Nature's Archive

Have you ever been surprised to discover that something you thought you knew, like a milkweed or a bumblebee, actually encompasses a vast array of distinct species? Well, today we're diving into a world that's equally diverse and captivating: viruses. They may not be as readily observable as plants and animals, but they're an essential part of our natural world.Joining us today is Dr. Robert David Siegel, a renowned professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford University. With his extensive expertise in virology, Dr. Siegel sheds light on how viruses fit into the broader ecological landscape. We'll explore their types, diversity, and the intriguing ways they infect their hosts and evolve.Ever wondered why some viruses have the ability to infect multiple species or make astonishing jumps from one species to another? We'll delve into this topic, with a focus on well-known examples like influenza and coronaviruses.And let's not forget our own immune system, the incredible shield protecting us from viral invaders. Dr. Siegel takes us on a journey through the basics of our immune response, including insights into the innate and adaptive systems. And did you know that the reaction we get from poison oak and poison ivy is actually an immune response? If you think you are immune to these plants, I suggest you listen.And of course, we can't conclude our discussion without addressing the promises and myths surrounding mRNA vaccines—a vital aspect of virus control.But that's not all! Dr. Siegel, a nature lover and accomplished photographer, shares his tales of chasing and photographing every order of birds in the world. Prepare to be inspired by his remarkable nature endeavors, which he graciously recounts during the final part of our conversation.Get ready to embark on an enlightening and awe-inspiring journey into the world of viruses, their ecological significance, and the wonders of our immune system.FULL SHOW NOTESLINKSWebsitesiNaturalistViralZone WebsiteBooks and Other ThingsNote: links to books are affiliate linksAn Immense World - by Ed YongBreathless: The Scientific Race to Defeat a Deadly Virus - by David QuammanDarwin: The Origin of Species | The Voyage of the BeagleThe Demon in the Freezer: A True Story - by Richard PrestonThe Hot Zone: The Terrifying True Story of the Origins of the Ebola Virus - by Richard PrestonMicrobe Hunters: The Story of the Microscopic Discoveries that Changed the World - by Paul de KruifSome of Dr. Siegel's nature photography and writing in Punch MSupport Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Tom Biebighauser, a wetland restoration expert with decades of hands-on experience and books on the topic, guides listeners through the wonders of wetlands. He explores beavers’ landscape-shaping role, vernal pools and their unique life cycles, peatlands and fens, and modern restoration techniques. Practical ideas include backyard wetlands, drainage repair, and community-led restoration projects.

Today's episode is a crossover episode from the Talaterra feed. Talaterra is a podcast for and about environmental educators, and host Tania Marien recently interviewed me about my tech background and how I've transitioned to form Jumpstart Nature.Jumpstart Nature is forming its first board of directors, just launched It's All Connected, our bi-weekly newsletter, and now has 10+ volunteers helping in a variety of ways. And we're hard at work on our inspiring short-form narrative podcast!Thanks to Tania for hosting me, and be sure to check out Talaterra on your podcast apps!And be sure to stay tuned for upcoming episodes on viruses in nature, wetlands and wetland restoration, and even the Harpy Eagle!Support Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Have you ever wondered how bird banding works? How the birds are captured, safely handled, and released? And why is it done at all?Thanks to Dr. Katie LaBarbera, Science Director for the Land Bird Program at the San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory (SFBBO), we have you covered.Banding is specifically the scientific technique used to study bird behavior, migration, and populations. By safely capturing and placing bands on birds' legs, researchers can track their movements and gain valuable insights for conservation efforts.Today’s episode is a unique one - it’s part field recordings and part traditional Nature’s Archive interview. We’ll jump into the entire banding process, from capture and extraction to the measurements taken and placing the band on it.We’ll then discuss the outcomes and observations from this long term monitoring effort, along with some fascinating observations about birds ranging from American Goldfinch to Bewicks Wrens.Katie also tells us about MOTUS, an exciting telemetry technology that will help create a network of automated observation stations to further advance bird migration monitoring. This technology promises to augment and amplify the work performed by banding stations.And just one more thing. This was a really fun episode to produce, though challenging at times. A big thanks to Katie for allowing these visits despite a challenging season of weather disruptions, and having to re-record parts of it. Thank you to Wendy Gibbons, who walked us through the netting and extraction processes, as well as several other SFBBO volunteers who provided insights and information on my first visit in February.See the FULL Show Notes for some amazing photos from the banding station!Also find SFBBO on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Thanks to Emily Smith for production assistance in this episode. Links To Topics DiscussedWendy Gibbons - an SFBBO volunteer who walked me through the capture and extraction process in today's episode.The Beak of the Finch by Jonathan WeinerMOTUS Wildlife Tracking SystemSupport Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

