Life, Death, and Taxonomy: Recent Episodes
Life, Death, and Taxonomy
Learn about all things animalia in this family friendly podcast. Each week Joe and Carlos dive deep into nature to find animals that have at least one amazing talent they use to survive. Gather up some animal knowledge and crazy nature facts to drop on your friends at parties with each new episode of Life, Death, and Taxonomy.
“…and today we’re talking about a bird that knows your schedule. But not really.” The combination of a velociraptor and an HR manager somehow produced a pretty elegant bird with a mean left hook. The secretary bird struts across the African savanna with confidence that is definitely well-earned. Long-legged, laser-focused, and lighting-fast, this feathered fighter […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creature that can walk forward and why that’s interesting. But more on that later.” Two cohorts meet on a beach, marching forward to meet one another head on… both flying the same blue colors. There’s no reason to fight, in fact, they are much stronger together… the soldier crabs […]
“…and today we’re talking about a blistering bug in the blistering heat of summer. More on that later.” Some creatures kick in your front door. Others pick the lock, raid the fridge, and somehow convince you to thank them for stopping by. The European blister beetle belongs squarely in that second category. It’s a glossy […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny brain with big thoughts. But more on that later.” The regal jumping spider has those signature big round eyes that make this arthropod kind of cute… but if you watch them long enough, you might see that there’s thoughts behind those black pearls. Jumping spiders have tiny brains, […]
“… and today we’re talking about a demolition ant. But more on that later.” Out in the desert lives a tiny tan troublemaker that treats civil engineering like psychological warfare. These little insects spend their days bustling about deserts and grasslands looking for what seems like harmless debris. But beneath that innocent exterior is a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that sounds like a power tool… but more on that later.” Early on a Saturday morning is no time to start hearing machinery going in the neighborhood… but what if you hear that same sound in Australia’s open heath habitats and woodlands? Did someone put gravel in their […]
“…and today we’re talking about a sophisticated chemist. But more on that later.” In moonlit meadows and forest edges, there lurks a patient puppeteer. While most predators settle for catching dinner, a sort of “earn it and burn it” approach, the East Asian orb-weaver seems oddly interested in what its victims do after they’re caught, […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bumbling beetle, but more on that later.” A bee is a brilliant bug… essential to the natural order. Plants propagate with the help of these fuzzy friends… not just wild flowers, but all the plants we need to survive in a healthy ecosystem. But what happens when a beetle […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fuzzy little creep. But more on that later.” Out in the rocky woodland alleys of East Africa lurks a rodent that ain’t nothin but a heartache. The African crested rat waddles around in a spikey stripey overcoat like a tiny hedge skunk with a toxic secret. Unlike its murine […]
“…and today we’re talking about a stinky turt. But more on that later.” A turtle is designed for defense… A tiny tank swimming around a river with an armored body that’s hardened against hungry fish and birds. But what if you share that river with creatures with huge jaws, capable of crushing even the tankiest […]
“…and today we’re talking about a pileated pile driver. But more on that later.” Somewhere deep in the forest, a feathered jackhammer slaves away to fill all the trees with holes. The pileated woodpecker attacks hardwood with its whole face and somehow strolls away from repeated headfirst collisions with nary a scratch, let alone constant […]
“…and now we’re talking to high quality bird brains. But more on that later.” What does the crow know? Accounts, it does not grow. Seeds, it does not sow. But knowing it will show. When life asks the crow… To think to earn its dough. The new caledonian crow may be among the smartest birds […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that is a scientific instrument… but more on that later.” In the sticky stillness of a summer night, a tiny troubadour tunes up in the trees. This pale, unassuming performer doesn’t just chirp—it engineers, improvises, and even has custom acoustics. This backyard busker sings its love song using […]
“…and today we’re talking about a frog with a funny name that we’re going to be mature about! But more on that eminently.” A special frog lives at the bottom of a lake on top of the world… Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable waterway on earth, and it’s home to an amphibian that’s gone […]
“..and today we’re talking about a fat baby sea bird. But more on that later.” Out on the icy oceans of the Arctic, the Northern Fulmar floats above the waves—calm, collected, and carrying a concealed weapons permit. This bird doesn’t bluff, doesn’t bluster, and certainly doesn’t believe in backing down. Instead, it leans into a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a Lazerus noodle. But more on that later.” The worst thing that can happen to a species is extinction. The balance of life and death tips towards oblivion… a corner of creation relegated to rejoin the dust. People are often the problem…but we’re getting better at finding solutions. One small […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug adoption. But more on that later.” The insect world is a terrifying one. It’s a bug-eat-bug world out there. Some deal with it by being bigger, faster, stronger, or more numerous. Others have subtler ways of staying alive. The Mountain Alcon Blue caterpillar dons a clever disguise, not […]
“…and today we’re talking about danger from above. But more on that later.” In the African rainforest lives the King of Trees, gliding along the canopy, seeking prey in his sky domain. His crown is slight, but not his bite. One peck sends his subjects into an eternal slumber. Leave the ground to his cobra […]
“…and today we’re talking about an insect that doesn’t stay in its lane. But more on that later.” Squirming the soil of a windswept island, lurks a many-legged menace with a taste that…raises eyebrows. It’s a wriggling, writhing ribbon of ruthless efficiency, equal parts nightmare noodle and avian scourge. While most creepy crawlies shy away […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that is a real jokester. But more on that now.” Suggestion from Rowan via email The harlequin cockroach is a little like the bus boy at an underground speakeasy. It clears a low bar. This brilliant bug is striking for its mottled pattern and interesting hues… for a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a friendly sky rat. But more on that later.” Picture a dusk-drenched desert sky where the horizon starts to move. A clear evening gives way to a tornado. But it’s not the weather, it’s a living, breathing, leathery blizzard pouring out of caverns deep within the rocky substrate. That’s right, […]
“…and today we’re talking about a cool Canadian cat. But more on that later.” As iron sharpens iron, so does one man sharpen another. A friend can show you the way to a better you… but sometimes… so can a rival. The Canadian wilderness is the field for an eternal game of cat and hare… […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fish that would shoot a guy in the back. But more on that later.” Lurking in the low-lit lounge of the Pacific lies the spotted ratfish, this silvery weirdo skims the ocean floor, callously crunching crustacean carapaces. Part shark, part rabbit, part catfish thing, it glides around with the […]
“…and today we’re talking about insistent incisors. But more on that later.” A black rat finds a brick stack that blocks his way back to a food sack that helps his rat pack get a good snack. There’s no flaw in a steady gnaw in the brick’s flaw with a rat jaw and a sharp […]
“…and today we’re talking about the worst thing about wasp prison. But more on that later.” Slender, shiny, and carrying the emotional energy of a horror movie villain, the Dementor Wasp floats through the insect world like a tiny eight-legged HR nightmare. This is not a creature that rushes, panics, or gets its hands dirty—this […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal so cool, they named an X-man after it.” It takes a tenacious heart to survive in the Yukon and other high latitude places. Food is a reward for the brave and the bold when temperatures drop below zero. The wolverine is a small creature with a big appetite […]
“…and today we’re talking about a screaming sensation. But more on that later.” In the open meadows, the humble goat grazes and stares into the middle distance, contemplating its place in the universe and the meaning of life. Its calls shift subtly, shaped by its social circle, adapting as needed to fit in or stand […]
“…and today we’re asking hoo is this bug? But more on that later.” In nature, mimicry allows some creatures to ride the coat tails of others. You get the aura–the vibe of a dangerous, poisonous, or disgusting critter without having to put in the hard work of developing those traits. But the Giant Owl Butterfly […]
“…and today we’re talking about a familiar feathered friend. But more on that now.” In the quiet just before dawn, when everything feels briefly held in place, one animal steps in and breaks it like a neighbor who thinks that revving his mufflerless engine at 5 am is what the kids on fleek think is […]
“And today we’re talking about a tiny creature that looks like a penguin but isn’t. More on that later.” A bird with a funny name sits upon a dock post of a frigid Atlantic wharf, waiting for friends to arrive for the busy mating season. With a beak the color of sunset, these seabirds squawk […]
“….and today we’re talking about a tiny, little farmer. But more on that later.” (Messor Ibericus) Measure Up Welcome to the beloved Measure Up segment. The official listener’s favorite part of the show! The part of the show when we present the animal’s size and dimension in relatable terms through a quiz that’s fun for […]
“…and today we’re talking about little bird blue, but more on that later.” As seasons change, so do many animals. New coats, sloughed skin, fresh molts–even humans don’t wear white after labor day. For most, it’s a gradual process that can be a challenge, but makes way for growth. For some, it can be dangerous, […]
“…and today we’re talking about a high fly star that’s not Taylor or D’andre… But more on that later. High above the Alps, where even eagles take snack breaks, there’s a bird that laughs in the face of gravity, sleep schedules, and layovers. It’s a feathered jet stream, a sky-soaring insomniac that treats “touching grass” […]
“…and today we’re talking about fish with an identity crisis. But more on that later.” Is it a snake? An eel? A buzz saw? The frilled shark is none of those things, and yet it’s something of all three. This creepy looking ocean creature appears to have blunt pearly whites from a distance, but a […]
“…and today we’re talking about the savannah’s secret dangerous megafauna. But more on that later.” Species: Syncerus caffer, also known as Cape buffalo, savanna buffalo, or forest buffalo, depending on the subspecies. Description Build: Stocky and muscular with a broad chest, short neck, and sturdy legs built for endurance. Coat: Short, coarse hair ranging from […]
“…and today we’re talking about a globe trotting bug. But more on that later.” A simple insect lives a glover trotter’s life. No dry season will do in this bug’s life–rainfall is needed near round to maintain a healthy life cycle. So, chasing storms all over the Indian ocean is the bold strategy the globe […]
“…and today we’re talking about a starfish that the jester stole. But more on that later.” Dive into the dazzling depths of the ocean, where a spiky sovereign slinks silently across coral castles, whispering secrets through an invisible ink of proteins. This prickly predator, a veritable porcupine of the sea, rules the reefs with a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a monkey that pays for long distance. But more on that later.” Description Tiny primate, about the size of a large squirrel compared to other tamarins Soft, silky fur in a mix of gray, black, and brownish hues Distinctive long, white mustache that droops like a hipster’s finest facial hair […]
“…and today we’re talking about a little big creature. But more on that later.” Description Appearance: Compact body with a blunt, shark-like head, small lower jaw, and grayish skin that may appear wrinkled, especially in older individuals. They have a dorsal fin, smaller than that of the pygmy sperm whale, and a distinctive white or […]
“…and today we’re talking about a dessert demon. But more on that later.” Finding a solid food source is a top priority in the red dust of the Australian outback. But one thorny little devil has developed an appetite for the dessert’s spicy buffet. Not all creatures can stomach one of nature’s most common prey […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that dances by the light of the moon. But more on that later.” It’s time to dive into the dark, daring, and downright dazzling world of the Bogong moth! This unassuming little night-flyer might look like a dusty brown speck, but it’s got a secret superpower that’ll make […]
“…today we’re talking about a whale that’s here today and here tomorrow. More on that later.” Description Looks like a massive, stocky submarine Dark gray to black smooth, rubbery skin, often with white patches on the chin and tail Largest mouth of any animal, with a curved jawline that can extend as a massive 13’ […]
“…and today we’re talking about a sea creature that does not have a beak. More on that later.” Description They have a robust, cigar-shaped body, a short, stubby beak, and a slightly curved mouth resembling a goose’s beak. Their coloration varies from dark gray to reddish-brown, often with a lighter head and white scars or […]
“…and today we’re talking about a sneaky spider. But more on that later.” A cunning hunter weaves deceit in silken threads. Her artistry captures the eye, and it also snares her prey. But that’s not the only purpose for this cyclonic masquerade. It also hypnotizes hungry guests that would make a meal out of this […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creature that has a good grip despite how wet it is.” Description Slender body with a long tail, short limbs, and distinctive square-shaped toe tips containing large blood sinuses, which aid in climbing and gripping surfaces. Coloration varies but is typically dark brown, gray, or black with a mottled […]
“…and today we’re talking about a moth that is marked for death. But more on that later.” If you’re wandering the forests of East Asia at night, you may encounter a creature that bears an ill omen. Black cats, ravens, owls– people around the world believe some animals are a sign that death is around […]
“…and today we’re talking about the world’s tiniest mammal. But more on that now.” The smallest of sky-dwellers won’t win any contests of strength or speed, but hunting at night requires more precision than power. A sound in the forest will echo through the dark in a million directions, but a small source can create […]
“And today we’re talking about frogsicle.” Description of the Frog Appearance: This frog gets its name from two inguinal poison glands on its lower back that resemble eyes, creating a “four-eyed” effect. These glands are part of a defensive posture where the frog lowers its head and raises its rear to appear larger and deter […]
“…and today we’re talking about a a creature that looks like a float on Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade.” Dive into the deep, where the ocean weaves its wildest wonders. A creature slinks through the sea like a ghostly ribbon, glimmering with an eerie glow. This aquatic apparition dances in the dark, a silent symphony […]
“…and today we’re talking about the most famous fluffy animal around.” Looking to nature to find the cures for aches and ills seems like a uniquely human trait. But many animals use the elements to take care of their ailments. You may not realize, but there’s one farmiliar friend that’s extremely good at recognizing medicines […]
