The All Creatures Podcast

This week we welcome Shelby Dennis, author and host of the podcast Making Milestones. Her book, 'The Other Side of Horsemanship' discusses her own difficult journey and how her connection to animals, especially horses, helped her overcome so much in her life. This episode also features Chris's wife Pippa, who hosts her own podcast, The Conscious Convo, and she brings the element of how to heal our own trauma. This is a different episode for the All Creatures Podcast and we know you will enjoy it. You can learn more about Shelby Dennis by visiting her website HERE You can also learn more about Pippa Leslie Mortensen by visiting her website HERE ------------------------------------------------------ Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now

Chris is off to Australia this week, so in that spirit we want to cover one of Australia's most beloved species and highly endangered Wombat. First, the Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat is actually one of the most endangered mammals in the world. With only around 300 animals left, they are close to extinction. Wombats are marsupials and play such a critical role to the Australian environment as important herbivores. They also have some very surprising physiology and behaviors that held us in wonder. A fun fact is, a group of Wombats is also known as a "Wisdom of Wombats." Another fun species to learn about.  For one cup of "good" coffee a month you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With your support we are able to send money to conservation organizations monthly chosen by our Patreon supporters. We recently posted a bonus episode, the Blue Footed Booby, for our Patreon only subscribers and will be offering more bonus content soon! Thank you so much for your support and for

In this podcast episode, Chris and Angie talk about the intriguing Asiatic Wild Asses, relating to the endangered equids species residing from Persia to Mongolia. They recollect stories about their late brother Shawn Mortensen’s love for the animals, his passion for photography, and his travels in Mongolia. The discussion covers the fascinating aspects of the species concerning their size, wild habitats, crucial role in the ecosystem, and impressive resilience. Additionally, they delve into the species' environmental adaptations like enhanced hearing due to their big ears, crucial to surviving hot desert climates. The hosts focus on the population decrease from the 1800s, existing pockets in Asia, and the existing conservation work in China and Mongolia, which rekindles hope for this threatened species. Podcast Timeline 00:55 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast 01:11 Remembering Sean Mortenson: An Inspiration 02:10 The Fascinating Story of the Asiatic Wild Ass 04:14 The Onager: A Beautiful and Endangered Eq

Unravelling the Mysteries of Monarch Butterflies: From Lifecycle to Conservation In this comprehensive exploration of the Monarch butterflies, hosts Chris and Angie delve into their life cycle, migration patterns and unique 'super generation'. They also discuss the butterflies' ecological importance and the role they play in pollination and ecosystems. The hosts share their experiences of visiting a university's natural history museum and butterfly breeding program. With a focus on the alarming decline in the Monarch butterfly population, threats like climate change, pesticide use and habitat loss are highlighted. They also bring attention to active conservation organizations like Monarch Watch and the ESS Society, and promote involvement in citizen-science projects. They encourage listeners to contribute to butterfly conservation by planting pollinator gardens, with a forthcoming resource on suitable plants for different U.S regions. Podcast Timeline 00:50 Introduction and Welcome 00:59 Exploring the World o

The episode explores the 'All Creatures Podcast' featuring hosts Chris and Angie discussing the fascinating creatures known as wildebeests. They delve into the migration and river crossing behaviors of wildebeests and their role in the ecosystem as a beneficial source of nutrients. Furthermore, they examine some mysteries associated with these animals such as the triggers for their migration. The hosts also touch upon the impact of climate change on wildebeest migrations and the implications for African tourism. The episode ends with an overview of international conservation efforts and the Africa Conservation Experience, a volunteering opportunity for those interested in wildlife preservation. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the World of Wildebeest 00:46 Welcome to All Creatures Podcast 01:42 Personal Experiences with Wildebeest 04:26 Appreciation for Patreon Supporters 08:45 The Unique Appearance of Wildebeest 17:33 The Importance of Wildebeest in Ecosystems 26:00 The Impact of Climate Change on Wild

In this podcast from 2020, hosts Chris and Angie discuss the behavior, physiology, and natural history of the Arctic Fox. Chris is broadcasting from New Zealand, continuing their mission of engaging audiences with animal conservation and highlighting local heroes. Angie provides a detailed account of the Arctic Fox's adaptations for surviving extreme temperatures, from their thick fur, ability to hoard food, and their monogamous mating system. The hosts also touch upon how the species mirrors the impacts of ongoing climate change. Particular attention is given to the foxes' acute senses, their comically long gestation period, the prolific number of offspring a female can produce, and their inclination toward more daring behavior leading to greater survival rates. The discussion rounds off by emphasizing the importance of not supporting real fur farms and making eco-friendly choices. Podcast Timeline 01:00 Introduction and Hosts' Catch-up 01:13 Arrival in New Zealand and Quarantine Experience 02:51 Introducing

Hosts Chris and Angie combine an intriguing exploration of the Arctic Tern's incredible migration with an important discussion on bird conservation. The bird's record-breaking journey, its lifestyle, breeding habits, and navigation mechanisms are examined, along with insights from a research project using geolocators to track these migrations. Hosts Chris and Angie also emphasize the bird's crucial role in ecosystems and environmental signals. The importance of Audubon.org, a global bird conservation organization, is also highlighted, which tracks species such as the Arctic Tern and has instrumental in recovering species like the interior least tern. Conservation efforts and their successes are underscored amidst concerns over significant global bird population declines. Lastly, audience participation in citizen science is encouraged through birdwatching and data collection apps like eBird and Merlin Bird ID. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:10 The Fascinating Arctic Tern 01:42 Understand

This 'All Creatures Podcast' episode, hosted by Chris and Angie, dives into the world of the Saltwater Crocodile, providing detailed information about its habitat, physiology, behavior, and conservation status. The hosts talk about its unique capacity to survive in both fresh and saltwater environments, its sophisticated communication mechanisms, complex mating rituals, and protective maternal instincts. The hosts also touch on physical differences between crocodiles and alligators and the role of both the Chinese alligator and the Nile crocodile within the ecosystem. Interest is also shown in the research work being done at Australia's Zoo Wildlife Warriors and the need for proper cohabitation strategies between humans and crocodiles. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:10 Transitioning from Invertebrates to Reptiles 00:48 Introduction to the Saltwater Crocodile 01:08 Listener Shoutouts and Requests 02:01 Personal Experiences with Crocodiles 02:31 Australia: A Land of Unique Wildlife 04:51 Cro

In this episode of Our Creatures podcast, hosts Chris and Angie explore the unique characteristics and behaviors of the gelada monkey, a grass-grazing primate found primarily in Ethiopia. They discuss the monkey's unusual foraging habits, social structures, and reproductive practices, as well as its contributions to its native ecosystem. The conversation then shifts to discuss local conservation efforts, specifically highlighting the commendable work of the African Wildlife Foundation. The hosts emphasize the importance of community partnerships in conservation, mentioning initiatives like the Seminole Mountain Cultural Tourism Project and the role of holistic land use planning in ensuring sustainable livelihoods. The episode concludes with a look ahead at upcoming special content. Please visit www.factormeals.com/creatures50 and use code creatures50 to get 50% off. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:06 Exploring the Complex Vocalizations of Geladas 01:45 The Fascinating World of Primates

Just how do animals navigate over thousands of miles (kilometers) to find their way home? We are joined with filmmaker Sarah Gibbs to discuss this incredible series, now debuting on Nat Geo (November 19) and Disney+ (November 20). We discuss the series and how they made it. A fun interview and inspiring on how they told these heartwarming and harrowing stories. From the IMDb description: Humans may believe that they are the greatest explorers in the world, but they are not. Millions of animals migrate across the globe every day on paths that have been used for centuries. As they soar, fly, and swim from the Antarctic to the African Savanna and the Pacific Ocean to Alaska. This series immerses viewers in the action. Join the devoted mother humpback who is watching over her young calf, the small dung beetle, the monarch butterfly, the persistent barn swallow, and many other species. These intrepid travelers navigate thousands of miles during the course of their lives by using the Earth's magnetic field, sta

What do you know about Dholes? What about Dhole conservation? This week we welcome Dr. Arjun Srivatha, who is working with the Dhole Project to save these endangered canids. Endemic to areas of India down into Indonesia, Dholes are slipping towards extinction. With an estiamted population of as few as 950, or maybe just over 2000, Dr. Srivatha's work is critical to their future. From his website, Dr. Srivatha states: "I have long been interested in nature and wildlife, and my career now revolves around studying the natural world in an attempt to better understand and conserve it. I earned a PhD in Interdisciplinary Ecology from the School of Natural Resources and Environment/Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Florida. I am currently a DST INSPIRE Campus Fellow at the National Centre for Biological Sciences, India." You can learn more about Dr. Arjun Srivatha by visiting his website -->HEREHERE

This week we go on a captivating journey into the world of bonobos, our enigmatic primate cousins, on this special episode of the All Creatures Podcast. Delve into the incredible world of these remarkable apes, exploring their behavior, significance in the animal kingdom, and the critical conservation efforts to protect these endangered species. Episode Highlights: Meet the Bonobos: A brief introduction to the bonobos, the lesser-known species of great apes closely related to chimpanzees, emphasizing their unique characteristics, social structures, and habitat in the lush forests of the Congo Basin. Behavioral Insights: Detailed exploration of bonobo behavior, their matriarchal society, complex communication, problem-solving abilities, and their intriguing conflict-resolution methods. Dive into their emotional intelligence and societal norms that differentiate them from other primates. Threats to Bonobo Survival: Addressing the significant challenges faced by bonobos, including habitat loss due to defor

Welcome back to the All Creatures Podcast! In this episode, we're diving into the fascinating world of the Gaur, the largest species of wild cattle on the planet. Join us as we explore the life, behavior, and conservation efforts surrounding these magnificent creatures. Key Points Covered: 1. The Gaur: A Giant of the Bovine World Introduction to the Gaur (Bos gaurus), highlighting their size, physical features, and their status as the largest wild cattle species. Comparison with other wild cattle and their distinctions in terms of size, behavior, and habitat. 2. Habitat and Distribution Exploration of the Gaur's natural habitat, including forests, grasslands, and tropical evergreen areas. Discussion on their geographic distribution, focusing on regions where they are predominantly found, such as Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. 3. Behavior and Social Structure Insight into the social dynamics and behavior of Gaur herds, including their hierarchical structure and communication methods. Detai

This week we are releasing an older episode on a species that is near and dear to both our hearts and that is the Somali Wild Ass. We will be getting back to bringing you new species here very quickly, however life is throwing both of us curve balls right now. Angie is having to rush off to be with family and Chris will be making an announcement next week on a new endeavor he is working on and you will be interested in. However, the All Creatures Podcast is our passion and love. We have a slate of incredible animals coming your way very soon! In this episode, we'll embark on a journey to discover the African wild ass, an often-overlooked and critically endangered species. Join us as we delve into their history, habitat, and the challenges they face in the modern world. The African Wild Ass: A Living Fossil The African wild ass (Equus africanus) is a fascinating species with a rich history. It's often referred to as a "living fossil" due to its close genetic relationship with the domestic donkey. These remarka

Today, we embark on a journey to explore the enigmatic and majestic creature, the black rhinoceros. This iconic species, which has roamed the Earth for millions of years, has been subjected to severe threats and is now at the forefront of global conservation efforts. The black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) is one of the most charismatic and striking animals on the African continent. Characterized by its powerful build and prehensile upper lip, it is a living testament to the grandeur of Earth's biodiversity. These incredible creatures have thrived for eons, adapting to a wide range of habitats from grasslands to dense forests. Sadly, the black rhinoceros now faces a dire situation due to a variety of anthropogenic threats. Poaching, driven by the illegal trade in rhino horns, has decimated their populations. Habitat loss, driven by human activities and agriculture, has further compounded their struggles. In the 20th century, black rhino populations plummeted drastically, pushing them to the brink of extinctio

We will be back with a new species next week. Chris has just returned from the United States as he had to rush back for his father's funeral. We went back and found another episode many of you might have missed, but MOOSE! Incredible animals and we know you will love this one. This week we go massive and talk about the largest deer species in the world, the Moose! Or in Europe known as the Eurasian Elk. Just a phenomenal species to discuss. We really nerd out this week talking about this animals physiology, it's behavior and all the other wonderful things that make the Moose one of our favorites. Also a special shout out to Julia from Minnesota who is a wonderful Patreon supporter and asked for this species. We also give a special shout out to our Canadian listeners. Thanks HelloFresh! Go to HelloFresh.com/50creatures and use code 50creatures for 50% off plus 15% off the next 2 months! Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. We now are hosting monthly Zoom meetings with them, answering questions and

We start off with a brief announcement and update on the All Creatures Podcast. We have been nominated again as a Top 10 podcast, this time in the Education category. You can check that out at the People's Choice Podcast Awards website HERE In honor of both Chris and Angie's fathers who passed away, we are releasing an older episode on what we consider to be one of the best fathers on the planet, the Cassowary. We will be back soon with more species episodes! Thanks HelloFresh! Go to HelloFresh.com/50creatures and use code 50creatures for 50% off plus 15% off the next 2 months! Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. We now are hosting monthly Zoom meetings with them, answering questions and getting ideas on which species they want covered. 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 n

The octopus captures the imagination of so many. For Dr. David Scheel, they captured so much that he has dedicated his life to learning everything there is know about the octopus and promote their conservation. In this week's interview, we talk all about the octopus, what makes them special and their conservation. Dr. Scheel also is the author of 'Many Things Under a Rock: The Mysteries of Octopuses,' which can be found on Amazon or your local book store. You can learn more about Dr. Scheel HERE You can learn more about his book HERE Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. We now are hosting monthly Zoom meetings with them, answering questions and getting ideas on which species they want covered. 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 cove

Traveling all over the world, Bertie Gregory has filmed some of the most intense and dramatic footage of many species. As a filmmaker and TV presenter, he shares his passion for wildlife and conservation to the masses. His new series, "Animals Up Close" premieres this week on National Geographic and Disney TV+. Please check it out, some of the sequences are just straight jaw dropping and intense (hint: Orcas/Antarctica). More about Bertie Gregory from National Geographic HERE BERTIE GREGORY is a 28-year-old British wildlife filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer. His career began when a childhood obsession with nature led to winning the title of 'Youth Outdoor Photographer Of The Year.’ After graduating with a degree in Zoology from the University of Bristol in 2014, he began assisting legendary National Geographic Magazine photographer Steve Winter. He has since produced and hosted 5 projects for National Geographic (‘Leopards at the Door’, ‘Jaguar Vs Croc’, ‘Wild_Life’, ‘Resurrection Island’ and ’The Bi

Anytime you think or talk about an ocotpus, you are amazed. It is because they are just the most radical, funny, special, and so many more adjectives, bundles of 8-legged joy! this week it is the Giant Pacific Octopus who receives our attention. We talk all about the octopus and even how they can regenerate their arms like that seen Netflix's My Octopus Teacher. You will love this episode and a special shout out to Octonation! They are the world's largest octopus fan club! Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. We now are hosting monthly Zoom meetings with them, answering questions and getting ideas on which species they want covered. 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