Dolphins Up Close: Behind the Scenes w/Filmmaker Bertie Gregory

Chris welcomes back filmmaker Bertie Gregory to discuss his latest documentary 'Dolphins Up Close.' Known for his breathtaking wildlife cinematography, Bertie shares the intense and chaotic experience of capturing dolphins, sharks, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat. The conversation delves into the technical challenges of underwater filming, the behavioral insights observed, and the conservation success stories in the Azores. Bertie also reflects on the importance of combining skill and composure to document such extraordinary events and the significance of celebrating wildlife preservation successes. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Welcome and Introduction 02:15 Birdie Gregory's Return and Orca Sequences 02:48 Dolphins Up Close: Filmmaking Challenges 03:25 Capturing the Chaos: Bait Balls and Predators 05:25 Filming Techniques and Challenges 10:15 Dolphins as Predators 12:35 The Azores: A Marine Protected Area 14:53 Chasing Dolphins: Techniques and Experiences 19:57 Shearwaters and Their Impressive Diving 21:40 A Special Moment: Baby Sperm Whale 21:52 Mother and Calf Interaction 24:34 Minke Whales and Bait Balls 25:00 Blue Sharks on the Hunt 27:28 Challenges of Filming Dolphins 28:27 Dolphins' Social Dynamics 30:14 Leopard Seals and Orcas 33:40 Incredible Orca Footage 36:01 Appreciating the Moment 39:26 Upcoming Projects and Gratitude =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re going back into the archives to revisit one of our favorite species, the iconic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). These charismatic marine mammals have captured human fascination for centuries with their intelligence, playfulness, and close social bonds. In this episode, we explore: The biology and unique adaptations of bottlenose dolphins. Their complex communication, echolocation, and problem-solving abilities. What they eat and how they hunt as cooperative groups. The important role they play in ocean ecosystems. The major threats they face, from fishing gear entanglements to noise pollution and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts working to protect dolphin populations around the world. Although this episode first aired four years ago, the conservation challenges remain just as pressing today. By revisiting it, we hope to renew awareness of the importance of protecting bottlenose dolphins and the marine environments they call home. Join us as we dive back into the world of one of the most beloved ocean animals! =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie welcome Bill Wallauer, a renowned videographer and scientific advisor for the Jane Goodall Institute, to discuss his extensive work documenting chimpanzee behavior. Bill has been instrumental in capturing thousands of hours of footage, contributing to major productions like BBC's Planet Earth and Disney's Jane Goodall: The Hope. He shares his unique journey into the field, his experiences with Jane Goodall, and valuable insights into the emotional and complex behavior of chimpanzees. The conversation also delves into the challenges of conservation, the importance of local community involvement, and the remarkable impact of Jane Goodall's initiatives like the Roots and Shoots program. This episode highlights the blend of science, storytelling, and community-based efforts crucial for advancing conservation and inspiring future generations. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:09 Meet Bill Auer: Conservation Hero 01:32 Bill's Early Life and Influences 04:58 Journey to Jane Goodall and Tanzania 06:33 The Impact of Jane Goodall 09:20 Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots 11:51 Community-Based Conservation 16:15 Challenges and Successes in Conservation 19:11 The Role of Ecotourism 26:06 Bill's Filmmaking Journey 32:21 Jane Goodall's Special Request 33:42 Challenges of Filming in the Wild 38:20 Chimpanzee Emotions and Behaviors 44:07 Conservation Efforts and Storytelling 50:28 Hope and Local Involvement 52:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We revisit one of the most fascinating yet misunderstood primates on Earth: the Slow Loris. With their wide eyes and seemingly gentle demeanor, slow lorises have captured global attention, but behind their cuteness lies a powerful venom and a story of conservation urgency. We explore why slow lorises are critically threatened in the wild, the dangers of the illegal pet trade, and the heartbreaking consequences of their popularity on social media. Chris and Angie dive into the loris’ unique venom system—the only primate known to have one—how it works, and why it evolved. Beyond their venom and big-eyed