What makes the hellbender North America's most captivating salamander? Join Monni Böhm and guest host/producer Kelly Griese as they unravel this mystery with humor and keen insights. You'll laugh along as we talk about quirky hellbender names and hear from Nick Burgmeier, a wildlife specialist from Purdue University, who gives us the lowdown on these unique amphibians.

Nick helps us understand the challenges facing these cute-in-their-own-way creatures. From habitat degradation and agricultural runoff, hellbenders face an upstream swim for survival, but powerful partnerships are helping to protect and grow hellbender populations. Learn about the zoos, conservationists, farmers and landowners coming together to ensure a bright future for the "snot otter." We'll also share information about how YOU can contribute to hellbender conservation.

Links:
Help the Hellbender
Helping Hellbenders: Conservation Program Repopulates Indiana Waterways
Hellbender in the Blue - documentary
Hellbent - documentary

Ever wondered how a serendipitous encounter can shape an entire career? Join us on the Protect Species Podcast as we chat with Dr. Kit Kovacs, a distinguished marine mammal researcher, who recounts her enchanting journey from an undergraduate student to a leading expert at the Norwegian Polar Institute. Kit shares her first magical field season in Canada, where she fell in love with walruses and embarked on a lifelong mission to understand these magnificent creatures.

Discover the cutting-edge techniques and innovations that make walrus research possible as Kit reveals the complexities of tagging and monitoring these enormous animals. From the meticulous process of intubating and tracking oxygen levels to overcoming logistical challenges with Russian colleagues, Kit highlights the fascinating advancements and adaptations that enable researchers to gather critical data on walrus migration and behavior.

We also tackle the pressing conservation issues walruses face today, delving into the effects of climate change and the importance of sustainable hunting practices. Kit sheds light on the delicate balance between sea ice dependency and the species' adaptability to coming ashore. Plus, Kit shares heartwarming stories of close encounters with curious walruses.

If you like this episode, we'd love for you to rate and review the Protect Species Podcast! And, as is often the case, the highest form of praise you can offer is to tell others about our show.

Links:
The University Center in Svalbard
Norwegian Polar Institute
Dr. Kit Kovacs Google Scholar
IUCN SSC Marine Conservation Committee

Fungi are so much more than JUST mushrooms. Dr. Greg Mueller, former Chief Scientist at the Chicago Botanic Garden and current Chair of the IUCN SSC Fungal Conservation Committee, has a lot to say about the "fungus among us." And, spoiler, he's a FUN GUY!

In this episode of the Protect Species Podcast, we explore a world beyond pizza toppings. Fungi play a critical role as nature’s decomposers. From mycelium bricks to synthetic fungal leather, and even their role in cleaning up environmental disasters through bioremediation, fungi are the unsung heroes of the natural world!

Dr. Mueller brings to light the significant conservation challenges fungi face, largely due to habitat loss and climate change. We discuss the intricacies of fungi/plant relationships and how they are crucial for reforestation success, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to conservation that integrates soil health and forest ecosystems. This episode also unpacks the fascinating process of nutrient and signal exchange between plants and fungi, dispelling myths and highlighting scientific realities.

We think you'll agree that Dr. Mueller is a passionate fungi expert, who shares his enthusiasm and insights, leaving us with a playful yet profound appreciation of the fungal kingdom.

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Additional links:
Chicago Botanic Garden
IUCN SSC Fungal Conservation Committee
The Fungus Among Us - Protect Species Blog