“…And today we’re telling about a creature that sounds likes a bad thing to call someone.” Beneath the briny blue of South Africa’s coastal waters lurks a creature with a schnoz so prominent it could co-star with the proboscis monkey in a muppet movie. The black musselcracker, a reef-roaming, shell-smashing singleton, chomps through crustaceans like […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creature that sounds like a brand of expensive tea.” The unblinking eyes of the spicebush caterpillar stare into the face of danger. Subterfuge is a great tool, but maintaining a ruse requires showmanship and commitment to a role. If a hungry predator sees past their sly facade, this caterpillar’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal with a name that sounds like a AAA baseball team.” Deep in the dark, desolate depths of the ocean, where the sun don;’t shine and the pressure is crushing, there slinks a squishy, sausage-shaped sensation. This waddler of the abyss trundles through the muck with an extremely bizarre […]
“…and today we’re talking about a flat character. But more on that later.” Everyone likes a comeback kid. Clutching victory from the jaws of defeat. But what the Black Planarian Flatworm does is way beyond a come from behind win. This pond citizen has a regenerative ability so extraordinary that it would give a thinking […]
“And today were talking about something that’s not real velvet but it is a real worm. It is actual worm. It lives like a worm.” A wanderer in the undergrowth, glides along the leaf litter, searching for prey to tuck into the cradle of decay. This plush creature hides a secret silk used to knit […]
“…and today we’re talking about another, more different spotted noodle. But more on that later.” Slithering silently in the sandy shallows, the garden eel sways like a living blade of seagrass, rooted yet restless in the ocean’s endless ebb. Picture a creature that’s half snake, half shrub, playing peek-a-boo with the tides while pretending to […]
Picture a primate with a penchant for plunging.The proboscis monkey, with its pendulous schnozz and a physique built for aquatic acrobatics, is the rainforest’s resident daredevil. This long-nosed leaper doesn’t just swing through the mangroves; it hurls itself into the drink with the grace of a 10-year old at the Y, making a splash that […]
“…and today we’re talking about an armadillo that’s having wicked dreams of leaving Tennessee. But more on that later.” A rose-hued sprite is found on the Argentine plains. This fae surfs the rippling waves of xeric sands, past the islands of desert scrub. A pointed nose cuts a channel through the substrate, while paddle claws […]
Picture a sneaky, slinky shadow darting through the African savanna, a nocturnal ninja with a knack for nabbing prime real estate on the move. This crafty critter isn’t just scampering through the grass—it’s catching rides on the biggest beasts around, like a furry freeloader hitching a lift on a living tank. With a face like […]
“..and today we’re talking about a pup from the past but more on that later.” When a species is long forgotten underneath ancient permafrost, things start to look dire. But new scientific efforts are tapping into long forgotten DNA to build a bridge to the past. The question is, are we able to see the […]
“…and today we’re talking about a Tom Sawyer bug. But more on that later.” Some guys just can’t take the hint. For Moorland Hawker Dragonfly females, this can be a bit more than a simple inconvenience. When the suitors come knocking, this lady doesn’t just dodge the drama—she takes it to a whole new level. […]
“…and today we’re talking about a smooth operator. But more on that later.” In the strange underwater world of the reef, many creatures develop weapons of war to fight off enemies. But one crab has entered the ocean’s arms race with a refined approach. The smooth box crab has a pair of pinchers specialized for […]
“…and today we’re talking about a petite predator– relatively speaking. But more on that later.” Slithering through the shadows of swampy secrecy, the African dwarf crocodile is a pint-sized predator with a penchant for peculiarity. This crafty critter lurks in the murky margins of rivers and wetlands, a miniature menace shrouded in mystery. Some whisper […]
“…and today we’re talking about an active kid that grows into a lazy adult. But more on that later.” A tiny tadpole freely glides along ocean currents, going where it wills, seeking its thrills. The ocean is its oyster. But when a larva is on an adventure, it dreams of home, and when it’s home, […]
“…and today we’re talking about the original member of a group that likes to go swimming in the winter in Coney Island.” The Arctic is an unforgiving place—cold, desolate, and covered in ice as far as the eye can see. It’s a freezing wasteland where only the toughest survive, and no one does it quite […]
“… and today we’re talking about a funny little fish. But more on that later.” They say the enemy of my enemy is my friend, but that might mean putting up with some prickly traits to band together against a common foe. The clown fish makes an alliance that requires a thick skin. But what […]
“..and today we’re talking about something that jealousy took two of the coolest animals for its name.” If you’ve ever found yourself watching a toddler shove random objects into their mouth, you’ve witnessed a fraction of the chaos that is the tiger shark. With an appetite as indiscriminate as a black hole and the curiosity […]
“…and today we’re talking about little swimmers. And not the aquatic diaper brand.” Let’s dive right into the cool, calm, and collected world of a lizard that’s not afraid to get its scales wet. Most reptiles avoid water like it’s hot lava, but not this daredevil. Imagine a scuba diver, a magician, and a survivalist […]
“…and today we’re talking about something that’s sticky. What is it?!” Mold, grime, and disease are plagues that the human world does it’s best to keep at bay. But animals have to worry about these things too – even ants. The Red wood ant has found a true multi-purpose cleaner that they use to keep […]
“…and today we’re talking about a rodent of unusual size.” In the verdant wetlands of South America the world’s largest rodent lives a serene, communal life. The capybara’s day is spent basking in the early morning sun or submerged in cool, refreshing water, their eyes above the surface, watching for signs of predators. But these […]
“…and today we’re talking about an NBC branded fish. But more on that later.” Flat and fabulous, the peacock flounder is the Picasso of the seafloor. But beneath its cool, camouflaged exterior lies a wild anatomical twist that would make even the most seasoned contortionist wince. You thought you looked different as a kid, the […]
“…and today we’re talking about something you probably haven’t ever heard of. But more on that later.” You may think the age of exploration is over. Human beings have seen everything there is to see–at least on land right? But what if you knew there was an animal so rare that people didn’t think it […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal that sounds more sinister than it is. Bot more on that later.” Step into the insect world where everything is weird and brutal…including courtship. Imagine a tinyl Casanova what brings the snacks to the party. If you’ve ever thought dating apps were transactional, wait until you hear about […]
Ah, the ocean. It’s full of mysteries, marvels, and creatures that look like they were designed during a fever dream directed by HR Gieger. Among them swims a gelatinous giant with flowing, fibrous tentacles that seem to stretch into infinity. Meet the lion’s mane jellyfish, a giant egg yolk that can ruin your day with […]
“…and today we’re talking about a humble stead that once had a grand rider. But more on that later.” Few animals gain widespread cultural significance in the human world. But a creature known for stubbornness, hardiness, and humility, also once shared its manger on a very important birthday. Today, it’s name is proclaimed with the […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bird that make a great gift if you can get them a-swimming. But more on that later.” Nothing makes the Lords a-leap and the Ladies dance like the regal mute swan. But royal veneration and beautiful snow white feathers doesn’t change the fact they are wild animals, ready to […]
“…and today we’re talking about how when a red belly rises it means blood has been spilled this night. But more on that later.” Description of the Red-Bellied Piranha The red-bellied piranha is a small to medium-sized fish, well-known for its striking appearance and infamous reputation. Here’s a more detailed description: Color: Their most distinctive […]
“…and today we’re talking about a pumpkin spiced tic tac toad. But more on that later.” If attacking you would be automatically deadly to your enemies, you might lead a charmed life–free from worry. Such an easy going atmosphere might make you grow complacent. Things that were once important to survival become optional. And why […]
“…and today we’re talking about another disgusting deep sea creature. But more on that later.” Deep in the dark recesses of the ocean, where the sun’s rays are only a memory, lurks a creature with an interesting talent. It’s a fish with a flash, a beast with a beacon, a predator with a peculiar penchant […]
“…and today we’re talking about a little ocean hopping spy. But more on that later.” A dolphin dipping in deep abyss must allow the sun to have its kiss When scouting schools of succulent fish a trick ensures they will not miss. What vantage a high place can be! What new things can you see? […]
“…and today we’re talking about something that I’ve sworn we’ve done before but I guess we haven’t. But more on that later.” Deep in the inky abyss where sunlight dares not shine, lurks a creature that’s equal parts nightmarish and misunderstood—like that hipster kid from high school who just listens to bands you’ve never heard […]
“…and today we’re talking about something you might have felt bad about stepping on before.” Did you know there is a vast jungle just outside your door? Though, vastness is relative to size of course. A garden is a big place for a mollusk that’s less than two inches long. The garden snail is a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug with a very funny name. But more on that now.” In the dead of night, amidst the hum of crickets and the flutter of wings, there’s one creature that buzzes around like a stealthy, flying ninja with a twist. It glides from flower to flower like a hummingbird […]
“…and today we’re talking about a certain cervus. But more on that later.” When you’re born into a prey animal species, it’s important to get up and running as soon as possible. But elk calves need a little time to unwind before they start bounding through the meadows. What can they do to avoid predators […]
“…and today we’re talking about a puffy stabber. But more on that later.” The pufferfish has the incredible ability to inflate itself up like a balloon as a defense mechanism. But the interesting thing about this creature is that that’s not the only thing interesting about it. If you’re a fish, the easiest thing to […]
“…and today we’re talking about a forest pig that can clear the hacienda after every meal. But more on that later.” When you’re a small pork family in the forest, staying together is the key to a happy life. But it’s easy to get separated among the thick foliage and tall trees. How can you […]
“…and today we’re talking about a frog that could have dropped into Normandy. But more on that later.” In the canopy high, where the tall trees sway, Lives a frog who glides in a daring display. With webbed fingers spread, like wings in the breeze, He leaps from the branches with elegant ease. The wind […]
“…and today we’re talking about a drill-faced fuzzy bug. But more on that later.” Foodies pride themselves on variety and quality, but what if your face was designed around finding a single food item. The acorn weevil has a face that is specially designed to find, evaluate, and consume acorns– and that’s not all they […]
“…and today we are talking about something extraordinary, but it might be just a fluke. But more on that later.” Description Galactosomum spinetum is a type of fluke, and like many flukes, It has a flattened, oval shape. The metacercaria stage is spherical. It is translucent, and slightly elongated organism. The adult fluke, which resides […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fish as long as the day is long. But more on that later.” The ocean is huge. It’s probably bigger than you think. To cover it, you’d actually need 36 United States of America, and that’s not even mentioning its depth. At that is to say that the ocean […]
“…and today we’re talking about a species that is the cornerstone of civilization. But more on that later.” It’s voting season here in the US. As humans, we get our ballots and our pens to participate in democracy, but honey bees do things a bit differently. When they want to vote on something that affects […]
“…and today we’re talking about a puffy stabber. But more on that later.” The pufferfish has the incredible ability to inflate itself up like a balloon as a defense mechanism. But the interesting thing about this creature is that that’s not to onlythin interesting about it. If you’re a fish, the easiest thing to catch […]
“…and today we’re talking about an insect that would probably shop at Hot Topic. But more on that later.” When you’re a spider wasp, you don’t have time to raise kids. They’re expensive, a liability, and they never stop asking for more spider gut snacks. So rather than deal with all that, it’s best to […]
“…and today we’re talking about a killer that offers sweet nectar to its prey. More on that later.” There is a certain dread that strikes the human heart when you learn about an insect that expands its diet to include things like frogs, birds, and–worse yet–mammals. The giant desert centipede is just giant enough to […]
“…and today we’re talking about an aerial ace, fry thief. But more on that later.” On the cliffs where oceans wail, The kelp gull tells a fishy tale. With eyes so keen and beak so bright, It spies a meal that’s quite a sight. A right whale feasts on plankton small, The kelp gull swoops, […]
“…and today we are talking about a petite pack hunter. But more on that later…” Canines are usually smaller than their prey. That’s because they’ve decided to work together as a team, and teams mean more mouths to feed. But what if you’re not the size of a wolf or even a coyote? What if […]
“…and today we’re talking about an invading hoard that isn’t even supposed to be here. But more on that later.” If you didn’t already, you should know that there are millions of ants living under your feet. With an estimated 20 quadrillion of these little guys on the planet, you’re never very far away from […]
“…and today we are talking about a tiny slimy father. But more on that later.” Doting fatherhood is often a rarity in the animal kingdom. For most species, the lack of the maternal physical connection between fathers and offspring means that dads are relegated to nest protectors or they simply move on. But the red-backed […]
“…and today we’re talking about a rising star in the sea. But more on that later.” Imagine you’re swimming a casual 4000 feet below the waves in the inky blackness of the bathypelagic zone when you come across a pair of what seems like headlights. Is it a car? Is it a plane? No, it’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about the Listerine dad fish. But more on that later.” The bright and colorful coral reefs are home to a wide variety of fish, but very few can be considered decent parents. The yellowhead jawfish is, however, an exception. Taking care of kids is never easy, but try doing it without […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug-eyed pseudo bird. But more on that later.” Arboreal creatures are built to get around in trees, and in the rainforest, that’s an extremely helpful adaptation. But what if your so great at getting around the branches that your no good on the ground. The Colugo is in such […]
“..and today we are talking about an American mammal that you might not already know about.” If you’re a denizen of North America, you probably think you know every furry critter in these parts. You’ve got your bears, cats, wolves, and even a muskrat or two. But there is a lesser known mammalian that may […]
