Rewildology

Rewildology turns four! In this special Nature Happy Hour episode, Brooke and Dr. Charles van Rees, PhD, raise a glass to four years of the show, reflecting on its biggest moments—the highs, the challenges, and everything in between. They also unveil exciting updates for the future before diving into this episode’s theme: New Horizons. From newly discovered species to astonishing rediscoveries of those thought lost to time, Brooke and Charles explore the thrill of nature’s greatest surprises. Grab your favorite drink and join the celebration! Join the new Rewildology Book Club! Visit the website to read the full show notes. Learn more about this episode's sponsor and how you can help save wildlife, SEE Turtles. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite. Donate to the show.  Timestamps00:00 Welcome to Rewildology's 4th Birthday Celebration!00:59 Reflecting on Four Years of Rewildology01:10 Exciting Updates and New Horizons02:30 Nature Happy Hour with Dr. Charles Van Rees04:16 Challenges and Triumphs of Podcasting11:35 Rose, Bud, and Thorn: Reflecting on the Journey18:33 Future Plans: Themed Seasons and More22:35 Rewildology Book Club Announcement32:05 Charles' New Role and Research at UGA45:35 Rediscovering Species: A Scientist's Perspective47:04 Integrative Conservation and New Species Discovery48:18 Western Science and Indigenous Knowledge49:16 The Joy and Reality of New Species51:03 Molecular Tools and Cryptic Species53:34 Rediscovery Missions and Lazarus Species56:18 The Clouded Tiger Cat Discovery01:02:05 Vampire Hedgehog and Other Unique Finds01:08:01 Seamount Expedition and Marine Discoveries01:13:57 Water Mouse and Pandanus Frogs01:23:41 Conservation Challenges and New Horizons

Join Brooke as she reconnects with Brad Nahill, Co-Founder and President of SEE Turtles, to explore the latest developments in sea turtle and marine conservation. In this episode, Brad shares new challenges and successes from the field, updates on groundbreaking projects like Billion Baby Sea Turtles, and how conservation strategies differ across regions like Central America, Asia, and Africa. They also discuss the role of technology, including AI, in protecting marine biodiversity, the evolution of nonprofit funding models, and Brad’s vision for the future of SEE Turtles and global conservation. If you’re passionate about protecting our oceans and the incredible creatures that call them home, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Visit the website to read the full show notes. Learn more about this episode's sponsor and how you can help save wildlife, SEE Turtles. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite. Donate to the show.  Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Support00:07 The Ancient Sea Turtles and Modern Threats00:46 Meet Brad Nahill of SEE Turtles01:12 Updates in Marine Conservation01:43 SEE Turtles' Mission and Sponsorship02:40 Reflecting on Past Conversations03:47 Challenges and Wins in Sea Turtle Conservation05:35 Global Efforts and Local Success Stories11:26 Innovative Conservation Strategies19:15 Billion Baby Sea Turtles Initiative26:40 Expanding Conservation Efforts27:57 Exciting Travel Plans for the Year28:13 Challenges and Opportunities in Cuba29:39 Popular Trips to Oaxaca31:12 Record-Breaking Year and Future Plans35:48 Innovative AI Solutions for Conservation47:41 The Impact of Technology on Wildlife Conservation

Monarch butterflies are one of the most awe-inspiring species on the planet, undertaking a migration that spans thousands of miles across North America. However, their populations are rapidly declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and agricultural practices. In this episode of Rewildology, we sit down with Rebeca Quiñonez-Piñón, Program Director of Climate Resilient Habitats at the National Wildlife Federation, to explore the challenges and opportunities in monarch conservation. Rebeca shares insights into the cultural significance of monarchs in Mexico, the collaborative efforts between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, and the potential impact of listing monarch butterflies under the Endangered Species Act. We also dive into community-based programs, habitat restoration projects, and actionable steps anyone can take to help pollinators and biodiversity thrive. Don’t miss this engaging conversation about saving one of nature’s most iconic species. Visit the website to read the full show notes. Learn more about this episode's sponsor and how you can help save wildlife, SEE Turtles. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite. Donate to the show.  Timestamps 0:00 Introduction and Podcast Support00:08 The Monarch Butterfly Migration00:47 Meet Rebeca Quiñonez-Piñon03:48 Rebeca's Journey into Conservation10:00 Monarch Butterfly Biology and Migration18:14 Tracking Monarch Populations27:33 Challenges Facing Monarch Butterflies39:34 Collaborative Conservation Efforts42:04 Community-Based Projects in Mexico46:00 Cultural Significance of Monarchs in Mexico56:12 The ESA Proposal and Its Implications01:05:44 Future Conservation Strategies01:08:44 Individual Actions for Monarch Conservation01:15:08 Resources and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Rewildology, Brooke sits down with Chanel Hason, Director of Outreach and Community Relations at Elakha Alliance, to explore the ambitious effort to reintroduce sea otters to Oregon’s coastline. Chanel shares her incredible journey from marine biologist to conservation advocate and how Elakha Alliance is working with tribes, scientists, and local communities to restore balance to marine ecosystems. We dive into the vital role sea otters play in controlling sea urchin populations, protecting kelp forests, and fostering resilience along the coast. You’ll learn how grassroots conservation efforts are making waves and why restoring sea otters could be key to Oregon’s coastal future. Visit the website to read the full show notes. Learn more about this episode's sponsor and how you can help save wildlife, SEE Turtles. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite. Donate to the show.  Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:07 The Absence of Sea Otters on the Oregon Coast00:46 Meet Chanel Hason: From Marine Biologist to Community Leader03:28 Chanel's Journey: From SeaWorld to Miss Scuba10:13 The Historical Context of Sea Otters in the U.S.14:09 The Founding of the Elakha Alliance16:11 The Impact of Missing Predators on Oregon's Marine Ecosystems22:31 Efforts to Reintroduce Sea Otters to Oregon28:12 Socioeconomic Considerations and Future Prospects31:03 Conservation Tourism and Sea Otters32:11 Indigenous Communities and Sea Otters35:22 The Importance of Sea Otters in Ecosystems40:07 Challenges and Strategies for Kelp Forest Restoration43:13 Future Goals and Political Advocacy49:07 Personal Journey and Career Advice53:42 Supporting Alaka and Sea Otter Conservation55:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join Brooke for a conversation with marine biologist Melania López-Castro as she shares her journey protecting endangered sea turtles in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. From tracking mysterious hatchling movements to implementing innovative conservation strategies, Melania discusses her work with Pronatura Peninsula de Yucatan to save critically endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles. Learn how local communities, scientists, and tourism operators are working together to protect these ancient mariners, and discover how you can support sea turtle conservation in one of their most important nesting grounds worldwide. Visit the website to read the full show notes. Learn more about this episode's sponsor and how you can help save wildlife, SEE Turtles. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite. Donate to the show.  Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the Yucatan Peninsula and Sea Turtle Conservation 00:54 Meet Melania Lopez Castro: From Academia to Conservation 05:20 The Journey of Sea Turtles: From Birth to Maturity 10:35 Challenges and Innovations in Sea Turtle Conservation 12:43 The Role of Pronatura in Sea Turtle Conservation 22:48 Tourism and Conservation: Balancing Act in the Yucatan 29:45 Switching from Fishing to Tourism 30:46 Collaborations for Conservation 31:57 Threats from Feral Dogs and Raccoons 37:00 Challenges of Coastal Development 38:40 Environmental Policy in Mexico 45:09 Efforts in Sea Turtle Conservation 51:25 How You Can Help 56:14 Connecting with Nature

The journey through 2024’s best continues! Here’s the fourth episode in our Top Hits of 2024 series—another incredible highlight from the year.----------------------------------------  [Repost] In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke sits down with Laurie Cummins, the Acting Deputy and Education Director at GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Laurie shares her incredible journey from Michigan to GRACE, where she now plays a crucial role in helping the team on the ground rescue, rehabilitate, and protect the critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas. The conversation explores GRACE's innovative three-pillar approach to conservation, which includes rewilding gorillas, protecting forest habitats, and engaging local communities. Laurie also discusses the organization's groundbreaking work amidst the challenges posed by the civil unrest in the region and highlights the importance of community-driven conservation efforts. Tune in to learn about the remarkable progress being made to save these majestic great apes and how GRACE is setting new standards for conservation worldwide.Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

We’re keeping the momentum going! Here’s the third episode in our Top Hits of 2024 series—celebrating another standout conversation from the year.----------------------------------------  [Repost] Welcome to the latest 4-part expedition series on Rewildology: “In Search of Jaguars: A Journey Through the Pantanal.” In the upcoming four episodes, accompany Brooke on her adventure into the heart of the magnificent Pantanal in Brazil. Delve into the region’s expansive grasslands, winding waterways, and pockets of lush jungle that form distinct habitats within this biodiversity hotspot. Meet local biologists and conservationists diligently working within the Pantanal, and discover the on-the-ground efforts aimed at safeguarding the future of this critical landscape – and the majestic cats that reign over it. In Part 1, join Brooke as she explores São Paulo and unravels the answer to a simple yet crucial question: What exactly is the Pantanal?[Repost] Welcome to Part 2 of the newest expedition series on Rewildology: “In Search of Jaguars: A Journey Through the Pantanal.” In this episode, accompany Brooke and her group as they navigate for hundreds of kilometers along the Paraguay River Basin, encountering incredible wildlife throughout the journey. Listen to insights from Fred Crema, the Expedition Leader, and engage with local communities that reside in the Pantanal. Gain knowledge about the key challenges endangering the Pantanal.Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

The countdown continues! Here’s the second episode in our Top Hits of 2024 series—another listener favorite you won’t want to miss.-----------------------------------[Repost] Today is World Rewilding Day and we’re celebrating by releasing this very special episode with Carolina Morgado, the Executive Director of Rewilding Chile! In this conversation, Carolina and Brooke explore so many topics including her serendipitous meeting with Doug Tompkins and her early career with Tompkins Conservation, the evolution of conservation and activism in Chile, the current state of Patagonia, how Rewilding Chile and the Route of the Parks came to be, and the top projects they are working on today.Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

The numbers are in for the year! Kick off the countdown with the first episode in our Top Hits of 2024 series.------------------------------[Repost] G’day, mates! Today, we're traveling to Australia to learn about rewilding on a continental scale with John Kanowski, PhD, Chief Science Officer at the Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC). In this episode, John and Brooke explore the top conservation issues plaguing the island, notably invasive predators and inferno fires, how AWC is protecting and reintroducing Australia’s endangered mammals, the methods AWC is using to remove introduced predators, collaborating with indigenous communities and land owners to create ideal habitats for wildlife, the tech they’re using to monitor wildlife, the challenges and successes of his career, and so much more.Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this Thanksgiving Special, Brooke sits down with Manda Kalimian and Dr. Ross McPhee from Rewilding America Now to explore their bold mission of restoring the American West by reintroducing wild horses to public lands. Together, they discuss the evolutionary history of horses, their role as keystone species in grassland ecosystems, and the systemic challenges facing conservation on public lands. The conversation also delves into the controversial topics of lithium mining, electric cars, and the broader implications of balancing green initiatives with land restoration. Packed with hope, science, and groundbreaking ideas, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rewilding and reimagining the future of our landscapes.00:00 Introduction to the American West 02:15 Conversation with Manda and Ross 02:48 Manda's Journey to Rewilding 05:41 Ross's Academic Perspective 10:14 The Ecological Role of Horses 10:53 Historical Context of Wild Horses 15:10 Rewilding America Now: Vision and Challenges 26:28 The Importance of Grasslands 32:39 Cows vs. Horses: Ecological Impact 39:15 Public Rangelands and Management 40:35 Public Land Management and the Bureau of Land Management 41:28 The American Wild Horse and Burro Act 42:24 Multi-Use of Public Lands 43:57 The Impact of Industrial Lobbying 45:36 Changes in Cattle and Land Use 47:12 Challenges Faced by Small Ranchers 51:09 The Process of Acquiring Grazing Permits 01:00:09 Environmental Impact of Mining 01:10:41 Rewilding America's Rangelands 01:18:31 Future Goals and Community InvolvementVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this episode, Brooke sits down with Alister Scott, PhD, Director of Communications for the Global Rewilding Alliance, to uncover the powerful global movement aiming to restore ecosystems and ignite hope. Alister takes us through his inspiring journey from a passionate young environmentalist safeguarding Antarctica to a key leader in the Global Rewilding Alliance, where he's helped expand the network to over 200 partners worldwide. Together, we explore the Alliance’s four guiding pillars, discussing how rewilding is more than ecological restoration—it’s about reuniting people with nature, empowering communities, and envisioning a sustainable future. Through Alister’s story and the Alliance’s impactful work, we’re reminded that even in a world facing environmental crisis, there’s immense power in resilience and collaboration.00:00 Introduction and Early Life 05:01 Epiphany and Early Activism 07:31 Campaigning and Achievements 09:13 Academic Pursuits and PhD Journey 11:12 Founding the Knowledge Bridge 14:01 Personal Challenges and Coaching 15:53 The One Leadership Project 18:27 Joining the Global Rewilding Alliance 40:47 Rewilding Chile: Building Trust with Local Communities 42:03 Policy and Advocacy in Rewilding 46:12 The Four Pillars of the Global Rewilding Alliance 46:26 The Science of Rewilding: Reanimating the Carbon Cycle 54:47 Joining the Global Rewilding Alliance 01:03:14 The Future of Rewilding: Goals and Hopes 01:09:06 How to Get Involved with RewildingVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

The Caribbean's offshore islands are treasures of biodiversity, but centuries of human impact and invasive species have pushed many of these delicate ecosystems to the brink. In this episode, Brooke sits down with Shanna Challenger, Offshore Islands Conservation Programme Coordinator of the Environmental Awareness Group (EAG) in Antigua and Barbuda, to explore the complex challenges of rewilding islands. From combating invasive species to securing the future of the Antiguan racer snake, Shanna details the dramatic transformations of the islands and the dedication required to revive these delicate ecosystems. Join us as we uncover the successes, challenges, and inspiring stories behind island restoration in the Caribbean.00:00 Introduction to Caribbean Island Biodiversity 00:36 Meet Shanna Challenger: Island Restoration Expert 01:02 Challenges and Successes in Island Rewilding 02:30 Personal Journey: From Childhood to Conservation 09:21 The Redonda Restoration Project Begins 11:37 Conservation Challenges in the Caribbean 33:01 The Unique Wildlife of Redonda 37:47 Goat Relocation Efforts 43:28 Rat Eradication on Redonda 53:14 Seabirds and Clever Rats 56:08 Rat Eradication Strategy 01:03:34 Impact on Redonda's Ecosystem 01:10:37 Conservation Efforts and Challenges 01:26:54 Future Plans and Community Involvement 01:33:16 How You Can Help 01:45:38 Conclusion and AcknowledgementsVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke sits down with Laurie Cummins, the Acting Deputy and Education Director at GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Laurie shares her incredible journey from Michigan to GRACE, where she now plays a crucial role in helping the team on the ground rescue, rehabilitate, and protect the critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas. The conversation explores GRACE's innovative three-pillar approach to conservation, which includes rewilding gorillas, protecting forest habitats, and engaging local communities. Laurie also discusses the organization's groundbreaking work amidst the challenges posed by the civil unrest in the region and highlights the importance of community-driven conservation efforts. Tune in to learn about the remarkable progress being made to save these majestic great apes and how GRACE is setting new standards for conservation worldwide.00:00 Introduction to Grauer's Gorillas 00:41 Meet Laurie Cummins from GRACE 02:41 Laurie's Journey into Conservation 09:53 Understanding Grauer's Gorillas 13:55 Community-Based Conservation at GRACE 22:06 Challenges and Success Stories 43:52 Rewilding Gorillas: From Trauma to Triumph 45:28 Lulingu's Heartwarming Journey 46:16 Integrating Rescued Gorillas into Groups 48:03 The Goal of Rewilding Grauer's Gorillas 48:55 Hands-Off Care and Gorilla Health 51:19 The Community-Driven Corridor Project 01:01:10 Navigating Civil Unrest and Conservation 01:07:53 Future Goals and Personal Motivation 01:13:04 Advice and How to HelpVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

Join Brooke for a journey to Nepal's remote Dolpo region, where conservationist Tshiring Lhamu Lama is revolutionizing snow leopard conservation. From witnessing cubs being harmed during her research to founding the women-led Snow Leopard Journey, Tshiring shares her inspiring story of transforming human-wildlife conflict into sustainable coexistence. Discover how she's empowering local communities through innovative tourism, training youth as wildlife guides, and proving that protecting these ethereal cats can create opportunities rather than obstacles. This episode offers a powerful glimpse into the future of conservation, where ancient traditions meet modern solutions, and where saving a species means uplifting the communities who share its home.00:00 Introduction 00:40 Meet Tshiring Lama: A Conservation Pioneer 02:43 From Childhood to Conservationist 08:31 The Impact of Caterpillar Fungus Harvesting 15:25 Challenges and Solutions in Snow Leopard Conservation 21:31 Innovative Approaches to Coexistence 27:49 Starting Snow Leopard Treks 28:19 Convincing the Community 29:00 Learning from Ladakh 30:19 Training Local Youth 32:51 Challenges and Strategies 34:47 Snow Leopard Tourism Impact 36:36 Upcoming Film: Snow Leopard Sisters 39:16 Personal Struggles and Triumphs 42:22 Balancing Motherhood and Conservation 47:26 Final Thoughts and MessageVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

Join us in a compelling exploration of island conservation efforts. Featuring insights from Coral Wolf, Conservation Science Program Manager at Island Conservation, we delve into the critical work of removing invasive species to restore island and marine ecosystems. Discover personal stories from field biologists, the impact of seabird recolonization, and the holistic benefits of projects like the Island Ocean Connection Challenge Campaign. Uncover how these initiatives enhance biodiversity, connect terrestrial and marine environments, and engage local communities. Tune in for an exhilarating snorkel adventure in the Galapagos, and learn how you can support global conservation efforts. [Originally aired February, 2023]00:00 Introduction and Episode Update 00:47 Women in Conservation Science Series 01:16 Meet Coral Wolf: Journey to Island Conservation 02:23 The Impact of Invasive Species on Islands 05:04 Island Restoration Success Stories 13:20 The Island-Marine Connection 18:43 Harnessing Island-Ocean Connections 30:35 Future of Island and Marine Restoration 33:41 Stakeholders and Their Roles 35:56 Island Restoration Efforts in Palau 37:30 Challenges and Opportunities in Island Conservation 42:30 Personal Insights and Experiences 47:29 Balancing Parenthood and Fieldwork 52:59 Advice for Aspiring Conservationists 54:10 Galapagos Islands: A Magical Experience 58:28 Conclusion and Ways to SupportRead full show notes at the website. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this compelling episode of Rewildology, host Brooke Mitchell delves into the controversial Johnson Tract issue with guest Jen Woolworth, Alaska Program Manager at the National Parks Conservation Association. The discussion unravels the complex web of interests surrounding a proposed mining project within Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. You will gain insight into the unique history that placed valuable minerals on native-owned land within park boundaries, setting the stage for a clash between conservation efforts, indigenous rights, and resource extraction. Woolworth exposes the marketing tactics employed by mining companies, explains the unconventional review process that has sparked concern, and outlines the potential long-term impacts on wildlife and Alaska's tourism industry. This episode offers a balanced exploration of the economic, environmental, and cultural stakes, ultimately challenging listeners to consider the true value of preserving America's last wild places.00:00 Introduction to Alaska's Wilderness Battle 00:40 Spotlight on Lake Clark National Park 00:48 Meet Jen Woolworth: Conservation Advocate 03:02 Jen's Journey to Alaska 05:16 Challenges in Federal Job Market 10:24 Transition to Nonprofit Sector 14:16 The Johnson Tract Mine Controversy 17:18 Legal and Environmental Implications 26:57 Mining Interests and Native Corporations 31:58 Funding and Development of Lucky Shot and Johnson Track Mine 32:48 Unique Mining Methods at Johnson Track 34:36 Environmental Concerns and Permitting Issues 37:50 Community Engagement and Public Comment Periods 44:09 Tribal Consultation and Potential Alternatives 51:18 Current Status and Future Actions 56:16 How You Can Help and Final ThoughtsVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke delves into the groundbreaking European bison reintroduction project in Romania's Carpathian Mountains. Joined by Gabriele Retez, Wildlife Ecologist for WWF-Romania's LIFE with Bison Project, the conversation explores the journey of bringing these majestic creatures back from the brink of extinction. Gabriele shares insights into the project's inception, its ecological impact, and the surprising discoveries about the bison's role in carbon sequestration. The discussion also touches on the delicate balance between conservation efforts and local community adaptation, offering listeners a comprehensive look at the challenges and triumphs of rewilding in the modern world. This episode not only highlights the remarkable resilience of European bison but also showcases how their return is reshaping ecosystems and potentially influencing climate change mitigation strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to conservation and ecological restoration.00:00 Introduction to European Bison Reintroduction 00:42 Meet Our Expert: Gabrielle Retez 01:55 Gabrielle's Journey to Studying Bison 04:51 The Bison Reintroduction Program in Romania 07:57 Challenges and Strategies in Bison Management 09:13 Scientific Insights and Findings 22:21 Bison's Role in Carbon Sequestration 33:45 Challenges of Species Reintroduction 34:30 Conflicts with Local Communities 36:10 Learning from Past Rewilding Efforts 41:07 Human-Wildlife Coexistence 49:51 Future of Bison Reintroduction 56:28 Defining Success in Rewilding 01:02:30 Personal Reflections and Future DirectionsVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this special World Gorilla Day episode of Rewildology, host Brooke Mitchell sits down with renowned conservationist and author, Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. As Uganda's first wildlife veterinarian and founder of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), Dr. Gladys shares her groundbreaking 'One Health' approach to gorilla conservation. The conversation spans her journey from studying gorilla parasites in 1994 to founding CTPH, which addresses both human and wildlife health to conserve mountain gorillas. Learn about her innovative projects that benefit local communities through alternative livelihoods like Gorilla Conservation Coffee, and her reflections on engaging women in conservation. This episode offers a deeper understanding of the ties between human health and wildlife conservation and provides actionable insights on how you can make a difference.00:00 Introduction to Gorilla Conservation 00:35 Meet Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka 02:30 Dr. Gladys' First Encounter with Gorillas 05:58 Challenges in Gorilla Conservation 08:46 Becoming Uganda's First Wildlife Veterinarian 13:00 The Scabies Outbreak 20:50 Founding Conservation Through Public Health 37:27 Launching the Volunteer Program 37:56 Family Planning and Community Involvement 40:15 Gorilla Conservation Coffee Initiative 47:12 Expanding Conservation Efforts 55:08 Writing the Book and Personal Reflections 01:03:48 Advice and Final ThoughtsVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

Dive into the mesmerizing world of octopuses with conservation biologist Brooke Mitchell and Dr. David Scheel, a renowned marine biologist and author of 'Many Things Under a Rock, The Mysteries of Octopuses'! In this episode, David shares his 25 years of experience studying these fascinating cephalopods. Discover octopuses' unique behaviors, their intelligence, social interactions, and cultural importance, especially among Alaskan indigenous communities. Learn about their conservation status and what makes these creatures so captivating. David also discusses the challenges and future directions of octopus research and conservation. Don't miss this intriguing conversation and remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow ocean lovers!00:00 Introduction to the Mystical World of Octopuses 00:35 Meet the Expert: David Scheel, PhD 02:21 Diving into Octopus Behavior and Intelligence 10:07 Octopus Biology 101 13:21 Social Lives of Octopuses 21:31 Understanding Octopus Intelligence 31:37 Octopus Camouflage Techniques 34:33 Octopus Vision and Color Perception 37:41 Cultural Significance of Octopuses 46:12 Challenges in Octopus Conservation 56:23 Future of Octopus Research 59:49 Resources and Further ReadingVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn

In this special update episode of Rewildology, host Brooke Mitchell sits down with Mark 'Butch' Butcher to discuss the groundbreaking developments in the white rhino reintroduction efforts in the Hwange ecosystem, Zimbabwe. Revisiting their initial conversation from World Rhino Day 2022, Butch shares the latest successes and upcoming plans of Imvelo and its NGO partner, CRCI, including the establishment of a second rhino sanctuary driven by community involvement. They explore the socio-economic benefits of conservation, the role of local communities, the complexities of reintroduction, and the innovative approach of integrating computer-literate women into the conservation efforts. Tune in to hear the inspiring and hope-giving conversation that highlights the potential for conservation to transform local communities while protecting endangered species.00:00 Introduction to Rewildology 00:35 Exciting Update from Imvelo 01:52 Conversation with Butch 02:26 Community Rhino Conservation Initiative 03:47 Challenges and Successes 04:34 Future Plans and Community Involvement 06:54 Sanctuary Development and Protection 13:05 Tourism and Socioeconomic Benefits 16:35 Volunteerism and Education Initiatives 19:07 Affordable Safari Options 19:30 Balancing Luxury and Conservation 23:03 Community Involvement in Rhino Conservation 23:39 Challenges and Solutions in Wildlife and Cattle Coexistence 26:41 Scaling the Rhino Reintroduction Project 28:29 Government and NGO Support 31:35 Empowering Women in Conservation 35:32 Upcoming Rhino RelocationVisit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.Support the Show Donate Rewildology Swag StoreSubscribe to the Show YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Podchaser PodBean Castbox Amazon/Audible iHeartRadioFollow Rewildology Instagram Facebook Twitter/X LinkedIn