Defender Radio and The Switch (Season 05)

Wildlife conflict is a major issue across Canada and around the world. As humans continue to alter landscapes, break down connectivity of ecosystems and attempt to control environments without consideration for the complex relationships between predators, prey, and other organisms, it seems that this conflict is increasing. Increasing alongside this is the need for research into how to prevent and mitigate conflict. A recent literature review, supplemented with original research findings by the author, highlights some of the major flaws in how humans have been managing predator conflict.

Robert James Lennox, a PhD candidate at Carleton University, and his coauthors conducted a review into existing studies on predator removal. Their results were published in a study titled ‘Evaluating the efficacy of predator removal in a conflict-prone world’ in the August 2018 edition of the journal Biological Conservation.

Robert found, in paraphrased words of his abstract, that predator removal only showed efficacy in the short-term, and tended to be an ineffective and costly approach to conflict prevention and resolution. The results of his review also showed that co-existence methods were more successful.

While on a research trip in French Polynesia, Robert found time to join Defender Radio to discuss his motivations for the paper, the difficulties in defining success and failure, and why more research into predator management and co-existence matters.

Special thanks to Dr. Michelle Booze for technical scientific assistance on this episode!

Read the study: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325857871_Evaluating_the_efficacy_of_predator_removal_in_a_conflict-prone_world

Join the Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Sign up for Defender Radio eMails: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_533_Predator_Removal.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 10:42am EST

Wildlife conflict is a major issue across Canada and around the world. As humans continue to alter landscapes, break down connectivity of ecosystems and attempt to control environments without consideration for the complex relationships between predators, prey, and other organisms, it seems that this conflict is increasing. Increasing alongside this is the need for research into how to prevent and mitigate conflict. A recent literature review, supplemented with original research findings by the author, highlights some of the major flaws in how humans have been managing predator conflict.

Robert James Lennox, a PhD candidate at Carleton University, and his coauthors conducted a review into existing studies on predator removal. Their results were published in a study titled ‘Evaluating the efficacy of predator removal in a conflict-prone world’ in the August 2018 edition of the journal Biological Conservation.

Robert found, in paraphrased words of his abstract, that predator removal only showed efficacy in the short-term, and tended to be an ineffective and costly approach to conflict prevention and resolution. The results of his review also showed that co-existence methods were more successful.

While on a research trip in French Polynesia, Robert found time to join Defender Radio to discuss his motivations for the paper, the difficulties in defining success and failure, and why more research into predator management and co-existence matters.

Read the study: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325857871_Evaluating_the_efficacy_of_predator_removal_in_a_conflict-prone_world

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eMails: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_533_Predator_Removal.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:03pm EST

What! Still not Defender Radio? That’s right, it’s the SECOND episode of The End of Time and Other Bothers. You can go back to an earlier episode and hear a full interview with the cast, creators, and myself and why I wanted to share this special show on my birthday week. Or you can listen and enjoy! More episodes can be found at iTunes, OtherBothers.com, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Episode Two: The Academy of the Fallen, Part 1

Darcy, Blat and Eggerton find themselves thrown back through time to a strange town.

Get more at OtherBothers.com, subscribe on iTunes, or laugh along wherever you listen to podcasts!

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_532_EOTOB_-_Episode_02.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:37pm EST

Hey – this isn’t Defender Radio! That’s right, it’s the first episode of The End of Time and Other Bothers. You can go back to an earlier episode and hear a full interview with the cast, creators, and myself and why I wanted to share this special show on my birthday week. Or you can listen and enjoy! More episodes can be found at iTunes, OtherBothers.com, or anywhere you listen to podcasts. 

Episode One: The End

Blat the half-demon has a calamity in the filing room. Eggerton the fairy gives a fateful presentation. And Darcy the human realizes she is being hunted. 

Get more at OtherBothers.com, subscribe on iTunes, or laugh along wherever you listen to podcasts!

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_532_EOTOB_-_Episode_01.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:21pm EST

It’s my birthday! Well, it’s my birthday week. And since everyone has to do what I say for the rest of the week, we’re going to take a step away from the usual topics we cover on Defender Radio. Don’t worry – I have an awesome interview with Robert Lennox, whose work on a predator removal study is discussed all the way from his current location in French Polynesia. But that’s next week, because this week it’s my birthday!

