Rewildology

Latest Episodes:

#186 | Bison's Return: Rewilding Romania's Carpathian Mountains with Gabriele Retez Oct 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke delves into the groundbreaking European bison reintroduction project in Romania's Carpathian Mountains. Joined by Gabriele Retez, Wildlife Ecologist for WWF-Romania's LIFE with Bison Project, the conversation explores the journey of bringing these majestic creatures back from the brink of extinction. Gabriele shares insights into the project's inception, its ecological impact, and the surprising discoveries about the bison's role in carbon sequestration. The discussion also touches on the delicate balance between conservation efforts and local community adaptation, offering listeners a comprehensive look at the challenges and triumphs of rewilding in the modern world. This episode not only highlights the remarkable resilience of European bison but also showcases how their return is reshaping ecosystems and potentially influencing climate change mitigation strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to conservation and ecological restoration.

00:00 Introduction to European Bison Reintroduction 00:42 Meet Our Expert: Gabrielle Retez 01:55 Gabrielle's Journey to Studying Bison 04:51 The Bison Reintroduction Program in Romania 07:57 Challenges and Strategies in Bison Management 09:13 Scientific Insights and Findings 22:21 Bison's Role in Carbon Sequestration 33:45 Challenges of Species Reintroduction 34:30 Conflicts with Local Communities 36:10 Learning from Past Rewilding Efforts 41:07 Human-Wildlife Coexistence 49:51 Future of Bison Reintroduction 56:28 Defining Success in Rewilding 01:02:30 Personal Reflections and Future Directions

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.

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#185 | Revolutionizing Mountain Gorilla Conservation: The One Health Approach with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka Sep 24, 2024

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In this special World Gorilla Day episode of Rewildology, host Brooke Mitchell sits down with renowned conservationist and author, Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. As Uganda's first wildlife veterinarian and founder of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), Dr. Gladys shares her groundbreaking 'One Health' approach to gorilla conservation. The conversation spans her journey from studying gorilla parasites in 1994 to founding CTPH, which addresses both human and wildlife health to conserve mountain gorillas. Learn about her innovative projects that benefit local communities through alternative livelihoods like Gorilla Conservation Coffee, and her reflections on engaging women in conservation. This episode offers a deeper understanding of the ties between human health and wildlife conservation and provides actionable insights on how you can make a difference.

00:00 Introduction to Gorilla Conservation 00:35 Meet Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka 02:30 Dr. Gladys' First Encounter with Gorillas 05:58 Challenges in Gorilla Conservation 08:46 Becoming Uganda's First Wildlife Veterinarian 13:00 The Scabies Outbreak 20:50 Founding Conservation Through Public Health 37:27 Launching the Volunteer Program 37:56 Family Planning and Community Involvement 40:15 Gorilla Conservation Coffee Initiative 47:12 Expanding Conservation Efforts 55:08 Writing the Book and Personal Reflections 01:03:48 Advice and Final Thoughts

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.

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#184 | The Magical & Mysterious Lives of Octopuses with David Scheel, PhD Aug 30, 2024

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Dive into the mesmerizing world of octopuses with conservation biologist Brooke Mitchell and Dr. David Scheel, a renowned marine biologist and author of 'Many Things Under a Rock, The Mysteries of Octopuses'! In this episode, David shares his 25 years of experience studying these fascinating cephalopods. Discover octopuses' unique behaviors, their intelligence, social interactions, and cultural importance, especially among Alaskan indigenous communities. Learn about their conservation status and what makes these creatures so captivating. David also discusses the challenges and future directions of octopus research and conservation. Don't miss this intriguing conversation and remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow ocean lovers!

00:00 Introduction to the Mystical World of Octopuses 00:35 Meet the Expert: David Scheel, PhD 02:21 Diving into Octopus Behavior and Intelligence 10:07 Octopus Biology 101 13:21 Social Lives of Octopuses 21:31 Understanding Octopus Intelligence 31:37 Octopus Camouflage Techniques 34:33 Octopus Vision and Color Perception 37:41 Cultural Significance of Octopuses 46:12 Challenges in Octopus Conservation 56:23 Future of Octopus Research 59:49 Resources and Further Reading

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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#183 | Bringing Rhinos Back to Hwange Part 2 with Mark ‘Butch’ Butcher Aug 22, 2024

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In this special update episode of Rewildology, host Brooke Mitchell sits down with Mark 'Butch' Butcher to discuss the groundbreaking developments in the white rhino reintroduction efforts in the Hwange ecosystem, Zimbabwe. Revisiting their initial conversation from World Rhino Day 2022, Butch shares the latest successes and upcoming plans of Imvelo and its NGO partner, CRCI, including the establishment of a second rhino sanctuary driven by community involvement. They explore the socio-economic benefits of conservation, the role of local communities, the complexities of reintroduction, and the innovative approach of integrating computer-literate women into the conservation efforts. Tune in to hear the inspiring and hope-giving conversation that highlights the potential for conservation to transform local communities while protecting endangered species.

00:00 Introduction to Rewildology 00:35 Exciting Update from Imvelo 01:52 Conversation with Butch 02:26 Community Rhino Conservation Initiative 03:47 Challenges and Successes 04:34 Future Plans and Community Involvement 06:54 Sanctuary Development and Protection 13:05 Tourism and Socioeconomic Benefits 16:35 Volunteerism and Education Initiatives 19:07 Affordable Safari Options 19:30 Balancing Luxury and Conservation 23:03 Community Involvement in Rhino Conservation 23:39 Challenges and Solutions in Wildlife and Cattle Coexistence 26:41 Scaling the Rhino Reintroduction Project 28:29 Government and NGO Support 31:35 Empowering Women in Conservation 35:32 Upcoming Rhino Relocation

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.

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#182 | Bushmasters of the Mountain: Conserving the Wolverine Way of Life with Douglas Chadwick Aug 15, 2024

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In this episode of Rewildology, we dive into the fascinating world of wolverines with renowned author and wildlife biologist Douglas Chadwick. Drawing from his book "The Wolverine Way" and recent scientific research, we explore the current status of these elusive and hardy creatures across their vast range in North America, Europe, and Asia. Chadwick shares insights into the unique adaptations and behaviors that make wolverines the true "bushmasters of the mountains." We discuss the complex challenges facing wolverine populations, including climate change, habitat fragmentation, and human disturbance, while also examining conservation efforts and success stories from around the globe. From the snowy peaks of the Rockies to the boreal forests of Scandinavia, this episode offers listeners an in-depth look at one of nature's toughest survivors and the critical efforts to preserve their way of life in our rapidly changing world.

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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#181 | Tigers Return: Rewilding Satkosia with Aditya Panda Aug 01, 2024

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In this episode, host Brooke delves into the ambitious tiger reintroduction efforts at Satkosia Tiger Reserve with conservationist Aditya Panda. The conversation traces the history of tiger conservation in India, focusing on the challenges faced in the East-Central landscape. Panda shares insights from the unsuccessful 2018 tiger translocation attempt and details the comprehensive preparations underway for a new reintroduction. These efforts include voluntary relocation of communities, strengthening anti-poaching measures, and restoring the prey base. The episode highlights the complexities of wildlife conservation, balancing ecological needs with community welfare, and the innovative strategies being employed to ensure the tigers' successful return to Satkosia.

Visit the website to read the full show notes. Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.

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#180 | From Howls to Headphones: Amplifying Wolf Conservation with John Calfa III and Stephen Rivera Jul 26, 2024

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In this special crossover episode, Rewildology teams up with the hosts of the Wolf Connection Podcast to explore the intersection of wildlife conservation and digital media. Join Brooke as she speaks with John Calfa and Stephen Rivera about their work at Wolf Connection, a unique sanctuary where rescued wolves become teachers. Discover how their podcast is amplifying wolf conservation efforts, learn about the transformative power of Wolf Therapy®, and delve into the ways storytelling and technology are reshaping our connection to wildlife.

Read full show notes at the website. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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#179 | Carnivores, Conservation, and Camera Lights: The Inspiring Path of Rae Wynn-Grant, PhD Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Brooke sits with Rae Wynn-Grant, PhD, a trailblazing ecologist and the newest co-host of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom. Dr. Wynn-Grant takes us on a journey from her childhood aspirations to her groundbreaking work in carnivore research, offering a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of being a Black woman in wildlife ecology. She shares insights on the changing landscape of diversity in conservation, her shift towards a human-focused approach in her work, and the thrill of reaching her ultimate dream as a Wild Kingdom host. With her unique perspective on science communication and overcoming personal and professional obstacles, Rae provides invaluable advice for aspiring conservationists and anyone passionate about making a difference in the natural world. This episode is a masterclass in perseverance, innovation, and the power of representation in shaping the future of conservation science.

Read full show notes at the website. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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#178 | From Wilderness to Living Rooms: Exploring Wild Kingdom’s Legacy with Peter Gros Jul 11, 2024

Show notes

Today we are going on an extraordinary journey through the world of wildlife television and conservation with Peter Gros, the legendary host of Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom. In this episode, Peter shares behind-the-scenes stories from his decades-long career, from meeting his hero Jim Fowler to witnessing the evolution of public perception towards misunderstood species. We explore the rich history of Wild Kingdom, discuss significant conservation victories, and get Peter's insights on the growing rewilding movement.

Read full show notes at the website. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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#177 | Framing the Future: Photography's Power in Conservation Storytelling with Mark Bernards Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Rewildology, host Brooke explores the powerful intersection of science, art, and conservation through the lens of wildlife photographer Mark Bernards. Winner of Rewildology's 2024 Earth Day Photo contest, Mark shares his inspiring journey from childhood nature enthusiast to accomplished conservation storyteller. You will gain valuable insights into wildlife photography techniques, the art of visual storytelling for conservation, and how parenthood has reshaped Mark's perspective on his work and the future of our planet. Whether you're an aspiring photographer, seasoned conservationist, or simply curious about the natural world, this episode offers a unique blend of practical advice, personal reflection, and a deep dive into the transformative power of wildlife imagery in conservation efforts.

Read full show notes at the website. Recording gear provided by Focusrite.

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