appeal, we highlight the vital role slow lorises play in their ecosystems as pollinators and insect controllers. Most importantly, we discuss why these primates should never be kept as pets and what you can do to support their survival in the wild. Join us for this re-release as we shed light on the hidden truths of the slow loris and the urgent need for conservation action. =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Gobi bear (Ursus arctos gobiensis) is the rarest bear in the world, with fewer than 40 individuals surviving in the wild. Found only in Mongolia’s Great Gobi Strictly Protected Area, these desert specialists endure brutal summers and freezing winters on one of Earth’s harshest landscapes. In this episode, Chris and Angie explore the Gobi bear’s adaptations, ecology, and precarious future. We discuss their differences from other brown bears, why their numbers have plummeted, and how human pressures like mining and climate change put them on the edge of extinction. Inspired by the Apple TV+ series The Wild Ones and an interview with Aldo Kane, we also highlight the conservation heroes working tirelessly to protect this species and what listeners can do to help. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and The Wild Ones inspiration 03:00 Meet the Gobi Bear: The World’s Rarest Bear 07:30 Comparison to Other Brown Bears 10:30 Historical Range and Current Habitat in the Gobi Desert 15:30 Ecological Importance: Role in Food Webs and Oases 20:30 Population Decline: Why Fewer Than 40 Remain 27:30 Mining and Rare Earth Minerals 31:00 Climate Change and Desertification Challenges 40:00 Evolutionary Background of Brown Bear Subspecies 47:00 Physiological Adaptations of the Gobi Bear 53:00 Hibernation and Winter Survival Strategies 58:00 Super Sense of Smell and Desert Diet 01:10:00 Reproduction and Cub Survival in Harsh Conditions 01:17:00 Conservation Efforts: The Gobi Bear Project and UNESCO Involvement 01:20:00 Global Action Steps: What Listeners Can Do to Help 01:25:00 Closing Reflections and Hope for the Future =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Going back to the vault of 2018, we revisit the story of one of the rarest and most endearing animals on Earth, the Ili Pika (Ochotona iliensis). Sometimes called the “magic rabbit,” this small, furry mammal lives high in the remote Tien Shan mountains of northwestern China. With its rounded ears and teddy-bear-like face, the Ili Pika has captured global attention since its discovery in 1983. But despite its charm, little is known about this elusive species. For decades, scientists struggled to find and study it in the wild. Sightings are so rare that the Ili Pika has been nicknamed the “gobi desert ghost.” Sadly, habitat loss from climate change, overgrazing, and human disturbance has caused populations to plummet. Today, the Ili Pika is listed as Endangered, with fewer than 1,000 believed to remain in the wild. In this episode, we explore the history of its discovery, what makes this pika so unique compared to its cousins, and the challenges conservationists face in protecting it. Most importantly, we discuss why caring about a tiny mammal tucked away in China’s high mountains matters for the health of entire ecosystems—and what the Ili Pika can teach us about biodiversity and resilience in a warming world. =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie dive into the remarkable world of the maned wolf, a unique canid species native to South America. They discuss its distinct appearance, which resembles a fox on stilts, and explore its extraordinary behaviors, such as its fruit-rich diet and surprising symbiotic relationships with leaf cutter ants. The episode also covers conservation efforts and the urgent environmental issues affecting the Amazon rainforest, where the maned wolf resides. With detailed insights into the maned wolf’s evolution, physiology, and reproduction, this episode emphasizes the importance of protecting this remarkable species and its habitat. [Apologies on Chris's audio this episode. We will be switching the recording platform we have used for many years as it is no longer suitable due to changes they have made] Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast 00:29 Meet the Maned Wolf: A Unique Canid 01:10 Physical Characteristics of the Maned Wolf 07:42 Habitat and Distribution 09:59 Conservation Challenges and Efforts 18:16 The Amazon Rainforest Crisis 26:19 Global Impact and Call to Action 43:00 The Good Fight and Jedi References 43:47 Exploring Canid Families 44:29 Maned Wolf's Unique Evolution 47:54 Maned Wolf's Physiology and Speed 51:41 Maned Wolf's Skunk-Like Spray 56:20 Maned Wolf's Omnivorous Diet 01:09:26 Maned Wolf's Reproduction and Parenting 