The Backyard Naturalists

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Backyard Naturalists, your go-to podcast for everything connected with nature! Heard in 115 countries and all 50 states, and a proud recipient of the Best of the Weeklies podcast award from the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we're thrilled to have you join us.

This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of owls! Learn how to maximize your chances for success with owl boxes, perfect for attracting these incredible birds to your backyard. Plus, it's the perfect time to spot young barred owls as they begin branching out!

We love hearing from our listeners! Drop us a review on Apple Podcasts and let us know where you're tuning in from and what you enjoy most about the show. Happy listening and happy birdwatching!

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.

In this captivating episode, hosts Debbie and Laurie, along with guests Jay and Chris, delve deep into the buzzing world of cicadas. The conversation takes listeners on a journey through the recent cicada emergence, exploring not just the cacophonous sounds they produce but also their ecological significance and cultural impact. From sharing audio clips of cicada choruses in local greenways to discussing the surprising culinary adventures some have with cicadas, this episode leaves no cicada stone unturned.

The hosts recount their own encounters with cicadas, from the loud chorus disrupting outdoor activities to the awe-inspiring sight of these insects emerging en masse after years underground. They delve into the fascinating life cycle of periodical cicadas, explaining the difference between the 13 and 17-year broods and why this particular emergence is a rare spectacle worth noting.

Special guest Jay Bell adds a flavorful twist to the discussion by sharing his experiences cooking and eating cicadas. He describes how he enjoys them fried in olive oil with simple seasonings, likening their taste to almonds—a surprising culinary revelation for many listeners.

The episode also touches on the broader implications of cicada emergences, such as their role in ecosystem dynamics and their contribution to scientific research. Listeners are encouraged to share their own cicada sightings, recordings, and photos on social media or by contacting the podcast, fostering a community of cicada enthusiasts eager to document this remarkable natural phenomenon.

Whether you're a seasoned cicada observer or new to their fascinating world, this episode of The Backyard Naturalists is sure to pique your curiosity and inspire you to appreciate the intricate interconnectedness of nature. Join the conversation, share your cicada stories, and let's celebrate this extraordinary cicada season together!

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.

This week, Debbie and Laurie have a conversation around some of the weird and off the wall myths about birds they've heard lately. Some of which include, is the phrase "bird brain" really an insult? How about does touching a baby bird really cause the mother to abandon it and, are birds monogamous?

During the show, you hear Debbie mention a wonderful read, The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast! As spring blooms with vibrant life, Debbie and Laurie delve into the world of advanced bird feeding, exploring Bird Feeding 2.0. From the allure of black oil sunflower seeds to the strategic placement of multiple feeders near trees and bushes, this episode unlocks the secrets to attracting a diverse array of avian visitors to your backyard. Discover the allure of shelled peanuts for blue jays, the importance of live mealworms for baby birds, and the benefits of incorporating native plants and clean water sources into your bird-friendly oasis.

Tune in, and let's elevate your bird feeding game to new heights! And don't forget to share your thoughts with us - we're eager to hear where you're from and what keeps you coming back to The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists podcast! In this episode, Debbie and Laurie dive deep into the world of conservation with special guest Ashleigh Blackford, a seasoned wildlife biologist with a wealth of experience, notably in the California Condor Recovery program.

Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of the California condor, a majestic bird with a wingspan of up to nine and a half feet, facing challenges from habitat loss to lead poisoning. Discover how biologists like Ashleigh have been working tirelessly since the 1980s to revive the condor populations, from captive breeding programs to releasing these magnificent birds back into their historic habitats. We also discuss recent challenges like the fungal disease outbreak in 2023 and the ongoing efforts to ensure a self-sustaining wild population.

Tune in to learn about this incredible species and the ongoing conservation efforts shaping its future. Don't forget to share your thoughts and where you're listening from – your feedback fuels our passion for sharing nature's wonders!

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists podcast, where we explore all things nature-related! In this episode, Debbie and Laurie delve into Earth Day 2024, which falls on April 22nd with the theme "Planet versus Plastics." They discuss the multifaceted approach to going green, highlighting the five Rs: refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle.

They also emphasize the importance of composting to reduce food waste and share insights on how individuals can contribute to the Planet versus Plastics initiative. As Edward Everett Hale once said, "I cannot do everything, but still I can do something." Join us in doing our part to make the Earth a better place.

We appreciate your feedback and invite listeners from 115 countries, all 50 states, and especially our listeners in the Carolinas to share their thoughts on the podcast and what they enjoy most.

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast, where we explore all things nature-related! This week, hosts Debbie and Laurie are thrilled to have Shubber Ali, the CEO of Garden for Wildlife by National Wildlife Federation, join the conversation.

Shubber shares insights into his incredible work leading a for-profit spinoff aimed at restoring our environment. We delve into the North Carolina Wildlife Federation's Garden for Wildlife project, highlighting its mission to promote native plant identification through a free program accessible to all nonprofits. Join us on this journey to connect, learn, and contribute to the beauty and sustainability of our natural world.

Don't forget to leave us your thoughts and feedback—we'd love to hear where you're tuning in from and what you enjoy most about The Backyard Naturalists podcast!

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.

A. UNCC – 4/11-4/13 – 4/11 is for members

1. Plant sale proceeds and membership fees enable the Gardens to continue to offer free admission to our gardens and greenhouse and discounted programming for all.

2. native wildflowers, butterfly and hummingbird plants, azaleas, hydrangeas, fruiting shrubs, ferns, colorful annuals, unusual ornamental and native trees & shrubs, carnivorous plants, banana plants, elephant ears, succulents, herbs, heirloom vegetables, and more! Sometimes water plants

3. All the Gardens' staff and many knowledgeable long-term volunteers will be on-site to answer questions and suggest plants for your particular conditions!

4. Location: Lot 5, Martin Village Road, UNC Charlotte, Free parking is available adjacent to the sale (look for roped off area)

5. PRO TIP: sometimes extend sale – check for updates on their site

B. NC State Extension Master Gardener/Union County 1. 5/4/24 – 9-noon - Come early for best selection

2. Agriculture Center – Greenhouse; 3230 Presson Rd., Monroe, NC

3. variety of vegetables, herbs, native perennials, annuals, container trees and shrubs.

4. Rain barrels available for same day pickup

5. Cash or credit

D. Wing Haven – 4/10 – members, 4/11, 4/12, 4/13

1. wide variety of local favorite and unusual plants, Wing Haven legacy plants, trees and shrubs

2. assisted by our knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

3. All proceeds benefit Wing Haven gardens, programs and educational outreach.

4. Admission to Wing Haven's gardens is free during the plant sale—donations accepted and appreciated! Enjoy the beautiful spring weather with a stroll through the gardens after shopping plant favorites.

E. NC Botanical Garden – 5/4/24

1. Purchase southeastern native plants from the North Carolina Botanical Garden and other local nurseries in our annual Spring Native Plant Sale.

2. Chapel Hill, NC

3. Also features a Daily Plant Sale!

4. Plant Sales - North Carolina Botanical Garden (unc.edu)

F. Garden for Wildlife /NCWF

1. Shop by zip code

2. shipped to your home at the appropriate planting time

3. guaranteed for one year,

4. all native

5. take the easy Quiz which will direct you to the right plants for the right spot!

G. SC Botanical Gardens at Clemson – 4/5 (members), 4/6 – public, 4/20 second chance sale

1. Clemson, SC

2. Catalog of plants available about 2 weeks before sale

H. GA Native Plant Society

1. Spring Plant Sales 2024 - GNPS

2. 23 sites listed across state!

I. Lisa Tompkins, Carolina Heritage Nursery

1. Matthews Farmers Market starting April 13

2. every other week into June

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists podcast, where we explore the wonders of nature in every corner of the world. In this episode, Debbie and Laurie dive into the fascinating world of hummingbirds as they embark on their migratory journey to North America.

From the incredible 3500-mile migration of the ruby-throated hummingbird to tips on attracting these tiny marvels to your backyard with native plants and Backyard Birds products, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice for nature enthusiasts. Join us as we marvel at the beauty and resilience of these delicate creatures, and don't forget to share your thoughts with us from wherever you are tuning in.

Your feedback fuels our passion for sharing the wonders of the natural world with listeners across 115 countries, all 50 states, and the vibrant communities of the Carolinas. Thank you for being part of The Backyard Naturalists family, and happy listening!

If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.

Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.

Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show that delves into anything and everything connected with nature! Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or a curious novice, our podcast is your gateway to the wonders of your own outdoor space. Join us on a journey that celebrates the beauty of your backyard as we explore captivating topics.

In this week's episode, we tackle a common question: How do you keep those pesky squirrels away from bird feeders? Debbie and Laurie share affordable solutions and ideas to help our little bushy-tailed friends stay away from your bird food.

Coffee Break with Good Cup Coffee Company: While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow them on Instagram and look for their booth at the Matthews Community Farmer's Market this Saturday morning.

Connect with Us:

• Visit our website: The Backyard Naturalists
• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Support Our Sponsor: Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds, at The Bird Food Store. Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte. It's a mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers.

Thank You for Listening: Thanks for tuning in to The Backyard Naturalists! We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! And don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

Production Services: Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. If you're interested in starting your own podcast, simply send an email to [email protected].

Happy listening!