Chris and Angie make a comeback after a brief break, energized by their first physical meetup in six years. They discuss their recent experiences, including Chris's visit to Florida and their plans for future travels to New Zealand and Australia.

The episode focuses on the invasive lionfish species, highlighting the significant threats they pose to the Caribbean and Atlantic ecosystems. They delve into lionfish biology, feeding habits, rapid reproduction, and their impact on native species. Chris and Angie also explore various strategies for combating the lionfish invasion, such as spearfishing tournaments, promoting lionfish consumption, and biological controls. They emphasize the importance of science and funding in these conservation efforts. Additionally, the episode touches on fish intelligence and behavior, providing fascinating insights into their cognitive abilities. They wrap up by mentioning key organizations like the Reef Environmental Education Foundation and Lionfish University, which are actively working to mitigate the lionfish problem.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome Back to the Art Creatures Podcast

00:18 Reunion in Florida

01:00 Future Travel Plans

02:42 Reflecting on COVID Times

03:29 Exciting Announcements

06:04 Introducing the Lionfish

07:30 Lionfish: Beauty and Danger

08:12 Invasive Species Impact

25:12 Conservation Efforts and Challenges

30:31 Lionfish Evolution and Characteristics

35:58 Planning the Next Fishing Adventure

37:13 Amazing Facts About Fish Physiology

40:25 The Venomous Spines of the Red Lionfish

46:00 Lionfish Diet and Hunting Strategies

01:02:32 Reproduction and Rapid Growth of Lionfish

01:06:37 Conservation Efforts and Eating Lionfish

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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 [email protected]

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

Throwback Monday is all for the King Cobra. One of our favorite episodes covers this iconic snake. We cover all its incredible physiology, history and much of what is misunderstood about these majestic reptiles.

Original Show Notes HERE

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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 [email protected]

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

On our throwback Monday we are releasing the Shoebill. A fan favorite on social media, this African bird is actually a stork and has a fun and interesting story to tell. Sadly, Shoebills are vulnerable to extinction and thus deserve all of our attention.

Show Notes HERE

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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 [email protected]

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

In this throwback episode, we are excited to present Dr. Julian Fennessy. Dr. Fennessy is the Director of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. He chats about the silent extinction with giraffes and the many conservation projects GCF is involved with. We also discuss the latest news in Giraffe speciation. It is a fascinating and can's miss interview.

Giraffe Conservation Foundation website can be accessed HERE

Show notes HERE

-------------------------------------------------------------

Another 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 [email protected]

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

Soar into the world of the albatross, one of the most extraordinary seabirds on Earth. In this episode, we uncover the fascinating history and evolution of these oceanic wanderers, exploring their unparalleled ability to glide across vast distances with minimal effort. Discover their unique physiology, from their enormous wingspans to their specialized adaptations for life at sea. Learn about their intriguing behaviors, including their elaborate courtship dances and lifelong pair bonds. We’ll also examine the conservation challenges they face, such as habitat destruction and plastic pollution, and highlight efforts to protect these majestic birds. Set sail with us on this breathtaking journey into the lives of the albatross!

-------------------------------------------------------------

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 [email protected]

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

This week we step back into the frosty tundra and discover the captivating world of the musk ox, a true symbol of Arctic resilience. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating history and evolution of these ancient creatures, tracing their survival through the Ice Age to the modern day. Explore their remarkable physiology, from their dense, insulating coats to their powerful build, perfectly designed for harsh climates. Learn about their unique behaviors, including their iconic defensive formations and seasonal migrations. We’ll also discuss the conservation status of the musk ox, the challenges they face in a warming world, and efforts to ensure their future. Join us for a journey into the wild Arctic to celebrate these hardy herbivores!

-------------------------------------------------------------

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 [email protected]

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

Angie delves into the intricate world of insects with experts Dr. Tim Cockerell, Dr. Martha Holmes, and Bill Markham. They discuss their work on the Nat Geo docuseries, 'A Real Bug's Life,' now in its second season on Disney+. The conversation features fascinating bug behaviors, filming techniques, and the environmental importance of insects. The series highlights how bugs' superpowers and survival skills are captured through advanced filming technology, making insects relatable and exciting for viewers. The episode ends with advice for aspiring entomologists and filmmakers, emphasizing curiosity and the accessibility of modern media tools.

Video Preview can be seen HERE

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction to the Bug's World

01:27 Meet the Experts: Tim, Martha, and Bill

02:13 Tim's Journey into the Insect World

04:13 Martha's Marine to Wildlife Film Journey

06:59 Bill's Adventures in Nature Docs

13:21 Why Insects Matter

17:51 Sneak Peek: A Real Bug's Life Season 2

21:24 Fascinating Adaptations of the Luna Moth

22:46 The Underwater World of the Diving Bell Spider

26:15 The Astonishing Abilities of the Jackjumper Ant

28:56 Revolutionary Filming Techniques for Insect Documentaries

36:19 Inspiring the Next Generation of Entomologists and Filmmakers

41:37 Conclusion and Future Prospects

-------------------------------------------------------------

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 [email protected]

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

In this throwback episode, we return the walrus. A very early one in our podcast it was one you might have missed! A fan-favorite, in this episode we explore the incredible history and evolution of these tusked giants, uncovering their ancient origins and adaptations to life in icy waters. Learn about their unique physiology, from their blubbery insulation to their impressive tusks, and their intriguing social behavior, including their communal nature and vocalizations. We'll also discuss the walrus' conservation status, the threats they face from climate change and human activity, and what we can do to protect these majestic marine mammals. A journey into the Arctic awaits—don’t miss it!

-------------------------------------------------------------

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 [email protected]

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

In this episode, Chris and Angie explore the fascinating world of the dromedary camel. They discuss the unique vocalizations, impressive physical adaptations, and the camel's significant role in human history.

The episode delves into the camel's ability to survive long periods without water, their contributions to ecosystems, and their impact on cultures. The hosts also address the problem of feral camels in Australia, offering insights into potential solutions. The podcast is informative and filled with interesting facts, ranging from the camel's unique physiology to their complex social behaviors.

Male Dromedary Camel Display Video HERE

01:00 Welcome to the Creatures Podcast

01:30 Introduction to Dromedary Camels

02:30 Dromedary vs. Bactrian Camels

06:43 Physical Characteristics of Dromedary Camels

10:39 Dromedary Camels in the Wild

14:29 Conservation and Impact of Feral Camels

17:37 Cultural and Economic Importance of Camels

22:36 Challenges and Solutions for Camel Population Control

37:07 Evolution and Classification of Camels

38:03 Exploring the Camelid Family

39:21 Ancient Origins of Camelids

40:58 Migration and Evolution

41:02 Domestication and Uses

42:01 Camel Physiology and Adaptations

44:56 Water Conservation Mechanisms

58:53 Unique Camel Behaviors

59:43 Social Structure and Vocalizations

01:05:17 Breeding and Maternal Care

01:09:52 Conservation Efforts

01:11:11 Conclusion and Future Research

-------------------------------------------------------------

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 [email protected]

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

We are kicking 2025 off with our throwback Monday with a podcast favorite, the Snow Leopard! One of the most beloved big cats! Snow Leopards are known as the elusive "ghosts of the mountains." Learn about their incredible adaptations to survive in harsh alpine environments, their unique behaviors and hunting habits, and the critical role they play in their ecosystem. We'll also discuss the challenges they face, from habitat loss to poaching, and the innovative conservation efforts working to protect these majestic big cats. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or new to the topic, this episode will inspire a deeper appreciation for snow leopards and the urgent need to ensure their survival.

-------------------------------------------------------------

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 [email protected]

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