The All Creatures Podcast

In this episode, we delve into the unique and incredible world of the Baikal seal, the only exclusively freshwater seal in the world. We explore the seal's remarkable physiology, adaptations, and its exclusive habitat in Lake Baikal, Siberia. Our discussion covers the seal's evolutionary history, behavior, diet, and conservation status, along with highlighting the importance of freshwater conservation. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Baikal Seal 00:45 Unique Features of the Baikal Seal 02:51 Conservation and Listener Shoutouts 04:33 Physical Description and Adaptations 10:01 Lake Baikal: The Seal's Unique Habitat 17:50 Freshwater Conservation Challenges 24:08 Seal Classification and Related Species 27:45 Exploring Seal Population Dynamics 28:12 Evolutionary Journey of Seals 29:09 Theories on Baikal Seal Migration 34:01 Adaptations of Baikal Seals 36:05 Diving and Hunting Techniques 42:35 Seasonal Movements and Behavior 47:55 Reproduction and Pups 54:03 Conservation Challenges and Efforts 01:00:00 F

Angie talks with Dr. Arik Kershenbaum, a renowned zoologist and lecturer at the University of Cambridge, about the fascinating topic of animal communication. They explore the insights from his new book, 'Why Animals Talk: The New Science of Animal Communication,' discussing why and how animals communicate, the complexity of their signals, and whether animals have language. Dr. Kirschenbaum shares his field experiences, his inspirations, and the importance of understanding animal communication for conservation efforts. They also touch upon Dr. Kirschenbaum's previous book, 'The Zoologist's Guide to the Galaxy,' which applies principles of evolution to theorize about life on other planets. The episode offers an engaging blend of scientific knowledge and storytelling.  You can learn more about Why Animals Talk HERE You can learn more about Dr. Kershenbaum HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to Animal Communication 00:11 Meet Dr. Arik Kirschenbaum 01:02 Diving into 'Why Animals Talk' 01:44 The Journey to Bec

This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. This is the second of our 2 part series we did on Orcas. They were that incredible that we had to do them over 2 episodes. Enjoy!! ------------------------------------------------------------- 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 com

In this episode, Angie interviews Raissa Sepulveda, a PhD student from Brazil and a field technician for the nonprofit organization Panthera. They delve into Raissa's work on ocelot conservation in the Pantanal, the world's largest inland tropical wetland.  Raissa shares her experiences in the field, from capturing and collaring ocelots to studying their movements and habitats. The conversation also covers challenges such as human-wildlife conflict, climate change, and the importance of habitat preservation. Additionally, Raissa discusses her journey in wildlife conservation and the significance of women leading these efforts in typically male-dominated fields. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:58 What is an Ocelot? 04:16 Raissa's Background and Journey 07:08 Field Stories: Ocelots and Jaguars 16:04 Ocelot and Jaguar Conservation Status 18:19 Working with Panthera 19:28 A Day in the Life of a Field Technician 26:18 Research Findings and Conservation Implications 30:09 Understandi

This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. Back to the vault to one of the most incredible species we have covered in this podcast the orca! First release in 2019, it is worth a revisit. We will release Part II next Monday. By far this is one of the most incredible species we have covered to date. The Orca (Orcinus orca) is a favorite of many throughout the world, but just how amazing they are will astound you. This will be a 2-part podcast because these animals deserve it. There are so many amazing facts and incredible research, that even two podcasts do not do them justice. In Part I we cover the basics of Orca physiology, but even more incredibly, all the different ecotypes. Behavioral research is showing these animals have developed specific culture to their specific ecotype. In Part II we discuss this in more depth, but enjoy an introduction to a special animal, the Orca. --------------------------------

Chris and Angie dive back into the world of wildcats with a spotlight on the fascinating ocelot. They explore the multifaceted lives of these medium-sized spotted cats. From their incredible hunting skills and diverse diets to their sophisticated reproduction behaviors and impressive nocturnal vision, ocelots prove to be both adaptable and adept survivors. The conversation expands to cover the broader conservation efforts, highlighting the critical role of local communities and the indigenous populations in protecting the Amazon. With updates on groundbreaking conservation initiatives, artificial insemination successes, and a remarkable discussion on ocelot reintroductions, this episode underscores the intricate balance necessary to ensure the survival of these captivating creatures. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome and Catching Up 00:24 Exciting Projects and Interviews 01:30 Podcast Recognition and Achievements 02:25 Introduction to the Ocelot 05:46 Ocelot's Physical Description 10:19 Ocelot's Habitat and Rang

This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. Heading to the vault for Monday Throwback. Its the Tasmanian Devil!! We learned so much about these incredible marsupials. They have declined across their range due to a spreadable cancer! Fortunately, Australia and many others are fighting hard to conserve them. This was a fun species that we covered in 2018!! You can learn more 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 conserva

