The All Creatures Podcast

Chris delves into the challenges and triumphs of snow leopard conservation with special guests Tshiring Lhamu Lama from Nepal and Ashleigh Lutz-Nelson, Executive Director of the Snow Leopard Conservancy. The discussion highlights the significance of protecting snow leopards, known as the 'Ghosts of the Mountain,' and the vital role local communities and women play in this effort. Tshiring shares her grassroots insights, emphasizing the balance between livestock protection and snow leopard conservation through innovative methods like predator-proof corrals and solar-powered lights. Ashleigh underscores the global and transboundary issues threatening these majestic cats and underscores the importance of community-driven efforts. The episode also explores the inspirational story behind the documentary 'Snow Leopard Sisters,' featuring Tshiring and Tenzing, and the profound impact of integrating traditional knowledge and spiritual practices in conservation. Tune in to learn about the power of community, th

Sloths are among the most extraordinary mammals on Earth—masters of energy efficiency, perfectly adapted to life in the treetops, and quietly unchanged for millions of years. Their slow movements, gentle faces, and calm presence have made them global icons of peace and patience, deeply loved across cultures. But behind their laid-back reputation lies a serious conservation story. Habitat loss, deforestation, and human encroachment are placing increasing pressure on many sloth populations, with some species now considered vulnerable or endangered. Their slow metabolism, once a survival advantage, makes them especially sensitive to rapid environmental change. In this episode, we revisit why sloths matter, not just because they’re adorable, but because they remind us that evolution doesn’t always reward speed. Sometimes, survival belongs to those who move gently, live lightly, and remain in balance with their world. =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Pat

Chris and Angie delve into the fascinating world of bearded dragons, particularly a beloved new addition to Angie's family. The duo discusses their personal experiences with caring for a bearded dragon, the reptile's natural behaviors, diet, and unique physiological traits. They highlight both the joys and challenges of keeping bearded dragons as pets, emphasizing the extensive care required. The conversation also covers the species' resilience in the wild, particularly against extreme heat and predators, as well as the impacts of climate change on their environment. Joined by Angie's son Xander, the episode provides charming insights into family life with a bearded dragon, touching upon the responsibilities shared in caring for these exotic pets. The episode concludes with discussions on conservation efforts and tips for prospective bearded dragon owners. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:04 Meet the Bearded Dragon 01:39 Bearded Dragon Care Tips 03:20 Bearded Dragon Physiology and Behavior 05:20 Bearded Dra

First released in early 2020, we are re releasing this episode, discussing the importance of research in the Critically Endangered Forest Elephant. In 2020 we caught Dr. Daniella Chusyd fresh from her research and travels in the Congo. Dr. Chusyd was out in the field when the coronavirus pandemic hit and had to hurry back to the United States. She shares with us her experiences in Africa studying Forrest Elephants from deep in the Congo. She gives a fascinating look at her life tracking and studying these mysterious elephants. Dr. Chusyd also explains her journey from her undergraduate studies, to becoming one of the few elephant researchers we have in the world.  Her YouTube channel The Elephantologist can be found ⁠HERE⁠ You can support her research in Africa by going ⁠HERE.⁠   Then search for the "Elephant Research Fund" Show notes with some incredible images can be found ⁠HERE =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too ca

Angie dives into the intricate and essential world of crayfish, also known as crawfish or crawdads, with biologist and crayfish expert Dr. Zachary Graham. Dr. Graham, author of 'Crayfish, Crawfish, and Crawdads: The Biology and Conservation of North America's Favorite Crustaceans,' shares his journey from a childhood love of animals to becoming an expert in crayfish biology. He explains the importance of these crustaceans in freshwater ecosystems, their surprising diversity in colors, sizes, and habitats, and their intricate behaviors and interactions. The episode also touches on the conservation challenges crayfish face due to human impact and invasive species, providing listeners with actionable steps to support crayfish preservation and water health. Whether you're a biology enthusiast or simply curious about these lesser-known creatures, this episode is packed with intriguing facts and insights. Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Topic 00:22 Meet Dr. Zachary Graham: Crayfish Ex