“…and today we’re talking about a rainforest weasel. But more on that later.” It seems that, no matter where you live, you have to deal with mosquitoes. Whether you’re in the Alaskan mountains or the jungles of Panama, biting boys are everywhere. Long ago, the white nosed coati said “enough is enough” and found an […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal hacker of animals. But more on that later.” They say the best defense is a good offense. But they rarely say the opposite. Crabs are little armored warriors scuttling around on the ocean floor, but even their rigid carapace isn’t immune to a little subterfuge. Enter the crab […]
“…and today we’re talking about a sucker who will latch onto anything and go with it. But more on that later.” If you see a shark, whale, or large fish gliding through the open ocean, you may see some extra passengers stuck to its flanks. The live sharksucker is a remora, a fish that freeloads […]
“…and today we’re talking about the Big Foot of the outback. But more on that later.” When you think of bigfoot, you’re probably imagining a large hairy ape, but the big foot of the Australian billabongs is not swamp ape. Instead, it’s a small graceful bird bouncing along the lily pads with water skis for […]
“…and today we’re talking about a percussive Pisces. But more on that later.” If you live in the suburbs of Tampa Bay, Florida. You may have heard an eerie sound in the night. As you drift off to dreamland, you not only hear a strange low rumbling, you can feel it in your chest. As […]
“…and today we’re talking about the smooth jazz of tree critters. But more on that later.” Deep in the jungles of the Amazon, an adorable ball of fluff clings to a tree branch, lapping up delicious ants. The pygmy silky anteater clearly has sloths as a role model, and it shows in their… laid back […]
“…and today we’re talking about the tiger torpedo. But more on that later.” Living life as a living torpedo has its upsides. Feeling the current on your scales as you dart toward a school of tasty fish mackerel must be second to none. However, it comes with its challenges. The striped marlin is a sword-tipped […]
“…and today we are talking about the banshee of Bhutan, the Specter of Sikkim. But more on that later.” It’s cloudy with a chance of leopards here in the jungle, so you’d better have an umbrella and keep your eyes on the skies. The clouded leopard is at home in the trees, and with good […]
“…and today we’re talking monkey business. But more on that later.” Imagine climbing your way to the top of your social order. You’ve made alliances with the right factions and formed a powerful coalition. Now it’s up to you to lead your troop to defend your territory and resources. It’s not the story of an […]
“…and today we’re talking about a baleful beast that lives in a silken lair. But more on that later.” When it comes to venom, every drop counts. No one knows this better than the funnel web spider, one of the world’s deadliest eight-legged freaks. This is definitely one arachnid you don’t want to annoy, since […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny Lincoln in a Tiny cabin. But more on that later.” Humans have long desired to sit by a warm hearth, with a roof over their head, protected from the elements. Shelter is not a yearn unique to humans. All kinds of animals burrow and build to keep the […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal that is takin care of business. But more on that later.” In the Himalayas, you might be surprised to see a goat moose bear cow gazelle scuttling around the rocks. The takin is an odd-looking beast whose elusive nature and gleaming fur possibly inspired a well-known ancient Greek […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fig’s friend for real. But more on that later.” Foxes have holes, birds have nests, and wasps have figs? Figs have been a staple of the human diet for thousands of years, but we share that culinary attraction with an unlikely friend: a wasp. The appropriately named fig wasp […]
“…and today we’re talking about the grumpiest cephalopod in the sea. More on that later.” Brains and digestive systems are linked just like all systems in the body are linked. But with the strange tube-like body shape of the giant squid, these two systems need to be a bit closer than they’d like. When you’re […]
“…and today we’re talking about a predator that gives Mouse Dutch Schafer a run for his money. More on that later.” In the heart of the woodlands, across open fields, and even in bustling urban environments, a folkloric presence reigns supreme. The red fox’s fiery coat and wily spirit have earned it a place in […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny little steed. But more on that later.” Out here in the wild wild west of… let me check my notes… Yucatan Mexico. That’s not very West. Well, out here in the wild wild… East, you won’t get too far without your trusty saddle as well as your trusty […]
“Today we are talking about a vampire that glitters in the sunlight, as if you could outswim it… But more on that later.” In the shadowy depths of the mighty Amazon River, a tiny monster veiled in murky water searches for its next sanguine feast. The Candiru fish is a creature that has both intrigued […]
“…and today we’re talking about a spider in the last place you’d think to look for one. But more on that later.” In the coldest regions of the Arctic ocean, the depths harbor strange and alien life. Normally, living things take breathing for granted. Lungs, gills, trachea, it’s all about moving that sweet sweet oxygen […]
“…and today we’re talking about a shark that isn’t as smooth as it sounds, but it is hot. But more on that later.” In this housing market, sometimes you find yourself living in some unlikely places. But some silk sharks live in a place that is slightly more challenging than a three-story walk up with […]
Merry Christmas, Taxonomy Titans! Carlos and I are currently enjoying Christmas cheer with our friends and family. If you find yourself driving, baking, or doing a task requiring some interesting animal information, here’s a throwback to our Christmasiest episode ever—about reindeer! If you’d like to give us a Christmas present this year, consider joining our […]
“…And today we are talking about an animal that is perpetually in 3rd grade. But less on that later.” The plains of Africa are home to a lot of pretty strange-looking animals. I mean, have you really thought about how weird a giraffe is? But one chimeric beast would definitely leave you scratching your head […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fashion icon that is more interested in function over form. But more on that later.” Few looks in nature are as iconic as a plains zebra’s stripes. But these savannah equines rarely think about fashion, so these stripes must have a function beyond their form. You may think you […]
“…and today we’re talking about the Charlie Chaplin of chickens. But more on that later.” In the wide open plains of Saskatchewan, a bulky pheasant puts on a very interesting display. The Greater Sage Grouse male is equipped with some unique tools to let the ladies know he’s got the gains on the plains. The […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny animal that likes oil, but not the kind that comes from olives. But more on that later.” Warning: Learning about this animal might give you the heebie jeebies or more likely a nervous itch. If you or the kids are sensitive to that, viewer discretion is advised. What […]
“…and today…yeah, we’re talking about a really beautiful animal… But more on that later.” They say sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, but you need more than wit to stake your claim in the animal kingdom. The ocean is a vast place, so you wouldn’t think that finding a place to live would be […]
“…and today we are talking about a rip van winkle for the ages. But more on that later.” What if you could talk to someone from thousands of years ago? What could they tell you about the world and what it was like to navigate through it? Researchers in Siberia are asking similar questions. Unfortunately, […]
“…and today we are talking about an ant that is absolutely canceled. But more on that later.” In Pixar’s A Bug’s Life, the ants are the good guys, but studying ants shows that ants aren’t exactly on the right side of history. If you didn’t already know that the bug world was a brutal one, […]
“…and today we are talking about some sleepy mountain rodents, but more on that later.” If your circumstances are difficult, sometimes it helps to sleep on it. When you wake up, you’ll feel renewed and ready to tackle life’s challenges. That’s exactly what the yellow bellied marmot does, and his biggest problem is winter. But […]
“…and today we’re talking about an assertive insertive fish in the sea. But more on that later.” The ocean is full of situations where animals work together toward a common goal. Whether it’s finding food, fighting off predators, or setting up a place to live, it’s important to pick your underwater teammate carefully. However, while […]
“…and today we’re talking about a boss that puts the team on his back. But more on that later.” In everyday life, it’s often necessary to wear many different hats. You’re a student, an employee, a parent, and more. In nature, it’s no different. While it’s rare for animals to wear actual hats, the sponge […]
“…and today we’re talking about an arboreal ignoramus. But more on that later.” Way out in the land down under, a famous little gray puff gremlin spends its days as a literal tree-hugger. Like its equally famous black and white counterpart in China, the Panda, the Koala is a threatened cutie that eats terribly, sleeps […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny barrel in the sea. But more on that later.” Humans, like many animals, go through a familiar generational cycle. Your parents made you and their parents made them. But when you look closer, so close you can see the tiny things floating in the sea, things start to […]
“…and today we’re talking about an ice cold krill killer. But more on that later.” The trend of swimming in cold water for health benefits is doggy paddling its way into the public zeitgeist. But what if you absolutely had to live in freezing waters in order to survive? The crocodile icefish lives up to […]
“And today we’re talking about a reptile that’s coming in our state trying to take our rabbits! But more on that later…” A “fish out of water” is someone who feels out of place because their surroundings are not suitable for their designed purpose. The Burmese python is out of place in Florida, but, unfortunately, […]
“…and today we’re talking about the most popular villain of nursery rhymes. But more on that later.” Pack leader. Top dog. Dominant male. Head honcho. Alpha male. It’s a common misconception that wolves fight for dominance within their packs to see who becomes and stays the alpha wolf. But that doesn’t mean packs don’t have […]
“…and today we are talking about an animal whose mind commands the body to roll and it obeys. But more on that later.” Members of the animal kingdom know that survival is the ability to swim in strange water–and sometimes that water is sand. Sand is coarse and rough and gets everywhere, but many animals, […]
“…and today we’re talking about spicy calamari, but not really. More on that later.” When you’re a teeny tiny cerulean cephalopod in a big bad cephalopod’s world, you need to have some tricks up all eight of your sleeves. The blue-ringed octopus’s diminutive form hides a deadly secret to deter predators that may want to […]
“…and today we’re talking about something with a name that sounds like it could be a fish, bird, or flower. But more on that later…” Butterflies are truly one of God’s gifts of nature. A creature that sports brilliant colors, flutters around gracefully, and dines only on the nectar provided by beautiful flowers. But there’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about an Olympic-level bug. But more on that later.” “Jack, be nimble. Jack, be quick. Jack jumps over the candle stick.” Jumping over a whole candle stick might be an easy proposition for a young boy named Jack, but it’s a much different feat for a tiny ant. The Jack jumper […]
“…and today we’re talking about a crustacean that’s coming for your rice crispy treats. But more on that later.” What if you lived in a place that was sometimes uninhabitable for years? You’d have to prepare for the lean years. In fact, you’d need a bunker. Such is the way of the tadpole shrimp. They […]
“…and today we’re talking about the cousin of an alumni. But more on that later.” Deep in the water where no fish hang out lives a glum, gloomy swimmer with some ever-present clout. The hadal snailfish lives where pretty much nothing else can live – the hadal zone. The pressure and temperature of the water […]
“…and today we’re talking about the wolfpack of the sky. But more on that later.” Now this is the Law of the desert— as blue and as vast as the sky; And the Wolf that shall keep it may prosper, like the birds that hunt as they fly? The family that hunts together, eats together. […]
“…and today we’re talking about a sea creature that somebody at some point apparently thought was quite attractive. But more on that later.” The coral reefs of the shallow tropics are home to a wide variety of dazzling displays, but none so alluring as the vibrant dance of the sexy shrimp. From its colorful home […]
“…and today we’re talking about the cold-blooded king of the jungle. But more on that later.” Everyone knows that a true king must wear a crown. In the jungles of Southeast Asia, the kingly crown isn’t a mane but a hood. The King Cobra is an infamous monarch who uses his regal headwear to intimidate […]
“…and today we’re talking about a ghoulish ground bird. But more on that later.” Description Males are black, and females are gray with brown streaks. They have squat bodies like a typical finch. Their beaks are short, sharp, and curved slightly downward. Some have orange or partially orange beaks. Measure Up Welcome to the beloved […]
“And today we are talking about sea critters with their own clear, plastic-looking straw. But more on that later.” Humans are social creatures, but we aren’t the only ones. Gregarious animals hang out together, especially during mating seasons. But what if you are both sedentary and gregarious, which is another way to say a friendly […]
“…and today we’re talking about a slimy little yellow guy. But more on that later.” So we know how animals make more animals, but how do plants make more plants? With the help of animals, of course! Whether it’s spreading seeds on the ground or getting animals to eat them, plants have a unique way […]
“…and today we’re talking about a master thief who is the king of trash mountain. But more on that later.” A generalist has a general wish To bandit with reckless abandon. Bird eggs, crumb cakes, delicious fried fish… Dining fine? Easier said than done. A cunning mind will help raccoons find The dishes to delight […]
“…and today we were talking about Captain America of the sea with similar headwear. But more on that later.” Description of the Winghead Shark Grey and white hammerhead shark. The shark cuts a thin, torpedo-shaped silhouette with a large dorsal and caudal fin. They have a pronounced hammer with a larger wingspan than your typical […]
“…and today we’re talking about what KJV onliest thinks ancient Hebrews made themselves bald as. But more on that later.” To soar sorely is such a bore. A raptor up high has a real chore. Hunting for prey far down below, Is a bald eagle’s typical M.O. But how can they fly for so long, […]
“…and today we’re talking about the swamp’s angriest stone. But more on that later.” As if you needed another reason not to go traipsing around the swamps of the American South, the alligator snapping turtle brings a few hundred pounds of armored power to the equation. But swamps aren’t really known for having crystal clear […]
“…and today we’re talking about the specter of the Sundarbans. But more on that later.” How can black and orange go unseen In a place of vertical green? The world’s most immense panthera Can hide among the Themeda. Though it likes meat held up by hooves You may have a taste it approves. It’s a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bird that would make a terrible nickname. But more on that later.” In the valley of the dry bones, God showed Ezekiel his power over life and death by breathing life into the long desiccated skeletons that lay there in the valley. But for birds, breathing life into your […]
“…and today we’re talking about a primate with its finger on the pulse of the forest. But more on that later.” Once upon a drizzling Madagascar night, a small insect awoke, focusing his sight. While nestled safe in his place of bamboo peace, a sound disturbed him and it would not cease. All of a […]