01:17:57 Conservation Efforts and Final Thoughts =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re re-releasing one of our most popular episodes on one of the most legendary snakes on the planet – the Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus). These massive serpents, found throughout South America’s wetlands and rivers, have captured human imagination for centuries. Known as the heaviest snake in the world, they are masters of stealth and strength. But beyond their sheer size and reputation, the green anaconda plays an important role in keeping ecosystems balanced. In this episode, we cover: Conservation Status: While not currently listed as endangered, green anacondas face pressures from habitat destruction, hunting, and the loss of healthy wetlands. Understanding their status helps us see the bigger picture of Amazonian conservation. Ecological Importance: As apex predators, anacondas regulate populations of capybaras, caimans, fish, and even birds. By keeping prey numbers in check, they maintain the delicate balance of South American river ecosystems. Fascinating Physiology: How do these snakes stay underwater for up to 10 minutes at a time? What adaptations allow them to swallow prey larger than themselves? We explore the incredible biology behind their size, stealth, and survival strategies. Evolutionary Story: Anacondas belong to the boa family, and their evolutionary history stretches back millions of years. We discuss how these giants evolved into one of the most efficient ambush predators on Earth, and why size became their ultimate survival advantage. Join us as we dive into the murky waters of the Amazon to discover the truth behind myths, the awe of their biology, and the importance of protecting the habitats that sustain these giant snakes. =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special collaborative episode, hosts Chris and Angie of the All Creatures Podcast join forces with Natalie and Coral from Planet People Podcast, reflecting on their podcasting journey, conservation stories, and generational perspectives on environmentalism. They discuss their inspirations, notable guest interviews, impactful wildlife species, and documentaries like David Attenborough's 'The Ocean' while sharing their hopes and optimism for the future. Key segments include practical conservation actions, the role of community-based conservation, and memorable episodes detailing fascinating creatures. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Introduction and Podcast Origins 03:00 Podcasting Evolution and Competition 03:33 Introducing Planet People Podcast 05:09 Generational Perspectives on Conservation 06:56 Meet the Hosts: Coral and Natalie 09:01 Meet the Hosts: Angie and Chris 10:42 The Journey of All Creatures Podcast 14:23 Generational Impact on Conservation 15:25 Personal Conservation Stories 35:41 Defining Conservation 53:54 Electric Scooters and Mourning Steve Irwin 57:18 Inspiration from a Marine Biologist 58:06 Meeting Conservation Heroes 59:25 Impact of Documentaries and Conservation Efforts 01:02:25 Favorite Podcast Episodes and Creatures 01:17:40 Hope and Action in Conservation =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie delve into the fascinating world of the Portuguese Man of War. They tackle the complexity of this invertebrate, sharing detailed insights from their in-depth research. Listeners will learn that the Portuguese Man of War is not a jellyfish but a colonial organism composed of multiple genetically identical polyps. The hosts discuss its unique physiology, venom, and the role it plays in marine ecosystems. The episode also covers the challenges these creatures face due to climate change and warming oceans. Additionally, Chris and Angie provide crucial safety tips for encounters with the Portuguese Man of War and recommend organizations dedicated to ocean conservation. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Introduction and Hosts 02:06 Diving into the Portuguese Man of War 02:40 Research and Preparation 03:09 Physiology and Structure 03:50 Challenges and Learning 06:01 Ecological Role and Importance 18:42 Climate Change Impact 29:45 Comparing Jellyfish and Man of War 39:14 Classification and Evolution 45:49 Introduction to Stinging Cells 46:00 The Portuguese Man of War: An Ancient Organism 46:58 Genetic Diversity and Species Complex 48:09 Lifespan and Survival Challenges 50:36 Movement and Speed 52:00 Unique Adaptations: Left and Right-Handedness 54:07 Gas-Filled Float and Carbon Monoxide Production 57:01 Nervous System and Sensory Abilities 59:44 Stinging Cells and Venom 01:014:21 Reproduction and Lifecycle 01:17:01 Conservation and Ocean Health =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices