Back From the Brink, from Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom

The Bahamas stands as the only nation in the world to establish a shark sanctuary encompassing its entire marine environment. In this episode, we speak with Bahamian biologist and passionate shark advocate, Candace Fields, on why sharks are the true guardians of our oceans, highlighting their essential role in maintaining the vibrant underwater landscapes of coral reefs.  She discusses how we can change the common misconceptions about sharks in the media, helping people learn to admire, not fear, these ocean superheroes. Bonus Track: Dr. Rory Telemeco of the Fresno Chaffee Zoo shares how collaborative conservation efforts are restoring the Blunt-nosed leopard lizard to the landscape to preserve this nearly extinct species.  

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For seven years, North American zoos saw no coati births, leaving their population shrouded in uncertainty. But at Brevard Zoo in Florida, a groundbreaking milestone changed everything — welcoming the first coati litter in nearly a decade. Lauren Hinson, director of animal programs and coati studbook keeper, takes us behind the scenes of this incredible journey. From the challenges of understanding this species to the joy of seeing new life thrive, she reveals what it took to make this conservation success story a reality, and why it matters now more than ever. Bonus Track: Lisa Faust of Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo introduces us to the critically endangered Puerto Rican parrot, a remarkable bird that is on the brink of a comeback! 

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Whale sharks face a constant threat from hunting, with thousands killed each year for their fins. In this episode, Kelly Link, a biologist at the Georgia Aquarium, recounts her up close and personal adventures with these filter feeders, including an incredible 33-hour-mission to bring two whale sharks to safety in Atlanta. She dives into the urgent need for whale shark conservation as their global population continues to decline and many of their behaviors in the wild remain a mystery. Bonus Track: From bears to frogs, countless animals are at risk due to habitat loss. Learn how Darren Minier and Isabella Linares of the Oakland Zoo are stepping up to rescue and protect wildlife in need. 

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Ever wondered why some people and animals form such strong bonds? Or why these connections are so vital to our well-being? In this episode, we continue with more stories from the AZA conference, speaking with Dr. Kathayoon Khalil, a conservation psychologist with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, about the powerful role of empathy in human-animal connections. We also dive into the world of tarantulas with Wildlife & Environmental Educator Sarah Bowser  to explore fascinating facts about these misunderstood creatures and the threats they face in the wild.  Thom Demas from the Tennessee Aquarium wraps up the episode with a deep dive into the underwater world of a little-known fish that shows how stream health impacts us all – wildlife and humans.  

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Every year, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) hosts its annual conference, bringing together zoo and aquarium professionals dedicated to wildlife conservation. In this episode, we hear stories from the conference. First, Ben Jones, vice president of conservation and education at the Houston Zoo, shares his mission to protect endangered mountain gorillas. Then, Dr. Chase LaDue, National Geographic Explorer, conservation scientist at the Oklahoma City Zoo and executive director of the Sri Lanka Elephant Project, discusses fostering coexistence between humans and elephants. Their stories reveal the critical importance of protecting the wild—and why it matters for all of us who share this planet.

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Fewer than 100 ocelots remain in the United States, making these rare wild cats incredibly difficult to study and protect. Filmmaker and Wildlife Biologist Ben Masters discusses the importance of documenting endangered species, and how his work has led him to capture rare footage of these elusive cats. He uncovers the many challenges ocelots face, from habitat loss to the struggle for visibility in conservation efforts, and why it's crucial to continue fighting for their survival. Bonus Track: Kristin Ulvestad from the Reid Park Zoo explains the important ecological role of songbirds and how the unique call of the Lucy’s warblers is a sure sign of spring.  

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With fewer than 360 North Atlantic right whales remaining in the wild, these incredible marine giants are critically endangered. In this episode, Orla O'Brien, a marine biologist with the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life at the New England Aquarium, discusses this urgent wildlife crisis and the challenges facing this species. O’Brien explains why right whales are often overlooked — an "out of sight, out of mind" issue — and how innovative technology plays a crucial role in protecting them, offering hope for their future. Bonus Track: Jeff Baughman of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo talks about a much smaller animal, but still one of North America’s most endangered amphibians – the Wyoming toad. 

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Every year, boat strikes injure and kill tens of thousands of manatees. In this episode, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant and Peter Gros explore the challenges these gentle mammals face in the wild and the ongoing efforts to protect them. Guest expert Dr. Claire Erlacher-Reid, senior staff veterinarian at SeaWorld Rescue, who specializes in marine mammal rehabilitation and rescue, discusses the threats manatees face, the critical work being done to help them; and the wonderful experience of rehabilitating and releasing these magnificent animals back into the wild. Bonus Track: Learn how a group of real-life mermaids are helping educate the public about the benefits of shark and ray conservation.

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The harpy eagle, once feared in Panama for its massive size and powerful talons, has now soared to national hero status. Today, it’s celebrated as the country’s national bird. Wildlife expert Ron Magill chats about these incredible birds, how he helped bring the harpy eagle into the spotlight in Panama, and how original Wild Kingdom host Jim Fowler’s influence inspired him to become a zookeeper, shaping his lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation. Bonus track: Mary Ann Colley from Butterfly Pavilion talks about pollinators and the importance of invertebrate conservation. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.

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Hosts Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant return to share more incredible stories from their animal encounters and the inspiring people working behind the scenes to protect wildlife. This season, we embark on international adventures to explore places where wildlife conservation is celebrated and making a difference for future generations. 

All this and more, coming February 25th. 

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