Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom The Podcast

Bison may no longer be on the brink of extinction, but their journey is far from over. With dwindling genetic diversity and the absence of natural selection, these prairie ecosystem engineers are not as wild as they once were. In this episode, Dr. Daniel Kinka, director of rewilding at American Prairie, shares the story of bison—from their near extinction due to westward expansion to their return to the plains. We also learn why bison rewilding is essential to restoring biodiversity and ensuring the prairie thrives for generations to come. Bonus Track: Jen Osburn Eliot at Oregon Zoo shares how they're helping Northwestern pond turtles grow strong in a program that raises and releases them back into the wild.    To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Bahamas stands as the only nation in the world to establish a shark sanctuary encompassing its entire marine environment. In this episode, we speak with Bahamian biologist and passionate shark advocate, Candace Fields, on why sharks are the true guardians of our oceans, highlighting their essential role in maintaining the vibrant underwater landscapes of coral reefs.  She discusses how we can change the common misconceptions about sharks in the media, helping people learn to admire, not fear, these ocean superheroes. Bonus Track: Dr. Rory Telemeco of the Fresno Chaffee Zoo shares how collaborative conservation efforts are restoring the Blunt-nosed leopard lizard to the landscape to preserve this nearly extinct species.     To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For seven years, North American zoos saw no coati births, leaving their population shrouded in uncertainty. But at Brevard Zoo in Florida, a groundbreaking milestone changed everything — welcoming the first coati litter in nearly a decade. Lauren Hinson, director of animal programs and coati studbook keeper, takes us behind the scenes of this incredible journey. From the challenges of understanding this species to the joy of seeing new life thrive, she reveals what it took to make this conservation success story a reality, and why it matters now more than ever. Bonus Track: Lisa Faust of Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo introduces us to the critically endangered Puerto Rican parrot, a remarkable bird that is on the brink of a comeback!     To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whale sharks face a constant threat from hunting, with thousands killed each year for their fins. In this episode, Kelly Link, a biologist at the Georgia Aquarium, recounts her up close and personal adventures with these filter feeders, including an incredible 33-hour-mission to bring two whale sharks to safety in Atlanta. She dives into the urgent need for whale shark conservation as their global population continues to decline and many of their behaviors in the wild remain a mystery. Bonus Track: From bears to frogs, countless animals are at risk due to habitat loss. Learn how Darren Minier and Isabella Linares of the Oakland Zoo are stepping up to rescue and protect wildlife in need. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered why some people and animals form such strong bonds? Or why these connections are so vital to our well-being? In this episode, we continue with more stories from the AZA conference, speaking with Dr. Kathayoon Khalil, a conservation psychologist with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, about the powerful role of empathy in human-animal connections. We also dive into the world of tarantulas with Wildlife & Environmental Educator Sarah Bowser  to explore fascinating facts about these misunderstood creatures and the threats they face in the wild.  Thom Demas from the Tennessee Aquarium wraps up the episode with a deep dive into the underwater world of a little-known fish that shows how stream health impacts us all – wildlife and humans.   To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every year, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) hosts its annual conference, bringing together zoo and aquarium professionals dedicated to wildlife conservation. In this episode, we hear stories from the conference. First, Ben Jones, vice president of conservation and education at the Houston Zoo, shares his mission to protect endangered mountain gorillas. Then, Dr. Chase LaDue, National Geographic Explorer, conservation scientist at the Oklahoma City Zoo and executive director of the Sri Lanka Elephant Project, discusses fostering coexistence between humans and elephants. Their stories reveal the critical importance of protecting the wild—and why it matters for all of us who share this planet. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fewer than 100 ocelots remain in the United States, making these rare wild cats incredibly difficult to study and protect. Filmmaker and Wildlife Biologist Ben Masters discusses the importance of documenting endangered species, and how his work has led him to capture rare footage of these elusive cats. He uncovers the many challenges ocelots face, from habitat loss to the struggle for visibility in conservation efforts, and why it's crucial to continue fighting for their survival. Bonus Track: Kristin Ulvestad from the Reid Park Zoo explains the important ecological role of songbirds and how the unique call of the Lucy's warblers is a sure sign of spring.     To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With fewer than 360 North Atlantic right whales remaining in the wild, these incredible marine giants are critically endangered. In this episode, Orla O'Brien, a marine biologist with the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life at the New England Aquarium, discusses this urgent wildlife crisis and the challenges facing this species. O'Brien explains why right whales are often overlooked — an "out of sight, out of mind" issue — and how innovative technology plays a crucial role in protecting them, offering hope for their future. Bonus Track: Jeff Baughman of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo talks about a much smaller animal, but still one of North America's most endangered amphibians – the Wyoming toad.  To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every year, boat strikes injure and kill tens of thousands of manatees. In this episode, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant and Peter Gros explore the challenges these gentle mammals face in the wild and the ongoing efforts to protect them. Guest expert Dr. Claire Erlacher-Reid, senior staff veterinarian at SeaWorld Rescue, who specializes in marine mammal rehabilitation and rescue, discusses the threats manatees face, the critical work being done to help them; and the wonderful experience of rehabilitating and releasing these magnificent animals back into the wild. Bonus Track: Learn how a group of real-life mermaids are helping educate the public about the benefits of shark and ray conservation. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The harpy eagle, once feared in Panama for its massive size and powerful talons, has now soared to national hero status. Today, it's celebrated as the country's national bird. Wildlife expert Ron Magill chats about these incredible birds, how he helped bring the harpy eagle into the spotlight in Panama, and how original Wild Kingdom host Jim Fowler's influence inspired him to become a zookeeper, shaping his lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosts Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant return to share more incredible stories from their animal encounters and the inspiring people working behind the scenes to protect wildlife. This season, we embark on international adventures to explore places where wildlife conservation is celebrated and making a difference for future generations.    All this and more, coming February 25th.    To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we conclude this season of the show, we're thrilled to give you a sneak peek into season two of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom Protecting The Wild. Dr. Rae and Peter chat with Dan Bailey, a bear biologist and conservationist, about his vital work on black bear monitoring and den research. Learn about the major threats they face from human activities and hunting, and how we can coexist with these remarkable creatures. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over a hundred years ago, sea otters were hunted to near extinction for their fur. Today, Peter and Dr. Rae chat with Megan Smylie, sea otter program manager at the Aquarium of the Pacific, about the incredible efforts to restore their population. Learn about the inspiring sea otter surrogacy program, where surrogate mothers Millie and Chloe nurture and train orphaned sea otter pups, teaching them essential survival skills before returning to the wild. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Wolves play a crucial role as keystone species, essential for maintaining the health and balance of ecosystems. In this episode, Peter and Dr. Rae chat with Regina Mossotti, Vice President of Animal Care at the Saint Louis Zoo, ho discusses her deep commitment to wolf advocacy and dispels common myths about "big bad wolves." To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.    To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Zoos play a crucial role in wildlife survival, acting as research hubs and connecting people to the wonders of nature. In this episode, Dr. Rae and Peter chat with Patty Ihrig-Bueckendorf, a Saint Louis Zoo hellbender keeper, about the vital role zookeepers play in animal rehabilitation and species preservation. Ihrig-Bueckendorf shares her work with hellbender salamander — a species that's been on the endangered species list since 2003 — highlighting the efforts to save these unique creatures. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For three months during nesting season, researchers relocate to Eastern Egg Island to monitor and protect puffins. Peter and Dr. Rae sit down with Emma Lachance Linklater, a biologist who spent months living among the puffins on the remote island. Emma shares her unforgettable experiences studying these precious seabirds and highlights the hard work and determination of field biologists committed to protecting and preserving wildlife. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's episode, Dr. Rae and Peter explore the challenges beavers face from habitat loss and human conflict with wildlife biologist, Molly Alves. Learn about the Tulalip Beaver Project and their efforts in relocating beavers from nuisance areas to places where their natural building skills create thriving, biodiverse ecosystems. Discover the incredible impact of these industrious creatures and the efforts to protect them. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Just over a decade ago, the native foxes of California's Channel Islands were on the brink of extinction. In this episode, Peter and Dr. Rae are joined by Nadya Seal Faith, a conservation biologist from the Santa Barbara Zoo. They discuss her incredible work on the islands conserving these species and the pivotal role bald eagles played in restoring the ecosystem's balance. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Across the United States, bats are under siege, facing numerous threats that endanger their populations. In this episode, hosts Dr. Rae and Peter are joined by Dr. Nate Fuller, a bat ecologist, to discuss the critical need to save these misunderstood creatures and what we can do to educate others about their importance to the environment. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the past 50 years, climate change, poor water quality and overfishing have devastated up to 60% of our kelp forest. Join hosts Peter and Dr. Rae as they uncover the vital importance of kelp forests with special guest Dr. Jennifer Adler, a renowned conservation photographer and underwater photojournalist. She shares her incredible experiences capturing the beauty and mystery of deep-water ecosystems and underwater sea caves. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we go on a journey through time and conservation with Peter and Dr. Rae as they talk with Jeff Ewelt, executive director of ZooMontana, about the remarkable resurgence of the black-footed ferret, believed to be extinct until 1981. They discuss special moments on the show like meeting the ferret clone "Elizabeth Ann" and releasing endangered ferrets into the wild at Hogg Ranch. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you heard the remarkable story of the mountain lion that roamed the Hollywood hills? In this episode, Peter and Dr. Rae sit down with Beth Pratt, wildlife advocate, author and California director for the National Wildlife Federation, to discuss the enduring legacy of P-22, the iconic mountain lion who called Griffith Park in Los Angeles home. Together, they'll touch on the pressing issue of habitat loss — one of the greatest threats to wildlife — and explore innovative solutions for coexisting with wildlife in our urban landscapes. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website.   To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dive into the depths of Southern California's waters with Peter and Dr. Rae as they chat with Carlos Gauna, an expert drone operator and shark photographer, to discuss how his videos can impact our understanding of misrepresented animals such as sharks. Gauna recounts thrilling tales from his time on the show — including a heart-pounding moment when hope of spotting a shark seemed completely lost. To learn more about Wild Kingdom, check out the website. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join Co-Hosts Peter Gros and Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant as they connect with a diverse range of guests who work with, and support, wildlife. These dedicated advocates share not just their adventures, but their deep love for protecting creatures and ecosystems. Through their stories and insights, they reveal the beauty of our natural world and the urgent need to preserve it. Coming July 16. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices