Shows
Biologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetMoonlight Meetings: Mating behavior and ecology of Horseshoe CrabsJoin Dr. Susan as she interviews Dr. Jane Brockman, a renowned animal behaviorist from the University of Florida. Discover the ancient lineage and unique breeding behaviors of horseshoe crabs. Learn about their ecological significance and their critical role for migrating shorebirds, as well as their role in modern medicine.
Dr. Brockman discusses her journey into the study of animal behavior and why horseshoe crabs continue to captivate scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.
Dr. Susan will also visit an educational hands-on horseshoe crab event, and hear from a 12-year-old student about their experiences with these amazing creatures.
This episode also highlights...2025-07-231h 04Biologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetMagical Monarchs: Conserving an IconThe iconic monarch butterfly has inspired generations with its beauty and its complex and mysterious migration - come be inspired by the monarch again. In this episode, join Dr. Susan in exploring monarch butterflies: talking with both an expert biologist who studies them and an inspirational conservationist who is dedicated to helping them. The flagship for the movement to help pollinators, the monarch is under threat from a number of sources. While the monarch brings people so much joy, it also needs our help. We will learn concrete steps we can take to help this queen among butterflies. We...2025-07-0955 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetClimbing the Ladder-the alewife fishway of Mill Brook (Alewife Episode Part 2 of 2)In this episode (Part 2 on Alewives), delve into the vibrant fish migration occurring at Mill Brook and its fish ladder in Southern Maine. Learn about the alewife’s challenging journey from the ocean to Highland Lake, and the community-led citizen science efforts to monitor and restore their population. Dr. Susan shares her observations while counting fish at the fishway, interviews biologist Toby Jacobs who manages the project, and discusses fascinating research about the alewives’ resilience and adaptability. Dive into the serene world of nature interwoven with science and conservation, all while rooting for this tough little fish as it travels upst...2025-06-2553 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetLet the River Run: Penobscot Perspectives on Alewives (Alewives Episode Part 1 of 2)Dive into the world of alewife conservation and river restoration from the perspective of the Penobscot Nation.
Join Dr. Susan in fascinating conversations with Chuck Loring, the Director at the Penobscot Nation Department of Natural Resources, and Dan McCaw, the Fisheries Program Manager at that department. Chuck describes the importance of “sea run” fish like alewives and salmon to the Penobscot people, and shares how the Penobscot view the river and its animals. Dan shares his personal journey and passion for fisheries management, influenced by his childhood experiences by the Sebasticook River in Maine, and describes the coll...2025-06-1255 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetThe Social Side of Biodiversity: Exploring Sociology and Our Connection with AnimalsJoin us in this intriguing episode as we sit down with Dr. Karin Gustafsson, an associate professor and environmental sociologist from Orebro University, Sweden. Dr. Gustafsson delves into the intricate connections between sociology and environmental challenges, shedding light on how social sciences are essential in understanding and addressing issues like climate change and biodiversity loss. Discover how certain species, like the monarch butterfly, become powerful symbols for environmental action. Dr. Gustafsson shares her passion for learning and research, offering insights into the critical role of social sciences in science and environmental issues, and in how it relates to shaping a...2025-05-2946 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetWinged Migration - Birdwatching in the SpringTake flight with migratory springtime warblers and listen as they delight birdwatchers young and old. In this episode, join Dr. Susan in exploring the joys of watching birds. We’ll explore a cemetery as part of Maine Audubon bird walks and talk with bird lovers - from novice to expert. A birder and teacher who shares his passion with students, Nathan Hall co-founded the Maine Young Birders Club. We’ll also interview a student of his named Agnes, who has caught a passion for feathered flyers. Finally, we’ll touch on some research about birdwatching and a poem by Pablo...2025-05-1349 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetBig NightDelve into the captivating phenomenon of "Big Night.” Citizen scientists and nature lovers gather to witness the awe-inspiring migration of amphibians to vernal pools; it’s a fleeting springtime spectacle driven by the perfect blend of darkness, rainfall, and warm nights. Join Dr. Susan in exploring the magic of Big Night through stories, field recordings, and even poetry, touching upon the wonder of this natural ritual. With a special interview with Greg LeClair, the Executive Director of Maine Big Night, discover the collaborative spirit of those who come together to support and study amphibian life.
Note – thank you to Will fro...2025-04-2939 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetRescue Mission: Caring for the Dogs of CotacachiJoin Dr. Susan in Cotacachi, Ecuador, as she explores the transformative journey of the town's street dogs, brought about by the heartfelt mission of Amici Cannis. Discover the unique social dogs of Cotacachi and the people that help them stay well-fed and healthy. Listen as Dr. Susan talks with veterinarians there and captures touching stories of the town's canines, such as the beloved street dog Chimbo. -Visit Amici Cannis website here: https://www.amicicannisusa.org -A donation went to Amici Cannis -More episode sources and links: Podcast website: https://susanhayhurst.podbean.com/ -Patreon page (memberships, behind-the-scenes, products and more): https...2025-04-1924 minBiologica: Where Humans and Animals MeetBiologica: Where Animals and Humans MeetFrom the vernal pools of Maine to the mountains of Ecuador, come explore with Dr. Susan, and discover the many ways that humans and animals interact.
2025-04-1400 min