If you're a long-time listener, you're already familiar with the remarkable world of galls and the “Gall Week” community science events that have taken place in the past. But today, we're taking a fresh look at galls with a specific focus on the importance of spring galls, which our guest Adam Kranz of gallformers.org, describes as the most scientifically interesting galls!OK, for those who haven’t heard those past episodes - that’s OK. The first 31 minutes of today’s episode is entirely new content, and I’ve appended our first conversation with Adam at the end.Plant galls are unique organs induced by a variety of organisms, ranging from wasps to moths to midges to mites to fungi. These organisms have figured out how to modify a plant’s genetic expression for the benefit of its own lifecycle. It really is magical.Today, Adam tells us why spring galls are, perhaps the most scientifically interesting, and have the most opportunity for new discoveries - possibly even by you. And I really enjoyed how our conversation strays into broader ecology and phenology topics, too. Galls have a lot to teach us!Spring Gall Week is from April 15th to 23rd, yes, there is a bonus weekend added to it. During that time be sure to get out and look at your oaks, hackberries, hickories, and other plants and document the galls you find on iNaturalist. Here's the link to the iNaturalist project to make it easy for you to get involved.And a big thanks to Dr. Merav Vonshak and Adam for continuing to coordinate these events.FULL SHOW NOTESOrganizations and ToolsBiodiversity Heritage LibraryGallformersGall Phenology ToolGall Week Spring 2023 iNaturalist ProjectBooks and ArticlesPlant Galls of the Western United States, by Ronald RussoRearing Insects by Charley EisemanTracks and Signs of Insects and Other Invertebrates by Charley EisemanUndescribed Gall FAQWeld Cynipid Books: Free via the Biodiversity Heritage Library and HathitrustCynipid Galls of the Eastern United StatesCynipid Galls of the Pacific SlopeCynipid Galls of the SouthwestRelated PodcastsDr. Merav Vonshak - Gall Week 2021 Support Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Today we dive into the captivating world of Sandhill and Whooping Cranes with wildlife biologist Bethany Ostrom from the Crane Trust.These majestic birds have a rich history, with fossil records showing them to be some of the oldest modern birds. Today, they continue to amaze us by congregating in massive numbers along their ancient migration route through Nebraska.In this episode, Bethany helps us understand the unique phenomenon of crane migration, and why the Platte River in Nebraska is such an important stopover for over 1 million cranes each spring.Bethany also provides a broader perspective on Sandhill Cranes and Whooping Cranes, helping us to understand how these birds live, from their diets, to their unique dancing displays. She also helps us understand why Sandhill Cranes are generally increasing in numbers despite massive changes to their environment.However, Whooping Cranes have not been as fortunate, with populations dropping to only 15 individuals at one point. Bethany helps us understand how this occurred, and how recent conservation efforts have helped to increase their populations.These magnificent birds are truly a wonder to behold, and we encourage you to seek them out if you have an opportunity. Sandhill Cranes can be found in nearly every state at various times of the year.You can find the Crane Trust on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, as well as at their website.Check out the FULL SHOW NOTES for photos and more.Links From Today's ShowPeople and OrganizationsCrane TrustRowe SanctuaryBooks, Documentaries, and Other ThingsPBS Nature "Flight School" EpisodeThe Nature Makers documentarySupport Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Today’s guest is Krystle Hickman. Krystle is a TEDx speaker, artist, photographer, and community scientist. However, it is her passion for native bees that has led her to appear on Nature’s Archive today.Krystle has combined her tenacity and photographic talent to make a number of discoveries about native bees. She’s determined to raise awareness about the decline of native bees and their habitats, and she was recently profiled in the LA Times for these efforts.Today, we embark on a journey of discovery with Krystle as she introduces us to our native bees.We will explore several genera of bees and delve into their habits and remarkable life histories. Krystle will also share her expertise on photographic techniques for bees and how to find them in the wild.Also, Krystle has just launched a Kickstarter campaign for a new project featuring photographic flashcards of 40 of the most common native bees, complete with interesting facts and identification techniques.To stay connected with Krystle and her work, you can find her at beesip.com, or follow @beesip on Instagram, or @beesiponline on Facebook and Twitter.FULL SHOW NOTESAdditional LinksBugGuide - one of the original online communities for insect enthusiasts to share, learn, and identify insectsDiscover Life - resource for learning about bees (and other organisms)Books and Other ThingsNote: links to books are affiliate linksBees of the World by Charles Michener Bumble Bees of North America: An Identification GuideKrystle's Kickstarter campaign for her native bee flashcardsMy Garden of a Thousand Bees - documentary The Bees in Your Backyard: A Guide to North America's Bees by Wilson and CarrilSupport Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Are you ready to uncover the mysterious world of bats? Join us on an exciting journey as we explore the secrets of these enigmatic creatures with renowned wildlife ecologist and bat expert, Dr. Dave Johnston. Hailing all the way from Costa Rica, Dr. Johnston will guide us through the incredible diversity of bats, from tiny dragonfly-sized species to those with wingspans as large as eagles. But that's just the beginning! We'll discover astonishing bat behaviors, from echolocation to singing bats to altruistic behavior. With so many different species filling various niches worldwide, we'll learn about the challenges bats face, from urbanization to wind turbines and the devastating white-nose syndrome. So, buckle up and get ready to unravel the mysteries of these extraordinary creatures on this captivating episode with Dr. Dave Johnston.You can find some of Dr. Johnston's work on research gate.FULL SHOW NOTESLINKS TO TOPICS DISCUSSEDBat Conservation InternationalBernal Rodriguez-HerreraBrock Fenton - Bat BiologistCalifornia Bat Working GroupCorky QuirkHigh frequency hearing test - the YouTube video I mentionedNorth American Society for Bat Research (nasbr.org)Western Bat Working GroupYouth Science Institute (YSI)Recommended BooksBats of British Columbia by Cori Lausen, Mark Brigham, et al. 2022.A Miscellany of Bats. M. Brock Fenton and Jens Rydell. 2023.Support Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Snorkeling can be a life changing endeavor for those who take it up. A new world of aquatic life is revealed before your eyes - sometimes colorful, sometimes cryptic, and always changing.I’ll forgive you if you are thinking about ocean snorkeling, because as you’ll hear today, there’s magic waiting just beneath the surface of your nearby freshwater streams and rivers.Keith is a freshwater underwater naturalist, educator, writer and photographer. He has a BS in Environmental Biology and MS in Ecological Teaching and Learning. He is the author of multiple books, most recently “Snorkeling Rivers and Streams: An Aquatic Guide to Underwater Discovery and Adventure”, and is the owner of Freshwater Journeys, which organizes snorkeling trips to show people the amazing life in freshwater systems close to home.Today we discuss Keith’s own journey into freshwater systems, and then get into the ecology of these environments. If you are like me, this will serve as a great primer for the basics of these systems. And even if you are more advanced, Keith’s descriptions of river herring, trout, chubs, salmon, caddisflies, and more will have you longing to get into a nearby stream.And if you do decide to take the plunge, Keith tells us what equipment is needed and how to do it safely - both for you and for the ecosystem you are observing.What a fun conversation - you’ll hear Keith’s enthusiasm shine through. You can find Keith at freshwaterjourneys.com, and also on Facebook at freshwaterjourneys.FULL SHOW NOTESPeople and OrganizationsJeremy Monroe, Freshwaters IllustratedShannon White PhD - brook trout research [twitter]Dr. Shigeru NakanoFreshwater JourneysBooks and Other ThingsNote: links to books are affiliate linksDesert Solitaire, by Edward AbbeyDown the River, by Edward AbbeyRiverWebs movieSnorkeling Rivers and Streams: An Aquatic Guide to Underwater Discovery and Adventure, by Keith WilliamsCreditsEmily Smith provided rough cut editing for this episode.Support Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!

Are you ready for an in-depth look at the challenges and solutions of wildlife connectivity? The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, or Y2Y, is working on a grand scale to connect and protect habitats from Yellowstone to the Yukon, for the benefit of both people and nature.Today, we're joined by Kelly Zenkewich, Senior Communications and Digital Engagement Manager at Y2Y. We delve into the unique challenges of both the region and the scale of Y2Y’s vision.As you’ll hear, even if thinking about this area conjures up images of vast open spaces, there are still numerous highways, cities, fences, railroads, ranches, farms, and other human infrastructure that fragments the landscape.We discuss the charismatic animals of the area - from grizzly bears and wolverines to caribou and pronghorn - the diverse challenges faced by these animals, and the ways Y2Y is working to conserve them. We'll also learn about the unique approach of Y2Y, which works across 5 states, and 4 Canadian provinces and territories, as well as the territories of at least 75 indigenous groups. Kelly describes how they positively engage people across these communities using communication techniques such as asset framing and community-based social marketing.You can find more about Y2Y at y2y.net, and find them on instagram and facebook.FULL SHOW NOTESLINKSPeople, Animals, and OrganizationsAnat Shenker-Osorio - created approach similar to "Asset Framing"COP15 - recent biodiversity agreement was announced at COP15Doug McKenzie-Mohr - creator of community-based social marketingJodi Hilty, PhD - corridor ecology and connectivity expertMark Hebblewhite, PhD - studies ungulates including mountain caribouMichael Proctor, PhD - studying grizzly bear movements in BCPluie The WolfStoney Nakoda NationsTony Clevenger, PhD - wolverine researcherTrabian Shorters - creator of Asset FramingBooks and ResourcesNote: links to books are affiliate linksArticle about the new Trans-Canada Highway wildlife overpass that Kelly mentionsBeth Pratt discussing P-22 and Wildlife Crossings (Nature's Archive Episode 38)Support Us On Patreon!Buy our Merch!Music: Spellbound by Brian Holtz MusicLicense (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-licenseArtist site: https://brianholtzmusic.com Discover the Jumpstart Nature Podcast - entertaining and immersive, it's the nature fix we all need.Check past Nature's Archive episodes for amazing guests like Doug Tallamy, Elaine Ingham, and Rae Wynn-Grant, covering topics from bird migration to fungi to frogs and bats!