In this throwback episode, we are excited to present Dr. Julian Fennessy. Dr. Fennessy is the Director of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. He chats about the silent extinction with giraffes and the many conservation projects GCF is involved with. We also discuss the latest news in Giraffe speciation. It is a fascinating and can's miss interview. Giraffe Conservation Foundation website can be accessed HERE Show notes HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- Another t...
Feb 03, 2025•59 min•Transcript available on Metacast Soar into the world of the albatross, one of the most extraordinary seabirds on Earth. In this episode, we uncover the fascinating history and evolution of these oceanic wanderers, exploring their unparalleled ability to glide across vast distances with minimal effort. Discover their unique physiology, from their enormous wingspans to their specialized adaptations for life at sea. Learn about their intriguing behaviors, including their elaborate courtship dances and lifelong pair bonds. We’ll al...
Jan 27, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week we step back into the frosty tundra and discover the captivating world of the musk ox, a true symbol of Arctic resilience. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating history and evolution of these ancient creatures, tracing their survival through the Ice Age to the modern day. Explore their remarkable physiology, from their dense, insulating coats to their powerful build, perfectly designed for harsh climates. Learn about their unique behaviors, including their iconic defensive for...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Transcript available on Metacast Angie delves into the intricate world of insects with experts Dr. Tim Cockerell, Dr. Martha Holmes, and Bill Markham. They discuss their work on the Nat Geo docuseries, 'A Real Bug's Life,' now in its second season on Disney+. The conversation features fascinating bug behaviors, filming techniques, and the environmental importance of insects. The series highlights how bugs' superpowers and survival skills are captured through advanced filming technology, making insects relatable and exciting for...
Jan 15, 2025•47 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this throwback episode, we return the walrus. A very early one in our podcast it was one you might have missed! A fan-favorite, in this episode we explore the incredible history and evolution of these tusked giants, uncovering their ancient origins and adaptations to life in icy waters. Learn about their unique physiology, from their blubbery insulation to their impressive tusks, and their intriguing social behavior, including their communal nature and vocalizations. We'll also discuss the wa...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this episode, Chris and Angie explore the fascinating world of the dromedary camel. They discuss the unique vocalizations, impressive physical adaptations, and the camel's significant role in human history. The episode delves into the camel's ability to survive long periods without water, their contributions to ecosystems, and their impact on cultures. The hosts also address the problem of feral camels in Australia, offering insights into potential solutions. The podcast is informative and fi...
Jan 08, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Transcript available on Metacast We are kicking 2025 off with our throwback Monday with a podcast favorite, the Snow Leopard! One of the most beloved big cats! Snow Leopards are known as the elusive "ghosts of the mountains." Learn about their incredible adaptations to survive in harsh alpine environments, their unique behaviors and hunting habits, and the critical role they play in their ecosystem. We'll also discuss the challenges they face, from habitat loss to poaching, and the innovative conservation efforts working to pro...
Jan 06, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Transcript available on Metacast In this throwback episode, we delve into the secretive and captivating world of sloths. Known for their slow movements and permanent smiles, sloths are more than just nature’s chillest animals. Sloths have so many incredible superpowers, like their incredible adaptations that make them masters of camouflage, their vital role in rainforest ecosystems, and the surprising challenges they face in the wild. From their symbiotic relationships with algae to their unique physiology, we uncover the scien...
Dec 30, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•2 hr 35 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 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•Transcript available on Metacast 