In this episode, Chris welcomes Peter Fong to discuss his conservation efforts in one of the most remote places on the planet, Mongolia and Lake Baikal. Peter shares his unique journey from fish biology to becoming a conservation guide, detailing his work with Mongolia River Outfitters and his 60-day expedition rowing to Lake Baikal for his book. The conversation highlights the importance of catch-and-release fishing, the impact of climate change on the region, and the conservation challenges faced by unique species like the taimen. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate the value of low-impact tourism and the significant role of local communities in conservation efforts. You can learn more about Peter Fong HERE You can learn more about Mongolia River Outfitters HERE 00:00 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast 00:31 Meet Peter Fong: A Journey to Mongolia 01:19 Peter's Unconventional Path to Conservation 03:31 Discovering Mongolia and the Taimen 06:02 Challenges and Conservation Efforts 08:34 The Importance of

How can we change the world? This is how... In a powerful episode of the All Creatures Podcast, Chris interviews Ali Horriyat, who abandoned his millionaire lifestyle to champion the Compassiviste movement, a blend of compassion and action. Ali narrates his shift from finance tycoon to homeless advocate, discussing his vision for societal interconnectedness and transformative action. The episode highlights the importance of education, the arts, and innovative tools like the Compassiviste Act App to drive sustainability and social equity. Ali also introduces the Compassion Convention, an event uniting people through film, music, and the arts to promote global solidarity. This episode emphasizes the urgent need for collective efforts to address environmental and social issues, inspiring listeners to take real-world actions. Learn more HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:44 Meet Ali: A Journey of Transformation 01:52 Ali Background and Early Life 03:51 The Turning Point: From Wealt

This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. First released in 2020, we are going back to this oldie, the Red Kangaroo! Was such a fun episode and we learned so much! **We also learned that Aussies do eat Kangaroo, so please excuse our American ignorance!!** But so much to love with this species. Red Kangaroo History The term ‘kangaroo’ comes from the Aboriginal word “gangarru”, from the Guugu Yimithirr language, which is spoken in far north Queensland. Kangaroos are marsupials, whose evolution dates back nearly 125 million years. Marsupials first arrived in Australia around 70 million years ago. Australian marsupials evolved in many ways to meet the challenges of drier habitats over the last 15 million years. Teeth, for example, reflect adaptive changes from browsing (on woody vegetation in moist climates) to grazing (on grasses in arid climates). Kangaroo ancestors were quadrupedal (walking on four legs most

This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In this episode Angie speaks with Dr. Zoleka Filander, a pioneering marine biologist and National Geographic Explorer. Dr. Philander shares her unique journey into ocean sciences, detailing her significant work such as documenting the Cape Canyon, co-producing the 'OceanXplorer' series with James Cameron, and authoring a children's book titled 'Where the Weird Things Are.' She discusses her path to becoming an influential figure in marine biology, overcoming challenges as a black woman in a predominantly white and male field, and her collaborations with iconic figures like James Cameron. The conversation also delves into her recent completion of a PhD in zoology, her thoughts on ocean health, and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of ocean explorers. Podcast Ti

This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. From one of our earliest interviews, here is the repeat of Dr. Kim Goetz and her work in tracking Blue Whales off New Zealand, as well as her other work. It is scientists like Dr. Geoetz who is helping us understand these oceanic creatures better! Dr Kim Goetz is a marine ecologist at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric research where she specializes on the movement and foraging behavior of marine mammals and seabirds. Dr Goetz is passionate about making the results from her scientific research accessible to both the public and policy makers so that conservation and management plans are data driven. She grew up in Colorado earning her bachelors degree with an interest in conservation. Her Master’s research from Duke University took her to the Arctic where she studied Beluga whales, among other species. Once she completed her PhD from the Univ

This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. Chris and Angie explore the amazing world of the starfish. From its unique physiology, such as its water vascular system and ability to regenerate limbs, to its various reproductive methods, this episode is packed with fascinating facts about this ancient and bizarre ocean invertebrate. They discuss the threats starfish face, including climate change and the devastating sea star wasting syndrome. They also highlight the importance of starfish as a keystone and indicator species in marine ecosystems. Listeners are encouraged to support conservation efforts and learn more about these intriguing creatures through their local aquariums. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast 00:31 Diving into Starfish Physiology 02:21 Starfish Species and Characteristics 12:35 The Importance of Starfish in Marine Ecosystems 15:53 Starfish Wasting Syndro

