Europe’s Comeback Cat: Saving the Eurasian Lynx

Back to our vault for an episode on the Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), one of Europe and Asia’s most elusive and awe-inspiring predators. With its signature tufted ears, powerful build, and ghost-like movement through dense forests, this big cat symbolizes the wild heart of the Old World. Once nearly wiped out across much of Europe due to hunting and habitat loss, the Eurasian lynx has made an incredible comeback in some regions thanks to decades of conservation and reintroduction programs. Today, the Eurasian lynx is listed as Least Concern globally by the IUCN, but many local populations remain threatened or endangered. In Western and Central Europe, their survival depends on continued protection of old-growth forests, healthy prey populations, and reduced human persecution. Sadly, illegal hunting and poaching still occur in several countries, often driven by conflict with livestock farmers or trophy hunting traditions. Despite these challenges, the lynx is a success story in rewilding—its quiet return to forests in countries like Switzerland, Germany, and France has reignited hope for the restoration of Europe’s natural ecosystems. The Eurasian lynx reminds us that when given space and respect, nature can heal itself. =========================================================== 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 diving back into the mysterious world of one of the ocean’s strangest and most elusive creatures — the Goblin Shark (Mitsukurina owstoni). Often called the “living fossil” of the shark world, this deep-sea predator looks like something out of a nightmare — or a prehistoric past — with its long, flattened snout and lightning-fast, extendable jaws. Found in the dark depths of the ocean, often below 1,000 meters, the Goblin Shark is rarely seen by humans, making every encounter a glimpse into the ancient lineage of sharks that have survived for over 125 million years. While Goblin Sharks are not currently considered endangered, their deep-sea habitat means they are vulnerable to bycatch from deepwater fisheries and the impacts of deep-sea mining and pollution. Like all sharks, they play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems by keeping prey populations balanced and the food web stable. Protecting these incredible animals — even those we rarely see — is essential for preserving the ocean’s delicate equilibrium. =========================================================== 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

**Just a heads up, this interview discusses adult content and may trigger some. Also, would say not approrpriate for younger listeners, but such an important discussion on the coffee industry** Chris welcomes Etelle Higonnet an environmental and human rights activist with a JD from Yale Law School. The conversation delves into the interconnectedness of human rights and environmental issues, highlighting the destructive impact of various industries, particularly focusing on the coffee industry. Etelle discusses their work with organizations like Greenpeace and Human Rights Watch and introduces Coffee Watch, an initiative aimed at curbing deforestation, ensuring ethical practices, and achieving living incomes for farmers and workers in the coffee industry. They emphasize the power of consumer action, the importance of ethical purchasing, and the effectiveness of petitions and activism in driving corporate and legislative change. Listeners are encouraged to become 'sustainable coffee ninjas' to help transform the coffee industry and support broader environmental and human rights goals. Coffee Watch Website HERE Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 04:33 Guest's Background and Activism Journey 07:21 Human Rights and Environmentalism 09:00 Aha Moments and Realizations 15:18 The Coffee Industry's Impact 26:51 Goals and Solutions for Coffee Watch 33:23 How to Support Ethical Coffee 37:11 Voting with Your Wallet: Making a Difference 38:46 Critical Mass and Corporate Responsibility 39:47 The Power of Petitions 43:07 Challenges in the Coffee Industry 45:14 The Role of Certifications 50:32 Global Solidarity and Consumer Action 52:22 Legal Frameworks and Enforcement 59:21 Taking Action: How You Can Help =========================================================== 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

Back to the vault with another special animal. Opossums may not always get the love they deserve, but these remarkable marsupials are some of the coolest animals in North America. With their prehensile tails, opposable thumbs, and sharp survival skills, opossums thrive in environments ranging from forests to city backyards. They play a crucial ecological role as nature’s cleanup crew—eating carrion, insects, and even ticks by the thousands, helping control pests and prevent the spread of disease. Beyond their ecological importance, opossums have fascinating adaptations: they’re immune to most snake venom, can “play dead” as a defense, and are expert climbers. While often misunderstood, these gentle creatures are vital for healthy ecosystems and deserve more appreciation than they often receive. Tune in to learn why opossums are much more than meets the eye. =========================================================== 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 fascinating world of the white-tailed deer. Initially underestimated, this episode reveals how ubiquitous and crucial this species is across the Americas, marked as one of the best conservation success stories. Growing up in the US, Chris took the species for granted, but this episode sheds light on their immense ecological importance, versatility, and adaptability across various biomes. They discuss how white-tailed deer populations once faced near extinction in the 19th century and bounced back due to rigorous conservation efforts, now numbering over 30 million in North America alone. Unfortunately, overpopulation in certain areas poses new challenges, including disease spread and ecological impact. Angie passionately explains the intricacies of antler growth, shedding, and the physiological marvels of the species. The episode also touches on subspecies like the endangered Florida Key Deer. Listeners are encouraged to get involved with local conservation efforts, visit areas where deer are found, and contribute to ongoing wildlife protection programs. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast 02:08 The Fascinating World of White-Tailed Deer 02:40 Key Deer and Other Unique Subspecies 03:38 Deer Physiology and Antler Growth 05:24 The Ubiquity of White-Tailed Deer 05:07 Conservation Success Stories 05:53 Shoutouts and Listener Appreciation 06:51 Describing the Deer: Size and Appearance 11:15 White-Tailed Deer Across the Americas 13:52 The Role of Deer in Ecosystems 15:22 Overpopulation and Its Consequences 16:43 Historical Near-Extinction and Recovery 20:02 The Importance of Hunting and Conservation 28:07 Challenges Facing Key Deer 31:30 Overpopulation in Various Regions 36:51 Managing Deer Populations 41:34 Evolution and Diversity of Deer 49:53 Incredible Leaping and Swimming Abilities 51:20 Adaptations for Cold and Hot Climates 52:20 Survival Strategies and Metabolism 54:44 Deer in Different Habitats 59:28 The Role of Antlers in Deer Behavior 01:04:56 Breeding Season and Reproduction 01:09:52 Antler Growth and Shedding 01:28:10 Fawn Rearing and Maternal Care 01:33:59 Conservation 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

A re-release of a favorite, coyotes are one of the most fascinating and misunderstood animals in North America. Known as the “song dogs” of the wild, these resilient canids have adapted to almost every environment on the continent from deserts and prairies to suburbs and big cities. In this episode, we dive deep into: The ecological importance of coyotes – how they keep rodent and rabbit populations in check, help balance ecosystems, and even shape the behavior of other wildlife. Why coyotes face persecution – from bounties and predator-control programs to misconceptions that paint them as pests or villains, we examine the history of human conflict with coyotes. What makes coyotes incredible – their intelligence, family bonds, adaptability, and iconic howls that define the soundscape of North America. Conservation lessons – why understanding and coexisting with coyotes is critical for healthier ecosystems and for changing the way we view predators. Coyotes remind us that nature is resilient, complex, and worth protecting. =========================================================== 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 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