Through stories and interviews, join Dr. Susan - shelter veterinarian and science educator - to explore how animals and humans interact and how nature and society intersect. From the vernal pools of Maine to the mountains of Ecuador, let’s dive in and make discoveries together.
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Shells, Spirals, and Survival: exploring mollusk shell diversity (01:33:55)
Join Dr. Susan in exploring beaches in Southwest Florida, searching for shells and discussing shell diversity with world-renowned scientist Dr. Geerat Vermeij. Dr. Vermeij has won numerous awards, published over 200 scientific articles in leading journals, and has written five books about mollusks, their shells, and more. Talking with Dr. Susan, he traces his lifelong fascination with mollusk shells, from childhood explorations to cutting edge research. He delves into 530+ million years of shell evolution and the drivers of how they look today. He and Dr. Susan both share a fascination with and appreciation for the aesthetic beauty and diversity of mollusk shells. In addition to the interview, we will go beach combing in Florida, talk about shelling with Dr. Susan’s daughter, and hear some excerpts from poetry and literature. Come discover the wonder of seashells!
Learn more:
Geerat Vermeij:
https://eps.ucdavis.edu/people/faculty/vermeij
The Shape of Life nature documentary – “Geerat Vermeij, evolutionary biologist – reading a shell”:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qC5medN9zZs
Privileged hands: a scientific life by Geerat Vermeij
https://books.google.com/books?id=lp7eUMPBjP0C&printsec=frontcover&dq=Geerat+vermeij&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&source=gb_mobile_search&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjRw5bd7veRAxUyLlkFHdl2AVcQ6AF6BAgJEAM#v=onepage&q=Geerat%20vermeij&f=false
The Evolution of Power, by Geerat Vermeij:
The Evolution of Power - Google Books
Nacreous layer - Scanning Electron Microscope images of shell structure:
Typical SEM images of (a) a golden pearl and the corresponding (b, c)... | Download Scientific Diagram
Older source, but interesting SEM photos of nacre:
Tech from Nature: Ceramics Mimic Mother-of-Pearl | Live Science
Jazz musician playing music on conch shells (as featured in the episode):
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=fkuq6prZHoA&list=RDfkuq6prZHoA&start_radio=1&pp=ygUTSmF6eiBvbiBjb25jaCBzamVsbKAHAQ%3D%3D
Tracks in the Snow: Changing winters and wildlife ecology (00:48:35)
Host Dr. Susan explores winter ecology, featuring an interview with Dr. Alex Sutton on defining winter, its ecological importance, and how climate change is altering winter patterns for wildlife.
The episode also includes readings from Bernd Heinrich and Thoreau, summaries of studies on snow cover, and snowy field explorations in Maine, tracking wildlife activity and pond life during winter. With Solstice just past, curl up in a cozy spot and explore the evolving winter ecosystem.
Nature Spies: photographers in the wild (00:44:30)
Get behind the lens and look at nature with a different perspective as Dr. Susan interviews three passionate nature and wildlife photographers. Each shares their different views on getting out in the wild with a camera – how they got interested, what motivates them, and favorite experiences. Enjoy the stories and perhaps even get inspired to get out there yourself.
Interviews and where to find the interviewees' photographs:
*Carl Walsh https://www.carlwalshphoto.com/ Instagram cwalsh63
*Tim Greenway https://timgreenway.com/ Instagram: tim_greenway17
*Darcy Baird www.facebook.com/mooseheadimages/
Instagram: @mooseheadimages
Coming soon- https://mooseheadimages.com/
*Learn more about responsible wildlife and nature photography here: https://nanpa.org/
North America’s History of Turkey Domestication (00:50:24)
Just in time to listen in on your drive to Grandma’s house for Turkey Day (or even to Friendsgiving for Tofurkey), join Dr. Susan to learn all about domestic turkeys. Dr. Erin Thornton (an Archaeologist from Washington State University) explains the surprising discoveries that archaeological bones and ancient DNA reveal about the domestic turkey. Dr. Susan also weaves in some interviews with friends and family about turkey at Thanksgiving dinner, and bridges the gap from ancient history to now with some stories gleaned from the book The Turkey- an American Story. Two research highlights, a poem, and some fun samples from modern media will round out the episode. It’s a great episode to enjoy over the Thanksgiving holiday or to share with friends and family.
Learn more- find lots of interesting information on the website for Dr. Erin Thornton: https://anthro.wsu.edu/faculty-and-staff/erin-thornton/
(Note – the episode cover image is not meant to be scientifically or culturally, accurate, but more to be a symbolic representation of the topic)
Turkey Talk: Wild Turkey Biology (01:02:07)
Host Dr. Susan explores wild turkeys, blending field observations with expert interviews to reveal their behavior, population trends, and close ties to the hunting community.
The episode features a conversation with a wild turkey biologist, a discussion with a female turkey hunter about her family tradition, and reflections on conservation challenges.
Note: the next episode (in two weeks) will be Part 2 on turkeys, about the domestication and cultural role of turkeys.
*Featured interview: Dr. Michael Chamberlain, known as the Wild Turkey Doc, from the University of Georgia; Dr. Chaberlain is a leading expert in wild turkey biology.
Find out more –
https://wildturkeylab.com/
Content note – this episode features descriptions of turkey hunting, and male turkeys fighting. It also includes a traditional country song with a very light swearword.
City Slickers: Squirrels and Urban Ecology (00:55:03)
Join Dr. Susan as she leaps among a few different branches of topics related to squirrels and their biology: urban ecology, squirrel behavior, even an interesting discussion about improving accessibility in field biology. Hear about how squirrels in cities differ from country squirrels, hear a tale about an incredible swimming squirrel, interview folks about their feelings about squirrels, and more. We share our parks, cities, and yards with these close neighbors. Jump into this topic, learn more, and think about - or even challenge - your own feelings about squirrels.
*Expert Interview - Charlotte Devitz, Urban ecology researcher at University of Minnesota
Learn more at this link: https://www.bellmuseum.umn.edu/grad-awards/2021-graduate-award-and-fellowship-recipients/charlotte-devitz/
The Intelligence of Ravens (00:48:37)
Dr. Susan explores the world of ravens and the humans that are fascinated by them— their acrobatic flight, intelligence, and close ties with humans. She interviews Dr. Thomas Bugnyar about raven social intelligence and communication.
The episode also highlights two of Dr. Bugnar’s studies, shares a personal raven sighting, and finishes with a full reading of Edgar Allan Poe’s "The Raven."
*Interview: Dr. Thomas Bugnyar, Professor in Dept. of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology at the University of Vienna
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, please spread the word about the Biologica podcast 🐦⬛
Biology and Perceptions of Bats (00:43:55)
As Halloween approaches here in the US, find out about cutting edge bat research in Germany. Discover just how bats manage to fly out of caves in the thousands without hitting each other. Also, challenge stereotypical perceptions of bats as scary or creepy.
*We interview Dr. Aya Goldschtein about bat echolocation, the importance of bats, and more
*We interview a couple friends about their feelings about bats.
Fly with us into this exploration of bat biology!🦇
*In thanks to Dr. Goldschtein for the interview, and in support of bat conservation, a bat was adopted at Bat Conservation International's website. Each bat has a biologically accurate and informative stuffed animal. Find out more or adopt your own bat here: https://shop.batcon.org/collections/adopt-a-bat
* Learn about Northeastern cave conservation from this website mentioned during the episode: https://www.necaveconservancy.org/preserves/
Saving Giants Part 2: Conservation of Pandas (00:46:13)
Join Dr. Susan and explore the biology and conservation of giant pandas through a visit to the National Zoo, interviews with a Smithsonian scientist, and more. The episode covers panda captive care, habitat protection efforts in China, and the unique role of pandas in international diplomacy, with expert insights from Dr. Melissa Songer, a conservation biologist who studies and helps conserve wild pandas. During part two of the special on the conservation of charismatic, large mammals, come spend some time with panda bears. *interview- Dr.Melissa Songer, conservation biologist at Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute * a donation was made as a symbolic adoption of a panda on the World Wildlife Fund page: https://gifts.worldwildlife.org/gift-center/gifts/Species-Adoptions
Saving Giants Part One: Conservation of Endangered Large Mammals (00:48:01)
Explore how conservation biologists are saving magnificent giants like elephants, Scimitar-Horned Oryx, and more. Join Dr. Susan in checking out some of these charismatic mammals at the National Zoo and for an interview with a world renowned conservation biologist who has fascinating stories to share. How do you re-introduce an extinct species? What kind of satellite collar do you put on an elephant? Find out more in this fascinating episode, part one in a two-part series on conservation biology.
