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Ellen & special guest, science journalist and host of Radiolab and Terrestrials Lulu Miller, discuss the lifelong impact of science communication, review bald eagles, and share a very special podcast treat. Terrestrials: The Trio originally aired on July 26, 2024: https://radiolab.org/podcast/terrestrials-the-trio240726 From the original episode description: "High above the banks of the Mississippi River, a nest holds the secret life of one of America's most patriotic creatures. Their story puzzles scientists, reinforces Indigenous wisdom, and wows audiences—all thanks to a park ranger named Ed and a well-placed webcam. If you want to spoil the mystery, here ya go: it's a bald eagle. Actually, it's three bald eagles. A mama bird and daddies make a home together for over a decade and give new meaning to our national symbol." Links: Learn more about Terrestrials: https://www.wnycstudios.org/podcasts/radiolab-kids For more information about us & our podcast, head over to our website! Follow Just the Zoo of Us on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram & Discord! Follow Ellen on Instagram or BlueSky! Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joinjustthezoo
In this episode, Kenny and Jay are joined by Ryan Callaghan—CEO of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, lifelong Westerner, hunter, and fierce public lands advocate—for a wide-ranging discussion on some of the biggest conservation battles happening right now. Ryan breaks down the controversial Oregon PEACE Act (Initiative Petition 28), a ballot measure that could criminalize hunting, fishing, trapping, livestock practices, pest control, potentially devastating rural economies, wildlife management, and generations of outdoor heritage in the state.He also dives into the fight over Minnesota's Boundary Waters, where efforts to open lands upstream for sulfide mining threaten one of America's most iconic wilderness canoe areas, pristine waters, and the recreation economy it supports.Plus, Ryan shares insights on wilderness in the West, shifting animal patterns and migrations, habitat challenges, public lands policy, and everything in between—from practical conservation wins to the cultural importance of hunting and fishing as tools for wildlife management.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Steven Rinella and the MeatEater crew discuss: The punt gun video is imminent; hipster Brody; the lack of chill from a lakeside tiki hut owner; the killing of a "protected" wolf in CO; how AI misinformation has infiltrated wildlife news; a life changing marlin out of the Big Rock tourney; elk tag tax fraud; and more. Connect with Steve and The MeatEater Podcast Network Steve on Instagram and Twitter MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Meghan Markle's strawberry matcha collaboration gets a fresh round of online criticism after royal watchers notice Clevr Blends already had a similar recipe using Bonne Maman instead of As Ever. Meanwhile, Buckingham Palace reveals how it keeps cool during a heatwave without air conditioning, King Charles prepares to publish details of his personal tax bill in a historic transparency move, Prince William gathers major names including Emma Watson and Benedict Cumberbatch for a United for Wildlife business forum, and Buckingham Palace makes a rare Court Circular mistake involving Prince Edward and James, Earl of Wessex.Palace Intrigue is a daily British royal family podcast covering King Charles, Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, Kate Middleton and the House of Windsor. New episodes every day. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Part of the Caloroga Shark Media network.
Let's be honest – One of the best reasons to practice English listening with Adept English, is to hear amazing uplifting stories, today it's rewilding. Three stories of animals and habitats recovering, perfect. So, let's talk about the rewilding trend.✔️ Lesson transcript: https://adeptenglish.com/lessons/english-speaking-practice-positive-environmental-stories/We'll learn https://adeptenglish.com/company/learning-system/ important vocabulary along the way: "keystone species", meaning an animal that many others depend on, and "sequestered", which means captured and stored, like carbon in grasslands.Did you know subscribers get access to a huge archive of English listening practice? Unlock over 100+ past episodes immediately, plus get 8 brand new ones every month. That is hours of extra material to help you understand the British accent.
The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: Texas Democrats never seem to learn that the bubble in which the live isn't often representative of the voting public. Their nominee for Texas governor is out running against school choice and against public school reforms that have improved schools massively (think Houston ISD takeover by TEA.)Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is talking about things that motivate voters like bringing the school property tax freeze down from 65 to 55 year of age.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Texas Parks and Wildlife data breach affects 3 million license holders. “Social Security numbers, dates of birth and financial information, including credit card data, were not compromised in the breach, officials said.” And while the state has immunity, it is going after the private sector for a smaller breach.Jeramy E. Heintz Appointed Texas Securities Commissioner.Chevron signs 20-year power agreement with Microsoft for project Kilby data center in Pecos.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com
The ground at Klyde Warren Park shook Sunday afternoon as hundreds of Argentinian fans jumped and chanted in anticipation of their national team's first North Texas game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If Lionel Messi scores a goal in his sixth straight World Cup match Monday, he'll notch a historic footnote and break an all-time worldwide record. In other news, a standout steel-frame luxury residence is on the market for $15m in Frisco, and its views align with its name: Infinity; a cyber attack has exposed the personal information of more than 3 million Texans. Texas Parks and Wildlife said Saturday that a vendor that handles the sale of state hunting and fishing licenses was the victim of a data breach; and Henderson Avenue in Dallas has become Dallas' country-western corridor. Beyond retail stores, a new bar and restaurant called Stay Darlin' is the latest spot for cowboys and cowgirls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Australia has recorded its first mainland case of the H5 avian influenza (bird flu) strain after it was detected in a wild migratory seabird in Western Australia. While authorities say the risk to the public remains low, the discovery has raised concerns about its potential impact on wildlife. In this podcast, we look at what the detection means for Australia and the steps being taken to contain the virus.
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This week on The Great Outdoors with Charlie Potter, Charlie discusses the legendary tree tied to Robin Hood that has failed to bloom after nearly 1,200 years, raising questions about the future of one of England's most iconic natural landmarks. Plus, learn how training your eyes and improving observation skills can make you a better outdoorsman, whether […]
Originally aired on June 21, 2026. On this episode, Doug invites callers to tell tales of their fathers, because it's Father's Day! Doug also covers the U.S. Open, the recentTexas Parks and Wildlife data breach, and much more. Stay connected to the outdoor actitivities that you and your family love with The Doug Pike Show.
Toni Stevens from Wildlife Wonders Sanctuary talked to Ross and Russ about their visit to the wildlife sanctuary which displays some of the Great Ocean Road’s most enthralling plants and wildlife.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shakespearian inspiration, cuddy ducks and saints, and the beautiful sound of sedge warblers. Plus some top tips for the garden from Tom P.Support the showYou can follow Tom Pattinson, Steve and Tom Cadwallender and our wonderful guests and featured flowers, birds and projects on X via: @gardenersradio @TheNatureGarden and on Facebook: The Nature Garden. And you can also tune in to our monthly live radio show on Saturdays at 11am on www.lionheartradio.com Or email us: gardenersradio@outlook.comThank you for your support!Music link: Gaia by Carl Cape Band on Amazon Music - Amazon.co.uk
Welcome to the forty-second episode of the Zoology Ramblings Podcast! In this episode, Emma and Robi return with busy updates, including Robi's recent fieldwork adventures in Africa and Emma's bittersweet time at work wrapping up a year-long programme with the Wildlife Champions she supports. For their species of the week, Emma goes rogue and Robi goes cute. Emma talks about the death ball sponge and Robi talks about his adventures looking for pygmy hippos in West Africa. For their local conservation stories, Robi delves into the genomic fragility of Europe's Grey Wolves and Emma pays tribute to Sir David Attenborough, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday. To end, Emma talks about the rise in trafficking of the golden lion tamarin and Robi shares some exciting news about the discovery of two species of marsupial thought to only exist in the fossil record. Robi Watkinson is a Conservation Biologist and wildlife filmmaker specialising in the spatial and movement ecology of large carnivores, camera trapping survey methods, rewilding, metapopulation dynamics and conservation planning. He has an MSc in Conservation Biology from the FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, and the Institute of Communities and Wildlife in Africa, University of Cape Town. He is based between Cape Town and London, and has strong interests in equitable and inclusive conservation, palaeontology and wildlife taxonomy and evolution!Emma Hodson is a Zoologist and wildlife content creator, currently working in the community and engagement team at Avon Wildlife Trust. Emma's role as a Wildlife Champions Project Officer involves supporting and upskilling people to take action for nature in their local communities. Emma has experience in remote wildlife fieldwork, and has been part of Arctic fox, macaw and cetacean research teams in Iceland, Peru and Wales respectively. She has also been involved in animal care and rehabilitation work in Costa Rica and South Africa. Emma is particularly passionate about the interface between community engagement and wildlife monitoring, and enjoys running workshops and giving talks on topics including camera trapping, beaver ecology and rewilding. You can follow more of our weird and wonderful wildlife adventures on instagram: @zoologyramblingspodcast & @robi_watkinson_wildlife & @emma_hodson_wildlife
6/19/26 (Host – Josh Silver) MTA President Max Page: The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court's decision to bar the proposed income tax cut ballot initiative from appearing on the November ballot. Rep Lindsay Sabadosa & Wildlife Conservationist Emma Howard Boutiette: Legislation to stop SGARS (Second-Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides) – highly potent rat and mouse poisons Rep Lindsay Sabadosa: Environmental Bond Bill – rewilded golf course in Williamsburg & Economic Development Bond Bill – Quantum Computing, digital revision Professor Austin Sarat: 50th Anniversary of reinstatement of the death penalty, where the death penalty stands now in the U.S. & the U.S. Iran Peace Deal Emily Boddy, Co-Founder of Reconnect Western Mass & the Founding Member of The Distraction Free Schools Policy Project: Northampton schools enacting a bell-to-bell cell phone policy Art Beat w/ Donnabelle Casis & Dean Brown, artist and owner of PULP Holyoke: Art exhibition feat Anna Helper, Sean Sullivan, & Roger Brouard now through July 12
Join Ellen & special guest science communicator, infectious disease researcher, and the Khaleesi of Mosquitos for a review of some of the animal kingdom's most controversial creatures. We discuss whether our guest would rather fight 10,000 mosquitos or a gorilla, evil squiggles and how malaria works, larval cannibalism and mosquito-on-mosquito crime, what the insectary is doing with all those soup cups and dental dams, and so much more. Links: Follow Cassandra on Instagram or YouTube! Learn more about the the Kaushansky Lab at Seattle Children's Hospital's Center for Global Infectious Disease Research! For more information about us & our podcast, head over to our website! Follow Just the Zoo of Us on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram & Discord! Follow Ellen on Instagram or BlueSky! Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joinjustthezoo
Sean Outram of Laikipia County, Kenya and his family run Sosian, a conservancy that runs a mixed wildlife and cattle model. Join he and Robbie as they spend time on the ground reviewing his high intensity grazing program, the conservancy itself, and what Sosian is all about as they drive around the property. Do you have questions we can answer? Send it via DM on IG or through email at info@theoriginsfoundation.org Support our Conservation Club Members! Maple Ranch: Leupold: https://www.leupold.com/ Lionheart: https://theoriginsfoundation.org/conservation-projects/lionheart/ See more from Blood Origins: https://bit.ly/BloodOrigins_Subscribe Music: Migration by Ian Post (Winter Solstice), licensed through artlist.io This podcast is brought to you by Bushnell, who believes in providing the highest quality, most reliable & affordable outdoor products on the market. Your performance is their passion. https://www.bushnell.com This podcast is also brought to you by Silencer Central, who believes in making buying a silencer simple and they handle the paperwork for you. Shop the largest silencer dealer in the world. Get started today! https://www.silencercentral.com Don't forget to go subscribe to our new The Origins Foundation Podcast Youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/@TheOriginsFoundationPodcast - who knows, you may be a lucky subscriber who wins some cool stuff from our partner companies! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Eric's Dedication:I dedicate this episode to my parents for being so supportive of my journey to becoming a Park Ranger.- EricEpisode Description:In Part 1 of our conversation with Interpretive Ranger Eric from Lake Livingston State Park, we take a deep dive into one of East Texas' most accessible outdoor destinations.Eric shares his journey into Texas Parks and Wildlife, what it means to be an interpretive ranger, and some of the unexpected responsibilities that come with helping visitors connect to the natural world. Along the way, we get to know the person behind the ranger badge and hear what makes Lake Livingston State Park such a special place to him.We also explore the history of the park, its connection to Lake Livingston, and the important role it plays for Texans looking to escape the city and experience the outdoors. From beginner-friendly hiking trails and hidden gems to scenic views, wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Eric offers a fantastic introduction to a park that deserves a spot on every Texas adventurer's list.Whether you're planning your first visit, looking for your next state park adventure, or simply love hearing the stories behind Texas' incredible public lands, this episode is a great place to start.Subscribe so you don't miss Part 2, where we continue our exploration of Lake Livingston State Park and uncover even more of what makes this East Texas treasure worth visiting.
