
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome back "Flocker" and trusted friend of the show, Ruby Davis of NC Wildlife Rehab, for a rapid-fire myth-busting session about what to do when you encounter wildlife in your own backyard. From possums playing dead to raccoons out in the daytime, baby bunnies hidden in plain sight, fallen squirrel nests, mysterious fawns, mangy foxes, and even the occasional bat on the ground—Ruby walks us through what's normal, what's concerning, and when to step in (or absolutely not step in). Her calm, science-based guidance cuts through the online chaos of Google, Facebook groups, and Nextdoor "experts," reminding us that common sense and compassion go a long way when we share space with wild neighbors.
Packed with practical tips, safety reminders, and fascinating facts about animal behavior, this episode aims to replace misinformation with clarity. Whether you're a seasoned backyard watcher or someone who simply wants to do the right thing when wildlife shows up unexpectedly, Ruby's insights will leave you more confident—and more connected—to the natural world right outside your door.
By Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne4.4
3535 ratings
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome back "Flocker" and trusted friend of the show, Ruby Davis of NC Wildlife Rehab, for a rapid-fire myth-busting session about what to do when you encounter wildlife in your own backyard. From possums playing dead to raccoons out in the daytime, baby bunnies hidden in plain sight, fallen squirrel nests, mysterious fawns, mangy foxes, and even the occasional bat on the ground—Ruby walks us through what's normal, what's concerning, and when to step in (or absolutely not step in). Her calm, science-based guidance cuts through the online chaos of Google, Facebook groups, and Nextdoor "experts," reminding us that common sense and compassion go a long way when we share space with wild neighbors.
Packed with practical tips, safety reminders, and fascinating facts about animal behavior, this episode aims to replace misinformation with clarity. Whether you're a seasoned backyard watcher or someone who simply wants to do the right thing when wildlife shows up unexpectedly, Ruby's insights will leave you more confident—and more connected—to the natural world right outside your door.

1,223 Listeners

3,085 Listeners

688 Listeners

348 Listeners

1,581 Listeners

399 Listeners

1,245 Listeners

1,850 Listeners

3,378 Listeners

96 Listeners

318 Listeners

191 Listeners

262 Listeners

872 Listeners

5,766 Listeners