Wings of the Ocean: Manta Rays

We engage in an in-depth conversation with wildlife conservationist and author Sophie Osborne. They discuss Sophie's fascinating journey into wildlife conservation, her experiences working with critically endangered species, and her inspiring book 'Feather Trails: A Journey of Discovery Among Endangered Birds'. Sophie shares her late start in the field and how she became captivated by various birds, including the Peregrine Falcon, Hawaiian Crow, and California Condor. The discussion highlights the intricate challenges faced in conserving these species, the threats they endure such as DDT and lead poisoning, and actionable steps that listeners can take to support bird conservation. Sophie also shares anecdotes from her fieldwork, emphasizing the rewarding yet demanding nature of being a wildlife biologist. You can learn more about Sophie Osborn HERE Use code CGP35 at Chelsea Green Publishing for 35% off HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:14 Sophie's Journey into Wildlife Conservation 03:35 Discovering a Passion for Birds 06:40 Challenges and Rewards in Fieldwork 08:50 The Fascination with Birds 10:52 Writing to Save Endangered Species 14:42 The Peregrine Falcon's Conservation Story 25:00 The Hawaiian Crow: A Struggle for Survival 27:33 The Remarkable Intelligence of Corvids 28:03 The Plight of the Hawaiian Crow 29:23 Invasive Species and Their Impact 31:41 Conservation Efforts in New Zealand 32:16 Challenges in Wildlife Reintroduction 36:39 The Condor Recovery Program 37:21 The Dangers of Lead Ammunition 45:59 Everyday Actions to Help Birds 47:33 Where to Find the Book and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12 Kesä 202453min

With over 230 species covered and another 130 interviews, we are bringing back older episodes on Mondays. We will be releasing all our new content on Wednesdays. We are committed to continue to tell these animal stories, as well as bringing you interviews from many of those on the front line fighting to save these species. You can learn more about the Crow off our All Creatures website HERE ------------------------------------------------------------- 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 Kesä 20241h 11min

In this episode, Chris and Angie delve deep into the fascinating world of the Greenland shark, discussing its incredible longevity, unique adaptations, and ecological significance. Known as the longest-living vertebrate, the Greenland shark can live up to 500 years. They explore the shark's biological features, such as its slow growth rate, unique feeding habits, and its mysterious deep-sea life. Moreover, they highlight the conservation challenges this species faces, emphasizing the need for protective measures due to overfishing and bycatch. Through a mix of scientific insights and interesting anecdotes, the podcast illustrates why this ancient shark is a vital part of the Arctic ecosystem. Check out Discovery's Shark Week the Podcast HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Greenland Shark 02:30 Fascinating Facts About the Greenland Shark 04:44 Physical Characteristics and Unique Features 09:42 Habitat and Range of the Greenland Shark 09:57 Conservation Status and Ecological Importance 13:40 Longevity and Aging Studies 25:48 Evolutionary History and Classification 33:14 Outswimming the Greenland Shark 34:42 The Slow Pace of Greenland Sharks 34:19 Hunting Strategies and Metabolism 35:12 Metabolism and Longevity 38:32 Toxicity and Cultural Significance 44:36 Feeding Habits and Bycatch 47:41 Behavior and Migration 55:55 Reproduction and Conservation Challenges 01:07:39 Sustainable Seafood and Conservation Efforts 01:11:26 Conclusion and Call to Action ------------------------------------------------------ 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

5 Kesä 20241h 15min

Some changes to the podcast. We will be releasing some of our older favorite episodes on Mondays and releasing new content on Wednesdays. With over 230 species and 130 interviews to date, we realize there are some episodes you might have missed. We are committed to keep telling these incredible stories and you are helping us do that. Thank you!! You can learn more about OCEARCH and their shark tracker HERE Chris Fischer has led 17 global expeditions since 2007 to advance science and education, facilitating millions of dollars in collaborative ocean research on apex predators involving over 50 scientists and 20 institutions. Fischer’s ultimate goals, through the support of sponsors such as Caterpillar, are to enable scientists and governments around the world to generate groundbreaking data in an open source environment while enabling dynamic STEM education.  Fischer believes that being inclusive is inspiring. By breaking down institutional barriers, the resource-focused projects of his non-profit, OCEARCH, facilitate research progress at a rate otherwise not possible. Concurrently, students are being engaged with a K-12, STEM educational curriculum based on sharks and the OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker. This near real-time dynamic tool allows anyone to track and learn about sharks along with the brightest PhDs in the world. An initial phase of lesson plans, for grades 6-8 and developed by Landry’s Inc., is launching in the fall of 2013. Fischer and his team pioneered the method for capturing and releasing mature white sharks and other large marine species on a 75,000 lb. custom research platform aboard the 126’ Motor Vessel OCEARCH, a one-of-kind research vessel powered by two Cat marine propulsion engines and three auxiliary generators. Obtaining unprecedented data, researchers can identify breeding areas, feeding areas, migratory corridors, and birthing sites – ensuring centrist, data driven conservation. The work of OCEARCH and Fischer has been featured in over 5,000 news stories in 2013 and a series of ongoing short films sponsored by Costa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3 Kesä 20241h 5min

In this episode of the Creatures Podcast, we interview Dr. Abigail Ross, a leading primate behavioral ecologist and founder of the Dr. Abigail Ross Foundation for Applied Conservation. They discuss her background, the challenges she faces in conservation work, especially in Madagascar, and her research on primate behavior. Topics include habitat loss, wildlife trafficking, conservation efforts, and the impact of climate change on Madagascar's biodiversity. Dr. Ross also shares insights into mentoring young Malagasy scientists and the importance of local conservation efforts. The discussion concludes with advice for young conservationists and an overview of the work being done by her foundation. You can learn more about Dr. Ross and her work HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:03 Early Life and Inspiration 02:22 Academic Journey and Key Experiences 03:53 Understanding Primate Behavioral Ecology 05:22 Conservation Success Stories 05:52 Challenges in Animal Conservation 08:11 Founding the Abigail Ross Foundation 12:25 Reforestation and Current Projects 14:20 Complexities of Conservation in Madagascar 21:42 Future Plans and Favorite Species 23:22 Primate Conservation Projects 24:34 Maternal Care in Calatrichids 26:55 Impact of the Pandemic on Conservation 29:08 Ecotourism in Madagascar 32:41 Local Conservation Efforts 35:51 Maternal Stress and Infant Survival 40:04 Climate Change in Madagascar 42:55 Supporting Conservation Efforts 45:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

29 Touko 202449min

This episode of the All Creatures Podcast, scientists Chris and Angie embark on a journey to highlight the critically endangered status of Sifakas, a type of lemur native to Madagascar. They discuss the various species of Sifakas, their unique adaptations, such as their elongated intestinal tract and extraordinary leaping abilities, and the significant challenges these animals face due to habitat loss, hunting, and the pet trade. The episode features an insightful interview with conservation researcher Dr. Abby Ross, who shares her experiences working to save lemurs in Madagascar. Additionally, the hosts explore the conservation efforts being made to protect these primates, including the work done by the Duke Lemur Center. The episode emphasizes the urgent need for conservation action to prevent the extinction of Sifakas and calls for support from listeners to help save these unique and beautiful creatures. Check out the Duke Lemur Center HERE Check out Dr. Abigail Ross’ work HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome to the All Creatures Podcast: A Journey to Madagascar 02:21 The Plight of Lemurs: Madagascar's Endangered Marvels 02:41 Diving Deep into Sifakas: Madagascar's Unique Lemurs 03:07 Conservation Efforts and Interviews: Hope for Madagascar's Lemurs 04:09 The Allure of Ecotourism and Conservation Heroes 07:54 Understanding Sifakas: Anatomy, Behavior, and Conservation 14:20 The Critical State of Lemur Conservation in Madagascar 21:44 The Role of Zoos and Conservationists in Saving Sifakas 25:20 Evolution and Classification: Tracing the Origins of Lemurs 29:03 The Fascinating Journey of Lemurs to Madagascar 30:16 Lemur Evolution and Biodiversity 31:06 Understanding Lemur Physiology 32:04 Incredible Leaping Abilities of Sifakas 34:57 Personal Anecdotes and Lemur Agility 39:59 Diet and Unique Digestive System of Sifakas 45:02 Social Behavior and Communication in Sifakas 49:01 Reproduction and Maternal Care in Sifakas 54:47 Conservation Efforts and How You Can Help ------------------------------------------------------ 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

22 Touko 20241h 3min

In this podcast, host Chris converses with Alexander Brash, author of 'A Whaler at Twilight,' a true account exploring the history of whaling and themes of redemption in the South Pacific. Brash shares his unique background, tracing his roots back to a great-great-grandfather who was a whaler, yet how he himself turned towards conservation, becoming a passionate advocate for wildlife and environmental protection. The discussion delves into Brash's extensive career in conservation, his motivations for writing the book, and the intricate history of whaling, alongside the personal journey of his ancestor. Brash also recounts his own explorations in New Zealand, retracing his ancestor's steps, and brings to light the significant impact of 19th-century whaling on marine populations. Through this narrative, the episode uncovers the transformation from exploitation to conservation and the importance of preserving our natural history and wildlife. You can learn more about Alexander Brash and his book HERE Podcast Timeline 01:00 Welcome and Introduction to a Whaler's Tale 01:55 Alexander Brash's Journey from Conservationist to Author 05:58 Uncovering a Family Legacy: The Discovery of a Whaler's Manuscript 13:59 The Life and Redemption of Robert W. Armstrong 22:28 The Brutal Reality of 19th Century Whaling 32:40 The Plight of Whales: Endangered Species and Human Impact 33:29 Historical Whaling Practices and Their Legacy 35:42 Adventures and Conservation: A Family Legacy in New Zealand 45:14 Conservation Efforts and the Importance of Protecting Wildlife 52:51 A Whaler's Twilight: Book Release and Conservation Message ------------------------------------------------------ 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

15 Touko 202458min

This episode of the All Creatures Podcast delves into one of the world's most obscure mammals, the echidna. Hosts Chris and Angie explore this unique creature's physiology, including its spines, pouch, and reptile-like legs, highlighting its distinction from anteaters. The podcast covers the echidna's endangered status, the significance of the Taronga Zoo in Sydney in echidna conservation, and the fascinating aspects of echidna reproduction, including the male's four-headed penis and the female's pouch for raising their egg-laying young, known as puggles. With insights from their visit to the zoo and a special focus on Sir David Attenborough's contributions to wildlife conservation, the episode emphasizes the critical need for conservation efforts to protect these ancient, egg-laying mammals. Thank you to Jemma, AJ, and of course Melinda at Taronga Zoo for an incredible experience in Sydney Australia! Check out Taronga Zoo's website HERE Podcast TimeLine 02:00 Welcome to the Echidna Exploration! 03:07 Discovering the Echidna: Anatomy and Conservation 04:05 A Visit to Taronga Zoo and Conservation Efforts 07:12 Echidna Anatomy Deep Dive: Spikes, Snouts, and Survival 13:26 The Echidna's Place in the World: Habitat and Endangerment 17:04 Celebrating Sir David Attenborough and Echidna Conservation 24:29 Evolutionary Wonders: The Echidna's Ancient Lineage 30:28 Echidna Physiology: From Low Body Temperatures to Hibernation 36:05 Charades and Clues: A Playful Start 36:33 The Science of Super Cooling in Arctic Ground Squirrels 38:08 Echidnas: Slow, Spiky, and Surprisingly Swimmers 39:00 The Unique Anatomy of Echidnas 39:59 Digging Deep: Echidna's Strength and Survival Skills 43:45 Echidnas' Electrifying Senses 48:09 Mating Rituals and Reproduction: Echidna Love Train 53:10 Echidna Reproductive Anatomy: A Deep Dive 59:06 The Puggle's Journey: From Egg to Independence 01:05:55 Conservation Efforts and the Role of Zoos ------------------------------------------------------ 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

7 Touko 20241h 14min