Born Free USA, about the organization's international mission to save threatened species, specifically focusing on frogs. Alice shares insights on the significance of frogs in the ecosystem, their current population threats, and Born Free's active programs addressing wildlife trafficking and poaching. The discussion also highlights the importance of local and international collaboration in conserva...
Oct 02, 2024•1 hr 7 min
Brining back this older episode, a charismatic bird, Hummingbirds are unique animals native to the Americas. These fast fliers have incredible physiological adaptations that give them the ability to conduct their aerial acrobatics. Sadly, over 10% of all Hummingbird species are threatened with extinction. You can learn more on our website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coff...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 11 min
Chris welcomes Harry Borman, author of 'New Zealand's Biggest Year.' Harry shares his incredible journey of birdwatching in New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to break records and explore the country's unique bird life. Discover the challenges, thrills, and community spirit that define birdwatching, as Harry reveals tales of rare bird sightings, unexpected adventures, and the benefits of birdwatching for mental health. The episode also touches on Harry's competition with fellow bir...
Sep 25, 2024•1 hr 5 min
One of our earliest episodes that just blew our minds. These rodents from Africa have some of the most incredible physiology & sociology of any species we have ever covered!! A really fun episode and worth the listen. ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we r...
Sep 23, 2024•1 hr 15 min
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of the hyrax, an obscure but incredibly unique mammal often mistaken for a rodent. Fueled by a recent interview with renowned zoologist Dr. Eric Kirschenbaum, we explore the hyrax's complex songs, unique physiological traits, and surprising evolutionary history. Discover how these small, furry creatures are closely related to elephants and manatees, their peculiar thermoregulation challenges, and their communal living habits. The episode also t...
Sep 18, 2024•1 hr 23 min
Another return to a classic, the Axolotl!! YOU WANT to know about this special little creature. One of our first 100 episodes, we covered this species and are still mind blown about their incredible physiology! One of nature’s most amazing creatures, the Axolotl, has the ability to regenerate lost limbs and other body tissues. Sadly, these amphibians are almost extinct in the wild, and scientists are racing to discover its secrets, secrets that could benefit humans and other species. -----------...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In this episode, we delve into the unique and incredible world of the Baikal seal, the only exclusively freshwater seal in the world. We explore the seal's remarkable physiology, adaptations, and its exclusive habitat in Lake Baikal, Siberia. Our discussion covers the seal's evolutionary history, behavior, diet, and conservation status, along with highlighting the importance of freshwater conservation. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Baikal Seal 00:45 Unique Features of the Baikal Sea...
Sep 11, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Angie talks with Dr. Arik Kershenbaum, a renowned zoologist and lecturer at the University of Cambridge, about the fascinating topic of animal communication. They explore the insights from his new book, 'Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication,' discussing why and how animals communicate, the complexity of their signals, and whether animals have language. Dr. Kirschenbaum shares his field experiences, his inspirations, and the importance of understanding animal communication fo...
Sep 04, 2024•52 min