This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. We are releasing this oldie but goodie! Our interview with good friend Stephanie Arnie. Since this interview first aired a few years ago we have kept in touch and become good friends. Stephanie continues to work hard in wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability. We hope to have Stephanie on soon in an update to what she has been doing. But to follow up our African Penguin Episode we wanted to release this interview as a follow up. You can visit Stephanie's Home Page HERE Show notes 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

This episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CREATURES and get on your way to being your best self. For our Monday Flashback episode, we bring back the African Penguin. YOU can directly help by going to the African Penguin Nest Project and purchase an artificial nest to help them survive HERE For $50 USD you can buy your own nest for a pair of penguins. We have sent money in the past and will be sending more once this episode drops. The African Penguin is one of the best examples of how humans have driven many species to extinction, or as in the African Penguin to the brink. Isolated to the southern portion of the African continent. Multiple pressures such as over fishing off the African coast, humans destroying African Penguin guano nests and using it for fertilizer, climate change, ocean pollution and many other pressures all have led to a massive decrease in African Penguin populations. Today they are listed as Endangered by the IUCN with around 10,

In this episode, Angie interviews Jasmin Graham, a marine biologist specializing in the study of Smalltooth sawfish and Hammerhead sharks. Jasmin co-founded 'Minorities in Shark Sciences' (MISS), an organization supporting women of color in shark biology. The discussion covers Jasmine's background, her favorite shark species, and her efforts to debunk common myths about sharks. Jasmine shares her experiences as a Black female scientist in a white male-dominated field, the importance of diversity in scientific research, and highlights her organization's initiatives to foster inclusivity and collaboration in marine science. The episode also delves into her new book, 'Sharks Don't Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist,' and her participation in PBS Shark Week and National Geographic’s Shark Fest. You can learn more about Jasmin Graham and WWF HERE You can learn more about MISS HERE You can learn more about Jasmin's book Sharks Don't Sink HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Welcome to All Creatures Podcast 00:13 I

Another throwback episode to one of the world's most venomous creatures, the Blue-Ringed Octopus. This gorgeous creature inhabits the Indian and Southern Pacific Ocean. While it has some of the world's deadliest venom to humans, it is very shy and not aggressive. You can learn more about the Blue Ringed Octopus by vising our 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 conservat

In this episode, Chris and Angie dive deep into the fascinating world of clownfish, inspired by the iconic Disney Pixar films Finding Nemo and Finding Dory. They discuss the unique symbiotic relationship clownfish have with sea anemones, the species' reproductive behaviors, including the amazing fact of sequential hermaphroditism. Additionally, the hosts address the significant challenges clownfish face due to climate change and coral bleaching, emphasizing the importance of ocean conservation. The episode also highlights the efforts of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and encourages participation in Plastic Free July to help protect marine life. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:28 Fascinating Facts About Clownfish 01:32 Clownfish Reproduction and Behavior 03:03 Personal Experiences and Observations 04:22 Plastic Free July and Conservation Efforts 07:25 Global Plastic Pollution Crisis 08:28 Returning to Clownfish: Description and Habitat 12:45 Clownfish in Popular Culture and Conservati

Mondays are now our throwback episodes and in this one we revisit Angie's interview with Dr. Lisa Erdle. from the 5 Gyres Institute as we are kicking off our Plastic Free July Campaign. You can join us in our Plastic Free July Challenge HERE Thank you for caring so much and helping us spread the word! On Wednesday we will be releasing a new species, and the hint is "Fish are Friends, not Food!" Which movie? ------------------------------------------------------- As we kick off our Plastic Free July Challenge, this week we welcome Dr. Lisa Erdle from the 5 Gyres Instiute. Dr. Erdle is the Director of Science & Innovation at the 5 Gyres Institute. She is a microplastics researcher, lifelong sailor, and is passionate about keeping waterways clean for wildlife and people. Lisa completed her PhD at the University of Toronto, where her research focused on the sources, fate, and effects of microfibers in the environment. Currently, Lisa lives in California and is continuing research on microfibers and plastic p

In this episode, Angie engages with shark expert Dr. Mike Heithaus, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Florida International University. They discuss shark behavior, ecology, and conservation, aiming to dispel myths about these often misunderstood creatures. Dr. Heithaus shares his journey, from childhood fascination to professional marine ecologist, and recounts memorable shark encounters and groundbreaking research. They also explore the significance of sharks in marine ecosystems, the impact of human activities on shark populations, and practical advice for shark enthusiasts and aspiring marine biologists. Tune in to learn more about National Geographic's Sharkfest and how we can all contribute to ocean conservation. You can learn more about Dr. Heithaus HERE You can learn more about Nat Geo Sharkfest HERE Podcast Timelime 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:28 Meet Dr. Mike Heithaus 01:14 Mike's Early Fascination with Marine Life 03:00 Memorable Shark Encounters 05:26 Shark Behavior Insights 09: