The Backyard Naturalists

In this fun and fast-moving second installment of "How Big Is It?", Debbie and Laurie explore some of the biggest creatures in the natural world—from the world's largest vulture and giant hummingbird to the Komodo dragon, Goliath frog, capybara, and even a massive Australian sea snail. Along the way, they share surprising facts about size, habitat, diet, and behavior, with plenty of laughter and off-the-cuff conversation that makes this episode feel like you're sitting right at the kitchen table with them. Listeners will come away with a new appreciation for the incredible diversity of wildlife around the globe, including species from South America, Australia, Indonesia, and Africa. Whether you are fascinated by record-breaking animals, love quirky nature trivia, or just enjoy hearing nature explained in an entertaining and approachable way, this episode delivers. It is a lighthearted but informative look at some of the most astonishing animals on Earth—and a reminder that nature is always bigger, stranger, and more wonderful than we expect.

This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we're bringing back a timely favorite from last spring as an encore presentation packed with practical, eco-friendly garden advice. Debbie and Laurie revisit smart, natural solutions for some of the season's most common backyard headaches, including weeds, garden pests, and unwanted plant invaders. From weed control methods like solarization and hand-pulling to chemical-free pest strategies using neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and even beer traps, this episode is full of easy, earth-friendly ideas for a healthier yard and garden. You'll also hear tips for attracting beneficial insects, protecting spring flowers, and managing problem plants without disrupting the environment or harming your local ecosystem. Whether you're a longtime gardener or just getting started with your backyard habitat, this encore episode offers plenty of helpful information, nature-based wisdom, and a few fun surprises along the way. Send us your ideas for future episode topics on our Facebook page or through our website — we'd love to hear from you.

What do you call the place an animal lives? In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie dive into the surprisingly fascinating world of animal homes. From bird nests and squirrel dreys to eagle aeries, bobcat dens, bird rookeries, and bee hives, they explore the wide variety of places wildlife builds, borrows, and calls home. Along the way, they share fun facts about everything from turtles, termites, and raccoons to alligators, snakes, wolves, and even octopuses. As always, the conversation is lively, curious, and full of the kind of nature trivia that makes you look at the backyard a little differently. Whether you are a bird lover, a wildlife watcher, or just someone who enjoys learning the language of the natural world, this episode is packed with surprising discoveries and plenty of charm.

In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie take a fresh look at Project Pan, a social media trend encouraging people to use up every last bit of the products they already own before buying more. What starts with makeup and toiletries opens into a bigger conversation about mindful consumption, reducing waste, saving money, and making more environmentally responsible choices in everyday life. From cleaning supplies and pantry items to clothing and online shopping habits, this episode explores simple ways to cut back on excess and rethink what we bring into our homes. Along the way, the conversation connects personal habits to bigger environmental issues, including packaging waste, shipping impacts, and sustainable product choices like shade-grown, bird-friendly coffee. Debbie and Laurie remind listeners that small steps can add up, especially when communities work together. It's a practical, encouraging episode filled with ideas for living a little lighter on the planet — right from your own backyard.

In this popular encore episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie team up with Chris to tackle a timely spring topic: how to clean up your yard in ways that support birds, pollinators, and other backyard wildlife. From scrubbing bird feeders and bird baths to preparing bird houses for nesting season, they share practical, easy-to-follow tips for creating a healthier habitat just as migration and breeding season begin. Along the way, they explain why fresh water, mealworms, suet, and properly placed nesting boxes can make a big difference for the wildlife that depends on your yard. They also dig into one of the most important spring gardening reminders of all: don't clean up too soon. Debbie and Laurie explain why hollow stems, dried plant material, and leaf litter may still be sheltering beneficial insects, and how a little patience can help protect the food web that supports baby birds and other wildlife. Whether you're just getting started or looking to make your yard even more wildlife-friendly with native plants, better water sources, or fewer invasive species, this episode is full of smart spring strategies to help you welcome nature right outside your door.

This week on The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie, Laurie, and Chris talk birds, snow, and some seriously giant wildlife. After sharing observations from the Great Backyard Bird Count and recent winter weather in the Carolinas, the conversation turns to a big topic, literally. From blue whales and African elephants to ostriches, whale sharks, ravens, and giant owls, the team explores some of the largest creatures on Earth with plenty of laughs and wow-worthy facts along the way. It's a lighthearted, fascinating episode that blends birdwatching, backyard nature, and wildlife trivia into one engaging conversation. Whether you love learning about animals, enjoy surprising facts about the natural world, or just want to hear three friends marvel at nature together, this episode is full of discovery and fun.

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-(--header-height)" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "017ed2b3-2cf2-4405-a32b-1257d0a8f63a" data-testid= "conversation-turn-1" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="user"> *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:51541be3-9c97-4450-83d1-8b71d343366b-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Think you know your nature facts? Think again! In this encore episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie revisit one of their most entertaining and eye-opening shows—a fast-paced true/false nature quiz led by Chris that's packed with surprising science and plenty of laughs. From the important role squirrels play in reforesting our forests to the age-old question about whether earthworms really can regenerate after being cut in half, this episode separates backyard biology fact from fiction. Along the way, the hosts share personal stories, friendly debates, and fascinating wildlife trivia that just might change the way you see the natural world right outside your door. They also explore topics that continue to make headlines—like monarch butterfly conservation, insect population trends, and a memorable visit from reptile expert Jay Bell, who introduced listeners (and a few nervous customers!) to a gentle Burmese python named Norm. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or enjoying it again, this episode is a fun reminder that curiosity is the first step to discovery. Play along and test your own knowledge—you might be surprised by what you learn! Have a topic you'd love for us to explore? We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message on Facebook or through our website. Connect with The Backyard Naturalists on Facebook, Instagram, and online. Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds in Matthews, North Carolina—your go-to destination for bird feeding, bird watching supplies, and expert advice for creating a backyard habitat that supports local wildlife. Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists. We hope your day is filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side—and if you enjoy the show, please leave us a 5-star review!

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:9a92cfe9-298b-4a69-a769-77c06bb5b783-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this encore episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie revisit their inspiring conversation with certified forest therapy guide and author Melanie Choukas-Bradley to explore the healing power of forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku. Originating in Japan in the 1980s, this mindful practice invites us to slow down, unplug, and fully immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, scents, and textures of the natural world. Melanie shares the fascinating science behind forest bathing—including research showing it can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, boost immune function, and improve sleep—while reminding us that connecting with nature is both simple and accessible. Together, they discuss how even urban areas like Washington, D.C. offer abundant opportunities for meaningful time outdoors, and how parks, greenways, and even your own backyard can become spaces for restoration. You'll learn what to expect on a guided forest bathing walk, how to practice on your own, and why regular time in nature can transform your overall well-being. Whether you're a seasoned naturalist or just beginning to explore mindful time outdoors, this episode will inspire you to step outside, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the living world around you. If you have ideas for future episodes, we'd love to hear from you—reach out on Facebook or through our website. Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds—a true mecca for bird lovers located in Matthews, North Carolina (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte. Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists! We hope your day is filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side—and if you enjoy the show, please leave us a 5-star review. Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting.

What does it really mean when we say a snake "slithers"? In this fascinating (and often hilarious!) episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome back their most frequent guest—snake enthusiast Jay Bell—to explore the science behind snake locomotion. As it turns out, "slithering" barely scratches the surface. From serpentine and concertina movement to the gravity-defying climb of a Reticulated Python and the straight-line glide of a Gaboon Viper, snakes have evolved remarkably efficient ways to move through forests, deserts, trees, and even loose sand. You'll learn how habitat shapes movement, why sidewinding is perfect for desert survival, and how heavy-bodied snakes like the Burmese Python conserve energy with caterpillar-like precision. Whether you're curious about black racers speeding through tall grass or rat snakes climbing brick walls, this episode offers a deeper appreciation for the biomechanics and adaptability of these often-misunderstood reptiles. It's educational, eye-opening, and full of the good-natured banter you've come to expect—an entertaining way to kick off a brand-new year of backyard discoveries. Be sure to check our social media for videos demonstrating the four types of snake movement discussed: serpentine, concertina, sidewinding, and rectilinear. Once you see them in action, you'll never think of "slithering" the same way again!

Every February, bird lovers around the world step outside, look up, and become citizen scientists, and in this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie invite you to join the fun! We're diving into the latest results from the Great Backyard Bird Count, a worldwide citizen-science event that started in 1998 and has grown into a truly global celebration of birds, data, and discovery. From over 838,000 participants to sightings spanning 8,078 bird species, the 2025 results prove just how powerful everyday nature lovers can be. You'll hear highlights from this year's count, including the Northern Cardinal earning top honors in the U.S., massive flocks of starlings, murres, and flamingos around the world, and rare bird sightings that turned heads from Arizona to Australia. Debbie and Laurie also walk you step-by-step through how anyone can participate, whether you're watching a feeder from your kitchen window or listening for owls after dark. Plus, we share tips for using the Merlin Bird ID app, submitting checklists, and turning just 15 minutes into meaningful science. The next Great Backyard Bird Count takes place February 13–16, 2026, making it the perfect way to celebrate Valentine's Day, with birds! Grab your binoculars (or your phone), head outside, and be part of a global backyard party that helps scientists better understand and protect birds everywhere. 👉 Have you participated before, or will this be your first count? Let us know what you see, hear, and learn! The Backyard Naturalists Podcast drops new episodes every Saturday morning. Thanks for listening, and happy birding! 🐦

Winter weather in the Carolinas doesn't come around often, but when it does, it gets everyone talking, including the birds. In this episode, Debbie, Laurie, and Chris share firsthand stories from a week of ice, cold, and wildly overhyped forecasts, then turn their attention to what really matters: how winter weather impacts the wildlife right outside your door. From birds flocking to feeders ahead of a storm to the surprising importance of fresh water, even in freezing temperatures, this conversation is packed with practical, backyard-ready insights. You'll learn what birds are looking for during cold snaps, why high-energy foods like suet and sunflower seeds matter, how to safely manage bird baths in winter, and what not to use on icy sidewalks if you care about wildlife (and pets). The trio also looks ahead to late winter and early spring prep, nesting season is closer than you think! Along the way, there's plenty of humor, Southern storytelling, and encouragement to leave your yard a little wild for the animals that depend on it. Whether you're dealing with snow, ice, or just a chilly morning, this episode is a reminder that small actions in your backyard can make a big difference for birds and other wildlife all winter long.

Zoos have come a long way—and in this episode of The Backyard Naturalists Podcast, Debbie and Laurie kick off their first recording of 2026 by exploring just how different modern zoos are from those many of us remember as kids. From concrete enclosures to expansive, naturalistic habitats, today's zoos play a vital role not only in animal care, but in global conservation. Joining the conversation is Drew Cronin, Director of Conservation Education and Science at the North Carolina Zoo, who offers an eye-opening look at how zoos now serve as powerful hubs for research, education, and worldwide conservation action. Drew shares insights from nearly two decades of work across North America, Africa, and beyond, highlighting innovative projects like the SMART Partnership, a groundbreaking conservation technology platform now used in more than 1,500 protected areas worldwide. From protecting amphibians in North Carolina to supporting national park systems in Africa and Indigenous wildlife monitoring in Canada, this episode is packed with "whoa moments" that show how conservation success depends on empowering people, funding protection efforts, and rethinking our relationship with wildlife. If you think zoos are just about animals behind glass, this conversation may completely change your perspective. Episode highlights include: How modern zoos support global conservation, not just local exhibits Why habitat protection is as much about people as it is about wildlife The challenge of funding and capacity in worldwide conservation efforts A behind-the-scenes look at innovative technology shaping the future of protected areas 🎧 A must-listen for anyone curious about conservation, wildlife, and how one zoo can help change the world.

What was it really like to raise a family in the Alaskan wilderness with little money, no indoor plumbing, and nature as both neighbor and teacher? In this unforgettable episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie, Laurie, and Chris sit down with Laurie's mom, Joe, who shares firsthand stories of raising four children on a remote Alaskan homestead. From hauling water through ice five feet thick and living through 70-below-zero temperatures to gardening, milking cows, cleaning salmon by the hundreds, and watching moose and bears wander too close for comfort, Joe paints a vivid picture of resilience, resourcefulness, and deep connection to the natural world. Joe's reflections offer a powerful reminder of how closely tied people once lived to the land—and what that kind of life teaches you about wildlife, self-reliance, and gratitude. You'll hear about northern lights that crackled in the sky, neighbors who walked 20 miles in the cold, fires fought with aerial retardant drops, and the quiet beauty that still makes Alaska unforgettable. Whether you love stories of homesteading, wilderness living, or strong women shaped by nature, this episode is full of wisdom, humor, and heart straight from the frozen north.

As we welcome in 2026, Debbie and Laurie kick off the new year with a relaxed, behind-the-scenes conversation about nature, community, and what's ahead for The Backyard Naturalists. From skipping midnight celebrations to rethinking traditional New Year's resolutions, the discussion turns toward meaningful, nature-centered intentions, like reducing food waste, swapping non-native plants for native species, and letting our gardens stay a little "messy" for the benefit of wildlife. Along the way, they share timely winter tips for bird lovers, including the importance of bird baths, feeders, and leaving seed heads and stems standing to support overwintering insects and birds. The episode also highlights what listeners are seeing in their own backyards this season, everything from hermit thrushes and pine warblers to bald eagles and great horned owls, plus a reminder about using the Merlin Bird ID app to discover just how active your yard really is. With shout-outs to upcoming events, special guests, giveaways, and the growing Backyard Naturalists community around the world, this short but spirited episode is the perfect way to start the year: curious, connected, and inspired by the natural world right outside your door.

In this quick but eye-opening episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie take a closer look at the Environmental Working Group's annual Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists—two rankings that help consumers understand which fruits and vegetables carry the highest (and lowest) pesticide residues. Whether you shop for your family, your backyard wildlife, or even your parrots (as both Debbie and Laurie do!), this is essential information for keeping everyone safe and healthy. Debbie and Laurie walk through both lists, covering the worst offenders like potatoes, blueberries, blackberries, apples, and leafy greens, as well as the produce that consistently ranks safest, including pineapple, sweet corn, avocados, onions, mushrooms, and kiwi. They explain how the USDA tests produce, why washing and peeling matter, and how thin skins versus thick rinds influence pesticide absorption. The hosts also explore how choosing local, organic, and responsibly grown food can benefit not just our bodies, but also our soil, water, wildlife, and overall ecosystem health. Plus, they highlight ways the Matthews Community Farmers Market helps shoppers make informed, sustainable choices. This helpful, practical episode empowers listeners to shop smarter, understand the environmental impact of pesticide use, and make everyday decisions that support healthier people—and a healthier planet.

In this eye-opening episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie sit down with Benjy Strope, Private Lands Management Biologist for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, to explore the sneaky, persistent, and surprisingly complex world of invasive plants. Inspired by Benjy's article "Quiet Invasives," this conversation gets right to the root of how invasive species spread, why they're so hard to control, and what homeowners, land managers, and nature lovers can realistically do to fight back. Benjy explains why invasive plants don't follow the "rules" we imagine for our landscapes, how seeds hitchhike on everything from shoes to dogs to truckloads of dirt, and why even well-intentioned gardeners may unknowingly contribute to the problem. From statewide offenders like mimosa, Japanese stiltgrass, kudzu, Bradford pear, and Bermuda grass, to emerging threats like Japanese knotweed and fig buttercup, he breaks down what makes each plant so troublesome—and why identification and planning are essential first steps. The discussion covers effective control methods (including when herbicides are the responsible choice), the myth of "one-and-done" removal, the importance of seed banks and site-specific conditions, and the value of choosing hardy native alternatives like blanketflower and coreopsis. Whether you've battled invasives in your backyard, spotted them in local parks, or want to protect native habitat in your community, this episode offers an honest, practical look at the ongoing fight to restore and preserve natural ecosystems. It's informative, candid, and full of the kind of grounded, real-world expertise that helps listeners take meaningful action—one plant at a time.