In this episode of Rabbit Hole of Research, we’re joined by researcher Josh Fisher to explore the captivating, creepy, and sometimes comical world of animal swarms. From biblical plagues and Hitchcock’s The Birds to surprisingly vindictive crows, we dive deep into the science, psychology, and symbolism behind swarming behavior. We look at how swarms have appeared across history, religion, fiction, and film, uncovering the patterns that unite everything from buzzing bees to coordinated chaos in horror cinema. It’s a mix of science, storytelling, and a touch of speculation, all flying at you in this episode’s swirling dive into the natural world.
And don’t forget to Order: Red Line: Chicago Horror Stories Anthology featuring a new story by Joe!
The Scientist Article Featuring Joe: How Speculative Fiction Expands Scientific Horizons
It’s Science for Weirdos
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We want to Hear From You (leave a comment):
Have you ever had a run-in with a swarm—whether birds, bees, ants, or even crowds of people?
What’s your favorite fictional depiction of a swarm from books, movies, or games
Did this episode change how you think about animal group behavior?
Are you afraid of a goose on the loose?
Future Episodes & Events
Episodes:
EP44: H20MG: Lake Michigan, Life, and Everything in Between
Releases September 17
Cultural critic and writer Maud Lavin joins us to explore Lake Michigan as biome, metaphor, and muse. We dive into the intersections of ecology, identity, politics, memory, and myth.
EP45-47: Three exciting episodes planned for our October month of Horror!
Events:
Nothing Scheduled.
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For more stuff (Images, Episode Highlights, Notes and Fun Facts, events, etc), subscribe to our Substack newsletter!
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