All Creatures Podcast

As part of our throwback Mondays, we bring back one of our great interviews. While the audio quality is not the best, the story telling is. Dr. Rasmussen tells epic tales about these much persecuted and now beloved animals, the African Painted Dogs.

This interview was a real treat and one we highly anticipated. We were joined by Dr. Greg Rasmussen, who by all rights is the “Jane Goodall” of the African Painted Dogs. These are one of the most iconic and endangered animals on the African continent. We covered this incredible species in Episode 91: A Masterpiece, the African Painted Dog and hunted down Dr. Rasmussen to get his insight on his work in Zimbabwe with one of the most incredible species we have covered to date.

Please visit and support the Painted Dog Trust

Please consider donating to the Painted Dog Trust. Your money will go directly to Dr. Rasmussen’s next research project, which he referenced at the end of the interview. African Painted Dogs are most vulnerable to automobiles speeding in the Zambezi Delta. Dr. Rasmussen’s latest project is trying to slow drivers down and he needs our support.

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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

We engage in an in-depth conversation with wildlife conservationist and author Sophie Osborne. They discuss Sophie's fascinating journey into wildlife conservation, her experiences working with critically endangered species, and her inspiring book 'Feather Trails: A Journey of Discovery Among Endangered Birds'. Sophie shares her late start in the field and how she became captivated by various birds, including the Peregrine Falcon, Hawaiian Crow, and California Condor. The discussion highlights the intricate challenges faced in conserving these species, the threats they endure such as DDT and lead poisoning, and actionable steps that listeners can take to support bird conservation. Sophie also shares anecdotes from her fieldwork, emphasizing the rewarding yet demanding nature of being a wildlife biologist.

You can learn more about Sophie Osborn HERE

Use code CGP35 at Chelsea Green Publishing for 35% off HERE

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:14 Sophie's Journey into Wildlife Conservation

03:35 Discovering a Passion for Birds

06:40 Challenges and Rewards in Fieldwork

08:50 The Fascination with Birds

10:52 Writing to Save Endangered Species

14:42 The Peregrine Falcon's Conservation Story

25:00 The Hawaiian Crow: A Struggle for Survival

27:33 The Remarkable Intelligence of Corvids

28:03 The Plight of the Hawaiian Crow

29:23 Invasive Species and Their Impact

31:41 Conservation Efforts in New Zealand

32:16 Challenges in Wildlife Reintroduction

36:39 The Condor Recovery Program

37:21 The Dangers of Lead Ammunition

45:59 Everyday Actions to Help Birds

47:33 Where to Find the Book and Final Thoughts

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With over 230 species covered and another 130 interviews, we are bringing back older episodes on Mondays. We will be releasing all our new content on Wednesdays. We are committed to continue to tell these animal stories, as well as bringing you interviews from many of those on the front line fighting to save these species.

You can learn more about the Crow off our All Creatures website 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 episode, Chris and Angie delve deep into the fascinating world of the Greenland shark, discussing its incredible longevity, unique adaptations, and ecological significance. Known as the longest-living vertebrate, the Greenland shark can live up to 500 years.

They explore the shark's biological features, such as its slow growth rate, unique feeding habits, and its mysterious deep-sea life. Moreover, they highlight the conservation challenges this species faces, emphasizing the need for protective measures due to overfishing and bycatch. Through a mix of scientific insights and interesting anecdotes, the podcast illustrates why this ancient shark is a vital part of the Arctic ecosystem.

Check out Discovery's Shark Week the Podcast HERE

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction to the Greenland Shark

02:30 Fascinating Facts About the Greenland Shark

04:44 Physical Characteristics and Unique Features

09:42 Habitat and Range of the Greenland Shark

09:57 Conservation Status and Ecological Importance

13:40 Longevity and Aging Studies

25:48 Evolutionary History and Classification

33:14 Outswimming the Greenland Shark

34:42 The Slow Pace of Greenland Sharks

34:19 Hunting Strategies and Metabolism

35:12 Metabolism and Longevity

38:32 Toxicity and Cultural Significance

44:36 Feeding Habits and Bycatch

47:41 Behavior and Migration

55:55 Reproduction and Conservation Challenges

01:07:39 Sustainable Seafood and Conservation Efforts

01:11:26 Conclusion and Call to Action

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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

Some changes to the podcast. We will be releasing some of our older favorite episodes on Mondays and releasing new content on Wednesdays. With over 230 species and 130 interviews to date, we realize there are some episodes you might have missed. We are committed to keep telling these incredible stories and you are helping us do that. Thank you!!

You can learn more about OCEARCH and their shark tracker HERE

Chris Fischer has led 17 global expeditions since 2007 to advance science and education, facilitating millions of dollars in collaborative ocean research on apex predators involving over 50 scientists and 20 institutions. Fischer’s ultimate goals, through the support of sponsors such as Caterpillar, are to enable scientists and governments around the world to generate groundbreaking data in an open source environment while enabling dynamic STEM education. 

Fischer believes that being inclusive is inspiring. By breaking down institutional barriers, the resource-focused projects of his non-profit, OCEARCH, facilitate research progress at a rate otherwise not possible. Concurrently, students are being engaged with a K-12, STEM educational curriculum based on sharks and the OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker. This near real-time dynamic tool allows anyone to track and learn about sharks along with the brightest PhDs in the world. An initial phase of lesson plans, for grades 6-8 and developed by Landry’s Inc., is launching in the fall of 2013.

Fischer and his team pioneered the method for capturing and releasing mature white sharks and other large marine species on a 75,000 lb. custom research platform aboard the 126’ Motor Vessel OCEARCH, a one-of-kind research vessel powered by two Cat marine propulsion engines and three auxiliary generators. Obtaining unprecedented data, researchers can identify breeding areas, feeding areas, migratory corridors, and birthing sites – ensuring centrist, data driven conservation. The work of OCEARCH and Fischer has been featured in over 5,000 news stories in 2013 and a series of ongoing short films sponsored by Costa.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Creatures Podcast, we interview Dr. Abigail Ross, a leading primate behavioral ecologist and founder of the Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation. They discuss her background, the challenges she faces in conservation work, especially in Madagascar, and her research on primate behavior. Topics include habitat loss, wildlife trafficking, conservation efforts, and the impact of climate change on Madagascar's biodiversity. Dr. Ross also shares insights into mentoring young Malagasy scientists and the importance of local conservation efforts. The discussion concludes with advice for young conservationists and an overview of the work being done by her foundation.

You can learn more about Dr. Ross and her work HERE

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:03 Early Life and Inspiration

02:22 Academic Journey and Key Experiences

03:53 Understanding Primate Behavioral Ecology

05:22 Conservation Success Stories

05:52 Challenges in Animal Conservation

08:11 Founding the Abigail Ross Foundation

12:25 Reforestation and Current Projects

14:20 Complexities of Conservation in Madagascar

21:42 Future Plans and Favorite Species

23:22 Primate Conservation Projects

24:34 Maternal Care in Calatrichids

26:55 Impact of the Pandemic on Conservation

29:08 Ecotourism in Madagascar

32:41 Local Conservation Efforts

35:51 Maternal Stress and Infant Survival

40:04 Climate Change in Madagascar

42:55 Supporting Conservation Efforts

45:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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This episode of the All Creatures Podcast, scientists Chris and Angie embark on a journey to highlight the critically endangered status of Sifakas, a type of lemur native to Madagascar.

They discuss the various species of Sifakas, their unique adaptations, such as their elongated intestinal tract and extraordinary leaping abilities, and the significant challenges these animals face due to habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade.

The episode features an insightful interview with conservation researcher Dr. Abby Ross, who shares her experiences working to save lemurs in Madagascar. Additionally, the hosts explore the conservation efforts being made to protect these primates, including the work done by the Duke Lemur Center. The episode emphasizes the urgent need for conservation action to prevent the extinction of Sifakas and calls for support from listeners to help save these unique and beautiful creatures.

Check out the Duke Lemur Center HERE

Check out Dr. Abigail Ross’ work HERE

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome to the All Creatures Podcast: A Journey to Madagascar

02:21 The Plight of Lemurs: Madagascar's Endangered Marvels

02:41 Diving Deep into Sifakas: Madagascar's Unique Lemurs

03:07 Conservation Efforts and Interviews: Hope for Madagascar's Lemurs

04:09 The Allure of Ecotourism and Conservation Heroes

07:54 Understanding Sifakas: Anatomy, Behavior, and Conservation

14:20 The Critical State of Lemur Conservation in Madagascar

21:44 The Role of Zoos and Conservationists in Saving Sifakas

25:20 Evolution and Classification: Tracing the Origins of Lemurs

29:03 The Fascinating Journey of Lemurs to Madagascar

30:16 Lemur Evolution and Biodiversity

31:06 Understanding Lemur Physiology

32:04 Incredible Leaping Abilities of Sifakas

34:57 Personal Anecdotes and Lemur Agility

39:59 Diet and Unique Digestive System of Sifakas

45:02 Social Behavior and Communication in Sifakas

49:01 Reproduction and Maternal Care in Sifakas

54:47 Conservation Efforts and How You Can Help

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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 podcast, host Chris converses with Alexander Brash, author of 'A Whaler at Twilight,' a true account exploring the history of whaling and themes of redemption in the South Pacific.

