Dispatches from the Forest

When we think of deserts, we tend to think of them as being dry, hot and devoid of life.  But a surprising number of plants and animals are adapted to these harsh conditions.  Learn more about the deserts of the United States, and just a few of the amazing plants and animals that call them home. Includes the song "Saguaro" by the Austin Lounge Lizards (used with permission).  Check them out at Austinloungelizards.com. If you're enjoying the podcast, please consider supporting future episodes by becoming a patron.  You can find our Patreon page at Patreon.com/dispatchesfromtheforest.

Nothing beats a perfect summer evening.  Learn more about 2 of the most iconic insects of summer nights: crickets and fireflies - including the dark side of fireflies!  

A micro-animal that can go into suspended animation and survive extreme conditions.  A venomous snail that hunts fish by smell using a poison harpoon.  Another snail with an iron shell.  A crustacean that can punch through aquarium glass.  Sounds like science fiction, but all these animals actually exist!  Come learn about some amazing animals with abilities that will blow your mind!

Turtles have long been associated with longevity due to their long life spans.  They are also the only animal whose pelvic girdle is on the inside of their ribcage.  Learn more about these heroes in a half-shell (turtle power!)

Birds of Prey, or raptors, and humans have a long history together.  Learn about 4 common species of hawk: Red-tailed hawks, Red-shoulder Hawks, Cooper's hawks and Sharp-shinned hawks.  I'll also tell you about the Sparrow hawk and the River hawk - common names for a couple of raptors that are not, in fact, hawks at all.

Access to green space is extremely important not only for physical health but mental health as well.  Learn some ways to get some wild in your life - either in "your" yard or some other green space you have available.

There is something mysterious in Chesapeake Bay!  In this episode I'll tell you about "Chessie" - a mysterious creature that has been seen in Chesapeake Bay.  I'll also tell you about Nebraska's Monster of Walgren Lake, and the man behind this creature, John G. Maher - prominent Nebraskan and purveyor of tall tales.

Soft kitty, Warm kitty, Little ball of fur. Happy kitty, Sleepy kitty, Purr Purr Purr. I've talked about North America's wild canids: Wolves, coyotes and foxes, so today I'm telling you about the wild felines: Canada lynx, Bobcat and Mountain lions.  I'll also tell you about the domestication of cats and why you should keep your little ball of fur inside. If you like the podcast please check out our Patreon Page and consider becoming a patron.  Patreon.com/Dispatchesfromtheforest

In Episode 14 I told you about the defensive capability of skunks which got me thinking about other defensively built animals - Armadillos and Porcupines.  Learn about the amazing capabilities of these 2 defensive specialists!

Peregrine Falcons are the fastest animal on Earth!  They are also the most widespread raptor, but just 50 years ago they were in danger of going extinct.  Fortunately they are making a comeback, and can be found in some pretty surprising places.  Learn more about this incredibly fast and amazing raptor. Features an interview with Deb Woracek, member of the Raptor Education Team at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center (www.Fontenelleforest.org)