Explore every episode of the podcast All Creatures Podcast

What kind of animal can see light we cannot and strike with enough force to crack a crab’s shell? In this classic episode from 2022, Chris and Angie meet the mantis shrimp: a small marine predator with extraordinary eyes and one of the most powerful hunting strikes in the animal world. Some species smash hard-shelled prey, while others use sharp, spear-like limbs to catch fish. “Mantis shrimp” refers to hundreds of species, so there is no single conservation status for them all. Some face pressure from fishing and the loss of the reefs and seabed habitats they call home. Join us for one of our favorite classic episodes and discover why this remarkable creature deserves attention far beyond its famous punch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode from 2019, Chris and Angie explore the cheetah’s incredible speed, from its flexible spine and gripping claws to the long tail that helps it turn during a chase. But there is much more to this remarkable cat than its sprint. Cheetahs are currently listed as Vulnerable globally, while the remaining Asiatic cheetahs in Iran are Critically Endangered. Across their range, shrinking and fragmented habitat leaves cheetahs with less space and fewer wild prey. Many live alongside farmers, where conflict over livestock can lead to cheetahs being killed; cubs are also taken for the illegal pet trade. Join us to discover why the cheetah’s future depends on protecting connected landscapes and finding ways for people and wildlife to live together. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris speaks with Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Drew Kann about Georgia’s Okefenokee Swamp and its new status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They explore the swamp’s blackwater wetlands, remarkable wildlife, and delicate balance of fire and water. Drew explains how a proposed titanium mine raised concerns about water loss, severe fires, and damage to nearby rivers—until public opposition and a conservation land purchase stopped the project. They also discuss the power of local journalism and why continued protection remains essential. Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 03:24 What Makes Okefenokee Wild 06:46 Ecology Fire Water Wildlife 09:23 Mining Threat Origins Trail Ridge 13:35 Pushback Science and Local Stakes 17:11 Politics and Public Opinion 20:15 How Journalists Tell Complex Science 22:50 Accountability Reporting and Impact 27:24 Buyout and UNESCO Journey 31:27 What World Heritage Really Means 34:08 Local Journalism and What Gets Missed 36:59 Blueprint Hope and Persistence 43:06 Where to Follow Drew Closing == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie will record a special live episode of the All Creatures podcast on Sunday, October 11 at 6:00 PM at the Grosvenor Auditorium in National Geographic’s new Museum of Exploration in Washington, DC. The live 90-minute event will feature National Geographic explorer, photographer, filmmaker, and conservation storyteller Amy Vitale, whose work documents relationships between people, wildlife, and shared landscapes, including major conservation projects. The event includes audience Q&A, images shown onstage, a post-show meet-and-greet, and tickets can be purchased below. Live Podcast Tickets HERE You can also visit the National Geographic Museum of Exploration website and search under What's On- Events. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris talks with ecotherapy facilitator Shaz Audibert about how reconnecting with nature can support wellbeing, ease overwhelm, and inspire conservation. Shaz explains that ecotherapy recognizes humans as part of nature and shares accessible ways to reconnect—even in cities—through parks, street trees, houseplants, the sky, and simple practices such as a daily 10-minute mindful walk. Connect with Shaz: Instagram: @wildhuman.natureEmail: wildhumannature1@gmail.com Or access her Linktree https://linktr.ee/wildhuman.nature Timeline: 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:14 Shaz Ecotherapy Journey 03:48 What Ecotherapy Means 04:38 Inside a Session 06:55 We Are Nature 11:43 City Nature Connections 14:54 Science Behind Benefits 16:08 Noticing Self and Life 18:54 From Connection to Conservation 20:48 Small Actions and Hope 30:02 Daily Practices and Growth 32:55 Find a Facilitator 33:54 Socials and Final Wisdom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie explore Cookiecutter Sharks, small deep-sea predators that use suction, sharp teeth, and a twisting bite to leave neat circular wounds on much larger animals. They discuss their strange appearance, warm-water range, nightly migrations, and glow-in-the-dark underside, which may help them hide or attract prey. The episode also looks at reproduction, rare reported human bites, and why these little-known sharks are so difficult to study. Finally, they place the species in the wider context of shark conservation, including the ongoing impacts of shark finning. Be sure to monitor National Geographics Museum of Exploration Website for our upcoming live even on Sunday October 11, 2026 HERE Timeline 00:00 Meet the Cookiecutter Shark 01:35 Wild Traits and Parasitic Feeding 03:32 Ocean Tangent Sand Dollars 05:05 Alien Looks Size and Anatomy 09:39 Range Habitat and Midnight Zone 11:58 Do They Bite Humans 17:07 Night Snorkel Manta Rays Story 22:11 Why This Shark Matters 24:14 Shark Finning Conservation Soapbox 33:52 Shark Family Tree 35:20 Ancient Survivors 36:40 Florida Shark Teeth 38:46 Physiology and Senses 44:28 Bioluminescent Glow 51:48 Cookiecutter Bite 56:26 Diet and Migration 58:18 Reproduction Mysteries 01:03:51 Conservation Resources 01:06:05 Final Takeaways == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode from 2020, Chris and Angie explore the remarkable sun bear—the world’s smallest bear and one of Southeast Asia’s most overlooked animals. From their distinctive golden chest patch and extraordinary climbing skills to their love of insects, fruit, and honey, sun bears are perfectly adapted to life in tropical forests. But habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal pet trade continue to threaten these elusive bears. Join us to discover why sun bears matter, what makes them so unique, and why protecting their forest home protects so much more. Sun