Brash shares his unique background, tracing his roots back to a great-great-grandfather who was a whaler, yet how he himself turned towards conservation, becoming a passionate advocate for wildlife and environmental protection. The discussion delves into Brash's extensive career in conservation, his motivations for writing the book, and the intricate history of whaling, alongside the personal journey of his ancestor. Brash also recounts his own explorations in New Zealand, retracing his ancestor's steps, and brings to light the significant impact of 19th-century whaling on marine populations. Through this narrative, the episode uncovers the transformation from exploitation to conservation and the importance of preserving our natural history and wildlife.

You can learn more about Alexander Brash and his book HERE

Podcast Timeline

01:00 Welcome and Introduction to a Whaler's Tale

01:55 Alexander Brash's Journey from Conservationist to Author

05:58 Uncovering a Family Legacy: The Discovery of a Whaler's Manuscript

13:59 The Life and Redemption of Robert W. Armstrong

22:28 The Brutal Reality of 19th Century Whaling

32:40 The Plight of Whales: Endangered Species and Human Impact

33:29 Historical Whaling Practices and Their Legacy

35:42 Adventures and Conservation: A Family Legacy in New Zealand

45:14 Conservation Efforts and the Importance of Protecting Wildlife

52:51 A Whaler's Twilight: Book Release and Conservation Message

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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

This episode of the All Creatures Podcast delves into one of the world's most obscure mammals, the echidna.

Hosts Chris and Angie explore this unique creature's physiology, including its spines, pouch, and reptile-like legs, highlighting its distinction from anteaters. The podcast covers the echidna's endangered status, the significance of the Taronga Zoo in Sydney in echidna conservation, and the fascinating aspects of echidna reproduction, including the male's four-headed penis and the female's pouch for raising their egg-laying young, known as puggles. With insights from their visit to the zoo and a special focus on Sir David Attenborough's contributions to wildlife conservation, the episode emphasizes the critical need for conservation efforts to protect these ancient, egg-laying mammals.

Thank you to Jemma, AJ, and of course Melinda at Taronga Zoo for an incredible experience in Sydney Australia!

Check out Taronga Zoo's website HERE

Podcast TimeLine

02:00 Welcome to the Echidna Exploration!

03:07 Discovering the Echidna: Anatomy and Conservation

04:05 A Visit to Taronga Zoo and Conservation Efforts

07:12 Echidna Anatomy Deep Dive: Spikes, Snouts, and Survival

13:26 The Echidna's Place in the World: Habitat and Endangerment

17:04 Celebrating Sir David Attenborough and Echidna Conservation

24:29 Evolutionary Wonders: The Echidna's Ancient Lineage

30:28 Echidna Physiology: From Low Body Temperatures to Hibernation

36:05 Charades and Clues: A Playful Start

36:33 The Science of Super Cooling in Arctic Ground Squirrels

38:08 Echidnas: Slow, Spiky, and Surprisingly Swimmers

39:00 The Unique Anatomy of Echidnas

39:59 Digging Deep: Echidna's Strength and Survival Skills

43:45 Echidnas' Electrifying Senses

48:09 Mating Rituals and Reproduction: Echidna Love Train

53:10 Echidna Reproductive Anatomy: A Deep Dive

59:06 The Puggle's Journey: From Egg to Independence

01:05:55 Conservation Efforts and the Role of Zoos

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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

This episode dives into the fascinating world of the Gila Monster, inspired by a request from Sam of the Turtle Tortoise Preservation Group.

Hosts Chris and Angie explore this venomous lizard, unique to the United States, discussing its venomous nature, diet, habitat, and surprising contributions to modern medicine through a venom-derived diabetes and weight loss drug. They also touch on the Gila Monster's slow reproductive rate and near-threatened status due to habitat destruction and climate change. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the importance of education and conservation, featuring organizations working to protect these creatures and seeking public assistance through citizen science projects.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome to the Creatures Podcast: Unveiling the Gila Monster

01:13 The Fascinating World of the Gila Monster: An Introduction

02:24 Diving Deep into Gila Monster Facts and Myths

03:26 Venomous Lizards and Their Unique Traits

04:49 Listener Engagement and Upcoming Topics

13:01 Exploring the Gila Monster's Habitat and Conservation Status

15:33 The Gila Monster's Role in Modern Medicine

17:59 Climate Change and Its Impact on Desert Ecosystems

25:54 Evolution and Longevity of the Gila Monster

30:19 Survival Strategies of the Gila Monster in Harsh Climates

32:22 Gila Monster's Water Retention Abilities

33:38 Understanding Gila Monster's Osmoregulation

34:45 Unique Skin and Survival Strategies

35:33 Behavioral Insights: From Slow Movement to Nighttime Activities

37:06 Venom: A Defense Mechanism with Medical Potential

42:46 From Venom to Pharmaceutical Breakthroughs

47:26 Diet and Hunting Techniques

51:37 Social Behavior and Reproduction

01:02:57 Conservation Efforts and Why They Matter

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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