Burying Beetles

Texas Horned Lizard: Blood, Myths and Conservation!

Fun fact: When threatened, Texas horned lizards can squirt blood from their eyes to ward off predators! And somehow, it still isn't the most interesting thing about them. In this episode, we're joined by guest speaker Bekky Muscher-Hodges, Manager of the Center for Conservation and Research at San Antonio Zoo, to take a closer look at the "Horny Toad" (the Texas horned lizard), one of North America's most iconic and unusual reptiles. From their incredible adaptations and specialized diet, to the myths that surround them, there's a lot more to this beloved reptile than meets the eye. We'll dive deeper into why Texas horned lizards have disappeared from much of their historic range and what researchers and conservationists at San Antonio Zoo are doing to bring them back. Whether you're here for the bizarre, bloody biology or the conservation work at hand, this episode is a great reminder that some of the most remarkable animals are hiding in plain sight.

Exploring Blackwater Cave Diving with Mike Bartick

In this episode, we venture into the open ocean at night with underwater photographer and blackwater diving expert Mike Bartick. He shares how blackwater diving reveals rarely seen larval and deep-sea species, why it's becoming so important for marine research, and what it's like to encounter the ocean's most mysterious creatures suspended in the dark.

She flew above the Amazon Rainforest! Women in Stem with Kamryn Richard

In this episode of Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation, we sit down with Kamryn to talk about what it's really like to be a woman working in conservation today. She opens up about the challenges, the resilience, and the unexpected hurdles she's faced in a male-dominated field — but also the incredible moments that make it all worth it. From flying a bush plane over the Amazon rainforest to connecting with conservationists around the globe, Kamryn shares stories of adventure, purpose, and passion for protecting our planet. Whether you're interested in wildlife, travel, or environmental work, this conversation is both inspiring and eye-opening. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt, and empowering discussion about carving your path in conservation 🌍

Blackwater Diving with Robert Stansfield

Today's episode dives into the deep with Robert Stansfield of Blackwater Cozumel as we explore the fascinating world of blackwater diving. Learn how this unique diving technique reveals rarely seen marine life, why it's so essential for research and conservation, and what it's like to encounter the ocean's most mysterious creatures in the dark.

New England Cottontail

In this episode of Edge of the Earth: Tales of Conservation, we're joined by Lou Perrotti, Director of Conservation Programs at Roger Williams Park Zoo. The conversation focuses on the New England Cottontail and the critical conservation efforts underway to protect this important species and its habitat.