*Interview: Dr. Melissa Songer, Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
*A donation was made to this organization by the Biologica Podcast in thanks to Dr. Songer
*Learn more here: https://nationalzoo.si.edu/conservation/about-scbi
*See photos from Dr. Songer of her work with elephants and oryx on the Patreon or Instagram pages for Biologica
*Next episode – Saving Giants Part Two: Conservation Biology of Pandas
*Please share, repost, send a telegram or carrier pigeon, leave a message in a bottle, or follow (if you enjoyed this episode), and thank you for helping keep the Biologica ball rolling. 🙏
*To see images by Dr. Songer from this episode, follow one of these links:
Biologica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biologica_podcast?igsh=MXRydjJ1Z3d2emVjZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Biologica on Patreon: patreon.com/Biologica
High-flying Hummingbirds: Evolution, Adaptations, and Altitude (00:54:18)
Explore with Dr. Susan how these avian marvels adapt to and live at high altitude in the mountains near the equator. Come hiking and soak up the sounds of the forest, with waterfalls and the calls of vibrant hummingbirds. Dr. Christopher Witt explains how these hummingbirds adapt to high-altitude environments through physiological changes and more. These fascinating flyers have come to thrive in the high slopes of the Andes mountains, and have many secrets to share.
*Interview: Dr. Christopher Witt, Curator of Birds & Director, Museum of Southwestern Biology; Professor, Department of Biology, UNM.
Learn more about his research here: https://www.unmornithology.org/home
*A donation was made to the International Hummingbird Society in thanks to Dr. Witt, from the Biologica Podcast.
Find out more or donate here: https://www.hummingbirdsociety.org/
(Note-the episode cover design is symbolic- not scientific or meant to depict an accurate species.)
*Tenth Episode celebration: Send Dr. Susan a message with your favorite of the first 10 episodes (and why) at biologica.podcast@gmail.com by September 1st; Dr. Susan will draw 10 names to receive an embroidered Biologica patch.
If you enjoy this episode, please share it and help spread the word about Biologica.
🙏🐾
Horsing Around: biology and conservation of the wild ponies of Assateague (00:51:46)
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Assateague Island, neighbor of Chincoteague Island and home to its renowned wild horses. A biologist at Assateague Island National Seashore shares captivating insights on the horses’ history, biology, and management. Dr. Susan also weaves in live field recordings from a camping and biking journey there, capturing the beauty and serenity of this unique landscape. Discover how humans and ponies intersect on this extraordinary and beloved barrier island,
*Interview: Lindsay Ries, Supervisory Biologist for Assateague Island National Seashore
- A donation was made by Biologica to the Assateague Island Alliance in the form of a symbolic foster of the Assateague horse Aster Linea.
- Learn more or foster a horse at their website: https://assateagueislandalliance.org
- Learn about visiting the National Seashore here: https://www.nps.gov/asis/index.htm
* Coming soon: In celebration of the next episode, which will be the 10th episode (not including the trailer), Biologica will have a fun special event where listeners can email their favorite episode (from all ten) in order to be entered in a drawing for one of 10 embroidered Biologica patches. Stay tuned in the next episode for more information. Thank you so much to the Biologica loyal listeners! If you are new to the podcast, welcome; I hope to see you next time. 🙏🐾 -Dr. Susan
Moonlight Meetings: Mating behavior and ecology of Horseshoe Crabs (01:04:32)
Join Dr. Susan as she interviews Dr. Jane Brockmann, a renowned animal behaviorist from the University of Florida. Discover the ancient lineage and unique breeding behaviors of horseshoe crabs. Learn about their ecological significance and their critical role for migrating shorebirds, as well as their role in modern medicine. Dr. Brockmann discusses her journey into the study of animal behavior and why horseshoe crabs continue to captivate scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. Dr. Susan will also visit an educational hands-on horseshoe crab event, and hear from a 12-year-old student about their experiences with these amazing creatures. This episode also highlights the conservation efforts and challenges they face in both the United States and Asia. Tune in to appreciate the remarkable adaptations of these "living fossils" that have remained unchanged for millions of years, yet play an essential role in both natural ecosystems and human health advancements.
