Many people believe that nature is only "out there" – in national parks, other large chunks of pristine land, or some far-off exotic place. For a long time, I did too. But the truth is that nature is everywhere and there are still plenty of discoveries to be made about the common species inhabiting our yards and communities.

In addition to my love of learning about plants and animals, I also have a passion for teaching and sharing my love of nature with others. Backyard Ecology is one of the many ways that I have chosen to express that passion. I write a weekly Backyard Ecology blog and am so excited to be launching a Backyard Ecology podcast.

Hi, my name is Shannon Trimboli, and I'm the host of Backyard Ecology. I live in southcentral Kentucky and am a wildlife biologist, environmental educator, beekeeper, author, and owner of a nursery specializing in plants for pollinators and wildlife conservation. I have always loved exploring nature and learning about different plants and animals.

In this podcast, I will be talking with scientists, educators, and other experts about pollinators, backyard wildlife, gardening for pollinators and wildlife, new research and other news we should be aware of, specific things that can do to help, and many other topics. I have some amazing guests lined up and can't wait to share our conversations. The first full episode should launch in early Dec. 2020.

While we're waiting for the official podcast launch, you can go to the Backyard Ecology website at www.BackyardEcology.net and take a look at some of my blogs. While you are on my website, you can sign up for my email list. Once you join the Backyard Ecology email list, you'll get weekly emails with all our latest news including links to that week's blog and podcast.

I also have two quick favors to ask of you. First, go to your favorite podcast listening app and subscribe to this podcast. Second, tell your friends, social media contacts, and others about the Backyard Ecology podcast. Word of mouth and recommendations from someone we trust, is the fastest way for others to learn about a blog or podcast.

Thank you so much for helping me spread the word about Backyard Ecology. If you have any questions or want to share your own nature-related discoveries, feel free to email me. I look forward to talking with you soon. Until then, I encourage you to make some time to go outside and discover the nature in your own backyards and communities.