Fans of L. M. Montgomery's The Blue Castle, will enjoy Andrea Ezerins' When the Forest Dreams, a contemporary retelling of the beloved romance that follows a sheltered young woman's quest for love in New York City—and her search for a rare and elusive bird in the deep Arkansas forest. What if the life you were meant to live was waiting just outside your door?New York City, 2013. Emma Jablonski's life is as dry as the day-old bread at her family's bakery. Living with her parents and grandmother, she clings to the only escape she knows: a recurring dream that feels more real than her waking world. But when Emma's eyes are open, she's reminded of what's out of reach—Jake, the enigmatic boy-next-door.After a life-changing diagnosis forces her to face her fears, Emma decides it's time to truly live—before it's too late. With Jake and his vibrant friend Vee, she dives into a whirlwind of experiences: a fake engagement, dazzling parties, and an obsession with the elusive ivory-billed woodpecker, a bird that may not even exist.But as her daring adventure is coming to an end, Emma begins to embrace a future she never thought possible. Dreams and reality aren't supposed to mix . . . are they?Read more about Andrea Ezerins.Check out my Goodreads review.Support the showConnect with me at...GoodReads: Hannah Buschert IG: @HannahgoesbirdingFacebook: @HannahandErikGoBirdingEmail us at HannahandErikGoBirding@gmail.comWebsite: http://www.gobirdingpodcast.comGet a discount at Buteo Books using code: BIRDNERDBOOKCLUB
Scientists warn that warming Pacific Ocean waters and marine heat waves fueled by El Niño could impact marine life, including sea lions, seabirds and sharks. For the latest on Tropical Rainstorm Arthur check here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Rocky Pipkin checks in with Philip Teresi with the latest on the mountain lion chase. According to Hanford police, they have received numerous calls about a mountain lion in the city and have contacted the California Department of Fish and Wildlife about the reports. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Ellen & special guest science communicator, infectious disease researcher, and the Khaleesi of Mosquitos for a review of some of the animal kingdom's most controversial creatures. We discuss whether our guest would rather fight 10,000 mosquitos or a gorilla, evil squiggles and how malaria works, larval cannibalism and mosquito-on-mosquito crime, what the insectary is doing with all those soup cups and dental dams, and so much more. Links: Follow Cassandra on Instagram or YouTube! Learn more about the the Kaushansky Lab at Seattle Children's Hospital's Center for Global Infectious Disease Research! For more information about us & our podcast, head over to our website! Follow Just the Zoo of Us on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram & Discord! Follow Ellen on Instagram or BlueSky! Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joinjustthezoo
Rocky Pipkin checks in with Philip Teresi with the latest on the mountain lion chase. According to Hanford police, they have received numerous calls about a mountain lion in the city and have contacted the California Department of Fish and Wildlife about the reports. Please Like, Comment and Follow 'Philip Teresi on KMJ' on all platforms: --- Philip Teresi on KMJ is available on the KMJNOW app, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever else you listen to podcasts. -- Philip Teresi on KMJ Weekdays 2-6 PM Pacific on News/Talk 580 AM & 105.9 FM KMJ | Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | Podcast | Amazon | - Everything KMJ KMJNOW App | Podcasts | Facebook | X | Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lionel Messi reminds the world why he's considered the greatest of all time, Caitlin Clark's long-awaited signature Nike shoe is finally revealed, and Texas Tech's Brendan Sorsby saga takes another dramatic turn. Keith Murphy and Andy Fales cover the biggest stories in sports, plus Andy checks in live from Lac Seul Evergreen Lodge in Northwestern Ontario. ⚽ Messi & World Cup Mania • Messi scores a hat trick in Argentina's opener • Why the World Cup is bigger than ever in America • Kansas City's massive debut on the world stage • How soccer continues to grow in the United States
Southeast Kentucky is home to some of the state's most scenic and productive fisheries, and on this week's episode we're joined by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Fisheries Biologist Marcy Anderson to talk about what anglers and outdoor enthusiasts can expect this summer. Marcy highlights several outstanding destinations for boating, kayaking, fishing, and outdoor recreation across the Southeast Region, including rivers and streams that support healthy populations of walleye, brown trout, and striped bass. Whether you're looking for your next fishing trip or simply want to explore some beautiful Kentucky waters, you'll find plenty of ideas in this episode. We also discuss the recent discovery of Alabama Bass in Lake Linville. Marcy explains why this invasive species is a concern for Kentucky's native fish populations, how it can impact fisheries management, and what Kentucky Fish and Wildlife is doing in response.
The term Extension is often used when discussing the mission of Land Grant Institutions, but we rarely take time to explain what Extension means. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss what it means to be a Land Grant Institution, their approach to reaching a wide array of stakeholders, and their views of what success in Extension looks like. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html Watch the podcast on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@KSEWildlife
"We are in an abusive relationship with nature and we all know what abusive relationships look like. They are when one part always takes, takes, takes and never gives anything back. That is the relationship we have with nature right now and that will not end well - for us - so it has to change."In the latest episode of Rewilding the World Ben Goldsmith is joined by Tim Christophersen, the former UN Environment leader who pioneered the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Now the Vice President of Climate Action at Salesforce, Tim recently wrote Generation Restoration: How to Fix Our Relationship Crisis with Mother Nature, a roadmap for repairing the planet within a single generation.This episode's release coincides with Desertification and Drought Day. Marked every year on 17 June it is the United Nations' global moment to raise awareness of land degradation and drought and to mobilise action to protect and restore healthy land.Ben Goldsmith is a British financier and rewilding enthusiast. Join him as he speaks to people from all over the world who champion nature and are helping to restore habitats and wildlife to some of the most nature depleted parts of our planet.This podcast is produced by The Podcast Coach.Text Rewilding the World here. Let us know what you think of the podcast and if there are any rewilding projects you would love Ben to feature in future episodes. We'd love to know what you think of the podcast. Do you have suggestions for guests, stories or topics you'd like to hear more about? To help us develop the show please consider taking a couple of minutes to complete our listener survey. Thank you.
Host Trey Reid welcomes Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Deputy Director Brad Carner back for a third straight episode on regulation updates, focusing on Arkansas waterfowl. They review that duck season dates remain largely the same, with only a minor change around the Christmas split, still opening the Saturday before Thanksgiving and closing January 31 under federal frameworks. Key changes include expanding non-motorized access areas on select WMAs/GTRs to reduce disturbance and improve hunting success, and implementing permit hunts in limited units such as Buckingham Flats on Bayou Meto, parts of Ed Gordon Point Remove, Prairie Bayou, and the Wiville unit at Black Swamp. A proposal to raise certain surface-drive horsepower limits was tabled after public opposition. They also discuss a robust public input survey (30,000+ participants and 70,000+ comments) and a new restriction barring nonresidents from hunting Dave Donaldson Black River WMA during the first nine days of duck season, based on hunter and anonymous cell data.
Eight-hundred acres of western Montana habitat is now protected from future development. A new conservation easement helps anchor a safe passage for wildlife to move between valleys.
On this day, 17 June 1971, construction workers in New South Wales initiated a "green ban", refusing to build luxury houses over Kelly's Bush, the last open space in a suburb. Local women had been campaigning to save the park, and eventually they approached construction workers and their union, the Builders Labourers Federation (BLF). The workers agreed to boycott the work, in a move which became known as a "green ban". Despite a management threat to use scab replacement workers, the builders and residents won, and Kelly's Bush remains an open public reserve today. A wave of green bans subsequently began which stopped billions of dollars of harmful development over the next four years. Wildlife and historic buildings were protected, as well as working-class and Aboriginal housing, and bans also took place in defence of women's and LGBT+ rights.We tell the inspiring story of the green bans in our podcast episodes 47-48: https://workingclasshistory.com/2020/10/30/e47-48-green-bans/Our work is only possible because of support from you, our listeners on patreon. If you appreciate our work, please join us and access exclusive content and benefits at patreon.com/workingclasshistory.See all of our anniversaries each day, alongside sources and maps on the On This Day section of our Stories app: stories.workingclasshistory.com/date/todayBrowse all Stories by Date here on the Date index: https://stories.workingclasshistory.com/dateCheck out our Map of historical Stories: https://map.workingclasshistory.comCheck out books, posters, clothing and more in our online store, here: https://shop.workingclasshistory.comIf you enjoy this podcast, make sure to check out our flagship longform podcast, Working Class History
Beau Martonik sits down with Allie D'Andrea (Outdoors Allie) and Nick Berger for the first time in four years. A big chunk of this one is wild game cooking. Allie ran a head-to-head venison burger experiment comparing pure venison, pork shoulder, bacon, butter, mayo, and egg. Pork shoulder at 80/20 won. Mayo was last. She also covers how to handle bear meat, how to render bear fat, where to source fat at the grocery store, and what to do with the turkey that's been sitting in your freezer since last fall. Beyond the cooking, they get into bear hunting in Pennsylvania and the weight that comes with it, the honest math on guide hunts vs. DIY, why Florida outdoorsmen are underrated, deer camp culture, and fall plans including a Wyoming elk tag. Allie is the author of The Butcher's Table cookbook, available on Amazon. Topics: 00:00:00 — Intro 00:04:21 — Long-term content creation: staying in this space 00:16:38 — Guide hunts vs. DIY: the honest math 00:20:51 — Why Florida hunters are underrated 00:28:59 — Wildlife encounters and bear hunting in PA 00:52:46 — Deer camp culture 00:58:28 — Bear meat: how to grind, render, and cook it 01:06:04 — Venison burger fat experiment 01:14:57 — Freezer turkey and wild game cooking tips 01:35:24 — Hawaii axis deer, scalloping in Florida, and Wyoming elk Instagram: @eastmeetswesthunt @beau.martonik Facebook: East Meets West Outdoors Shop Hunting Gear and Apparel: https://www.eastmeetswesthunt.com/ YouTube: Beau Martonik - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQJon93sYfu9HUMKpCMps3w Partner Discounts and Affiliate Links: https://www.eastmeetswesthunt.com/partners Poncho Outdoors - Poncho Outdoors makes tough, sharp-looking, no-BS apparel for hardworking outdoorsmen who put in the time year-round. Go to ponchooutdoors.com/EASTMEETSWEST to save $10 and free shipping Amazon Influencer Page https://www.amazon.com/shop/beau.martonik Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Fins, Fur and Feathers: Working in Extension Row Crops Damaged by Weather Monitoring New World Screwworm for Dairy Producers 00:01:05 – Fins, Fur and Feathers: Working in Extension: Beginning the show is Joe Gerken and Drew Ricketts from K-State with part of their Fins, Fur and Feathers podcast episode where they discuss their involvement in Extension and what Extension provides for Kansans. Fins, Fur and Feathers wildlife.k-state.edu 00:12:05 – Row Crops Damaged by Weather: Tina Sullivan and Logan Simon, K-State Extension agronomists, continue today's show as they talk about the recent weather damage to wheat, corn and soybeans. Considerations for Storm-Damaged Wheat Assessing Storm Damage in Corn: Defoliation, Root Lodging and Green Snap 00:23:05 – Monitoring New World Screwworm for Dairy Producers: K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk ends the show as he provides an update on the New World screwworm and how dairy producers can better protect livestock through continual monitoring and evaluation. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu. Agriculture Today is a daily program featuring Kansas State University agricultural specialists and other experts examining ag issues facing Kansas and the nation. It is hosted by Shelby Varner and distributed to radio stations throughout Kansas and as a daily podcast. K‑State Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. For more information, visit Extension.ksu.edu. K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Few wildlife threats are as horrifying—or as potentially devastating—as the New World screwworm. Today on Dark Outdoors, we're taking a deep dive into a parasite that eats living flesh—and it's no longer a problem confined to the history books. The New World screwworm is in Texas, it is spreading, and wildlife professionals, ranchers, hunters, and animal health experts are sounding the alarm. Joining me is legendary wildlife biologist Larry Wyzun, known throughout the hunting and conservation world as "Mr. Whitetail." Larry is one of America's most respected deer experts and one of the foremost authorities on whitetail deer biology in the world. What makes Larry's perspective especially important is that he witnessed the original screwworm crisis firsthand. Early in his career, he saw the devastating effects this flesh-eating parasite had on wildlife and livestock before America achieved one of the greatest animal health victories in history by eradicating it from the United States. Now, decades later, screwworm has returned as a growing threat. As it spreads, concerns are mounting about the impact on whitetail deer, endangered species, livestock, pets, and rural communities. The consequences could reach far beyond individual animals, affecting wildlife management, conservation efforts, agriculture, and hunting traditions across America. Many experts view the New World screwworm as the most significant wildlife health threat our nation has faced in the last half-century. Unlike many diseases that weaken animals over time, screwworm larvae consume living tissue, creating horrific wounds that can ultimately lead to death if left untreated. In this episode, "Mr. Whitetail" Larry Weishuhn, a globally renown wildlife biologist shares firsthand memories from the battle against screwworm decades ago, explains why this parasite is so dangerous, and offers his expert insight into what its spread means for the future of America's wildlife. This is Dark Outdoors. I'm Chester Moore, and today we're examining what may be the greatest threat to American wildlife in 50 years—the return of the New World screwworm.
Texas wildlife is facing more pressure than ever—from disease outbreaks to changing land ownership and management challenges across the state. In this episode of Landowner Insider, Kasey Mock sits down with veteran wildlife biologist Macy Ledbetter to break down the biggest challenges impacting Texas landowners, hunters, and wildlife managers right now. While New World Screwworm has recently been confirmed in Texas, this conversation goes much deeper—covering the broader landscape of wildlife health, disease, and land management across the state. You'll hear: - What the recent screwworm case means in the bigger picture - Why fawning season adds additional pressure to wildlife populations - The latest on Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Texas - What landowners need to know about EHD and anthrax - How wildlife diseases are impacting deer, livestock, and native species - The effects of habitat fragmentation and changing land ownership - The future of high-fence ranching and exotic game management With more than 30 years of experience, Macy shares practical insights from working with hundreds of Texas ranches and landowners. This episode offers a clear, grounded perspective on the challenges shaping the future of Texas wildlife and land stewardship. If you own land, manage wildlife, hunt, or ranch in Texas, this is a conversation worth paying attention to. Follow Landowner Insider for more conversations about Texas land, wildlife, water, and the future of the state.
Could Oregon become the first state to effectively ban hunting, fishing, and trapping?In this episode of Before the Echo, I break down Oregon Initiative Petition 28 (IP28), also known as the PEACE Act. Supporters say the proposal is about expanding animal protections, while opponents argue it would remove legal exemptions that currently protect hunting, fishing, trapping, farming, livestock production, and other activities under Oregon's animal cruelty statutes.We discuss:• What IP28 actually says• Why hunters across America are paying attention• The 120,000+ signatures submitted to qualify for the ballot• Potential impacts on conservation funding• Wildlife management concerns• Why this debate extends far beyond Oregon• What hunters can do to get involvedWhether you support or oppose the proposal, I encourage everyone to read the initiative for yourself and understand both sides of the issue.
This week on The Great Outdoors with Charlie Potter, Charlie explores how agricultural innovation is helping improve water quality in the Everglades, a key conservation success story. He also discusses the U.S. Department of the Interior’s decision to open millions of acres of public lands to hunting and fishing, expanding access and opportunities for sportsmen and women […]
The Green Rush is over and we are dealing with the consequences. Abandoned cannabis farms speckle the landscape. And on these abandoned farms are a variety of environmental harms that need remediation: improperly graded roads and undersized culverts send sediment into salmon-bearing streams; piles of garbage rotting in the wildlands; pesticides, fertilizers and petroleum improperly stored and at risk of failing; and poorly-constructed ponds at risk of sudden collapse. That's where Scott Bauer, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's Cannabis Remediation Manager steps in. Working together with nonprofits, local governments, and cannabis farmers, Scott works to coordinate clean up of abandoned sites. Scott joins the program to discuss the historic and ongoing impacts from cannabis production and what is being done to address them. And you are helping too: each time you buy cannabis products from a legal California market, a portion of your taxes go to environmental programs. Support the show
As new settlers clear their forest habitat, the apes are coming into conflict with humans. But simply moving them to another part of the forest may not be the answer By Sally Williams. Read by Saskia Reeves. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod
We add another string to our bow by learning about the fiddler crab. We discuss the arc of history bending towards crab, the MogBot 2000, bad dating advice, non-orientable wormholes, and so much more. Works Cited: “The Design of a Beautiful Weapon” - John Christy, Smithsonian Museum of Natural History “On the Other Hand: The Myth of Fiddler Crab Claw Reversal” - Judith S. Weis, BioScience, April 2019 “Sexual selection for structure building by courting male fiddler crabs: an experimental study of behavioral mechanisms” - John H. Christy et al., Behavioral Ecology, May 2002 “Synchronous waving in fiddler crabs: a review” - Patricia Ruth Yvonne Backwell, Current Zoology, July 2018 “Robotic crabs reveal that female fiddler crabs are sensitive to changes in male display rate” - Sophie L. Mowles et al., Biology Letters, January 2018 “Not what it looks like: mate-searching behaviour, mate preferences and clutch production in wandering and territory-holding female fiddler crabs” - M. Peso et al., R. Soc Open Sci.. August 2016 “Dishonest signalling of fighting ability and multiple performance traits in the fiddler crab Uca mjoebergi” - Simon P. Lailvaux et al., Functional Ecology, March 2009 “The effects of neighbor familiarity and size on cooperative defense of fiddler crab territories” - Isobel Booksmythe et al., Behavioral ecology, November 2011 “Beyond Abiotic Decay: Fiddler Crabs Accelerate Plastic Fragmentation in Pollution Hotspots” - Jose M. Riascos et al., Global Change Biology, December 2025 Links: For more information about us & our podcast, head over to our website! Follow Just the Zoo of Us on BlueSky, Facebook, Instagram & Discord! Follow Ellen on Instagram or BlueSky! Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joinjustthezoo
This week, the FBI served a search warrant at the GKN Aerospace plant in Orange County. That's the facility where a near-explosion triggered an evacuation of more than 50-thousand residents last month. Reporter: Molly Peterson, CalMatters The California Department of Fish & Wildlife is celebrating the survival of five rehabilitated bear cubs. CDFW says the orphaned black bears were released last November and have successfully hibernated through the winter and returned healthy and active. Reporter: Chris Felts, CapRadio The U-S Men's Soccer Team takes the field Friday evening at SoFi Stadium for their opening World Cup match. They'll be taking on Paraguay. It's the first time the U-S has hosted the global event since 1994. Cobi Jones was a midfielder for that 1994 team, before starring with Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy. Jones spoke with my California Report colleague Keith Mizuguchi about his experiences in 1994. Reporter: Keith Mizuguchi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Send us Fan MailIn this thought-provoking Floc It Friday episode, Rudy Stankowitz takes a step away from chemistry myths, manufacturer sound-offs, and social media debates to explore a topic that has generated considerable discussion in both the pool industry and online communities: natural swimming pools. Drawing from four peer-reviewed scientific studies provided by Professor Charles Gerba, Rudy examines what the current scientific literature actually says about biological water treatment systems, pathogen control, microbial communities, and public health.Before diving into the science, Rudy also shares a personal message recognizing National PTSD Awareness Month, discussing the unseen challenges many industry professionals carry and reminding listeners that they are never alone in their struggles. In This Episode Why natural swimming pools represent a fundamentally different philosophy from traditional disinfected pools The role of biological treatment systems, regeneration zones, gravel beds, and microbial communities A review of a documented 2001 German outbreak involving more than 200 illnesses associated with a public nature-like swimming pond What researchers discovered about swimmer exposure, water ingestion, and viral transmission The findings of a Canadian risk assessment examining pathogen behavior in natural swimming ponds How filtration rates, turnover times, and treatment efficiency influence health outcomes The potential role of UV disinfection and why questions remain about its interaction with biological ecosystems Research from Spain examining microbial populations and fecal contamination in natural swimming pools Wildlife as a potential source of contamination in recreational waters The importance of biofilms and the complex microbial communities that inhabit them Why cyanobacteria, algae, and aquatic microbiology continue to raise important scientific questions The challenges of identifying microbial populations without site-specific testing What a 2024 One Health review reveals about algae, cyanobacteria, recreational water quality, and public health The difference between visible water quality and the unseen biological processes occurring beneath the surface Why scientific uncertainty is not a weakness, but a critical part of the scientific process Key TakeawayThe current scientific literature does not conclude that natural swimming pools are inherently unsafe, nor does it suggest that all questions surrounding their operation have been answered. Instead, the research consistently points toward the need for continued study, monitoring, challenge testing, and a deeper understanding of the biological communities responsible for water treatment. As Rudy emphasizes throughout the episode, science advances not by defending positions, but by asking better questions. Topics Discussed Natural swimming pools Biological water treatment Recreational water health risks Pathogen control Biofilms Cyanobacteria Algae ecology Public health Water quality monitoring Environmental microbiology Charles Gerba Risk assessment One Health research Mentioned During the Episode Professor Charles Gerba Canadian Natural Swimming Pool Risk Assessment German Nature-Like Swimming Pond Outbreak Investigation Spanish Natural Swimming Pool Microbial Study 2024 One Health Review on Algae and Recreational Waters National PTSD Awareness Month SponsorsThe 2026 Talking Pools Podcast Pool Industry Mentor Award is proudly supported by: BlueRay XL LaMotte Company Revved Up Apparel Aqua Comfort Water Group Research on Natural Pools https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QpahWoVh3DDoNPwdw3oFsnbmUEj_umrS/view?usp=sharingConnect With Talking Pools
Few people have shaped environmental policy and conservation efforts in Acadiana as persistently as Harold Schoeffler. Known to many as part of the family behind Schoeffler Cadillac, Harold’s legacy extends far beyond the automobile business. For more than six decades, he has been a tireless advocate for protecting Louisiana’s natural resources, improving public policy, mentoring young people through Scouting, and encouraging citizens to become active stewards of their communities. In this wide-ranging conversation, Harold reflects on a lifetime of work that has touched everything from oil recycling and waste reduction to flood control, wildlife preservation, and public access to Louisiana’s waterways. “The Gifts of the Earth Are Public Gifts” Harold’s philosophy is rooted in a simple belief: “We have private gifts, our health and our intelligence, that we will be held accountable for. But the gifts of the earth are public gifts, and we’ll be just as accountable for that.” That conviction has guided his work for decades. Rather than simply criticizing problems, Harold has focused on finding practical solutions. One of his earliest environmental victories came in the 1970s, when he discovered that used motor oil from most Lafayette service stations was being dumped into storm drains that ultimately emptied into local waterways. At the time, 52 of Lafayette’s 54 filling stations were disposing of waste oil this way. Harold located a New Orleans recycling company willing to install storage tanks at no cost and purchase the used oil from station owners. After identifying a city fire code violation related to dumping petroleum products into storm drains, he worked with local officials to implement a citywide solution. The result? According to Harold, Lafayette became the first community in Louisiana to fully recycle used motor oil, selling it at 50 cents per gallon. “This was just money from heaven, you know.” Transforming Waste into Resources Harold’s efforts extended beyond oil recycling. He became deeply involved in helping Lafayette address mounting waste disposal challenges, particularly yard waste and sewage sludge. At a time when yard waste occupied enormous amounts of landfill space, Harold helped promote the use of tub grinders that could reduce volume by approximately 90 percent. The resulting mulch and compost products created value instead of waste. Similarly, he worked on legislation and policy changes that allowed treated sewage sludge to be safely recycled for agricultural use rather than being hauled to landfills at significant public expense. These initiatives not only reduced environmental impacts but also saved taxpayers money and created new economic opportunities. Today, Harold notes that many residents have little idea how much waste is already being recycled through these systems. Saving the Louisiana Black Bear Perhaps Harold’s most touching conservation achievement is his role in protecting the Louisiana Black Bear. In 1987, he petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to place the Louisiana Black Bear on the endangered species list. After years of advocacy and litigation, the bear was officially listed as threatened in 1992. His efforts later contributed to the protection of more than one million acres of critical habitat for the species. Harold explains that at the time he began his quest to protect the species, there may have been fewer than 300 to 400 Louisiana Black Bears remaining; yet Louisiana was continung to grant 165,000 big game hunting tags yearly before his efforts to save the black bear. His concern was never opposition to hunting itself. As an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and fisherman, he viewed conservation as ensuring that wildlife populations remain healthy enough for future generations. As he notes in our conversation, preservation of the species, not opposition to sportsmen, was always the goal. (Note: Due to recovery, the Louisiana Black Bear was officially removed from the List of Endangered and Threatened Species on March 11, 2016; however, it remains protected under Louisiana state law, and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries continues to actively manage this subspecies.) The Atchafalaya Basin and Public Access Another major chapter in Harold’s work involves the Atchafalaya Basin. Over the years he has fought against practices he believed threatened the basin’s ecological health and public accessibility, including shell dredging operations and legal disputes involving public waterways. He recounts the landmark Larry Daigle case, in which a commercial fisherman faced criminal trespassing charges while fishing in waters Harold believed were public. The case ultimately became a significant legal battle involving questions of public access, navigable waterways, and property rights within the basin. Harold views the outcome as a victory not only for one fisherman but for the public’s rights throughout Louisiana’s waterways. His extensive firsthand knowledge of Louisiana’s waterways comes from decades spent hunting, fishing, scouting, and paddling through some of the state’s most remote landscapes. A Lifetime in Scouting Ask Harold what accomplishment makes him most proud, and his answer isn’t environmental litigation. It’s Scouting. For 42 years Harold was involved in the Scouts and helped guide 125 young men to the rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout our conversation, he repeatedly returns to the importance of believing in young people. “If you think they can, they can. If you think they can’t, you can’t. And that’s a lesson for parents. You know, if you’re going to have a negative attitude towards your kids, you’re going to get negative results. But if you think they can, you know, they can sense that also.” Harold shares lessons learned from serving on a military school board, where early special education programs demonstrated how expectations can profoundly affect a child’s success. Those same lessons shaped his approach to mentoring Scouts, many of whom achieved far more than others expected of them. His philosophy also extended to environmental stewardship. He often taught Scouts that if boys are taught not to litter before the age ten, they are unlikely to become litterers later in life. Changing behavior early, he argues, is one of the most effective ways to improve communities. The Power of Citizen Involvement One recurring theme throughout this conversation is Harold’s belief that ordinary citizens can solve extraordinary problems. Whether discussing flood control, environmental policy, waste management, or economic development, Harold consistently points to the value of public participation. He shares stories of public meetings where solutions emerged not from experts or consultants but from local residents willing to speak up and share ideas. For Harold, conservation has never been about politics. It’s about facts, integrity, and doing what is right for the long-term health of the community. “If they catch you in a lie one time, you’re dead.” Integrity, he says, must remain at the center of every public effort. Looking Ahead At a time when environmental issues often become politically polarized, Harold offers a refreshingly practical perspective. His message is simple: “If you pick up one piece of litter a day and all the people in town do it, you’d have no litter.” The lesson applies far beyond trash. Positive change often begins with small actions, sustained over time by people willing to care. Harold Schoeffler’s life demonstrates what can happen when one citizen decides that stewardship is not someone else’s responsibility. It’s ours. Topics Discussed Growing up in Lafayette and the Schoeffler family business Boy Scouts and mentoring 125 Eagle Scouts Recycling used motor oil in Lafayette during the 1970s Protecting the Vermilion River and local waterways Yard waste recycling and composting programs Sewage sludge recycling initiatives Flood control and watershed management The Atchafalaya Basin and public access rights The Larry Daigle case Shell dredging litigation The Louisiana Black Bear and endangered species protection Public engagement and environmental stewardship Why integrity matters in public advocacy
Send us Fan MailThis week on the Talking Pools Podcast, Wayne Ivusich and Steve Sherwood take listeners on a journey through some of the strangest, funniest, and most unforgettable experiences pool professionals encounter in the field. What begins as a discussion about a pool overrun with frogs quickly evolves into a collection of stories that highlight the reality of working around water every day. Wayne and Steve invite listeners to share the weirdest things they have ever discovered in skimmer baskets and pool systems, leading to stories involving snakes, squirrels, possums, underwear, rodents nesting beneath winter covers, and even a horse that found its way through a safety cover and into a swimming pool. The conversation is both humorous and educational, reminding listeners that no two days in the pool industry are ever the same. The episode then shifts to a more serious discussion about water clarity and swimmer safety. Wayne recounts a tragic real-world drowning incident in a cloudy public pool, emphasizing why clear water is not simply an aesthetic goal but a critical life-safety requirement. The hosts discuss why operators should never compromise visibility standards and why maintaining proper filtration and water chemistry remains one of the most important responsibilities in aquatic operations. Steve also addresses the growing trend of misleading social media pool "miracle fixes" and viral videos that promise instant water recovery through tablets or additives. The hosts explain why proper pool chemistry does not work that way and encourage listeners to be skeptical of products that appear too good to be true. In this week's insurance segment, Steve is joined by Pat from California Pool Association Insurance Services to continue their discussion about a unique consulting project involving pools at a doggy daycare facility. The conversation explores liability concerns, insurance requirements, hold-harmless agreements, commercial pool responsibilities, and the challenges of maintaining aquatic facilities that are operated by people whose primary focus is animal care rather than water management. The discussion provides valuable insight for service companies considering unusual or high-liability clients. The second half of the episode dives deep into robotic pool cleaners, filtration systems, and service efficiency. Steve explains why robotic cleaners have become essential tools for modern pool professionals, discusses the pros and cons of suction-side, pressure-side, corded, and cordless cleaners, and shares how automation can dramatically improve service quality while reducing labor hours. The hosts also discuss customer expectations, communication, and the importance of establishing clear responsibilities between pool professionals and facility operators. Finally, Wayne and Steve discuss professional education, the value of Certified Pool Operator (CPO) training, and opportunities for experienced professionals to become CPO instructors themselves. The conversation highlights how education improves safety, builds confidence, creates additional revenue opportunities, and helps elevate professionalism throughout the industry. Topics Covered Weirdest things ever found in skimmer baskets Wildlife encounters in swimming pools Pool safety and water clarity Real-world drowning prevention lessons Social media pool chemistry myths Doggy daycare pool liability concerns Insurance and hold-harmless agreements Commercial pool management challenges Robotic pool cleaners and automation Sand filters vs. cartridge filters Customer expectations and communication CPO certification and instructor training Building a stronger pool service business Connect With Talking Pools
Today, Colorado Sun rural reporter Tracy Ross continues to track news from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, including a rancher who says an employee killed a wolf as well as the governor’s latest appointments to the CPW commission. https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/04/ranch-owner-says-employee-killed-king-mountain-wolf/ https://coloradosun.com/2026/06/10/colorado-parks-and-wildlife-new-commissioners-jared-polis/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spring migration is a great time to visit the Rio Grande Valley. Warblers, vireos, orioles, and more move through the Gulf Coast on their way to breeding habitats further north. The Spring Chirp birding festival is the perfect opportunity to see migrating birds, eat good food, and enjoy the Rio Grande Valley.Adventure begins at: 6:55 Show notes Naturalist Journeys Go Birding with Hannah and Erik Tufted Puffin Walks Rio Grande Valley Bird FestivalBirding The Border Spring ChirpNana's Taqueria Valley Nature CentereBird Trip Report Birds/Animals mentioned Prothonotary Warbler Swallow-tailed Kite Intro Bird Call: Cactus Wren (Recorded Cameron, TX, April 2026) Outro Bird Call: Great Kiskadee (Recorded Hidalgo, TX, April 2026) Support the showConnect with us at...IG: @Hannahgoesbirding and @ErikgoesbirdingFacebook: @HannahandErikGoBirdingEmail us at HannahandErikGoBirding@gmail.comWebsite: http://www.gobirdingpodcast.comVenmo: @hannahanderikgobirdingGet a discount at Buteo Books using code: BIRDNERDBOOKCLUB
Many warbler songs are easier to remember when tied to phrases. Dr. D.J. McNeil, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, will show us how these little memory tricks can help you pick out warbler songs more easily and start recognizing them on your own with a new edition of Wings of Kentucky. Also on tap: Rooting Out the Myths: Is Clear-cutting Always Bad for Wildlife? Clear-cutting often gets a bad reputation—and in some cases, concerns are valid. Seeing a stand of trees removed can feel alarming. However, the idea that clear-cutting is always harmful to wildlife is a myth. Like many forestry practices, its impact depends on how, where, and why it's used. Join Dr. Matt Springer, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension as he lets us know how clear-cutting could be helpful for some wildlife. 5.27.26 For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today
Many of the forces driving species to extinction—habitat destruction, pollution, climate change—also fuel the spread of disease. Plants and animals around the globe are facing their own little pandemics, from cancer to fungal diseases. But what if we could treat them with cutting-edge medicines? Is there something drug developers could do to help? Chemist Tim Cernak thinks so. He has been developing drugs for people for 20 years, but his patient roster has started to include sea turtles, frogs, and giant reptiles. He talks with Flora about why he's making drugs for wildlife and why more chemists should join in. Guest: Dr. Tim Cernak is an associate professor of medicinal chemistry at the University of Michigan. Other episodes you may enjoy: Raising A New Generation Of Bat Conservationists In West Africa How Conservation Efforts Brought Rare Birds Back From The Brink Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Follow our show on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Bluesky @scifri and sign up for our newsletters. Got a science question that's keeping you up at night? Call us: 877-472-4374 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Jeremy writes ""My first encounter happened along a creek in south-central Kentucky. I wasn't a typical teenager. I didn't spend much time running around with friends. My passion was hunting, tracking, and being outdoors. After reading The Tracker by Tom Brown Jr., I was completely hooked on wilderness skills and wildlife. When I was around 13 years old, I often went down to the creek at night with a lantern and fished for catfish. I loved the solitude. It was peaceful, and every now and then I'd hook into a freshwater drum or a snapping turtle that would really test my gear. One night, I had been fishing for three or four hours. About 100 yards to my southwest was a road cut into the side of a mountain. To stabilize the hillside, large riprap rocks had been placed beneath the road. I've always had excellent hearing, and even at 13 I could identify just about every animal in those woods by sound alone. That night, something strange happened. As I sat there in the darkness with my lantern turned low, I heard something running barefoot along the road. Then I heard it grab the guardrail and vault over it. A moment later, rocks shifted and slid as it landed in the riprap below. Then the woods went silent. I could hear faint footsteps moving through the forest. Because I was down by the creek and the bank rose about ten feet above me, my lantern light probably wasn't visible from where the sounds were coming from. I kept fishing, convincing myself it was probably a deer crossing the road and that my imagination was filling in the blanks. Then things escalated. At first, small rocks started landing in the creek. Then larger ones some sounded as big as basketballs when they hit the water. I tried to ignore it and kept fishing, thinking maybe fish were jumping or something natural was causing the disturbance. About twenty minutes later, I caught a catfish. I turned up my lantern while I unhooked it, and that's when I noticed a pair of glowing eyes on the opposite bank. They were fixed directly on me. After I released the fish, the eyes remained motionless. Then, in one smooth movement, whatever it was turned its head and disappeared. For the next fifteen minutes, I heard vocalizations. They didn't sound aggressive. If anything, they seemed communicative almost as if the animal was trying to locate others or perhaps encourage me to leave the area. The closest comparison I can make is the sound of a barn owl. Oddly enough, I never felt threatened. Before leaving, I caught a decent-sized bluegill and placed it on the bank as an offering, just in case we ever crossed paths again. My second encounter occurred when I was 16. I've been bowhunting my entire life. I'm 47 now, and I still love it just as much as I did back then. This encounter took place in southeastern Kentucky in the vast wilderness of the Big South Fork region. The area is home to black bears, elk nowadays, and plenty of whitetail deer the reason I was there. I had hiked in along a muddy access trail maintained by Fish and Wildlife. The trail led to a place known as "The Helipad." I've always assumed the open field at the end of the road was used for helicopter rescues from the nearby ravines. Around the five-mile mark, the road split. My dad headed toward the fields near the helipad while I took the left fork to hunt deeper in the woods. It was early October. Some leaves had already fallen, giving excellent visibility from a tree stand. Once I climbed, I could see nearly 200 yards through the timber toward the fields below. I settled into a tree around 2:30 that afternoon. It was a popular climbing tree straight, sturdy, and easy to ascend quietly. At approximately 3:30, I noticed movement far down the ridge. At first, I couldn't make out what I was seeing. As it moved closer, I realized it was traveling in a way I'd only ever seen bobcats move. It would leap from the base of one tree to the next, minimizing noise with every step. I'd watched bobcats do this before while stalking. The difference was that this animal was upright. It stood roughly five to six feet tall and moved effortlessly. Its arms were unusually long, and whenever possible it traveled along fallen logs instead of the forest floor. Through my binoculars, I could see that it was black with reddish tips on the ends of its hair. It appeared young. Its coat looked clean, healthy, and almost glossy in the sunlight. There was a gracefulness to it a combination of strength and agility that's hard to describe. It would leap what looked like eight to ten feet at a time, landing at the base of a tree and grabbing the trunk with one hand. Despite its size, it made almost no sound. I watched it approach until it was about 75 yards away. Then it noticed me. To this day, I don't know how. Maybe it saw me. Maybe it sensed me. It immediately jumped behind a tree and began peeking around the far side, studying me as much as I was studying it. For what felt like an hour but was probably only fifteen minutes we observed one another. Finally, it turned and quietly retreated the way it had come, moving through the woods with the same incredible stealth. The moment it disappeared from sight, I climbed down and left the area as quickly as possible. My reasoning was simple: if there were juveniles in the area, there were probably adults as well. I hold a degree in biology with a specialization in fish and wildlife habitat, and I have spent a lifetime in the outdoors. Whatever I witnessed that day remains one of the most unusual experiences of my life. If anyone has studied similar reports or encountered anything comparable, I would be very interested in discussing what I saw."