Learn more: We interview Dr. Jane Brockmann. To see a picture of her teaching about horseshoe crabs at a “Green Eggs and Sand” workshop, visit this site: https://people.clas.ufl.edu/hjb/research/
We heard a few minutes of an educational event hosted by the CCLT land trust. To learn more or support their work, visit: https://www.ccltmaine.org
The educators from Coast Encounters presented at this event: https://coastencounters.com/
*A donation was made to CCLT as part of this episode
Magical Monarchs: Conserving an Icon (00:55:47)
The iconic monarch butterfly has inspired generations with its beauty and its complex and mysterious migration - come be inspired by the monarch again. In this episode, join Dr. Susan in exploring monarch butterflies: talking with both an expert biologist who studies them and an inspirational conservationist who is dedicated to helping them. The flagship for the movement to help pollinators, the monarch is under threat from a number of sources. While the monarch brings people so much joy, it also needs our help. We will learn concrete steps we can take to help this queen among butterflies. We will also look at research and attempt to rear butterflies from caterpillars. For old and young alike, come celebrate the monarchs: they are struggling, but there is also reason for hope.
Learn more:
-We interview Ward Johnson, the founder of Save our Monarchs.
Find out more or order milkweed at: https://www.saveourmonarchs.org
*A donation was made to Save our Monarchs by the the Biologica Podcast for this episode.
-We interview Dr. David James; to see a photo of him teaching inmates about monarch butterflies, and a photo of a tiny tag on a butterfly’s wing, visit this 2018 article:
https://ucanr.edu/blog/bug-squad/article/david-james-incredible-research-migratory-monarchs
Climbing the Ladder-the alewife fishway of Mill Brook (Alewife Episode Part 2 of 2) (00:53:02)
In this episode (Part 2 on Alewives), delve into the vibrant fish migration occurring at Mill Brook and its fish ladder in Southern Maine. Learn about the alewife’s challenging journey from the ocean to Highland Lake, and the community-led citizen science efforts to monitor and restore their population. Dr. Susan shares her observations while counting fish at the fishway, interviews biologist Toby Jacobs who manages the project, and discusses fascinating research about the alewives’ resilience and adaptability. Dive into the serene world of nature interwoven with science and conservation, all while rooting for this tough little fish as it travels upstream. Learn more: https://www.prlt.org/alewife-migration A donation was made to PRLT and its alewife project.
Let the River Run: Penobscot Perspectives on Alewives (Alewives Episode Part 1 of 2) (00:55:15)
Dive into the world of alewife conservation and river restoration from the perspective of the Penobscot Nation.
Join Dr. Susan in fascinating conversations with Chuck Loring, the Director at the Penobscot Nation Department of Natural Resources, and Dan McCaw, the Fisheries Program Manager at that department. Chuck describes the importance of “sea run” fish like alewives and salmon to the Penobscot people, and shares how the Penobscot view the river and its animals. Dan shares his personal journey and passion for fisheries management, influenced by his childhood experiences by the Sebasticook River in Maine, and describes the collaborative efforts behind alewife and river restoration. Dan also sheds light on successful endeavors that have helped revitalize alewife populations, and the complex interplay of federal, state, and tribal partnerships.
This episode also highlights two articles and features a beautiful and powerful Penobscot (nepi) water song.
In Penobscot:
nəpi
kkəseləmələpəna
kči-wəliwəni nəpi
kkihčitamitəhαmələpəna
In English:
water
we love you
thank you so much water
we respect you
The Penobscot (nepi) water song is written by Gabriel Paul and performed by his niece, Leigh Neptune. The water song sound engineering was done by Josh Woodbury.
Thank you for helping Biologica by liking/sharing/following.
Learn more here:
https://www.penobscotnation.org/departments/department-of-natural-resources/
https://www.penobscotnation.org/departments/department-of-natural-resources/water-n%C9%99pi-resources/water-n%C9%99pi-song/
https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/60532384.pdf
Tribal Highlight: Penobscot Nation Awarded Funds for Priority Fish Passage and Wildlife Habitat Assessment - Native American Fish and Wildlife Society
The Social Side of Biodiversity: Exploring Sociology and Our Connection with Animals (00:46:31)
Join us in this intriguing episode as we sit down with Dr. Karin Gustafsson, an associate professor and environmental sociologist from Orebro University, Sweden. Dr. Gustafsson delves into the intricate connections between sociology and environmental challenges, shedding light on how social sciences are essential in understanding and addressing issues like climate change and biodiversity loss. Discover how certain species, like the monarch butterfly, become powerful symbols for environmental action. Dr. Gustafsson shares her passion for learning and research, offering insights into the critical role of social sciences in science and environmental issues, and in how it relates to shaping a sustainable future. Join us for a different perspective on animals and biodiversity.
A donation was made to the World Wildlife Fund in thanks to Dr. Gustafsson for her time in discussing sociology of biodiversity.
Thank you for following or sharing this episode of Biologica! Visit my Podbean or Patreon page to support the show.
Note - the following organizations were part of the logo mini-experiment:
Nature Conservancy
World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
Greenpeace
Sierra Club
Environmental Defense Fund
Natural Resources Defense Council
Wildlife Conservation Society
Conservation International
World Resources Institute
National Audubon Society
Rainforest Alliance
Rainforest Trust
Ocean Conservancy
Center for BIological Diversity
Oceana
Winged Migration - Birdwatching in the Spring (00:49:33)
Take flight with migratory springtime warblers and listen as they delight birdwatchers young and old. In this episode, join Dr. Susan in exploring the joys of watching birds. We’ll explore a cemetery as part of Maine Audubon bird walks and talk with bird lovers - from novice to expert. A birder and teacher who shares his passion with students, Nathan Hall co-founded the Maine Young Birders Club. We’ll also interview a student of his named Agnes, who has caught a passion for feathered flyers. Finally, we’ll touch on some research about birdwatching and a poem by Pablo Neruda. Thanks for listening, and for following or liking the episode.
Donations were made to Maine Audubon at https://maineaudubon.org/ and to the Maine Young Birders Club at https://www.maineyoungbirders.org/
Big Night (00:39:16)
Delve into the captivating phenomenon of "Big Night.” Citizen scientists and nature lovers gather to witness the awe-inspiring migration of amphibians to vernal pools; it’s a fleeting springtime spectacle driven by the perfect blend of darkness, rainfall, and warm nights. Join Dr. Susan in exploring the magic of Big Night through stories, field recordings, and even poetry, touching upon the wonder of this natural ritual. With a special interview with Greg LeClair, the Executive Director of Maine Big Night, discover the collaborative spirit of those who come together to support and study amphibian life.
Note – thank you to Will from Will Sings Songs for allowing us to play his salamander song (https://willsweb.site/).
A donation was made to Maine Big Night. Learn more at mainebignight.org
Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed the episode, please share/like/follow. See you next time for birdwatching in Spring.
Rescue Mission: Caring for the Dogs of Cotacachi (00:24:48)
Join Dr. Susan in Cotacachi, Ecuador, as she explores the transformative journey of the town's street dogs, brought about by the heartfelt mission of Amici Cannis. Discover the unique social dogs of Cotacachi and the people that help them stay well-fed and healthy. Listen as Dr. Susan talks with veterinarians there and captures touching stories of the town's canines, such as the beloved street dog Chimbo. -Visit Amici Cannis website here: https://www.amicicannisusa.org -A donation went to Amici Cannis -More episode sources and links: Podcast website: https://susanhayhurst.podbean.com/ -Patreon page (memberships, behind-the-scenes, products and more): https://www.patreon.com/c/biologica
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