“…and today we’re talking about carb-eating beetles that scoff at the mere mention of the keto diet. But more on that later.” Finding a solution to an invasive species is rarely an easy task. But when Americans’ cereal is at stake, it’s time for drastic action. The cereal leaf beetle is a serious problem for […]
“…and today we’re talking about a frog that sticks to its plans. But more on that later.” For most creatures, finding a mate is a top priority–up there with getting a good meal. But the common rain frog is a funny shape that makes the mating season a bit awkward–and that shape is round. How […]
“…and today we’re talking about a crustacean that appears as if it comes pre-deep fried. But more on that later.” The true master of disguise is able to use their environment to their advantage. Just like a cold war era Russian spy, you want to blend in with the locals if you want to avoid […]
“…and today we’re talking about an Alaskan with a taste for salmon, but I repeat myself. But more on that later.” As a mini me to its cousin the great white, the salmon shark seems like an adorable football-shaped friend in the sea. But these seven footers are no small fries. These sharks are born […]
“…and today we’re talking about a big bushy eyebrow. But more on that later…” South America is home to a lot of interesting looking animals. Possibly the goofiest one is the giant anteater. With a tube snoot, a bushy tail, and a panda for an arm, the anteater prowls the shrublands looking for, you guessed […]
“…and today we’re talking about a parasite on the prowl. But more on that later.” By now you may have heard of Cordyceps, the fungus among use that can take over the brain of an ant. But is there such a threat in the kingdom Animalia. The horsehair worm is a parasite that bears no […]
“…and today we’re talking about the sea bull to the manatee’s sea cow, but much more scary. But more on later.” If Huck Finn knew what might have been lurking in the waters of the ol Missisip, he may have thought twice about rafting down it for as long as he did. The bull shark […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug with junk in the trunk, but more on that later.” Precious resources are often fiercely guarded. Only a clever wolf will ever taste mutton, and the rules remain in place in the insect world. The lacewing is a graceful insect that some mistake for delicate fairies, but their […]
“…and today we’re talking about my manned man, but more on that later.” Look! In the woods! It’s a wolf, it’s a fox! No, it’s the maned wolf and his mild-mannered alter ego, uh Phil. Keeping taxonomy researchers and podcast hosts on their toes is the name of the game sweetheart as this glamazon from […]
“…and today we’re talking about the familiar of a ferocious female. But more on that later.” The life of a pet is a charmed one–at least when your owner is a kind and benevolent ruler. But what if you lived in the home of a giant arachnid, ten times your size. Would you still want […]
“…and today we’re talking about the lurker in the cathedral, the stained aranea. But more on that later.” In the forests of Australia, the glistening dew of a rain-kissed leaf might be a little more than just a water droplet. The mirror spider takes what would be waste to another spider and turns it into […]
“…and today we’re talking about a frog with a killer skincare routine. But more on that later.” For too long, amphibians have only dared to come out at night. But the waxy monkey frog says no more. This amphibian has chosen to step into the sun and lay eyes upon an earth in the full […]
“…and today we’re talking about a ba… I mean bird. But more on that later.” The caves of the Caribbean are home to a slick bird that thinks it’s a bat. Deep in these midnight caverns, shining an unwelcome light will be met with the anguished screeches of the little devil known as the oilbird. […]
“…and today we’re talking about a canis comrade, but more on that later.” There are many symbiotic relationships in nature, but there is no closer interspecies bond than the one found between humanity and their dogs. Canines and humans have been close companions for so long that we’ve influenced the course of dog adaptation and […]
“…and today we’re talking about a stone at the bottom of the sea. Definitely don’t be on that later.” It’s no surprise that the most venomous fish in the world is found in none other than the land down under. Hidden among the rocks and coral in Australia and the surrounding islands, the reef stonefish […]
“…and today we are talking about Godwit the Soarin. But more on that later.” If you’re looking wistfully out the window at a frozen or snowy gray day, you know that winter can be a real drag. Some birds fly south for the winter, and sometimes those birds clog up South Florida roadways. But what […]
“…and today we’re talking about a flat character in the animal kingdom, but more on that later.” There are hundreds of species of spiders that call Australia home. Some small, some big, some deadly, and some…hidden. But one master of disguise tends to order a side of contortion with its camoflauge entre. Taking the term […]
“…and today we are talking about an impostor that’s not among us, but among the fish of the sea. But more on that later.” Humans have explored nearly every biome on earth, but when it comes to getting around in the ocean, we are clearly outmatched. Fish are built to ride waves and currents with […]
“And today we’re talking about a gruff goat with a wooly throat. But more on that later.” High up in the mountains of central Asia lives a giddy goat with a lot of panache and a penchant for stomping its enemies into the dirt. But the rumor mill stops for no goat, not even for […]
“…and today we’re giving our last hope to you. Don’t give it back to me, Bitterblue. But more on that later.” In the insect world, there are threats around every log and under every leaf. A young grub is all alone in a huge place. Worse yet, a lot of creatures think he tastes slimy […]
“…and today we are talking about the Pirates of the Caribbean, but not the movie. More on that later.” Out on the high seas, it’s a dog eat dog eat bird eat other bird’s food kinda world. Yer never safe when you have booty to take home to the littl’uns. You’ll have to keep yer […]
“…and today we’re talking about a big-mouthed, deep-living, inflatable tube man. But more on that later.” Americans have just enjoyed a holiday of abundance. Many of us have funneled turkey into our gobblers with mirth and glee. But what if you lived in a place where food was less abundant. That’s where the spirit of […]
“…And today we’re talking about an American noodle of many varieties. But more on that later.” The Manitoban city of Narcisse is a small, quaint place with not much tourism for most of the year. However, for a few days of every spring, the ground erupts in a slithering mass of red-sided garter snakes. Why […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bookworm. Literally, but also not literally. More on that later.” In the dark of an academy library, a shining silverfish ponders some of life’s greatest questions, like, “what is a tastier snack, the pages of War and Peace or its bindings?” A true scholar, the silverfish must test his […]
“…and today we’re talking about moss that grows fat on a rolling toad. But more on that later.” Whether you’re a hungry predator or just a curious researcher, finding yourself a Vietnamese Mossy Frog isn’t going to be easy. They’re not only in the Disguisee family, but they can also deceive you with just their […]
“…and today we are talking about an animal that stands for what they believe in. But more on that later.” What do you do when you’ve saved the last slice of cake but there are other hungry eyes with thoughts of treachery. Anyone with siblings knows that you have to stake your claim quickly. Licking […]
“…and today we’re talking about a deep diving jelly-headed leviathan. But more on that later.” Deep in the water where the fish hang out lives a massive tanky mammal with a quite impressive shout. This blockheaded blubber boi is looking for a fight, he uses his ticks and tricks to hunt with little light. But […]
“…And today we’re talking about a dastardly death–hunter, but more on that later.” The African savannah is a place where many fall to powerful predators and environmental challenges. While the dangers are many, the continent has an undertaker ready to go to work. The Marabou stork is a sinister looking bird that wears a black […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal whose official name violated the order force rule of grammar and I hate that. But more on that later.” The rivers in China are home to one of the largest salamanders—nay, one of the largest amphibians—in the world. Blending in with the rocks that line the riverbeds, the […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bird that sings a song which is soft but it’s clear, as if maybe someone could hear. But more on that later.” Sewing is a human tradition that is as old as the shame of Adam and Eve. What started as a way to protect yourself from the elements […]
“…Today we’re talking about some rodents that make darns out of their own food. But more on that later.” If you look up into the sky and see a box parachuting toward you, it could be a Call of Duty care package, a cargo cult’s answered prayer, or a mid-century beaver relocation project. As humans […]
“…and today we’re talking about a carpet crunching fiber eater. But more on that later.” Creepy crawlies in your home are never fun. What serves as a Roomba in a bird’s nest might do some serious damage to dad’s favorite chair. The carpet beetle may not be as troublesome as its breakfast-in-bed loving kin, but […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that engages in more aggressive mimicry than a middle schooler repeating everything you’re saying. But more on that later.” The year was 1879. James Hingsley was an Australian journalist who returned from his voyage to Indonesia with a strange tale on his lips. He claimed that the northern […]
“…And today we’re talking about a bird who is a runner, she’s a track star. But more on that later.” There are a few paths you can go down in the animal kingdom that are tried and true. Strength and power are great, but only if you can catch what you’re after. The roadrunner is […]
“…and today we’re talking about a little king that is named after the king of kings. But more on that later.” We usually use the term “walk on water” to refer to someone above reproach. But when we say that the aggressive and belligerent basilisk lizard walks on water, we don’t mean that it can […]
“…and today we’re talking about a hole in the bottom of the sea. More on that later.” When you’re under a lot of pressure, you may get a headache. But you’ve never been under as much pressure as the Mariana snailfish. Most things at the bottom of the ocean are invertebrates. They live the squishy […]
“…and today we’re talking about a small soldier. But more on that later.” When you’re out in the wilds of the African bushland, you need to get creative when it comes to emergency wound care. One species of ant has a bite so powerful, it can be used to stave off infection. The true villain […]
“…today we’re talking about this little fish of mine. But more on that later.” When twilight comes, it’s time to light your lantern. But sometimes human technology isn’t enough to get past nature’s barriers. That was the case when early sonar came up against the lanternfish, which congregates in the millions. This tiny mesopelagic creature […]
“…and today we’re talking about petite pink primates in plush parkas. But more on that later.” In the highlands of Japan, one tufty monkey likes to season its food, play in the snow, and waylay unsuspecting people in its free time. It uses all of its simian smarts to quickly learn new behaviors and then […]
“…and today we’re talking about a flat slimy menace that will not go gently into the night. But more on that later.” Have you ever felt that you just don’t fit in. Struggling to make connections with a social group can be difficult, but what if you’re clashing with an entire ecosystem. Such is the […]
“…and today we’re talking about a Casanova with a posse. But more on that later.” If John Travolta has taught us anything, it’s that the ladies can’t resist a man who can dance. Well, at least that’s true for one species of colorful bird known as the blue manakin. But there are tons of birds […]
“…and today we’re talking about a deer whose bark is worse than its bite. But more on that later.” The forests of India are beautiful places to forage for nutritious greenery. Though the fantastic foliage looks tasty, it may be concealing a predator that’s equally appetized by you. If you’re a deer that’s detected a […]
“…and today we’re talking about a little lizard that does more than leap! But more on that later.” Man’s imagination has run wild with the idea of magical flying lizards for almost a thousand years. Dragons are a part of the mythos of cultures all over the world, but they never thought that true flying […]
“…And today we’re talking about a bird that wears t-shirts and stays on the bleachers. But more on that later.” Bird life is about taking to the skies, but it’s also about finding a place to rest, nest, and make more birds. But where do you nest when a tree branch is just too uncomfortable […]
“…and today we’re talking about another beautiful sea creature that everyone will love to look at pictures of. But more on that later.” The ocean is full of just chock-full of friendly and not-at-all scary things. One of those very fun things is the foot-long bloodworm with an extremely strong and painful, venomous bite. But […]
“…and today we’re talking about the marine of the marina that can swim, fly, and crawl. But more on that later.” The ocean is a breeding ground for aberrant creations. Pressure and struggle has formed some of the most peculiar Pisces on the planet. But one fish wanted so badly to skitter along the ocean […]
“…and today we’re talking about a little guy that is as stinky as he is striped. But more on that later.” Perhaps one of the world’s most famous (or infamous) animals is the humble skunk. But it’s not only famous in the human world, it’s also well-known in the animal kingdom. For animals that live […]
“…and today we’re talking about a flying magic carpet of the ocean. But more on that later.” Motherhood is one of nature’s most lofty challenges, especially if you’re alone, in the wild, with limited resources. Protecting eggs or young, may mean giving up your own well-being, to give your offspring a fighting chance. But Bedford’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fish that is built to live where fish shouldn’t live. But more on that later.” Deep in the heart of darkness, one heart truly treasures the darkness. The African Lungfish may need water to survive, but it has a foolproof method to survive the continent’s frequent dry spells. If […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny deer rodent that is neither deer nor rodent. But more on that later.” If you’re off the beaten trail in Indonesia, you may catch a glimpse of a creature more elusive than a forest gnome. You may assume it was a rat or a rabbit. But was it […]
“…and today we’re talking about parasitic creatures that Andrew Ryan would absolutely hate. But more on that later.” Nature is sometimes beautiful and majestic, and sometimes it’s the most horrifying thing you’ve ever seen—but at least it’s almost always interesting! If you see a snail with large flashing horns on its head, you’re not looking […]
“…and today we’re talking about a metal bird that lives a metal lifestyle. But more on that later.” In nature, there are certain rules. Deer eat grass, wolves eat deer, and vultures eat dead things. But sometimes, animals will break the rules to survive when the going gets tough. Deer are known to occasionally eat […]
“…and today we’ll spend Easter on Christmas Island. Maybe we’ll spend Christmas on Easter Island. Not much more on that later.” Every year, the festively named Christmas Island takes on one of its holiday hues as millions of its inhabitants make their way to the edge of the briny sea. The Christmas Island Red Crab […]
“…And today we’re talking about another fox with shifty, untrustworthy eyes. But more on that later.” The Eurasian Steppe is a vast plain where water and food can be scarce. But a wily creature can take advantage of the forbidding environment. Foxes live and thrive on every continent except for Antarctica. But to survive in […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny tiger that’s got its mind set on you. But more on that later.” When it comes to the speediest speedsters, you don’t often look for champions in the insect world. They may be small, but they can be quick once you factor in their size. The Australian tiger […]
“…and today we’re talking about a curious king with a golden crown. But more on that later.” When you’re the king of the swingers it means you’ve reached the top and had to stop. But balancing at the top branches of an Indian forest requires considerable skill. For a monkey that spends most of his […]
“…and today we’re talking about the type of guy who will never settle down, where delicious bugs are, well you know that he’s around. But more on that later.” When Harry Belafonte tells his fellow banana pickers to hide the deadly black tarantula, he may have been talking about a different spider entirely. The Brazilian […]
“…and today we’re talking about a Gouldian bird with a golden mouth. But more on that later…” Nature has all kinds of odd developments where several species are in close competition. When resources are limited, it takes some stand out skills to survive and grow. For a species of finch, the stand out performance starts […]
“…and today we’re talking about lipstick?! In my Honduran white bat?!” The apostle Paul was known as a tent-maker, which could mean that he created a shelter of hope for the gentiles in the first century. It could also mean that he created actual tents since it costs money to travel the known world. Probably […]
“…and today we’re talking about a familiar creature with a Lovecraftian feature. But more on that later.” The sea is full of creatures aberrant to polite society. They swim in the murky depths or live in dark crevasses. But even a familiar sea creature may be alien to you when you really get to know […]
“…and today we’re talking about the pink panther of the river. But more on that later.” The Amazon River is one of the world’s longest rivers and flows through some of the most biologically fascinating places on Earth. It’s home to all manner of animals, but what you may not have known is that it’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about a reptilian mood ring. But more on that later.” You ain’t been blue till you’ve had that mood indigo? Maybe you’ve experienced red hot anger. For humans, it’s mostly metaphor, but there’s one animal that does display real mood-ring-like qualities. The chameleon is an alien looking reptile, a fact that […]
“…and today we’re talking about the most romantic sea creature. A brown lump! But more on that later.” At the bottom of the ocean, a brown lump inches along the coral and sands, keeping its notable lack of eyes out for potential predators. But when trouble does come a-sniffin, the slow sea cucumber has a […]
“…And today we’re talking about a woman who doesn’t give a darn about her bad reputation.” The black widow spider is nature’s ultimate example of the femme fatale. An unyielding queen in the middle of her silken throne, waiting for the lowly male, driven to her by an instinct most basic. Though her signature red […]
“…and today we’re talking about the titans of the tundra, the cervids of Santa. But more on that later.” Reindeer are famous for flying, being rude to those that are different from them, and fiercely defending Johnny’s Turbo Man action figure. But one reindeer has an unusual nose that’s even more famous. Researchers have spent […]
“…and today we forgot to say an intro blurb because we had housekeeping stuff.” Life among the rocks provides cover from predators and a quick escape when necessary, but it also comes with its challenges. But the rock hyrax has accepted the task of adapting to this rugged terrain. For a nice warm spot to […]
“…And today we’re walking about a lanky tooth missile that isn’t scared of nobody. But more on that later.” The Amazon is home to many of the western hemisphere’s most successful predators. But the most surprising apex predator isn’t the piranha, the anaconda, or even the legendary jaguar – it’s the giant otter! Alone, they […]
“…and today we’re talking about an insect that wants you to think it floats like a butterfly and stings like a bee.” What would you do if you only had energy from the food you ate when you were a kid? You may move as little as possible, and only when you had to. That’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about a chill amphibian with a cool pair of sunglasses. But more on that later.” Being cold blooded is usually fine, as long as you live in a warm-ish area. But what about the chilly-bloods living in the less-than-warm regions of the world? Some dig into the ground, some just die, […]
“…and today we’re talking about yet another crustacean that packs a punch. More on that later.” For a small crab with very little claws, there’s a ton of pressure on the ocean floor. Bigger fish can swallow you up like you were supposed to be in Nineveh. But when the challenge of survival is laid […]
“…and today we’re talking about everyone’s favorite animal! But more on that later…” You know ‘em, you hate ‘em, you have ‘em – they’re cockroaches. Yes, it’s time for the interesting animal podcast to talk about everyone’s favorite scittering critter. Odds are good that you’ve encountered one of these pleasant house guests within the last […]
“…and today we’re talking about the Christmas decoration of the sea. More on that later.” The ocean can be a dangerous place. There’s always a bigger fish waiting for an unsuspecting creature to become its next meal. One brightly colored eel avoids these threatening open maws by rarely leaving their homes in the crevasse of […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that sounds like a pokemon, but looks like a dark souls enemy.” The insect world is a horrifyingly brutal one. For most, life is hard, stressful, and short. This is due, in part, to the work of players like the Assassin Bug. Many bugs that rely on their […]
“…and today we’re talking about a lizard that is great at getting out of sticky situations. But more on that later.” In the outback you need an exit strategy for whenever you get into trouble, especially if you’re a lizard of modest stature. The Golden-tailed gecko is a striking subject to look at, but it’s […]
“Today we’re talking about bug spray… in a manner of speaking. But more on that later.” When you’re a small beetle in a big world, you can easily become someone’s lunch if you’re not careful. So having a secret weapon is vital to survival. When danger rears its ugly head, the bombardier beetle rears its […]
“…and today, on our 200th episode, we’re talking about an adorable video game character.” For a true generalist, nothing is off the menu. Sometimes survival is all about versatility, and if you have an adventurous palate, there are more resources at your disposal. For one Japanese canine, finding enough food to last through the winter […]
“…And today we’re talking about a frog that rolls with the punches. But more on that later.” High in the table-top mountains of Venezuela, a tiny pebble toad inches its way across the moist sandstone outcroppings. Little does he know that danger lurks just around the corner. A toad-eating tarantula is on the hunt and […]
“…and today we’re talking about a little porpoise with a big problem. But more on that later.” If you’re in the Gulf of California and you see a small figure break through the glistening surface of the water, you may be witnessing a rare site. Like a glimpse of ball lightning, you may stare, unbelieving […]
“…and today we are literally talking about a creature that lives by a pattern of life and death and has an interesting taxonomy. But more on that later.” Every fall, the arid wilderness of Australia is peppered with the fallen bodies of tiny marsupials. What could create such a scene? Predators, disease, global warming? The […]
“…and today we’re talking about a reptile who’s lady is the sea. But more on that later.” We all know and share a healthy fear of snakes. They live under rocks and slither on their bellies to get around. But there are actually dozens of snake species that don’t live on land at all. Instead, […]
“…and today we’re talking about a lost boy that lives in caves and doesn’t want to grow up. But more on that later.” Living in the pitch blackness of the caves of southern Europe is a tiny eyeless Chinese dragon that can regrow its arms and sense prey using electricity. Intrigued? Well that’s not even […]
“…and today we’re talking about the largest shelled reptile that lives on land maybe! But more on that later…” A strange reptile that lives on a strange type of island will surely deliver in the weird department. Islanders are known for showing some interesting adaptations that mainlanders may find funny. But when you’re surrounded by […]
“…and today we’re talking about slimy yet satisfying frogish fish, but more on that later.” While other fish are relegated to the vast oceans, lakes, and rivers that cover 70% of the planet, some decided that it wasn’t enough room. Bent on total global domination, the Atlantic Mudskipper wants to be where the people are. […]
“…and today we’re talking about Moto Moto and why he doesn’t like you. But more on that later.” A beast lies in a river bed. He is confident when the waters run against his mouth. And he has no fear of turbulent waters. You can’t take him by his eyes or pull his nose with […]
“..and today we’re talking about the most direct path imaginable. But more on that later…” When you’re a little bird surrounded by larger predators, you need to have a strong support network to fend off the baddies. Just like Flik in a Bug’s Life, the least terns have realized that there is true strength in […]
“…and today we’re talking about an ocean journey that puts Finding Nemo to shame! But more on that later…” Some animals are born, live, and die in one place. Their homes are never far away and they’re familiar with all they survey. But some species travel great distances, driven by some unknown impulse. A journey […]
“…and today we’re talking about a spicy dish. But more on that later.” Deep in the water where the fish hang out, lives a small sleepy saucer we know not too much about He’s a zap zap fish with a zap zap belly And his neat electric organs turn your insides into jelly He hides […]
“…and today we’re talking about a great big plant-based carnivore, but more on that later.” When you have a particular problem you call in a specialist. In nature, specialists give up traditional paths to get very good at one thing. It usually refers to the place they live and the food they eat. In China’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about what the internet has dubbed the world’s happiest animal.” You know that old joke where there are two guys hiking in the woods who see a bear and one of them says “How are we gonna outrun it” and the other says “I just need to outrun you”? Well, the […]
“…and today we’re talking about the closest thing to a traditional fire breathing dragon we’re going to get.” Reptilians once dominated the food chain as the largest animals in their ecosystems until some natural checks and balances relegated them to smaller bodies that were better at sneaking under rocks and bushes. But nature’s memo failed […]
“And today we’re talking about a horror pancake. But more on that later.” The northern region of South America is home to the Amazon Basin, which in turn hosts a wide variety of fascinating rainforest dwellers. With one of the most odd-looking being the surinam toad. What looks at first like a dead frog that’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bird that loves chocolate chip cookies. But more on that later.” Description Has an overall build of a sandpiper with a rotund body and long legs. Its feathers are black or dark brown along the back, tail, and wings. There’s a small rufous patch just under the shoulders and […]
“…and today we’re talking about a gecko that just does what it wilsts. But more on that later.” The 80s spawned a lot of things: Reaganomics, Terminator, Steve Perry. But it also gave rise to the Satanic Panic. And one of the most prominent kinds of Satanists that the decade produced was an evil race […]
“…we’re talking about a colorful jungle bird that follows his nose for froot… I mean fruit. But more on that later.” The jungle is a paradise of delectable nectar and fantastic fruit. For those that can reach these delights, the jungle provides everything you need. But it takes some special equipment to take advantage of […]
“…and today we’re talking about the tibetan fox of antelopes. By that I mean it looks like a child’s drawing of the antelope that isn’t quite right. But more on that later.” On the steppes of the stans in Central Asia, a goofy-looking antelope grazes around the countryside, using its odd snout to sniff the […]
“…and today we’re talking about an owl with an eye for allies. But more on that later.” Small things slithering across the woodlands know to watch the skies. A killer approaches silently as it glides from high perches. For most small mammals and invertebrates that meet this aerial doom, it’s time to say goodbye to […]
“…and today we’re talking about the sloooowest mammal in the world. But more on that later.” The Amazon jungle is home to a wide variety of animals both fast and slow, with one of the slowest being the brown-throated sloth. But with so many fierce predators on the jungle floor, it helps to spend all […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug that looks like a deep fried praying mantis. But more on that later.” The forest is a dangerous place for an egg. They are packed with proteins and fats in order to grow the new creature inside, but those qualities also make them tasty morsels for foragers. Moms […]
“…and today we’re talking about the plume in the room. But more on that later.” At the bottom of the deepest oceanic trench, you’ll find an animal that’s worth writing home about. The sea pen is a feathery friend with multiple personalities and penchant for puffing itself up when the coast is clear. But when […]
“And today we’re talking about one of the fastest ungulates west of the Mississippi. But more on that later.” North America has a few big animals, but it’s mostly dominated by smaller fauna that have learned to thrive in the amber waves of grain. However, America was once a continent like Africa, home to great […]
“…and today we’re talking about an insect that’s part ant and part dump truck. But more on that later.” For most animals, storing food for later is for jive squares. It’s all about getting as much food as you can stomach right now and letting tomorrow take care of itself. For the more prudent, however, […]
“…and today we’re talking about a spike-covered tush that lives out in the bush. But more on that later.” The subterranean lifestyle has it’s benefits and many small animals make their beds below the earth. From the sleeping cicada to the idle fox, the shelter of a sand and soil roof provides protection from predatory […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fish that enjoys working at the carwash. More on that later.” When you run a lucrative maritime cleaning service, you gotta protect your turf. The dominant bluestreak cleaner wrasse defends its territory, its business, and its family on a daily basis. But when the don disappears, it’s up to […]
“…and today we’re talking about the mountain lamb that the Lord provided. Literally, because it’s just a wild sheep.” If you’re in America’s western snow capped regions and you hear a sudden crack that echoes through mountains, it might not be thunder. If that cracking continues at periodic intervals for close to an hour, you […]
“…and today we’re talking about Yennefer of Vengerbird, the black and white songbird downunder. But more on that later.” If you’re out for a stroll in the wilds of Australia, Europe, or North America, you might stumble upon a peculiar and gruesome sight: the impaled victims of the butcherbird. Setting its sights on larger prey […]
“…and today we’re talking about the biggest and the strongest primate in the world.” The largest primate in the world is also the strongest. In fact, the eastern lowland gorilla is among the strongest animals pound for pound. Their size and strength has led to their depiction as classic monsters that Superman and Godzilla need […]
“…and today we’re talking about something that looks just like an iguana but it’s apparently not a lizard at all.” Scattered along the northern coast of New Zealand’s north island is a living fossil that was thought to be extinct: the tuatara. A laid-back lizard with a lazy lifestyle, the tuatara spends most of its […]
“…and today we’re talking about a mongoose most foul. But more on that later.” The savannah is a brutal place for the animals that call it home. Between lions, leopards, and hyenas, many of the mammals that populate Africa’s jungles and plains are built with sharp claws and powerful jaws. But when it comes to […]