bears remain listed as Vulnerable, with habitat loss and illegal trade among their major threats. IUCN Red List, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ecologist Dr. Amy McEuen joins Chris to discuss How to Think Like an Ecologist and the power of seeing the world as an interconnected system. They explore ecosystem resilience, the value of nature connection, Amazon tipping-point debates, Indigenous land rights, biodiversity, freshwater, and nature-based climate solutions. Dr. McEuen also explains why misinformation spreads, why facts alone may not persuade people, and how values-based communication and “pre-bunking” can help. The episode closes with practical hope: collective action matters, and planting native species is one meaningful place to begin. Dr McEuens website HERE National Geographic Museum of Exploration HERE Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:31 Thinking Like Ecologist 05:02 Nature Connection Benefits 08:25 What Nature to Save 10:51 Amazon Tipping Points 15:11 Science Debate and Disinformation 19:14 Afforestation and Grasslands 22:01 Sustainable Logging Rates 25:04 Why Biodiversity Matters 28:36 Freshwater Boundaries 29:35 Pollution And Connectivity 31:25 AI Data Center Water 33:42 Why Facts Fail 36:00 Prebunking Misinformation 37:57 Misinformation Vs Disinformation 39:12 Whataboutism And Action 40:58 Individual Vs Collective Change 44:26 Plant Native Species 48:21 Book And Farewell == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode from 2021, Chris and Angie explore the remarkable mountain goat, a white-coated specialist built for some of North America’s steepest and most unforgiving terrain. They discuss the species’ extraordinary hooves, thick winter coat, alpine diet, social behavior, and the challenges of raising young high above the treeline. The conversation also considers the pressures mountain goat populations can face, including changing mountain conditions, habitat disruption, and human disturbance. Join us for a return to one of our early episodes celebrating a true master of the high country. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris explores why humans are not separate from nature, but animals embedded within (and entirely dependent on) Earth’s living systems. Inspired by ecologist Dr. Amy McEwan, he examines cities as modified ecosystems, why adaptable species thrive while specialists struggle, and how disrupted relationships can unravel whole habitats. From monarchs and milkweed to sea otters and kelp forests, this episode is a call to notice, protect, and reconnect with the nature we never left. Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Big Question 01:00 Humans Are Animals 02:46 The Imaginary Divide 03:46 Nested Systems Insight 07:10 How We Got Disconnected 11:14 Cities as Ecosystems 14:25 Urban Adapters Spotlight 22:35 Specialists and Fragmentation 28:12 What Ecosystems Are We Making 31:36 Relationships Not Species 32:10 Sea Otters and Cascades 39:55 Designing for Coexistence 41:46 What You Can Do 46:10 Remember We Never Left == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kenyan filmmaker, producer, and director Faith Musembi joins us to discuss Nat Geo’s four-part docuseries Lion, following the remarkable journey of Keo, a male lion filmed from cub to king across four years. Faith shares the power of character-driven wildlife storytelling, the challenges and ethical decisions behind filming in the field, and why African voices must be central to stories about African wildlife, climate, and conservation. She also discusses community-inclusive conservation and her work founding the Nuru Film Institute, helping create opportunities for the next generation of African wildlife filmmakers. Lion airs August 19 on National Geographic and begins streaming August 20 on Disney+ and Hulu. Timeline 00:00 Meet Faith Musembi 01:23 Breaking Into Wildlife Film 03:33 Why African Voices Matter 06:02 Elephants and Magic Moments 08:31 Keo Story Overview 10:07 Filming Four Year Journey 12:30 Brotherhood and Tenderness 14:23 Field Logistics and Notes 18:23 When Not to Intervene 21:12 Cameras Drones and Tech 24:23 Impact and Conservation Hope 29:11 Nuru Film Institute Mission 32:30 Advice for New Filmmakers 35:21 Where to Follow and Watch 37:06 Final Thanks and Wrap == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode, Chris and Angie revisit the remarkable Hawaiian monk seal, one of the world’s rarest seal species and the only seal found exclusively in the Hawaiian Islands. With a population of only around 1,600 animals, Hawaiian monk seals have faced a long history of pressure from hunting, entanglement in marine debris and fishing gear, reduced food availability, disease risk, disturbance, and the challenges of living in a rapidly changing ocean. They are listed as Endangered under U.S. law, but there is real reason for hope: intensive conservation work has helped parts of the population begin a slow recovery. The episode explores why protected areas, especially the vast Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, are so important. These remote islands, reefs, and surrounding waters provide critical pupping, resting, and foraging habitat for monk seals, while also protecting one of the planet’s most ecologically significant marine ecosystems. Join us to learn why this deeply local species matters far beyond Hawaiʻi, what makes monk seals so special, and how protecting healthy oceans can give endangered wildlife a genuine chance to recover. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie explore the red fox, the world’s most widespread and adaptable true fox. They cover how its flexible diet, remarkable senses, seasonal coat and signature mouse-pounce allow it to thrive from Arctic tundra to city streets. The episode also examines its role as both predator and prey, its competition with Arctic foxes, its damaging impact in Australia, family life, conservation and how humans can coexist responsibly with this resourceful canid. Timeline 00:00 Meet the Red Fox 00:45 Why Foxes Thrive Everywhere 04:01 Iconic Looks and Color Morphs 06:34 Size Differences and Bergmann Rule 09:08 Global Range and Australia Invasion 13:37 Ecosystem Role and Urban Adaptation 18:10 Mesopredator Release and Climate Pressure 22:25 Evolution and Fox Family Tree 28:03 Physiology Basics Lifespan Speed Tail 30:58 Scent Glands and Those Unique Eyes 32:00 Cat Eyes Dog Family 32:58 Night Vision Upgrades 34:55 Ears Color Scent 37:01 Whiskers And Coats 40:19 Omnivore Diet Teeth 44:01 Sly Hunting Tricks 46:33 Urban Life And Dens 49:31 Calls Caches Smarts 57:26 Breeding And Kits 01:02:03 Conservation Wins 01:04:27 Coexisting With Foxes 01:05:57 Wrap Up And Support == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An episode from 2021. Few animals embody prehistoric power quite like the American alligator. In this episode, Chris and Angie share and explore the remarkable biology, behavior, and surprising family life of one of North America’s most iconic reptiles. Once threatened by unregulated hunting and habitat loss, the American alligator became one of conservation’s great recovery stories. These ecosystem engineers create “alligator holes” that provide vital water and refuge for fish, birds, and other wildlife during dry periods. Their future remains closely tied to healthy wetlands and our ability to coexist safely with large predators. Why should we care about alligators? Because protecting them also protects the extraordinary wetland communities they help sustain. Tune in and discover why the swamp would not be the same without them. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris explores one of biology's biggest questions through emperor penguins, coral reefs, monarch butterflies and amphibians. As the planet changes faster than species can adapt, he asks whether evolution has failed...or whether we've taken away the one thing it has always relied upon: time. Along the way, he shares stories of hope, highlighting the scientists, conservationists and communities working to give nature a chance to recover. Timeline 00:00 Broken Evolution Question 01:47 Penguin Parenting Epic 03:36 Sea Ice Collapse 05:23 Why Evolution Needs Time 09:23 Humans Speed Up Change 11:01 Coral Reefs Under Heat 16:07 Monarchs And Amphibians 21:29 Responsibility And Choice 28:11 Hope Through Conservation 32:40 Give Time Back == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A classic episode from 5 years ago, the Wildebeest!! Chris and Angie talk about how every year, more than 1.5 million wildebeest follow the rains across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, navigating predators, drought and dangerous river crossings in search of fresh grass and water. It is one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on Earth and a journey that helps sustain an entire ecosystem. In this classic episode, we explore the remarkable biology and behavior of wildebeest, the importance of their migration and the essential role they play in nourishing grasslands, predators and scavengers. Although both blue and black wildebeest are currently classified as Least Concern, fences, habitat fragmentation, disrupted migration corridors and increasing pressure on water resources threaten some populations. Listen to discover why wildebeest are far more than animals in a vast her, they are powerful ecosystem engineers whose ancient journey connects life across the African plains. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris interviews Dr. Greg Simpson, veterinarian and co-founder of South Africa’s Wildlife Forensic Academy. Born from the rhino poaching crisis, the academy trains rangers, veterinarians, law enforcement, and conservationists in wildlife crime scene investigation, evidence collection, forensic science, and courtroom procedures. They discuss the growing threat of wildlife crime, the role of forensic science in securing convictions, innovative training tools including a wildlife “body farm,” and why protecting biodiversity requires stronger collaboration between conservation and law enforcement. Dr. Simpson also shares what gives him hope for the future of wildlife conservation. Learn more about the Wildlife Forensics Academy HERE Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:04 Origins of Wildlife Forensics Academy 02:00 Why Wildlife Crime Matters Now 04:29 First Response Crime Scene Basics 06:50 Inside the Training Experience Lab 09:21 Beyond Big Animals 10:27 Entomology and Body Farm Research 14:21 Students and Global Reach 16:34 Trends After COVID 21:23 Megafauna and Marine Threats 25:49 From Field to Courtroom 27:57 Legal Complexities and Taxonomy 31:11 Public Misconceptions and Consumer Choices 36:29 Future of Wildlife Forensics 39:55 What Gives Hope 45:07 How to Get Involved 46:55 Final Thanks and Wrap Up == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A classic episode! Chris and Angie discuss everything Pelicans. With their enormous bills, expandable throat pouches and almost prehistoric appearance, pelicans are among the most instantly recognizable birds on Earth. But there is much more to them than their famous fishing equipment. In this classic episode, we explore the world’s eight pelican species, from plunge-diving brown pelicans to enormous Dalmatian pelicans—among the heaviest flying birds alive. We uncover how their remarkable pouches really work, why some pelicans hunt cooperatively and how these seemingly awkward birds transform into graceful aerial giants once they take flight. Most pelican species are currently classified as Least Concern, but the Dalmatian and spot-billed pelicans are listed as Near Threatened. Across their ranges, pelicans remain vulnerable to wetland loss, disturbance at breeding colonies, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear and declining fish populations. Rediscover why pelicans are far more intelligent, adaptable and impressive than their comical appearance might suggest—and why protecting wetlands, coastlines and healthy fisheries is essential to their future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For centuries, we believed culture was uniquely human. But what if elephants, whales, chimpanzees, birds (even bees) also pass knowledge, traditions, and behaviors from one generation to the next? In this episode, Chris explores one of the most fascinating discoveries in modern biology, from orca hunting traditions and elephant matriarchs to humpback whale songs, chimpanzee tool use, regional birdsong dialects, and crow intelligence. Along the way, he reveals how animal culture is reshaping our understanding of evolution—and why conservation is about protecting not just species, but the knowledge they carry. If culture is knowledge that outlives the individual, perhaps we've been too busy looking in the mirror to notice it all around us. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Our Substack, where we share essays exploring the science, philosophy, and wonder of the natural world, from animal behavior and evolution to conservation and the ideas that don't always make it into the podcast. https://substack.com/@cmortensen Timeline 00:00 Orcas And Traditions 03:04 Defining Culture Simply 13:10 Elephants And Memory 18:25 Whale Songs And Dialects 25:50 Jane Goodall And Chimps 30:58 Birdsong Accents And Crows 36:06 Conservation Of Knowledge 42:30 Final Reflections And Call == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brining back this class episode. Chris and Angie discuss the all too cute, hedgehog. Hedgehogs may be famous for their adorable faces and protective spines, but these remarkable nocturnal mammals are facing growing conservation pressures. The West European hedgehog is now classified as Near Threatened following significant declines driven by habitat loss, fragmented landscapes, pesticides and road deaths. Hedgehogs help shape their native ecosystems by feeding on insects and other invertebrates and can curl into an almost impenetrable ball when threatened. Join us as we rediscover what makes hedgehogs so fascinating and why protecting connected, wildlife-friendly habitats matters. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris recounts how reading a scientific review paper titled “Has the Earth’s sixth mass extinction already arrived?” shifted his career from domestic animal reproduction research at the University of Florida to wildlife conservation and inspired his podcast, emphasizing that science alone isn’t enough without stories. Chris explains mass extinctions are rare, only five in ~540 million years, and contrasts past causes (asteroids, volcanism, climate and ocean chemistry shifts) with today’s human-driven “death by a thousand cuts,” including habitat loss and fragmentation, invasive species, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change. Chris argues extinction today is often subtle but highlights hope through global conservation efforts, citing northern white rhino embryo work, elephant corridor protection, and many individuals dedicating their lives to saving species. If you enjoy these episodes, you'll love our new Substack. Each week, I dive deeper into the stories behind the podcast, sharing personal experiences from my years in wildlife conservation, reflections on the science, and the remarkable people working to protect our planet. Read the latest essays here: https://substack.com/@cmortensen Timeline 00:00 One Paper Changes Everything 03:17 What Mass Extinction Means 04:20 The Big Five Extinctions 08:08 Humans as a New Force 09:19 Are We in the Sixth 10:10 Background Rate Explained 12:51 Death by Thousand Cuts 15:01 Quiet Losses Up Close 18:23 Why I Stay Optimistic 21:56 Northern White Rhino Lifeline 24:41 Conservation That Cares 28:51 Hope Is Action 32:27 One Story Sparks Change 35:28 Stewards of the Planet 37:12 Final Call to Wonder == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the biggest conservation question of our time isn't how we save wildlife... but whether we're willing to leave enough room for it? In this solo episode, Chris explores the global 30x30 initiative, an ambitious goal to protect 30% of Earth's land and oceans by 2030. From elephant corridors and marine reserves to David Attenborough's Ocean, this is a conversation about coexistence, hope, and the future we choose to create together. Because conservation isn't just about protecting places. It's about deciding what kind of relationship we want with the living world. If you enjoy these episodes, you'll love our new Substack. Each week, I dive deeper into the stories behind the podcast, sharing personal experiences from my years in wildlife conservation, reflections on the science, and the remarkable people working to protect our planet. Read the latest essays here: https://substack.com/@cmortensen Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Big Question 01:51 What Is 30 by 30 03:11 Why Protect 30 Percent 04:36 Connectivity and Corridors 07:03 Nature Rebounds Fast 10:30 Hard Tradeoffs and Equity 12:08 Values and Human Stories 14:46 Public Support and Action 18:26 Closing Our Relationship == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode, Chris and Angie explore the extraordinary world of salmon. From their remarkable migration between rivers and the ocean to their incredible ability to return to the very streams where they were born, salmon are among nature's greatest travelers. They also discuss the conservation status of different salmon species, the threats they face, and why these iconic fish are essential to healthy rivers, forests, wildlife, and people. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angie welcomes Dr. Katy Ayres to discuss sharks’ physiology and urgent conservation needs, highlight National Geographic’s SharkFest (premiering Sunday, July 5 on Nat Geo, Disney+ and Hulu), and preview “Hammerhead Sharks Up Close”. Dr. Ayres, an England-born marine scientist and National Geographic Explorer who studies sharks in Baja, Mexico, shares how her lifelong fascination began. She explains sharks’ ecological roles as scavengers and indicators of healthy ecosystems, outlines threats including overfishing, bycatch, illegal fishing, finning practices, and climate-driven range shifts, and notes species-specific vulnerability based on life history. Timeline 00:00 Welcome to Shark Fest 01:42 Meet Dr Kaci Ayers 02:11 Shark Obsession Origins 04:23 First Big Shark Dive 06:50 Keeping Childhood Passions 08:23 Sharks Have Personalities 10:44 Ancient Survivors Explained 11:02 Teeth Tricks and Adaptations 14:41 Why Sharks Matter 17:57 Population Declines and Finning 22:10 Drone Science in Baja 29:00 Drone Counts and Trends 30:08 Orcas Shift Blacktips 31:13 AI Shark Counting 31:55 Local Shark Spotters 36:30 Shark Fest Message 40:04 Future Tagging Questions 43:15 Advice for Marine Careers 48:27 Everyday Shark Help 54:09 Wrap Up and Thanks == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A classic episode released a few years ago. Here it is again in case you missed it. Capybaras have become one of the world's most beloved animals, winning hearts with their calm personalities and remarkable ability to get along with almost every other species. In this classic episode, we explore the fascinating lives of the world's largest rodents, from their semi-aquatic lifestyle and complex social behavior to why they're such an important part of South America's wetland ecosystems. Although currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, capybaras still face local threats from habitat loss and hunting in parts of their range. Join us as we discover why these gentle giants are far more than just an internet sensation—they're a vital piece of healthy freshwater ecosystems. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elephants don't simply wander across the landscape. For generations, they have followed ancient migration routes passed down through memory, experience, and culture. These invisible highways connect water, food, and survival itself. In this episode, Chris explores the remarkable world of elephant corridors, how matriarchs guide their families across vast distances, and what happens when ancient pathways collide with roads, farms, fences, and the modern world. Because this isn't just a story about elephants. It's a story about memory, coexistence, and whether humanity can still make room for giants. Timeline 00:00 Elephants Don’t Wander 02:56 Why Movement Matters 08:51 Culture Beyond Humans 14:41 Matriarch Memory Map 21:00 Ancient Elephant Corridors 26:09 Modern Barriers Fragmentation 33:41 Conflict and Coexistence 36:15 Corridor Solutions and Hope 44:18 Final Question for Us == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are re-releasing this episode from 2020. Amur Falcons are one of the most remarkable migratory birds on Earth. Weighing less than 200 grams, these small raptors undertake an astonishing annual journey of more than 20,000 kilometres, travelling from breeding grounds in eastern Asia to wintering grounds in southern Africa. In this episode, we explore the incredible biology behind their migration, including a non-stop flight of up to 3,000 kilometres across the Indian Ocean—one of the longest over-water journeys known for any bird of prey. We also discuss how satellite tracking revealed the true scale of their migration and how communities in India helped transform a major conservation crisis into an inspiring success story. Although currently listed as Amur Falcon by the IUCN as a species of Least Concern, Amur Falcons still face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and changes to insect populations along their migratory route. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie revisit the giant panda, first featured on the podcast in 2018, and explore one of conservation's most celebrated success stories. They discuss how giant pandas recovered from Endangered to Vulnerable status through habitat protection, wildlife corridors, anti-poaching efforts, and decades of dedicated conservation work in China. Along the way, they uncover the fascinating biology of these bamboo specialists, from their unique "pseudo-thumb" to their challenging breeding habits and surprisingly inefficient digestive system. The episode also examines the role of zoos, captive breeding programs, and what the panda's recovery can teach us about saving other species. Timeline 00:00 Welcome Back to Pandas 00:41 Conservation Success Story 03:18 Panda Basics and Anatomy 06:24 Zoo Life and Panda Loans 13:31 Breeding Challenges and Bamboo 15:27 Habitat Corridors and Reserves 20:37 China’s Green Economy Shift 27:42 Evolution of a Bamboo Bear 32:07 Fast Facts and Panda Speed 33:45 Bamboo Diet Basics 34:16 Gut Microbes Explained 35:01 Built for Bamboo 36:23 Taste Gene Twist 37:50 Smell and Food Choice 39:32 Seasonal Bamboo Menu 42:50 Carnivore Gut Problem 46:59 Clumsy Charm Behaviors 51:48 Poop and Field Science 53:06 Solitary Social Signals 57:30 Breeding Window Crunch 01:01:43 Cubs and Diapause 01:06:26 Conservation Comeback 01:09:18 Wrap Up and Thanks == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leopard seals were first covered in 2022 by Chris and Angie. Today they bring them back for those that have yet to uncover this remarkable species. Leopard Seals are among Antarctica’s most fascinating and formidable predators. In this episode, we dive into the world of these powerful marine mammals, exploring their unique hunting strategies, remarkable adaptations, and surprising intelligence. Learn how leopard seals help maintain balance in Antarctic ecosystems, why they are considered apex predators, and what scientists are discovering about their behavior in one of the planet’s harshest environments. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode, Chris and Angie speak about the fascinating world of bull sharks. Bull sharks are among the most remarkable sharks on Earth. Unlike most shark species, they can thrive in both saltwater and freshwater, traveling hundreds of miles up rivers and even living in lakes. This incredible adaptability has allowed them to occupy habitats ranging from coastal oceans to inland waterways across the globe. Bull sharks also play a vital role as apex predators, helping maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems by regulating prey populations and supporting ecological balance. While bull sharks remain relatively widespread, they face growing threats from overfishing, habitat degradation, coastal development, and accidental capture in fisheries. The Bull Shark is currently classified as Near Threatened in many parts of its range, highlighting the importance of continued conservation efforts. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris welcomes author Robert Moore to the All Creatures Podcast to discuss his book "In Trees: An Exploration" and how trees shape ecosystems, human wellbeing, and environmental solutions. Moore explains “tree thinking” as a non-linear, relational way of understanding life inspired by Darwin’s evolutionary tree, and discusses debates around plant intelligence while cautioning against projecting human consciousness onto trees. They cover evidence that forest exposure (and even images of trees) can reduce stress and boost creativity, and explore humans’ ancient, arboreal connection to climbing and revering trees. The discussion also dives into some of the most pressing environmental issues facing our planet today, including old-growth logging, forest conservation, climate change, and the importance of preserving ancient ecosystems that have stood for thousands of years. 00:00 Welcome and Why Trees 02:34 Tree Thinking Explained 05:48 Do Trees Have Intelligence 09:16 Empathy and Open Minds 12:40 Collective Intelligence Networks 13:39 Humans as Tree Climbers 17:43 Forest Bathing Science 20:19 Forests as Healing Places 20:56 Old Growth Activism Fairy Creek 24:08 Why Clearcuts Worsen Climate 27:07 Anger Greed and Forest Elephants 30:44 Ancient Trees and Pando 32:05 Oldest Tree Mistake 32:47 Which Forest Stunned You 33:09 Climbing Giant Sequoias 34:00 Sequoias Spark Conservation 36:31 Forests and Climate Tipping 38:10 Beyond Tree Planting 41:28 Denial and Capitalism 44:43 Rootedness as Remedy 48:42 Where Hope Comes From 53:42 Attenborough and Curiosity 54:52 If Trees Could Speak 58:26 Closing and Where to Follow == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie first recorded this in 2020 and it is worth a relisten! Red pandas may look like a cross between a fox, a raccoon, and a teddy bear, but they are actually one of the most unique mammals on Earth. Found in the temperate forests of the Himalayas and southwestern China, these remarkable animals spend much of their lives high in the trees, feeding primarily on bamboo and navigating some of the world's most rugged landscapes. Despite their popularity, red pandas face an uncertain future. The species is currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with populations declining across much of their range. Habitat loss, forest fragmentation, climate change, and human disturbance continue to shrink and isolate the mountain forests they depend upon. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris explores the heartbreaking story of the northern white rhinoceros, now reduced to the last two surviving females, Najin and Fatu, living under armed protection in Kenya. The episode traces how poaching, habitat loss, political instability, and human demand drove a once widespread animal to the edge of extinction, while contrasting their fate with the recovery of southern white rhinos. Chris also examines the extraordinary scientific efforts underway to create northern white rhino embryos using advanced reproductive technology, raising profound questions about extinction, conservation, human responsibility, and whether science can truly save what humanity nearly destroyed. Timeline 00:00 Welcome and premise 00:28 Last two rhinos 01:47 North vs south 04:38 Najin and Fatu 08:16 Quiet extinction 13:21 Why they vanished 19:38 Horn trade pressures 23:22 Hope runs out 24:55 Lab rescue plan 30:37 Making embryos 36:56 Frozen zoo ethics 44:35 Tech vs prevention 51:24 Final reflections == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Image from Amy Vitale National Geographic Creative Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie revisit one of Africa’s most recognizable — and misunderstood — animals: the warthog. Famous for inspiring Pumbaa in Disney’s The Lion King, warthogs are far more than comic relief. These resilient wild pigs are perfectly adapted for survival on the African savannah, using speed, intelligence, powerful tusks, and even reverse-running into burrows to avoid predators. In this classic episode from 2020, they explore the biology, behavior, and ecology of warthogs, including why they kneel while feeding, how they survive lions, hyenas, and drought, and the important role they play in African ecosystems. Warthogs help shape grasslands, recycle nutrients, and provide prey for many of Africa’s top predators. Unlike many African mammals, warthogs are currently listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, but they still face threats from habitat loss, fencing, drought, and disease outbreaks such as African swine fever. Their success story also highlights how adaptable wildlife can persist when ecosystems remain connected and healthy. Fast, tough, oddly adorable, and full of personality, warthogs continue to win people over once they look beyond the tusks and warts. This episode is a celebration of one of Africa’s most entertaining survivors. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angie interviews wildlife conservationist Leif Cocks, founder of the International Tiger Project, about saving wild tigers through large-scale rainforest protection in Indonesia and Laos. They discuss why tiger conservation matters for biodiversity and climate resilience, the extinction of Bali and Javan tigers, and the urgent reality that fewer than 300 Sumatran tigers remain in fragmented habitats. Leif explains the major threats facing tigers (including habitat loss, poaching, prey decline, and human conflict) and how ranger teams, camera traps, rescue programs, and local community support are helping protect remaining populations. He also shares how listeners can help through rainforest sponsorships, recurring donations, and ethical eco-tourism initiatives. International Tiger Project HERE == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode, Chris and Angie dive into the incredible world of the Humpback Whale — famous for their haunting songs, massive migrations, and spectacular breaches. Once driven close to extinction by commercial whaling, humpbacks are now listed as largely recovering globally, though some populations remain vulnerable to threats including entanglement, ship strikes, climate change, noise pollution, and prey decline. The episode explores how these whales help support healthy ocean ecosystems by cycling nutrients through the water column, benefiting marine food webs from plankton to fish populations. Along the way, they uncover the science behind whale song, communication, and why protecting humpbacks still matters for the future of our oceans. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris hosts Stacy and Jeremy Hill to discuss intentional food choices, local and seasonal eating, and reducing carbon impacts from long-distance shipping and food waste. The Hills, based at Gooseberry Bridge Farm in southern Missouri, describe how homegrown tomatoes sparked their journey into gardening and preserving, leading to better flavor, nutrition, lower costs, and improved food security for their family of eight. They explain practical ways to start small, preserve surplus (freezing tomatoes for later sauce), and safely can foods by understanding acidity, using tested recipes, and choosing water-bath vs. pressure canning to avoid botulism. They also cover dehydrating, freeze-drying, fermenting, time management, involving kids, pest control with beneficial insects and targeted methods, and their book The Preserver’s Garden. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Sumatran Rhinoceros is one of the rarest mammals on Earth, with fewer than 80 animals remaining. Chris and Angie explore the ancient history of this unique rhino, the devastating threats pushing it toward extinction, and the global conservation efforts racing to save the species before it disappears forever. This episode first aired in 2021. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris revisits a recent episode on “apathy,” arguing that what looks like not caring is often overwhelm that leads to disconnection and learned helplessness, reinforced by the belief that only governments or corporations can fix environmental crises like the projected 90% decline of endangered emperor penguins. He counters that systems ultimately respond to collective human behavior (what people buy, support, and pay attention to) and that change begins with identity: seeing yourself as someone whose choices matter, not being perfect. He emphasizes that major change can occur when about 3.5% act consistently, urging listeners to stay connected and choose consciously to help restore balance. Timeline 00:00 Overwhelm Not Apathy 02:28 One Person Doubts 06:04 Learned Helplessness Trap 07:00 Systems Follow People 10:27 Identity Drives Choices 14:09 Small Daily Decisions 17:26 Palm Oil Pressure 19:12 Conservation Case Studies 22:35 The 3.5 Percent Tipping Point 24:43 Choose To Stay Engaged Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris interviews Dr. Enric Sala, a marine ecologist and Explorer in Residence at the National Geographic Society, where he leads the groundbreaking Pristine Seas initiative. Since 2008, his work has helped protect over 6 million square kilometers of ocean by combining science, exploration, and policy. By documenting some of the last untouched marine ecosystems on Earth, Sala works directly with governments to establish large marine protected areas—proving that when the ocean is given space to recover, it can rebound faster than we expect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie revisit emperor penguins, exploring their incredible adaptations, males incubate a single egg through the brutal Antarctic winter, enduring extreme cold, fierce winds, and months without food. But this resilience is being pushed to its limits as melting sea ice causes widespread chick mortality. They unpack the species’ rapid decline from near threatened (2019) to endangered (2026), with projections suggesting up to 90% of colonies could collapse by 2100. Additional threats include krill fishing and the spread of avian flu. The episode also covers their biology, evolution, and unique survival strategies before highlighting what listeners can do, reduce emissions, avoid krill-based products, and support conservation efforts protecting the Southern Ocean. Timeline 00:00 Emperor Penguin Crisis 01:30 Earth Month Wake Up 04:59 Looks and Chicks 07:14 Size and Range 09:54 Sea Ice Collapse 12:43 Why They Matter 17:56 Threats and Tipping Points 24:24 What You Can Do 28:04 Penguin Origins 29:35 Antarctic Origins 31:14 Giant Penguin Throwback 31:42 Speed And Survival 32:45 Cold Weather Toolkit 37:59 Feathers Like Dry Suits 39:53 Deep Dive Superpowers 44:22 Senses And Navigation 46:53 Vocal ID In Colonies 50:36 Breeding Season Marathon 01:00:00 Climate Threat Forecasts 01:03:00 Conservation Groups To Support 01:05:10 Hope And Wrap Up == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode, Chris and Angie tackle the jaguar. Who is more than just a powerful predator, it’s a keystone species that helps regulate entire ecosystems across Central and South America. By controlling populations of prey like deer, capybara, and even caiman, jaguars maintain balance in the food web, preventing overgrazing and supporting forest regeneration. Currently listed as Near Threatened, jaguar populations are declining due to habitat loss, deforestation, and human conflict. As forests are fragmented, their territories shrink, putting pressure on one of the most important predators in the Americas. Protecting jaguars means protecting entire ecosystems—and ultimately, the future of biodiversity itself. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris opens this min episode by arguing that extinction begins with silence and that humans live in “awareness without response,” Citing species decline and ecosystem change, including emperor penguins being upgraded to endangered with a projected 90% decline by century’s end, he frames our current global reality. Chris states apathy, quoted from Dr. Jane Goodall, as a quiet, dangerous gap between knowing and acting, driven by disconnection, distance, and overwhelm. The time to act is now and Chris sets up for future episodes on how we will accomplish that. Timeline 00:00 Extinction Starts With Silence 01:01 Awareness Without Response 02:28 Apathy Not Ignorance 03:50 Vaquita And Pangolin Examples 05:31 Slow Collapse And Shifting Baselines 06:39 Birdsong Comparison Australia vs NZ 09:59 Forest Elephants And Ocean Declines 14:59 Migration Timing Breaking Down 17:31 Inaction Becomes A Decision 22:06 Responsibility And What We Can Do 23:03 Jane Goodall Hopeful Sendoff == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this classic episode, Chris and Angie chat all about Chinchillas. Chinchillas are famous for having the densest fur on Earth, but that same trait nearly wiped them out. Native to the Andes, these incredible jumpers and dust-bathing specialists are now endangered due to hunting and habitat loss. Today, wild populations remain small and fragmented. The long-tailed chinchilla is listed as endangered, while the short-tailed chinchilla is critically endangered, making their survival in the wild increasingly uncertain without continued protection. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris interviews Natalie Madden of Defenders of Wildlife on how noise pollution impacts birds. Drawing on a meta-analysis of 160 studies, she highlights strong negative effects on reproduction, along with changes in behavior, communication, and stress physiology. The episode explores major noise sources, links to broader bird declines, and practical ways at both individual and policy-level to reduce noise and support conservation. Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:18 Why Noise Pollution Matters 02:28 Meta Analysis Overview 03:44 Biggest Finding Reproduction 05:04 Bird Declines and Biomass 08:20 Where Noise Fits Among Threats 10:44 Mechanisms Stress and Physiology 12:04 Communication Masking Effects 16:14 Major Noise Sources Explained 19:15 Fitness Impacts Beyond Nesting 21:17 Ecosystems and Habitat Differences 21:35 Habitat Buffers Noise 22:57 Traits and Urban Tolerance 24:49 Omnivores as Survivors 27:02 Winners and Nest Types 28:57 Noise in Recovery Plans 32:16 Politics and ESA Battles 38:32 What You Can Do 41:14 Learn More and Wrap Up == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Originally recorded in 2020, this episode dives into the fascinating world of the American black bear—one of North America’s most adaptable and misunderstood large mammals. From dense forests to suburban neighborhoods, black bears have quietly become one of the most successful large carnivores on the continent. But behind their familiar image lies a highly intelligent, resourceful animal with complex behaviors and a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. In this episode, Chris& Angie explores: The biology and behavior of American black bears Their incredible adaptability across habitats Hibernation (and what’s really happening physiologically) Human–bear interactions and common misconceptions == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris reframes migration as a planet-connecting system that moves energy and nutrients and keeps ecosystems in sync—now facing a growing “migration collapse,” where patterns break down before species disappear. He explores three failure modes: disrupted timing from climate change, broken routes from human barriers, and energetic failure when animals can’t find enough food. Through monarch butterflies, gray whales, and salmon, he shows a spectrum from fragile resilience to systems already failing. The episode closes with a hopeful message: when pressure is reduced, nature can respond—and protecting migration corridors is key. Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Big Question 01:14 Why Migration Matters 03:26 Energy Drives Movement 05:33 Migration as a System 08:26 Monarchs Changed My View 11:07 What Is Migration Collapse 13:32 Three Ways Collapse Happens 19:27 Monarch Migration Explained 24:08 Threats and Cautious Hope 26:21 Resilience Not Recovery 26:47 Gray Whale Epic Journey 29:49 Arctic Food Web Unraveling 31:07 Migration Collapse In Real Time 32:50 Salmon Life Cycle Miracle 36:43 Dams And Route Disruption 38:48 Ripple Effects On Forests 40:02 Three Species One Pattern 43:21 Stages Of System Breakdown 44:33 Hope Over Apathy 46:23 Actions That Scale Up 48:13 Your Role In The Story == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this re-release, Chris and Angie highlight why Meerkats may be small, but their world is anything but simple. Native to the arid regions of southern Africa, these highly social mammals live in tight-knit groups where every individual has a role. From babysitters and hunters to vigilant sentinels standing guard against predators. Their cooperative behavior is one of the most sophisticated in the animal kingdom, offering a powerful glimpse into how survival can depend on communication, trust, and teamwork. While meerkats are not currently endangered, they face growing pressures from habitat degradation, climate variability, and human expansion across their range. In this episode, we revisit one of nature’s most charismatic species and explore what meerkats can teach us not just about life in the desert, but about resilience, community, and the power of working together. == 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris draws on his PhD-era experience at Texas A&M—including meeting Dewey, the world’s first cloned deer—to unpack de-extinction and why cloning is far harder and less efficient than headlines suggest. He revisits Dolly’s breakthrough, explains somatic cell nuclear transfer, and highlights low success rates and frequent abnormalities. Chris explores the only true de-extinction attempt, the Pyrenean ibex, which survived only minutes, and explains why mammoths and “dire wolves” cannot be truly cloned due to fragmented DNA, with current efforts relying instead on genetic engineering. Chris also outlines major challenges around elephant egg sourcing, embryo transfer, and gestation, questions claims that mammoths could meaningfully impact climate change, and argues conservation resources are better directed toward protecting existing species, while acknowledging potential scientific benefits from the research. Timeline 00:00 Podcast Intro and De-Extinction 00:38 Meeting Dewey the Clone 03:31 Cloning Hype vs Reality 05:06 Elephant Repro Research Shift 07:02 Dolly and Cell Reset 10:22 How Cloning Works 15:46 Lab Data on Efficiency 20:50 De-Extinction Case Study Ibex 22:32 Why Mammoths Aren't Clones 26:40 Elephant Surrogates and Obstacles 30:36 Elephant Egg Retrieval 31:43 Lab Grown Gametes 32:33 Embryo Transfer Challenges 33:01 Welfare and Ethics 34:26 Climate Claims Debunked 36:28 Funding Priorities Debate 38:50 Real Conservation Wins 40:07 False Tech Fix Narrative 42:58 Forest Elephants Solution 47:01 Moonshot Case for Science 49:57 What De Extinction Delivers 52:02 Choose Protection Today =========================================================== 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie venture into the darkest depths of the ocean to meet one of the most bizarre and misunderstood creatures on Earth—the anglerfish. In this episode, we explore how these deep-sea predators survive in a world without light, using bioluminescent lures to hunt in the abyss. But it’s their reproduction that truly defies belief, featuring one of the most extreme mating strategies in the animal kingdom. We also unpack what anglerfish reveal about life in extreme environments and why the deep ocean, still largely unexplored, matters more than ever. =========================================================== 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 receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices