Episode 36: Plight of the Pangolin with Bill Zeigler

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 ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com 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

1 Touko 20241h 11min

We are releasing this older podcast again on the Arctic Fox. Backing up the newest episode, Lemmings, Arctic Foxes are another critical species in the Arctic ecosystem equation. Both species play such vital roles in keeping our ecosystems healthy. From this episode in 2021, we continue our winter (summer in Southern Hemisphere) we celebrate with a true survivor. The Arctic Fox is one of the most adaptable small mammals on our planet. Surviving in the harsh extremes of the Arctic, these special canids are built to survive. From their physiology to behavior, the Arctic Fox is a pure joy to learn about. Stay tuned as new species and interviews are on there way! ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com 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

24 Huhti 20241h 10min

In this podcast episode dive into the world of lemmings, focusing on Arctic lemmings but also discussing other species. Chris and Angie explore the lemmings' habitats, behaviors, and the significance of their role in the Arctic ecosystem. A significant part of the episode debunks the myth of lemming mass suicide, explaining the origins and realities behind this misconception. They highlight the lemmings' importance to the food web, discussing how lemmings' population cycles affect predators and the vegetation in their habitats. Additionally, the hosts touch on the impact of climate change on lemmings and the Arctic environment. Throughout the episode, they share insights from documentaries, research, and their personal fascination with these resilient rodents. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome to the Lemming Deep Dive! 02:06 Discovering the Fascinating World of Lemmings 03:22 Debunking Myths: The Truth About Lemming Behavior 04:48 Lemmings and Climate Change: An Ecosystem at Risk 07:12 Adorable Yet Mighty: The Physical Traits of Lemmings 10:29 Habitats and Importance of Lemmings in the Ecosystem 11:21 Lemmings: The Keystone Species of the Arctic 22:04 Classification and Evolution: Unraveling Lemming Diversity 26:57 Lemming Lifespan and Adaptations for Survival 28:21 Unveiling the Mysteries of Lemming Adaptations 30:46 The Fascinating World of Lemming Behavior 33:09 Debunking the Lemming Suicide Myth 43:02 Intricate Lemming Social Structures and Nesting Habits 52:58 Lemming Reproduction: A Cycle of Life 56:08 Conservation Efforts and the Impact of Climate Change ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com 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

16 Huhti 20241h 1min

In this episode of the All Creatures Podcast, host Dr. Angie Adkin explores the intriguing world of octopuses with marine biologist and National Geographic host Dr. Alex Schnell. Dr. Schnell shares her extensive research on octopuses' complex memory and behavior, highlighting their shape-shifting abilities, intelligence, and social interactions. The discussion also covers her upcoming NatGeo series 'Secrets of the Octopus', premiering on Earth Day, aiming to celebrate and conserve oceanic species. Dr. Schnell provides insights into her background, the fascinating physiology of octopuses, and their cognitive abilities, including learning, memory, and problem-solving. The episode further delves into the ethical considerations and threats facing octopuses, emphasizing the importance of ocean conservation. Dr. Schnell encourages viewers to connect with octopuses as ambassadors of the ocean to foster empathy, protection, and environmental action. You can watch the trailer HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome to the Octopus Wonderland 00:04 Diving Deep with Dr. Alex Schnell 01:36 The Fascinating World of Octopuses 17:10 Unveiling the Secrets of the Octopus Series 27:38 Exploring Octopus Intelligence and Social Behavior 35:06 Conservation and the Future of Octopus Research 40:50 Protecting Our Oceans and Their Inhabitants 45:14 Final Thoughts and How to Stay Connected   ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com 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

10 Huhti 202450min

This episode delves into the intriguing world of the Tibetan antelope, also known as the chiru, inspired by the Apple TV+'s EarthSounds series. Hosts Chris and Angie share their fascination for this unique animal, particularly its notable vocalizations which are highlighted in the series. Living in one of the most inhospitable environments on the planet, the Tibetan antelope's loud, bellowing calls are a vital communication tool for territory and mating. The episode touches on various aspects of the antelope's life, including its migration patterns, mating behaviors, and the conservation success stories that have helped their numbers to gradually increase despite challenges such as poaching for their highly prized wool. Additionally, the hosts explore other unique species inhabiting the Tibetan Plateau and emphasize the need for continued conservation efforts. The podcast concludes with a call to action for supporting wildlife preservation and a spotlight on the Nature Conservancy's efforts towards this cause. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Welcome to the Creatures Podcast: Unveiling the Tibetan Antelope 02:14 Discovering the Tibetan Antelope: A Journey Through Sound 05:03 The Tibetan Antelope: A Conservation Success Story 07:34 Exploring the Unique Features of the Tibetan Antelope 15:08 The Tibetan Plateau: A Sanctuary for the Tibetan Antelope 18:15 Why the Tibetan Antelope Matters: Conservation and Climate Change 22:38 China's Conservation Efforts: A New Era for Wildlife Protection 31:31 Diving into Evolution: The Story of the Tibetan Antelope 35:36 The Ancient Lineage of Caprine Animals 36:20 Human Impact on Tibetan Antelope Populations 37:31 The Plight of the Tibetan Antelope's Wool 38:50 Short Lifespan and Harsh Living Conditions 39:31 Adaptations for High-Speed and High-Altitude Survival 40:35 Unique Hemoglobin: The Secret to Thriving in Thin Air 49:40 Migration Patterns and Social Behavior 55:55 Reproduction and the Struggle for Survival 01:04:01 Conservation Efforts and Sustainable Wool Practices ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com 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

3 Huhti 20241h 12min

The podcast features a discussion with Dr. Angie Adkin, the host, and the producers of the Apple TV+ documentary series 'Earthsounds', Alex Williamson and Sam Hodgson. The series, which took over three years to produce, captures the rich and often unheard sonic landscapes of our planet, from deserts to the vocalizations of snow leopards, using cutting-edge technology. Alex and Sam delve into their personal journeys into nature documentary production, the innovative sound recording techniques employed, and the remarkable animal vocalizations they recorded. They also discuss the conservation message behind the series, emphasizing how sound can be a powerful indicator of environmental health and the urgency of protecting our ecosystems. The interview concludes with insights into the challenges of filming, the impact of the series on viewers, and a teaser about their next project focusing on endangered animals. You can watch the trailer for Earthsounds HERE Podcast Timeline 00:15 Welcome to the World of Earth Sounds 00:50 Diving Deep into Earth Sounds with the Producers 01:42 The Journey from Nature Lover to Documentary Creator 04:56 Unveiling the Sonic Wonders of Earth Sounds 09:05 Behind the Scenes: Capturing the Unheard 22:55 Exploring the Tech and Effort Behind Earth Sounds 27:32 Capturing the Snow Leopard's Unique Call 27:41 Innovative Techniques for Wildlife Sound Recording 29:56 Discovering the Secret World of Dolphin Communication 31:20 Exploring the Depths of Animal Sounds and Communication 41:35 The Power of Sound in Conservation Efforts 45:01 Inspiring Conservation Through the Magic of Sound 52:30 Advice for Aspiring Wildlife Photographers and Filmmakers 55:28 Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Conservation Series ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

27 Maalis 20241h

In this episode of All Creatures Podcast, host Angie interviews Dr. Lisa Dabek, a tree kangaroo conservation expert from the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Washington. Dr. Dabek discusses her journey into conservation, starting the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program (TKCP) in 1996, and the current efforts in protecting the Machi's tree kangaroo in Papua New Guinea. The conversation highlights the collaboration with local communities for habitat protection, the unique characteristics and challenges facing tree kangaroos, and the integral role of zoos in conservation efforts. Dr. Dabek shares her passion for tree kangaroos, the importance of raising awareness and supporting conservation, and ways listeners can get involved. Additionally, the episode touches on World Tree Kangaroo Day, celebrated on May 21st, and encourages audience participation in conservation initiatives. You can learn more about Woodland Park Zoo's Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome to the All Creatures Podcast with Dr. Lisa Dabek 01:05 Discovering the Fascinating World of Tree Kangaroos 03:56 Dr. Dabek's Journey into Conservation Science 07:19 The Enchanting Life of Tree Kangaroos: An Expert's Insight 17:09 Conservation Efforts and Challenges for Tree Kangaroos 24:25 The Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program: A Groundbreaking Initiative 37:33 How You Can Support Tree Kangaroo Conservation 42:33 Advice for Aspiring Conservationists ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

20 Maalis 202448min

In this episode of the All Creatures podcast, hosts Chris and Angie delve into the intriguing world of puffins, often referred to as the clowns of the sea. They discuss the physical characteristics, behavior, and migratory patterns of puffins, focusing on the Atlantic puffin's vulnerability and the significant threats to its population. The hosts share personal anecdotes and emphasize the importance of conservation efforts to protect these birds. The episode also highlights interesting facts about puffins, including their nesting habits, courtship rituals, and the various threats they face. Additionally, they touch on broader topics like the great auk's extinction, the impact of climate change on bird migration, and the potential intelligence of puffins as evidenced by observed tool-use behavior.  A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to puffin conservation, featuring the work of the organization Puffin Preservation and urging listeners to support puffin conservation efforts. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Welcome to the Puffin Podcast: Meet the Clowns of the Sea 02:42 Diving Deep into Puffin Conservation and Migration 05:44 From Personal Stories to Puffin Populations: A Conservation Chat 08:10 Exploring the Fascinating World of Puffins: Species, Behavior, and Threats 28:27 The Evolution and Lifespan of Puffins: A Deep Dive into Their World 36:54 The Clumsy Takeoff and Landing of Sea Birds 37:25 Evolutionary Trade-offs and Adaptations 38:49 The Unique Features of Puffin Beaks 40:23 The Mystery of the Glowing Beak 42:52 Diet and Coloration: The Carotenoid Connection 49:02 Incredible Migration Patterns of Puffins 54:41 Tool Use and Intelligence in Puffins 59:13 Breeding Habits and Nesting Rituals 01:06:18 Conservation Efforts and Puffin Preservation ------------------------------------------------------ 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 advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12 Maalis 20241h 14min