“…and today we’re talking about the longest boy in the ocean. But more on that later.” Earthquakes are some of the most destructive events on this planet, snuffing out lives by the thousands and destroying entire cities. The worst part is, we can’t really predict them in advance-or can we? The elusive oarfish is often […]
“…and today we’re talking about the ghost of the forest. But more on that later.” A hare grazes in a clearing surrounded by the forest edge. An uneasy feeling comes over him, like he’s being watched. He makes for the tree line, seeking safety among the trees and shrubs. But it does him no good. […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal that sounds like a delicious Caribbean dish but looks like it inspired the Witcher’s endrega monsters. But more on that later.” Scattered across the islands of the south Pacific is a population of crabs that are great in a pinch. The coconut crab is the largest land crab […]
“…and today we’re talking about a modern day dinosaur with a name to match. But more on that later.” Lizards sometimes retain primordial qualities. To look at them, you may see the scaly faces of ages long gone. The sailfin dragon lizard has a look that matches it’s fantastical name. But the dinosaur-esque nature of […]
“…and today we’re talking about a poo poo paladin that rolls with the punches and makes the most out of a smelly situation. But more on that later.” One animal’s waste is another animal’s treasure. The dung beetle was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians for its apparent fecal-oriented immortality, but modern discoveries have found new […]
“…and today we’re talking about a deadly insect that’s carried on the winds of change. But more on that later.” Many animals have amazing abilities that make them especially ferocious and formidable. But few are so terrible and mighty that they can be classified as a natural disaster. No we’re not talking about a giant […]
“…and today we’re talking about the devil down under and his horrifying night time death screams.” Far from the reckless, neckless monstrosity that Warner Brothers uses to move their cartoon plots along, the real Tasmanian Devil is a semi-cute mongoose pig that will eat anything that comes across its path. From its brutal and competitive […]
“…and today we’re talking about a coveted animal crossing catch. But not much more on that later.” The sponge life is a simple one. With nowhere to go and no way to get there, a sponge needs to make the most of its surroundings. To protect against the current, sponges form skeletons out of whatever’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal that I could have sworn we did before but I can’t find it in our list!” Avoiding becoming someone else’s meal is typically priority number one for most animals. While there are many different ways to live another day in the “eat or be eaten” kingdom of Animalia, […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug with a prickly personality. But more on that later.” The tropics are teaming with life. That means there’s an abundance of resources for you and your brood to enjoy. It also means that there’s plenty of competition looking to eat your food or eat you. Protecting yourself can […]
“…and today we’re talking about a waterlogged football with eyes and a taste for shrimp. But more on that later.” The blobfish might be the subject of cruel internet memes for many a year, but that digital ridicule may be unduly bestowed upon our deep-sea friend. He may look goofy, but that’s just because he’s […]
“…and today we’re talking about a frog with a secret underground life. But more on that later.” The forests of India’s Western Ghats, are teaming with life. Many amphibian species live there, and many have only been discovered in the last few decades. As frogs hop from log to log and branch to branch, one […]
“…And today we’re talking about Marco Polo’s thick unicorn! But more on that later.” Grazing along the African savannah, the white rhino keeps his ears peeled for the danger bird – despite not having many predators to worry about. When opportunity squawks, the rhino definitely listens. But the classic symbiotic relationship between the rhino the […]
“…Today we’re talking about a prickly bush pig, though it’s not a pig at all. But more on that later.” The cutest and most mild mannered animals often find themselves in the pet trade. But in the wild world of woodland creatures, cute doesn’t get you very far. For those creatures that tread the line […]
“…Today we’re talking about a cephalopod that wears a beautiful gown. But more on that later.” The ocean is home to many a strange and wondrous creature, but few are so strange as the blanket octopus. Worthy of its name, the blocktopus drifts and flutters with dazzling colors across the pelagic seas. But unfurling your […]
“…And today we’re talking about a sea noodle that’s as disgusting as we’ve come to expect from the bottom of the ocean.” Imagine you’re a big fish with a hankering for some ocean detritus. You find a carcass that’s descended to the seafloor, but you’re late to the party. It’s surrounded by a nightmare mob […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creature that looks like it specced into every skill tree. But more on that later.” In the land down under, there’s dwelleth a strange mammal that looks like an otter that glued a bunch of other animal parts onto its body. The platypus is famous not only for its […]
“And today we’re talking about something we were supposed to talk about a few weeks ago but we goofed and now we’re talking about it now. More on that now.” Hunters have all kinds of methods to help catch their prey. There’s ambushing, stalking, and brute force. But one of the most clever ways may […]
“…and today we’re talking about one of the most famous sea animals of all time. The white hat to the black hat of the great white shark. Though, PR can be deceiving. But more on that later…” When life kicks mud in your face, most of us, and most animals, would give up or bemoan […]
“…And today we’re talking about a legendary animal friendship. But more on that later.” The American coyote is a famous animal in folklore and fables. The cunning animal is a mainstay in Native American folk tales and culture. Coyotes have long exhibited a behavior that was thought to only be true in stories. In fact, […]
“…and today we wrestle between good SEO and saying the awkward name of a bird over and over. But more on that later.” If you were walking through the woods one day, you might see something strange… a fluffy white mass up in the trees. You might think it was a hanging goat carcass or […]
“… and today we’re talking about a predator so adorable, it rivals the pika-killing stoat in deadly cuteness.” Predators come in all shapes and sizes, but a small size doesn’t necessarily mean an animal is a less effective hunter. And if you’re a rodent in the semi-desert plains of southern Africa, it’s a lesson you […]
“…and today we’re talking about a formal feathered friend. But more on that later.” Birds of a feather waddle together. And that’s never been truer than it is for the Adelie penguin. As the dapper flippers make their way across the Antarctic ice each year, it’s important for each one to stake their claim on […]
“…and today we’re talking about a mysterious organic, deep-diving submarine. But more on that later.” Deep down at the bottom of the ocean, there sits an alien monster fish that stares up straight through its own skull to spy prey: the barreleye. How does it do this? By being one of the weirdest creatures alive, […]
“…And today we’re talking about an arthropod that might be right at home on English dining table next to a bottle of brown sauce. But more on that later…” The desert is home to some strange creatures with some even stranger adaptation. Few phyla find as much success in arid climates like arthropods, which develop […]
“…and today we’re talking about a bug of very many names. But more on that right now.” You might think that gills are just for ocean dwellers, and you’d be wrong. For the terrestrial woodlouse or roly-poly, using gills is as easy as breathing. But how and why does it have gills? It’s all a […]
Sharks are a primordial design. A torpedo built to catch and shred prey. These cold black eyes, like a doll’s eyes, are nothing but dark pools of basic, rudimentary instinct, right? Well some sharks are built differently than their kin. The mako shark is one of a few fish with an interesting adaptation that is […]
“…and today we’re talking about a buccal pumping pup sucking histotroph in huge chunks. That sentence will only get grosser when you know what those words mean. But more on that later…” Sometimes the biggest giants are the gentlest giants. But this gentle giant is also a genius giant. While the oceanic manta ray might […]
“Today we’re talking about a tree frog with a bright personality. But more on that later.” The tropical rainforests of South America hide all kinds of rare and fascinating animals – including a host of one-of-a-kind frogs. The polka-dot tree frog may look like your typical aimless amphibian but it actually leads a secret glamorous […]
“…and today we’re talking about a seriously amazing cetacean sensation. But more on that later…” Upon first look, a cetacean may seem perfectly alien to a human being. But a closer look may reveal soulful eyes, intelligent behavior, and playful attitudes. An even closer inspection will uncover the fact that these organic torpedoes are extremely […]
In this episode of the podcast, we talk about the damselfly, an insect with an interesting childhood.
In this animal podcast episode, we talk about the scaly foot snail, an animal with metal armor.
“…Thank you to Casy Michelle for creating our theme song. Hear more of Casy’s music by searching Casy Michelle on Youtube. Today we’re talking about a sluggish forest clown! But more on that later.” If you’re slow in the animal kingdom, you’d better have a plan when trouble comes a-knockin’. Some animals freeze, some hide, […]
“Thank you to Casy for our theme song. Hear more of Casy’s music by searching Casy Michelle on Youtube. Today we’re talking about a bird with a penchant for piracy, but more on that later…” Birds often display unexpected ingenuity. They’re famous for building nests, and those nests come in all shapes and sizes, from […]
“Thank you to Casy for our new theme song. Hear more of Casy’s music by searching Casy Michelle on Youtube. Today we’re talking about a familiar looking lizard with an unfamiliar amazing ability!” From the time of Alexander the Great, air breathers have been fascinated by the world beneath the waves. And humans aren’t the […]
“…And today we’re talking about a naughty slug that doesn’t play by the rules. But more on that later.” Hi, LDT listeners. You’re about to hear something special: Life, Death and Taxonomy’s first ever theme song. We’ve long set the mood with free to use web found music, but thanks to our friend Casy, we […]
“…and today we’re talking about another misnamed sea creature with a sneaky nature.” The coral reefs of Australia are bright and colorful places of happiness for all kinds of fish and sea critters. But there’s always danger lurking around every corner. One surly cephalopod has a habit of hypnotizing its prey and tricking its rivals […]
“…and today we’re talking about a tiny bright yellow animal that doesn’t have to worry about most predators. But more on that later.” The rainforest is a lush verdant landscape covered in shades of green and brown. Organisms that deviate from this chromatic conformity usually want to be seen like budding flowers or lovestruck birds. […]
“…and today we’re talking about an insect that’s not as pious and charitable as it’s posture projects. But more on that later.” While the prayers of a righteous man availeth much, the prayers of a righteous bug aren’t as effective. In fact, there is no such thing as a righteous bug. But that doesn’t stop […]
“…and today we’re talking about the sultan of the Savannah, the prince of the pride, the king of the jungle. But more on that later.” Cats are a solitary bunch. They prefer quiet naps in trees or in the sunbeam cast in an otherwise vacated living room. The loner lifestyle is just easier for felines […]
“Today we’re talking about a bird that’s as fearless as it is big. More on that later.” Life in the rainforest can be hard, but not if you’re a harpy eagle. Enjoying a top spot at the head of its food chain, these frilly feathers can choose from a wide variety of animals to make […]
“And today we’re talking about a big sneaky horse, giraffe, zebra. But more on that later.” The African Savannah is dominated by predators but the jungles of the Congo aren’t much safer. The dense forests conceal powerful predators like the leopard, which catches prey that didn’t even know she was there. Today, poachers are even […]
“And today we’re talking about a sci-fi fish with some grumpy gills. But more on that later.” If you were to go diving almost anywhere in the shallows of an Indo-Pacific ocean, there’s a good chance you’ll find a moray eel stationed in some of the porous holes left in the rocky coral reefs. Looking […]
“Today we’re talking about an aquatic olive garden. But more on that later…” The sun, surf, and gentle sound of waves crashing against the sandy shores may bring to mind a welcome respite from daily life. But as with human surfers, the beach is life for some tidal animals. There’s a whole world of creatures […]
“…and today we’re going to talk about the elephant in the room. More on that for the entire episode…” Striding across the African Savannah in a constant search for food, the African Elephant is the largest land animal in the world. But in spite of its size, the elephant is a master of subtlety. When […]
“…And today we’re talking about an animal that has gotten some bad press recently. But hopefully some cool facts will turn it around. More on that later.” A dry barren wasteland seems like the kind of place most creatures would avoid. But the dessert offers rare opportunities to those who have the tools to capitalize […]
“And today we’re talking about an adorable arachnid with as much style as they have charisma. But more on that later.” While John Travolta dances to cope with the stresses of life and Kevin Bacon dances so that the Bomont seniors can go to prom, the peacock spider is a much more dire dancer. When […]
“Today we’re talking about an animal that least but certainly not last. But more on that later.” There are two basic paths of sustenance in the animal kingdom. You can gather and graze or you can eat the grazers. Predators are usually large, powerful, and able to take down prey that are built to resist […]
“And today we’re talking about an arms race that moves about three feet per minute, but more on that later…” We all love starfish, cute, slow-moving, harmless little creatures whose desiccated husks make for great souvenirs from your trip to Key Largo. But not all starfish can be as whimsical as Patrick Star, some are […]
“…and today we’re talking about a spider that’s truly magnificent. But more on that in a few minutes.” Australia is no stranger to animals that do things differently. The denizens of the large island often have to carve their own path. It’s not surprising that the continent’s animals are often as intrepid and undaunted by […]
“And today we’re talking about a nautilus that isn’t actually a nautilus at all, but it is a Greek mythological hero. More on some of that later.” You may have heard of Alexander the Great’s famous diving bell, but he was far from the first earthling to explore the depths with trapped air. Putzing around […]
“And today we’re talking about a seal that can play the saxophone! But not really! But not much more on that later.” Lake Baikal stretches across southern Siberia and it contains enough water to exceed all of the Great Lakes combined. It’s so large and deep, it’s said to be a leading candidate for the […]
“And today we’re talking about an electric water type Pokémon. But more on that later.” If there’s anything we learned as kids, it’s stop drop and roll, don’t do drugs, and never mix electricity with water. But a certain stunning slippery serpentine creature didn’t get the memo. If you go swimming with the electric eel, […]
“And today we’re talking about a carnivore in name only. But more on that later.” A seed falls from overhead into the soft soil beneath. It’s buried by a steady rain that lasts all afternoon. It’s growth will mark the beginning of a new tree in the rain forest. But where did that seed come […]
“And today we’re talking about a cuddly looking lazy old bear that’s not a bear at all. But more on that later…” Hoigh app in the eucalyptus trays of Ustreya, the koala beeah suffahs from a caise of mistaken oidentity. It’s not really even a beeah, it’s a mahsupial loike the kaingaroo. And it has […]
“And today we’re talking about a bird with perfect projection for a passeriform. But more on that later…” In the bird world, it takes a lot to attract a mate. Some go for brilliant colorful costumes, other’s choreograph a complex dance, and a select few even dabble in architecture. But why do any of that […]
“And today we’re talking about fish head fish heads rolly polly fish heads. But more on that later…” If you’re cruising around in temperate waters on a sunny day, don’t be surprised if you see a huge flat disk floating on the surface nearby. The Mola mola is a massive fish that sometimes needs a […]
“…and today we’re talking about an amazing armored animal! But more on that later.” Speed and strength are popular in the animal kingdom. If danger comes my way, I’ll outrun it or fight it off. But some creatures go another route: head to tail armor. It’s a road less traveled among mammals, but some have […]
“And today we’re talking about a periodic pest. But more of them later.” All across the eastern U.S., a tenacious bug makes a long-awaited debut. Teeming just below the ground beneath your feet, millions of cicadas will wait years to emerge into the wild blue yonder. But why do they wait so long? And how […]
“…and today we’re returning to an old friend, but we’re going to hear the other side of the story.” Today we’re returning to familiar territory. We’ve covered a brilliant and formidable predator that seems to be unstoppable because of its powerful punch. But there’s at least one item on its menu that’s not going into […]
“…and today we’re talking about a fish of legend for which meat is back on the menu.” If you ever find yourself swimming in the freshwater lakes and streams in Europe, you may want to keep an eye on dark waters below. The Wels catfish may not have the teeth or temperament of a shark […]
“… and today we’re talking about an animal that’s great and white. No, not that great white animal! More on that later.” Food is limited and the flock is many. For most animals, seeking to feed yourself first and then resting to conserve energy, is the best way to survive. But without the aid of […]
“…and today we’re talking about a spider that sat down beside her and tilted the bench under its immense weight, spilling curds and whey everywhere.” Tarantulas are big. The Goliath Birdeater Tarantula is even bigger. But being big doesn’t mean you don’t have enemies and predators to deal with. So how do you handle them? […]
“And today we’re talking about a big pig with interesting headgear, but more on that later.” The jungles of Indonesia have provided several episodes of interesting animal info so far. The terrain seems to provide a smorgasbord of offbeat animals. But none may be as strange as a particular forest pig with an odd dental […]
“And today we’re talking about a tiny little long-lived sea booger. But more on that later. The long lived stuff. Not the booger stuff.” Description Like many sea creatures, the jellyfish is found all over the world’s oceans. They prefer temperate to tropical regions. They are believed to have originated in the pacific but may […]
“And today we’re talking about a tiny helicopter with some interesting upward momentum.” Tiny insects are key menu items for a lot of creatures in the kingdom animalia. To be small and tasty is a recipe for doom if you don’t have some interesting survival tactics. Entire orders of insects start in vulnerable metamorphic stages […]
“…and today we are talking about an animal for the 100th time and we’re announcing the winner of the listener’s favorite part of the show vote!” The official listener’s favorite part of the show is…. Measure Up! That’s right! You came out to the polls and let your voices be heard. With Twitter and Facebook […]
And today we’re talking about a wide eyed and expressive cat! But more on that later! They may look like your average domestic feline on the surface. But a closer look will reveal some odd features. Thick fur, short stubby ears, and rotund bodies, give away that this particular Himalayan cat isn’t your typical tabby. […]
“And today we’re talking about a whale with a rostrum for adventure! But more on that later!” Way high up in the frigid arctic waters swims what many would consider to be a mythical creature: a unicorn. No, not a white horse with a horn sticking out of its head, but a whale with a […]
“And today we’re talking about a turtle that does what it wants because it’s punk rock.” Turtles enjoy the aquatic lifestyle, eating algae, river plants, and fish. But, unlike those fish that are privileged with water-breathing gills, turtles must make trips to the surface to breathe. But one Australian turtle species with a punk rock […]
“And today we are talking about beefiest boys in the bovine brotherhood. But bore on that later.” Clutching his rifle in his hand, veteran British big game hunter Owain Lewis made his way through the dense brush of Zimbabwe, carefully tracking an injured cape buffalo that had been shot three days earlier by an American […]
“And today were talking about a terror tube that makes the sarlacc that swallowed Bobba Fett seem like a kiss on the cheek. But more on that later.” The ocean floor is a treasure trove of decaying plant and animal matter that’s ripe for the picking for fish and invertebrates that are looking for tasty […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creepy crawly with a nasty sting that might be living in your backyard.” K – Animalia P – Arthropoda C – Insecta O – Hymenoptera (wasps, bees, yellow jackets, hornets) F – Pompilidae (parasitic wasps) SubF – Pepsinae G – Pepsis S – Gross Spider Parasites While an adult […]
“And today we are telling a Thai tale of a towering tail. But more on that later.” Grass is important to dads with perfectly manicured lawns, but it goes unnoticed by the rest of us. But what if you were a lot smaller, and you made you home in thick tall grass. You might find […]
“And today we’re talking about a fish that looks like a victim of the scream extractor machine in Monsters Inc.” You might think you know anglerfish, but think again. He strides across the ocean floor luring his prey, his body a crude caricature of a much more well-adapted animal. He’s the hero Galapagos deserves, but […]
“And today we are talking about an animal that David Attenborough once called ‘the most wonderful looking fox’ and also ‘bizzare with a curious body shape.’ I guess a fox can be two things but more on that later…” The Ethiopian highlands are often called the roof of Africa, but The Tibetan Plateau is called […]
“And to day we’re talking about a guilty little monkey. But more on that later!” The rules of engagement vary widely in the animal kingdom, especially when it comes to romance. But whether a species has multiple mates, or just one, at least there are rules. The Gelada Monkey may seem like a tasty Italian […]
“Today we are talking about a tiny mammal with a big appetite. But more on that later.” Intro Being tiny is difficult for a lot of reasons. It can make you easy prey for a variety of larger predators. And it can limit your own food sources to plants and even smaller animals. But being […]
“…and today, we’re talking about a frog whose fashion actually has a fantastic function, but more on that later.” Intro music: Jorge Mendez Outro music: Morning Light Music
…and today, we’re talking about a strong, independent woman who is literally a homemaker.”
“…and today, we’re talking about a big, plush tree rodent with a bold fashion sense, but more on that later.”
“…and today, we’re talking about the desert ships that opened up the trans-Saharan trade routes. But more on that later.“
“…and today we’re talking about a burrowing bee whose beef is between brothers, but more on that later…”
“…and today we are talking about a ugly little baker that makes the kind of cookies only a predatory fish would love. But more on that later.” During the Cold War, the U.S. Navy’s fleet of nuclear submarines seemed invincible. A highly-mobile underwater tank with the capability of destroying entire cities, this death star of […]
And today we’re talking about an oceanic equine with strong paternal instincts and a unique dad bod, but more on that later.
“…and today we’re talking about a canine that whistles while it works. But more on that later…” When you’re a predator that has to compete with leopards and tigers, you’re in for an uphill battle. If you’re smaller, slower, and not as stealthy as other carnivores in the mountain forests of Asia, you better have […]
“And today we’re talking about a bird, not Eastern Michigan University, which I guess has the eagle as its mascot so that’s also a bird. But we’re discussing a different bird. So if some silly SEO sent you here, stay awhile. You might learn something.” Australians are no strangers to deadly animals, everything from the […]
“And today we’re talking about a rat that’s metaphorically faster than a speeding bullet. But more on that later.” In nature, you’re a predator, prey, or both. When you’re small and delicious, you’re probably pretty low on the food chain. But there’s a rodent that lives in Mojave Desert that’s so adapted to dealing with […]
“And today we’re talking about a creature with a clear eyes and a full heart. But more on that later.” When it comes to relationships, one of the best qualities is transparency. When you find that special someone, you can really open up and let that special someone see your heart—as well as your liver […]
“And today we’re talking about a bird that claps for himself. But more on that later.” Dance is the language of love. Or at least, that’s the motto of a variety of birds in rain forests around the world. Some animals fight for their mates, but why do that when you can settle things with […]
“Today we’re talking about a crummy parent and a nasty little child. But more on that later.” Like the social programs that Ayn Rand despises so much, parasites exist to profit off of someone else with no benefit to the host. The cuckoo bird likes making kids, but hates raising them. They’re a lot of […]
“Today we are talking about a river horse whose looks are laughable and unphotographable. Yet they’re my favorite work of art.” The Amazon Rainforest is home to a diverse population of plants and animals. But if you were hiking along the water in the brazil’s Amazon river basin, you might see something you’ve never seen […]
“And today we’re talking about a worm that’s more radiant than a locomotive. But more on that later.” Description The railroad “worm” is actually a beetle that goes through multiple metamorphic stages like a butterfly. They start off as eggs that are laid in groups on the ground and encircled by the momma. They lay […]
“And today we’re talking about a big black buzzard the binges on bear beef but more on that later.” When the arid American West claims a life, it doesn’t go to waste. The clean up crew soars high above the ground looking for new ways to cleanse the earth. This biological catharsis not only fills […]
“And today we are talking about one of the biggest animal celebrities. I’m a little star struck already.” Striding across the blazing Serengeti, the towering, wiry frame of the giraffe moves with surprising grace as it searches-for food. As the tallest mammal in the world, the giraffe makes for an easy target for large African […]
“And today we’re talking about a big blubbery boy with wonderful whiskers with which they wade around in the water.” There may be no harsher environment in the world than arctic. The extreme cold makes it an inhospitable place for most plants and animals. But for a few unique species, it’s an ideal to place […]
“And today we are talking about a slippery sucker pup that has more than 15 ways to get out of danger.” Lots of animals pretend to be other animals. Hiding and visual deception have helped countless butterflies, snakes, and millipedes either eat or avoid being eaten by donning masks and acting their little hearts outs. […]
“And today we are talking about a bird that is a harbinger of doom and destruction. But more on that later.” Fire is a blessing and a curse. It’s constructive potential is rivaled only by its destructive capabilities. It was once thought that humans were the only creature on earth to harness this powerful energy […]
“And today we’re talking about the John Wick of weasels and like John Wick, you just don’t want to get in it’s way. But more on that later.” The plains of sub-Saharan Africa are a dangerous place for mid- to smallish-sized mammals. There are lots of predators that want to make a meal out of […]
“…and today we’re talking about what is called the most dangerous bird in the world. But more on the truth of that later.” We often think of birds as benign, graceful creatures, alighting on the forefingers of princesses and singing songs to one another as the sun crests the horizon. When in danger, these skittish […]
“And today we’re talking about a crustacean whose name sounds like an old-timey insult. ‘Hey, get back here you tongue-eating louse and I’ll give you what for!’” Have you ever loaded your family into a big RV and taken to the open road? One undersea crustacean does something similar with its family. Only instead of […]
“…and today we’re talking about an animal whose name is click bait and what they smell like will shock you! But more on that later.” When traipsing along the Mekong in Southeast Asia, you may smell the delicious scent of almonds wafting on the stagnant, humid air. While this may seem like a decadent oasis […]
“…And today we are talking about a slimy tube that has a vague resemblance to a nasty appendage that might shoot out of an alien at Sigourney Weaver. But more on that whenever you get a chance to look up a picture.” Life in the mud isn’t glamorous, but, like Arnold’s character in Predator, it […]
“…and today we’re talking about a huge reptile that has a Salt Life bumper sticker and really isn’t into the time honored reptilian tradition of basking in the sun.” Just like little kids at the fair, we love turtles. They’re armored, they’re scaly, and they take life slowly. However, the leatherback sea turtle takes turtleness […]
“…and today we’re talking about a pupper who’s not a pupper at all. But more on that in like a minute.” The top dog isn’t always an alpha male. In fact, it isn’t even always a dog. All kinds of animals survive by forming social bonds and working as a team, but sometimes survival requires […]
“…And today we’re talking about a smol sea booger with a nasty sting. But more on that later.” Australia is filled with lots of cute things, and also lots of deadly things. The irukandji jellyfish is that second part, but also a little bit of the first. At about the same size as a match […]
“…And today we are talking about a bird with an impressive wingspan and brutal hunting tactics. I would make a joke, but frankly, I’m scared of it.” A bird who’s at home in the skies needs a body built for aviation. That means a light frame, hollow bones, and a wingspan wide enough to generate […]
“And today we’re talking about a fish with a green fin, a bright personality, and a future with an upward trajectory, but more on that later.” Beneath the sun soaked rivers of Hawaii, there dwells a fascinating fish with tenacious tendencies. After being born, the Stimpson’s Goby is swept out to sea, far from its […]
“…and today we’re talking about Australia’s version of a monkey, which is of course a marsupial. Way to play to the stereotypes, Australia. I guess there’s no improving on a classic.” Imagine you’re high up in the rainforest canopy, munching on some of your favorite foliage when all of a sudden, you hear the rustle […]
“…And today we are talking about the most amazing animal that comes second place in two categories and first place in one!” When your big and cold blooded, maintaining the right temperature can be a challenge, especially when you live on a continent that sees a wide range of temperatures. But for one primordial reptile […]
“…and today were are talking about a little pair of wax lips that scoots around the ocean smooching submerged surfaces.” Molluscs come in all shapes and sizes, but this little dumpling is an armored tank. With eight shell segments and a tongue covered in sharp teeth, the Chiton has a magnetic attraction to certain places […]
“…Y hoy estamos hablando de un animal argentino con patas largas y un método de comunicación único.” Nature is weird, and the Patagonian Mara is weird right alongside it. It’s not enough that it’s a crazy rabbit kangaroo deer, but it also has a form of communication that we can all agree is pretty gross. […]
“…and today we’re talking about an ant that can’t grant kindness when food is scant. Even aunt ants pant for a hemolymph transplant. But more on that later.” Madagascar is a place that’s been isolated by ocean for as long as it has existed, and it’s only recently started to be developed by humans. Because […]
“…Today we’re talking about a small fry with a loud personality and the fastest draw this side of the Mississippi… and the other side too. But more on that later… You don’t really think of the ocean being a noisy place, but it can get pretty rambunctious down there sometimes. One of the chief troublemakers […]
“Today we’re talking about a bird with a knack to crack snacks and packs snacks to prep for when Jack frost comes back. But more on that later.” You may know that a lot of nature’s most amazing animal adaptations are developed in the bitter fight against winter. When earth tilts away from the warmth […]
“And today we’re talking about a moody snek with a bejeweled back and baby toy for a butt!” Sometimes, all you need in a shootout is a keen eye and your trusty gun. But nature’s tricky, and you can’t always see your target with just your eyes. The Western Diamondback Rattlesnake can see through the […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creature whose binomial name means defenseless water drinker in latin. But more on that later.” As the deer pants by the water, it must keep a sharp eye out for predators. Once they turn their heads down to take a few sips of that life-giving elixir, they’re vulnerable to […]
“…and today we’re talking about the Bullseye snakehead, which is a classic Floridian story in that it’s from somewhere else and it’s really just making the place worse.” Fish live and breathe water, right? Of course they do! Fish are in the water and we’re on land, that’s what prevents sharing the planet with sharks […]
“And today we’re talking about a weird-looking dinosauresque bird that looks like it may have been drawn by a fourth grader.” Every so often, a creature comes along that defies the conventions of adaptation and reform. Such creatures cling to the tried and true and, subsequently, resemble relics of a bygone age. One prehysterical looking bird […]
“And today we are talking about a creature that could be a schnoz seismologist. But more on that later…” Deep in the forests of Appalachia, a friendly earthworm makes its way to who knows where. When suddenly, a dark form approaches. If it had eyes, the earthworm would see a large furry creature coming toward […]
“…And today we’re talking about a fish that sick of the taste of fish! But more on that later.” Intro It’s a fish eat fish world, but some aquatic animals aren’t strict pescatarians. Some favor the fruit of the forest. But what can you do if you have terrestrial tastes? Well, you’ve got to bring […]
“And today we are talking about the magellan with dark blue flagellum. But more on that later.” Description Small symmetrical slug that doesn’t look like your typical slug. It has a slender body with appendages coming off of each side that almost look like hands. Instead of fingers, they have Cerata, which are appendages found […]
“And today we are talking about the monarch butterfly, an insect that tastes so bad other bugs are trying to be her! But more on that later…” She prepares for a journey she may never complete, And from which she will never return. No insect migration could ever compete But it’s not the glory she […]
“And today we are talking about a dark and mysterious creature that’s the subject of frightening folklore and spooky stories. But more on the later.” Creeping quietly through the night A vampire finds its hearts delight Breathing softly in its sleep The prey knows not what’s in the deep With slash and prick, the wound […]
“And today we are talking the lowland streaked tenrec, about a spiky mamma that looks like a cross between a hedgehog and a shrew but is actually neither.” Lowland Streaked Tenrec Intro The search is vast and they’ve got to be fast To catch the worms in the twilight hours. The moon is high and brief is […]
“Today we’re talking about a fancy bird with a thousand words for romance.” It’s a beautiful Australian morning, the flowers are blooming, the birds are singing and— what was that? Was that a chainsaw you just heard? Nope, it was just the song of the lyrebird, nature’s most complicated songwriter. By imitating other birds, animals, […]
“And today we are talking about a large primate with orange hair whose bellowing can be heard for great distances… even without twitter.” Intro Life in the rain forests of Borneo may seem like a peaceful existence in paradise, but finding food and shelter requires the right tools and the brains to use them. It’s […]
“And today we are learning about a whale that’s as much a whale as they are Federal Aviation Administration approved pilots.” Have you ever been sleeping? And during that sleep had a dream? And did that dream seem incredibly real? Well, you probably just ate too much sugar before bed, but this happens to the […]
Life is dangerous for a small arthropod. You might be on the menu for every animal from birds to mammals. But sometimes, you just have to let go of the stress of being small and learn to adapt to the changes as they come. For the daddy longlegs, maintaining life might mean giving up some […]
When searching for the key to a long cancer-free life, there is one place that few people want to look—which is directly into the beady, unblinking eyes of a hairless underground horror. Enter the naked mole rat, the sort of cold-blooded super ugly mammal with cells that loath social contact. But hey, maybe we’ll find […]
“And today we’re talking about a strong independent gecko, who loves sailing and walks on the beach. But more on that later.” Intro If you found yourself all alone on a desert island, you might be pretty lonely. But what if you could make friends… literally! There’s one little lizard that has developed a way […]
“…and today we’ll be talking about a cool cat that can bat at crocodile backs and fat rats like they’re doormats and defeat them in combat. But more on that later.” Intro The jungle is home to some of the most extraordinary creatures on planet Earth. One such creature stalks the rainforests of Central and […]
“…and today we are talking about a shark that steals a technique from Indiana Jones to get some fishy treasures. But more on that later!” Intro The ocean is a great place with lots of room to roam. The perfect way to escape for the fish that call it home. “Just stick together and we’ll […]
“…and today we are talking about a sweet bee that secrets glee onto house bees that make honeys when they please inside trees.” Intro Being a honey bee means that you can get organic honey without paying the Trader Joe’s prices. But that doesn’t mean life is going to be easy. When predators barge through […]
“…and today we’re talking about a creature that is the half-orc barbarian class of mice and would give Cluny the Scourge a run for his money.” Intro The sonoran desert can be a hard place to find a good meal, especially for a hungry mouse. Plus, what can you do when one of your favorite […]
“…and today we’re talking about a snail that would leave a trail of pale dales, if it were to go to a shell collecting conventional in a town full of handsy guys name dale.” Description Sea snail with a cylindrical shell. The shell has a base pinkish white color with brownish red splotches that form thick […]
“…And today we’re talking about sneak flying fluff with the face of an adorable ghost.” Intro A predator needs to be fast. The ever-alert prey of the fields and forests always have an ear and eye out for potential threats. If you’re not fast, there’s only one thing you can do, fly under the radar […]
“…And today we are talking about a weird and clumsy birb that is inexplicably not endangered.” Taxonomy Debate Given its own order because it’s such a little weirdo. But some think it could be closely related to other birds like tinamous, the Galliformes (gamebirds), the rails, the bustards, seriemas, sandgrouse, doves, turacos and other Cuculiformes, and […]
Intro The ocean is a vast world filled with perils, including an array of large, voracious predators looking to make a meal out of anything they can get their jaws around. But there’s one aquatic avenger that seems to answer the call to protect and surf. The Humpback Whale is a creature with sophisticated intelligence […]
Imagine you’re a male firefly and you only have a month or so to find your soulmate. You flash your lights and strut your stuff, but nothing comes of it. Then, a ray of hope shines as you witness the tantalizing bioluminescent strobe patterns of your one true love. You buzz forth only to find […]
The vast amber waves of grain seem an unceasing sea of unbroken golden wheat and prairie grasses. But a mighty beasts roams this American savanna, framed by a blue mountain backdrop. It’s size dwarfs most other creatures on the continent and it’s appetite is nearly insatiable. But big, brown, and bearded are the qualities America’s […]
If you can’t take the heat, get out of the kitchen. Or, at least, get some distance between you and that molten underwater volcano. But there’s one animal that can not only take the heat, it needs it to survive. The tube worm is a weird-looking matchstick at the bottom of the ocean, and it’s […]
They can smell when you have a pie, they can smell when you tell the lie, “My, oh, my! I have no pie!” Its a sense of smell you can’t deny, on a big ol bear you shan’t defy. They can smell it in a car, Underwater, and from afar. But finding food is the […]
The animal kingdom usually seems pretty straightforward. The bigger animal eats the smaller animal. But there are some cases where the tables are turned and the little guys win. At first glance, the Epomis beetle might seem like an easy meal for a hungry frog. But not all is as it seems in this brutal […]
The life of an aquatic herbivore may mean non-stop soggy salads but there’s one South American fish that doesn’t mind at all. They may look like their killer kin, but they hide a secret smile that allows them to live vegan lifestyle. But adaptation is the name of the game in Life, Death, and taxonomy. […]
We have a saying in India: “Don’t go near King Cobras”. But the Indian Grey Mongoose says “bupkis” to that. When you are combating the world’s largest venomous snake, you’d better be light on your feet, swift as the sunrise, and also completely immune to snake venom. Surviving isn’t easy in Life, Death, and Taxonomy. […]
The earth is covered in creatures with all kinds of amazing traits. But sometimes, those traits can be pretty horrifying by human standards. In the Congo, when push comes to shove, you better have something up your sleeve. If you don’t have sleeves, like most amphibians, you might have to dig a little deeper to […]
Alright ye landlubbers! Hoist up the main sail, strike yer colors, and listen to the tale of the Black Sea Devil—a fish with the face of a demon. With cold, lifeless eyes and a mouth full of razor sharp teeth, the Sea Devil won’t think twice about snatchin’ up its prey and draggin’ it down […]
In nature, animals fight hard to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation. For an insect in the frigid regions of North America, even the pursuit of adulthood is a demanding task. Meet one caterpillar that is just dying to leave their life crawling on the ground and take to the sky […]
If there are three things that Africa has given the Western World, they would be papyrus, hurricanes, and snails the size of your forearm. On the world’s list of invasive species, the Giant African Land Snail is high up on the list. But what makes this sluggish slimeball such a problem? Join us as we […]
When you think of the rolling vistas of the alpine regions of the North Eastern United States, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Is it snakes? Probably not. Because if a snake wants to survive out here, it better develop some amazing tricks to take the cold. But if your not an animal […]
Romance is the air! Animals show affection in all kinds of ways. But affection doesn’t really come into play for the Nursery Web Spider. To pass along his genes without being eaten alive, a male needs to play a dangerous game of chance. So grab your nuptial gift, wrap it in silk, and remember that […]
Imagine you were born a few weeks ago and one morning you wake up and your parents are gone. It’s getting colder and the days are getting shorter. Something inside you is spurring you on, out of your nest and into the darkness of night. One tiny bird embarks a journey that spans thousands of […]
Deep beneath the waves of the Sea of Japan, an ancient child emperor and his retinue of samurai drowned themselves rather than be captured by the enemy. Tales tell of their souls binding to the carapaces of tiny crabs dwelling at the bottom of the ocean. With faces as fierce as the samurai they host, […]
The Alaskan Winter is harsh. The days grow shorter until the sun doesn’t come out at all. The temperature drops to negative fifty and nothing grows for months. Most animals hibernate to limit the need for food when it is so scarce, except for one little mammal. To survive the desolate Alaskan winter one little […]
Sooie! I’ve been a simple farmer all my life, gettin’ up at the crack of dawn and plowin’ the fields ‘til sundown. But humans ain’t the only ones to grow a crop or two. The leaf cuttin’ ant is a prime example of what a hard-workin’ organism can do when they ain’t one of them […]
In the heart of Mexico, a rare creature once found its home in the depths Lake Chaco near present day Mexico City. Unfortunately, that lake no longer exists. With it’s home drained to make room for the expanding metropolis, this unique amphibian has been forced into canals and streams infested by invasive predators like the […]
They say you should respect your elders. But what if your elder is a gigantic shark? The oldest living vertebrate might just cruising around the Arctic Sea. Find out how old a fish can get in this episode of Life, Death, and Taxonomy. Music by Music Head
There are lots of ways to deter a predator when you’re a toad. You could puff up to make yourself look bigger. You could do your best impression of a carcass and play dead. Or you could coat your whole body with a deadly poison. But one genus of toad likes to spike the sauce […]
Everyone likes to maintain their personal bubble, but what if that maintenance meant a little bit of free diving? Take a deep breath, strap some air to your thorax, and dive down to the depths of knowledge with us as we explore a certain spider’s underwater world where it’s eat or be eaten. We don’t […]
Have you ever walked into a movie theater and wondered what smelled like an arboreal dwelling fur-monster? You might, after learning about the strange scent this fuzzy forest creature makes as it travels from tree to tree on this episode of Life, Death and Taxonomy.
Welcome, ladies and gents, to the all-night spectacular fight between two of the world’s most formidable pugilists! In one corner, we have the undefeated Muhammad Ali. In the other… I don’t believe it! Ladies and gents, tonight our very own Ali will be putting up his dukes against… a shrimp? Looks like you can never […]
The ladies like a guy with an eye for style, at least, the bird we are going to talk about today thinks so. Some creatures fight for their mates but not this little gentleman. He knows that sometimes you’ve got to get creative to get the girl. But that’s just how it goes in Life, […]
In the dusty old texan desserts, ain’t no one gonna help you when buzzerds and coyotes come a-callin. If you wanna survive out here, you better make like a lizard with a deep bag of tricks. Set a spell and learn you a thing or two about the lengths one wasteland reptile will go to […]
Did you know that we are constantly surrounded by tiny superheroes? The "space bear" is one of nature's most resilient animals. Find out just how much the Tardigrade can take in this new episode!
Altruism is usually known as a human characteristic, but did you know that a rare wolf native to the heart of Africa can be altruistic? Join us as we learn just how nice a wolf can be.
The ocean can be a terrifying place, and that's mostly thanks to animals like the Humboldt Squid. But their ferocity is hardly the most interesting thing about these cephalopods. Join us for our pilot episode as we explore the depths of the sea to come face to face with the Kraken itself!