Tapirs are one of the world’s most unusual mammals, often described as a mix between a pig, elephant, and hippo. Yet, they’re actually related to horses and rhinos. The Malayan tapir stands out with its striking black-and-white coloring, flexible mini-trunk snout, and surprising ability to swim and dive. Shy and mostly nocturnal, tapirs are rarely seen, which only adds to their mystery. Beyond their odd looks, tapirs play a vital ecological role. They’re known as “gardeners of the forest,” dispersing large seeds across vast areas as they move through rainforests and rivers. Tapirs are also ancient survivors. Their lineage stretches back more than 50 million years, making them true living fossils. Despite outlasting ice ages and mass extinctions, the Malayan tapir is now Endangered, with habitat loss, road collisions, and fragmentation pushing populations into decline. This episode was originally released in 2021. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris and Angie delve into the intricate world of the critically endangered forest elephant, exploring their unique behaviors, slow reproduction rates, and the devastating impact of poaching and habitat loss on their populations. With only approximately 80,000 left, the episode highlights the elephant’s critical role in rainforest ecosystems, emphasizing their impact on seed dispersion and carbon sequestration. The discussion also touches on conservation efforts, such as those by the Zoological Society of London in Cameroon, and the importance of global awareness and action in protecting these remarkable creatures. Efforts to educate listeners about the differences between forest and savannah elephants, including size, behavior, and ecological contributions, are thoroughly explored, underscoring the urgent need for protection and conservation. 00:00 Introduction to All Creatures Podcast 02:28 The Forest Elephant: A Unique Species 03:03 Population Decline and Conservation Efforts 03:27 Personal Encounters a

We released this episode originally in 2022 but is worth a relisten! Capuchin monkeys have long captured human imagination and for good reason. With complex social lives, remarkable problem-solving abilities, and some of the most sophisticated tool use seen outside of apes, capuchins challenge what we think intelligence in animals really means. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of capuchin monkeys, with a special focus on white-faced capuchins. We explore their behaviours, communication, culture, and cognition examining why many scientists consider them among the most intelligent monkeys on Earth. Out of the 22 recognised capuchin species, the majority are now facing population decline, habitat loss, and mounting extinction pressure. Understanding their intelligence makes their conservation all the more urgent. This episode is a reminder that intelligence isn’t uniquely human—and that some of our closest evolutionary mirrors are disappearing quietly in the forests of the Americas. If you’re f

Chris and Angie dive deep into the world of horses, marking 2026 as the Year of the Horse. They explore the monumental impact horses have had on human history, from their domestication over 5,000 years ago to their roles in warfare, transportation, and agriculture. Chris and Angie discuss the unique physiological and behavioral traits of horses that make them exceptional athletes and companions, their evolutionary history, and how they have influenced technology and human civilization. The episode also highlights therapeutic benefits provided by horses and their solid social dynamics, emphasizing their intricate communication skills and strong human bonds. The hosts share personal anecdotes and scientific insights, celebrating the profound connection between humans and horses. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 00:40 The Significance of Horses in Human History 01:21 Personal Stories and Connections with Horses 03:40 Horses as a Technology and Their Global Impact 05:32 Domestication and Evolution of Horses 10:04

This episode dates back to 2020, but the Galápagos tortoise is one of the most iconic animals on Earth. Not only for its immense size and extraordinary lifespan, but for what it reveals about time, resilience, and the deep interconnectedness of life. These tortoises are true ecosystem engineers. As they move across the islands, they shape landscapes, create pathways, disperse seeds, and help maintain the balance between grasslands and forests. Many native plants rely on tortoises for survival. With lifespans exceeding 100 years, they are masters of survival, adapted to endure harsh conditions and long periods without food or water—embodying a slower, more efficient way of living. Today, Galápagos tortoises range from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered, depending on the population. While they were once pushed to the brink by overharvesting, habitat loss, and invasive species, long-term conservation efforts have helped several populations recover—one of conservation’s most hopeful success stories. ======

Chris engages in a profound discussion with Dr. Johnny Hanson, an environmental social scientist at Queen's University Belfast. Dr. Hanson, who has extensive experience in conservation and farming, shares his journey and insights from working on Snow Leopard conservation in Nepal and reintroducing large carnivores like lynx and wolves to the British Isles. They underscore the complexity of conservation, noting the importance of communication, long-term planning, compromise, and community-led initiatives. The conversation also emphasizes the role of ecotourism and financial compensation schemes in promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife. Dr Jonny Hanson Website HERE Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:36 Dr. Hanson's Background and Early Influences 06:38 The Intersection of Conservation and Farming 08:03 Pivotal Moments and the Path to Nepal 11:44 Challenges and Realities of Conservation 16:59 Youth Perspectives on Reintroducing Carnivores 21:24 Cultural Perceptions and the Role of

We first released this episode in 2019 and the story of the Bison, hunted to near extinction, and then brought back is one you must not miss! Once numbering in the tens of millions, bison shaped the grasslands of North America through their movement, grazing, and sheer presence. Then, in the late 1800s, they were driven to the edge of extinction—reduced to fewer than 1,000 animals in just a few decades through industrial hunting, westward expansion, and the deliberate dismantling of Indigenous food systems. In this episode, we explore one of conservation’s most powerful comeback stories: how bison were brought back from the brink, and why their return matters far beyond the species 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 sen

Angie welcomes Dr. Yoshi Jovel, an ecologist and neurobiologist, to discuss his new book 'The Genius Bat: The Secret Life of The Only Flying Mammal.' They delve into the fascinating world of bats, highlighting their intelligence, sophisticated social structures, and remarkable evolutionary traits. Dr. Jovel shares insights from his research, covering topics like echolocation, bat migration, and their robust immune systems. They also discuss the essential role bats play in ecosystems, the challenges they face due to human activities, and the importance of educating the public on bat conservation. 00:00 Introduction to the World of Bats 00:26 Meet Dr. Yoshi Jovel 01:58 Dr. Jovel's Background and Early Interests 04:46 Bats: Fascinating Facts and Misconceptions 10:51 The Importance of Bats in Ecosystems 13:56 Dr. Jovel's Multidisciplinary Approach 23:06 Echolocation: The Superpower of Bats 29:12 Understanding Doppler Shifts in Bats 30:35 AI and Bat Communication 33:29 Social Behavior and Navigation in Bats 39:

Chris and Angie revisiting one of their earlier subjects, the polar bear. They discuss significant changes in polar bear populations over the last eight years, focusing on the impact of climate change and sea ice loss on their habitat and survival. Updates on new data, changes in conservation status, and regional population trends are shared. The hosts also explore the adaptations, behaviors, and physiological traits that make polar bears unique, including their incredible sense of smell and swimming capabilities. Special guest John, Angie's husband, provides insights into managing polar bears under human care and the challenges involved. The episode ends on a hopeful note, highlighting positive global shifts in environmental policies and conservation efforts aimed at protecting polar bears and their ecosystem. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Introduction and Podcast Beginnings 02:08 Polar Bear Overview and Early Podcast Days 03:15 Polar Bear Adaptations and Climate Impact 04:23 Conservation Status and Regional

Going back to an old episode, this species warms our hearts! Raccoon dogs are one of the most unusual mammals on Earth. Often mistaken for raccoons, yet actually members of the dog family. Chris and Angie explore the deep evolutionary history of the raccoon dog, tracing its origins back millions of years to ancient canids that survived dramatic climate shifts and mass extinctions. We unpack how raccoon dogs evolved their distinctive traits, including their masked faces, omnivorous diet, and rare ability among canids to hibernate. We also examine their current conservation status, the challenges they face across parts of their native and introduced ranges, and why they are often misunderstood or overlooked in conservation conversations. From Ice Age survivors to modern ecological players, this episode reveals why raccoon dogs are truly special and why they deserve our curiosity, respect, and care. =========================================================== Another thank you to all our Patreon supporter

Chris and Angie dive into the fascinating world of the Christmas Island Red Crab. They paint a vivid picture of waking up to find your entire town overtaken by millions of migrating red crabs. The duo explores the ecological significance, behaviors, and extraordinary migration journey of these crabs. They delve into the unique ecosystem of Christmas Island, an Australian territory teeming with various land and marine crab species, and discuss the conservation efforts to protect the Christmas Island red crab. The episode also touches on the physiological adaptations these crabs have developed to survive on land, their epic migration for reproductive purposes, and the community's involvement in helping these crabs during their journey. They share their personal reflections and thank listeners for their continued support, encouraging them to join various social media groups for more conservation discussions. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Introduction and Hosts 02:03 The Christmas Island Red Crab Phenomenon 02:54

The binturong (often called the “bearcat”) is one of Asia’s most unusual and enchanting mammals. With a prehensile tail like a monkey, the waddling stride of a small bear, and a face full of whiskers, this elusive forest dweller is unlike anything else on Earth. Known for smelling like buttered popcorn, binturongs glide silently through the canopy, playing a vital role in their ecosystems as seed dispersers, especially for strangler figs that many forest species depend on. But behind their charm lies a serious conservation story. Across Southeast Asia, binturong populations are declining due to habitat loss, deforestation, and the illegal wildlife trade. They’re currently listed as Vulnerable, with some regional populations now considered Endangered. As forests shrink, so does the world of the binturong and with them, the health of the ecosystems they help sustain. In this episode, we revisit our 2022 release and explore what makes binturongs so extraordinary, what threatens their survival, and why their pr

Chris and Angie dive into the fascinating world of the Snowy Albatross, also known as the Wandering Albatross. They discuss Chris's recent unforgettable trip, where he observed various species of albatrosses at sea, igniting a newfound admiration for these magnificent birds. The episode covers the Snowy Albatross's impressive wingspan, its remarkable ability to travel thousands of kilometers, and the extraordinary long-distance flights it undertakes. They delve into its superb navigational skills, primarily guided by an exceptional sense of smell. Sadly, the conversation also touches on the critical threats to albatross populations, including longline fishing, plastic pollution, and invasive species on breeding islands. The podcast highlights conservation efforts and organizations dedicated to saving these birds, stressing the importance of global collaboration and local actions. Listeners are encouraged to participate in bird-watching and support conservation initiatives to help the Snowy Albatross and o

We are going way back to Episode 49! An early interview but an important one. All about how conservationists are working hard to eradicate invasive species on some of our remotest islands on Earth. Chris interviewed Theo Van Noort in 2018, who was a Research Associate at the New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research. He worked on entomology, bombiculture and crop pollination. His Master’s research at the University of Auckland examined invasive wasp populations and their effect on pollination. Theo shares his trip to the Antipodes Islands in 2018 to evaluate the effectiveness of the Million Dollar Mouse Project, its ability to eradicate any rodents and also evaluating the work on rehabilitating insect populations.  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

We have asked someone, somewhere to make a show about all these incredible ancient animals, and here it is! Chris introduces Mike Gunton, the executive producer of the upcoming Apple TV series 'Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age'. They discuss the inspiration, challenges, and production process behind the series, which brings to life fantastical Ice Age creatures through groundbreaking visual effects merged with real-world landscapes. The conversation covers specific extinct species featured in the series, the scientific methodologies applied, and the emotional impact of witnessing these ancient animals in their natural habitats. The episode provides a unique peek into the technical and narrative elements that make 'Prehistoric Planet: Ice Age' a compelling watch. Podcast Timeline 02:00 Introduction to Our Creatures Podcast 02:53 Meet the Executive Producer: Mike Gunton 03:42 The Evolution of Prehistoric Planet 06:37 Challenges of Recreating Ice Age Mammals 05:55 Scientific Insights and Realism in Filmmaking