As some of you may know I’m a bit of a geek. I love playing video games, table top games, and role-playing games. I also enjoy comedy audio dramas, like old fashioned radio plays, and improv. I’m very fortunate that two of my very favourite people in the world, Sean Howard and Eli McIlveen have created a fantasy comedy podcast I love: Alba Salix Royal Physician. And when they said they wanted to do a Dungeons and Dragons-type game in that universe, using improv and incredible friends and performers Marisa King and Carter Siddall, which would then be published as a podcast, I jumped at the chance. Literally. Sean may still have a bruise.

The End of Time and Other Bothers was born and episode six released just last week. On the weekend, I sat down with Sean, Eli, Marisa, and Carter and we talked about the game, how a decision to be empathetic to animals and others in our world transformed the story, and why we end up laughing and laughing every time we play together. As an added bonus, the next two episodes in your Defender Radio podcast feed are the first two episodes of The End of Times and Other Bothers! I’ll tell you more about how to listen to that show after our interview.

If you want to listen to the first two episodes of The End of Time and Other Bothers just click ‘next’ in your podcast feed! You can also visit otherbothers.com to learn more about episodes, the cast, and how you can get access to behind the scenes footage, outtakes, and more.

Listen to The End of Time and Other Bothers on iTunes here! 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_532_End_of_Time_and_Other_Bothers.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:00pm EST

Humane education is pretty awesome – we can all agree on that, right? But what exactly humane education looks like, how it’s delivered, and even what the goals are can be different from person to person, and organization to organization.

I was very fortunate to get to spend some time with Megan Moon, the Executive Direction of the Humane Education Coalition. This relatively young organization is looking to expand the impact of humane education around the globe by offering resources, research, and more to partners from all walks of life.

Megan joined Defender Radio to share the story of the Humane Education Coalition, dive into some of the programs, research, and resources they’re developing, and share how people can get involved.

Humane Education Coalition: www.HECoalition.org

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_531_Humane_Education_Coalition.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 2:14pm EST

Humane education is pretty awesome – we can all agree on that, right? But what exactly humane education looks like, how it’s delivered, and even what the goals are can be different from person to person, and organization to organization.

I was very fortunate to get to spend some time with Megan Moon, the Executive Director of the Humane Education Coalition. This relatively young organization is looking to expand the impact of humane education around the globe by offering resources, research, and more to partners from all walks of life.

Megan joined Defender Radio to share the story of the Humane Education Coalition, dive into some of the programs, research, and resources they’re developing, and share how people can get involved.

This is a news brief edit of our interview. The full interview will be available later this week at TheFurBearers.com, on iTunes, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

The Humane Education Coalition: www.hecoalition.org

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNewsletter: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_531_Humane_Education_Coalition.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:34pm EST

Cougars have been in the news recently, particularly in British Columbia. Conflict with Canada’s big cats isn’t overly common, but when cougars end up in communities, lethal action seems to be the first response. And that’s why we called up Bryce Casavant.

Bryce is a former Conservation Officer who made international headlines when he refused orders to kill two healthy bear cubs. Educating residents on safely co-existing with wildlife remains a passion of his, as he writes for his own blog and as is frequently contacted by media to serve as an expert source.

He joined Defender Radio to discuss who cougars are, how to distinguish between sensationalism and fact, and what we can all do to promote co-existence with cougars and other wildlife across Canada.

Defender Radio Patreon - www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Emails - www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_530_Cougars_Coexistence.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 12:08pm EST

Cougars have been in the news recently, particularly in British Columbia. Conflict with Canada’s big cats isn’t overly common, but when cougars end up in communities, lethal action seems to be the first response. And that’s why we called up Bryce Casavant.

Bryce is a former Conservation Officer who made international headlines when he refused orders to kill two healthy bear cubs. Educating residents on safely co-existing with wildlife remains a passion of his, as he writes for his own blog and as is frequently contacted by media to serve as an expert source. He joined Defender Radio to discuss who cougars are, how to distinguish between sensationalism and fact, and what we can all do to promote co-existence with cougars and other wildlife across Canada.

This is a news brief version of our interview – the full interview will be made available later this week at TheFurBearers.com, iTunes, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Email List: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_530_Cougars_Coexistence.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:50pm EST

Science literacy is growing more important by the day – particularly for advocates looking to make change in the lives of animals and the environment. But between complex, academic papers, bureaucrats and others who don’t fully explain theories or provide citations, and the world of instant-access social media, it isn’t always easy to be on the side of fact. That’s why the job of the science communicator is becoming vital – and that’s why I wanted to talk to the best science communicator I know, Dr. Anna Zakrisson.

Dr. Anna’s Imaginarium is a brilliant collection of podcasts, social media groups, and videos – as well as a new business – that allows Anna to discuss all sorts of topics and issues related to science. With her PhD in biology and love of talking about science, she was the perfect person to join Defender Radio and explore what science literacy is, why social media could be making it harder to think critically, and how we can do better as advocates, content creators, scientists, and content consumers.

Doctor Anna's Imaginarium: www.annazakrisson.com

Send Your Review Screengrab to: michael@thefurbearers.com

Defender Radio Patreon: www.patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Email Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_529_Anna_Zakrisson_Imaginarium.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:05pm EST

Science literacy is growing more important by the day – particularly for advocates looking to make change in the lives of animals and the environment. But between complex, academic papers, bureaucrats and others who don’t fully explain theories or provide citations, and the world of instant-access social media, it isn’t always easy to be on the side of fact. That’s why the job of the science communicator is becoming vital – and that’s why I wanted to talk to the best science communicator I know, Dr. Anna Zakrisson.

Dr. Anna’s Imaginarium is a brilliant collection of podcasts, social media groups, and videos – as well as a new business – that allows Anna to discuss all sorts of topics and issues related to science. With her PhD in biology and love of talking about science, she was the perfect person to join Defender Radio and explore what science literacy is, why social media could be making it harder to think critically, and how we can do better as advocates, content creators, scientists, and content consumers.

Dr. Anna's Imaginarium website: www.AnnaZakrisson.com

Email a screen grab of your review: michael@thefurbearers.com 

Support Defender Radio: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Get Defender Radio Email Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_529_Dr_Anna_Imaginarium.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

It’s just about impossible to be Canadian and not hear about pipelines, oil, tankers, and other environmental and political hot potatoes in British Columbia and Alberta. But in much of the debates, regardless of which side you fall on, there is one element often forgotten: wildlife.

The impact of oil and other materials on wildlife can be extreme, and there is little in the way of support for the professional and volunteer rehabilitators who try to help the animals. Fortunately, training is available, and there are dedicated individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to help animals who come into contact with oil. To discuss what specialized treatment is required, how animals are able to recover from oil spills and other incidents, and what the public can do to help, Defender Radio was joined by Linda Bakker of the Wildlife Rescue Association.

Wildlife Rescue Association: www.WildlifeRescue.ca

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Emails: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

Photo provided by Wildlife Rescue Association

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_528_Oiled_Wildlife.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:36pm EST

It’s just about impossible to be Canadian and not hear about pipelines, oil, tankers, and other environmental and political hot potatoes in British Columbia and Alberta. But in much of the debates, regardless of which side you fall on, there is one element often forgotten: wildlife.

The impact of oil and other materials on wildlife can be extreme, and there is little in the way of support for the professional and volunteer rehabilitators who try to help the animals. Fortunately, training is available, and there are dedicated individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to help animals who come into contact with oil. To discuss what the specialized treatment is required, how animals are able to recover from oil spills and other incidents, and what the public can do to help, Defender Radio was joined by Linda Bakker of the Wildlife Rescue Association.

This is a news brief edit of the interview – a full version will be made available later this week at TheFurBearers.com, iTunes, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Emails: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_NEWS_BRIEF_528_oiled_wildlife.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:29pm EST

A hint of anger or disgust can be heard when conversation turns to wolves and coyotes in some communities – particularly those where managing livestock pays the bills. A long-held belief in many regions of the world – including many parts of Canada – is that eliminating these predators will protect livestock. Though numerous studies show that bounties or culls are ineffective at this, the practice remains in place.

Dr. Gilbert Proulx of Alpha Wildlife Research & Management, along with Sadie Parr of Wolf Awareness Inc., wanted to test some of the beliefs surrounding cattle and wild canids. In their paper Is Livestock An Important Food Resource For Coyotes and Wolves in Central Eastern Alberta Counties with Predator Control Bounties?, the duo tested three hypotheses based on assertations supporting bounties. The results showed, simply, that cattle isn’t an important food resource and  that a bounty made no difference in the amount of cattle consumed by coyotes and wolves. The results also led to the recommendation that the bounties be discontinued.

With communities spending tens of thousands of limited budgets on ineffective bounties, individual animals being killed, and ecosystems being irreparably damaged, this science is more important than ever. Dr. Gilbert Proulx joined Defender Radio to discuss the science behind the research, some of the factors that lead to the belief that predators are killing livestock, and what’s necessary to move forward from this outdated model of management.

Read the paper: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325010330_Is_Livestock_an_Important_Food_Resource_for_Coyotes_and_Wolves_in_Central_Eastern_Alberta_Counties_with_Predator_Control_Bounties_Original_Research

Join the Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/Defenderradio

Get Defender Radio email updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_527_Predator_Bounties.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:01pm EST

A hint of anger or disgust can be heard when conversation turns to wolves and coyotes in some communities – particularly those where managing livestock pays the bills. A long-held belief in many regions of the world – including many parts of Canada – is that eliminating these predators will protect livestock. Though numerous studies show that bounties or culls are ineffective at this, the practice remains in place.

Dr. Gilbert Proulx of Alpha Wildlife Research & Management, along with Sadie Parr of Wolf Awareness Inc., wanted to test some of the beliefs surrounding cattle and wild canids. In their paper Is Livestock An Important Food Resource For Coyotes and Wolves in Central Eastern Alberta Counties with Predator Control Bounties?, the duo tested three hypotheses based on assertations supporting bounties. The results showed, simply, that cattle isn’t an important food resource and  that a bounty made no difference in the amount of cattle consumed by coyotes and wolves. The results also led to the recommendation that the bounties be discontinued.

With communities spending tens of thousands of limited budgets on ineffective bounties, individual animals being killed, and ecosystems being irreparably damaged, this science is more important than ever. Dr. Gilbert Proulx joined Defender Radio to discuss the science behind the research, some of the factors that lead to the belief that predators are killing livestock, and what’s necessary to move forward from this outdated model of management.

Read the paper: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/325010330_Is_Livestock_an_Important_Food_Resource_for_Coyotes_and_Wolves_in_Central_Eastern_Alberta_Counties_with_Predator_Control_Bounties_Original_Research

Support Defender Radio on Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Join the Defender Radio eMail list: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_527_Bounties_Canids.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:23pm EST

Dr. Max Foran is no stranger to telling Canada’s stories: he’s written dozens of books and articles on subjects ranging from urban sprawl to international trade of historic Alberta. But in his latest project, he takes on a subject steeped in philosophy, history, science, and industry: Canadian wildlife management.

The Subjugation of Canadian Wildlife, published in April 2018 by McGill-Queen’s university Press, is an outstanding look at the twisting tale of how wildlife in our country is managed. Perhaps the most all-encompassing book on the subject that does not simply repeat what managers and the political system tell the public, Dr. Foran does a superb job of bringing together the vast array of moving parts, history, and moral-decision making that makes up modern wildlife management. It is an absolute must read – and is accessible for readers of virtually any level, regardless of academic background.

Dr. Foran joined Defender Radio to discuss what drove him to write this book, what he learned along the way as a professional researcher and writer, and what he hopes Canada’s wildlife management policies can become as we move forward.

Get your copy: http://www.mqup.ca/subjugation-of-canadian-wildlife--the-products-9780773553163.php

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Email Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_526_Subjugation_of_Canadian_Wildlife.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 12:13pm EST

There are 417 national Parks and historic sites in the United States National Park system, visited by more than 275 million people every year. Among those numbers is a power couple doing something pretty awesome.

Sarah and Lucas Villa-Kainec want to visit each and every park and site in the national park system – and along the way, they want to share the stories of these remarkable places. But they don’t want to write another travel guide, they want the real stories, told by the people who spend their days – and sometimes a good portion of their lives – at these locations. That’s why they started their new show: Podcasts with Park Rangers.

Sarah and Lucas interview park rangers and share their wonderful, passionate stories about these incredible places, including a love of the flora and fauna of caves, the historical significance of locations, and more. The Villa-Kainecs joined Defender Radio to share their story about the stories – and what listeners to this new podcast can expect to learn about national parks, RVing from park to park with their cats, and what makes these locations so special.

Listen to Podcasts With Park Rangers: www.PodcastsWithParkRangers.com

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Email Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_525_Podcasts_With_Park_Rangers.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:57pm EST

Sarah and Lucas Villa-Kainec want to visit each and every park and site in the national park system – and along the way, they want to share the stories of these remarkable places. But they don’t want to write another travel guide, they want the real stories, told by the people who spend their days – and sometimes a good portion of their lives – at these locations. That’s why they started their new show: Podcasts with Park Rangers.

Sarah and Lucas interview park rangers and share their wonderful, passionate stories about these incredible places, including a love of the flora and fauna of caves, the historical significance of locations, and more. The Villa-Kainecs joined Defender Radio to share their story about the stories – and what listeners to this new podcast can expect to learn about national parks, RV'ing from park to park with their cats, and what makes these locations so special.

Listen To Podcasts With Park Rangers at www.PodcastsWithParkRangers.com.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_525_Podcasts_WitH_Park_RAngers.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:10pm EST

The East coast seal hunt has started in Canada, and with it a fierce public relations campaign from two sides: those who support the seal hunt, and those who oppose it. While the facts are available there are groups and individuals who pass on misinformation and disinformation regarding the hunt from both camps.

That’s why we turn to Canadian seal hunt expert Sheryl Fink of the International Fund for Animal Welfare for answers. Using publicly available government documents, citing sources, and speaking plainly, Sheryl provides a fact-based look at the inherently inhumane hunt and helps Canadians and an international audience of animal lovers understand what’s happening in the east coast seal hunt.

Sheryl joined Defender Radio to discuss the seal hunt, dismiss some disinformation, and address myths surrounding the commercial seal hunt.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_524_Seal_Hunt.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 2:24pm EST

The East coast seal hunt has started in Canada, and with it, a fierce public relations campaign from two sides: those who support the seal hunt, and those who oppose it. While the facts are available there are groups and individuals who pass on misinformation and disinformation regarding the hunt from both camps. That’s why I turn to my good friend and Canadian seal hunt expert, Sheryl Fink of the International Fund for Animal Welfare for answers. Using publicly available government documents, citing sources, and speaking plainly, Sheryl provides a fact-based look at the inherently inhumane hunt and helps Canadians and an international audience of animal lovers understand what’s happening in the east coast seal hunt.

Sheryl joined Defender Radio to discuss the seal hunt, dismiss some disinformation, and address myths surrounding the commercial seal hunt.

A full version of this interview will be available later this week.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio email updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_524_Commercial_Seal_Hunt.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:18pm EST

From BC to the east coast, black bears are waking up and wandering about as winter finally gives way to spring. The best person to talk to about bears is a man who spends time rehabilitating them, teaching others to co-exist with them, and kind of looking like one when his hair gets extra scruffy: Mike McIntosh of Bear With Us. Defender Radio connected with Mike and talked spring bear adventures, feeding of bears and other attractants, and why rehabilitation of bears anywhere in Canada can be successful.

A shortened version of this interview is available as a News Brief at TheFurBearers.com, the iTunes store, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.

To learn more about Mike and Bear With Us, visit www.BearWithUs.org.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_523_Spring_Bears.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 11:11am EST

Bears! In British Columbia they’re starting to wander about, and across the rest of the country they’re waiting out the final days of winter before venturing into the world. 

The best person to talk to about bears is a man who spends time rehabilitating them, teaching others to co-exist with them, and kind of looking like one when his hair gets extra scruffy: Mike McIntosh of Bear With Us. We connected and talked spring bear adventures, feeding of bears and other attractants, and why rehabilitation of bears anywhere in Canada can be successful.

This is a brief edit of our full interview. The full version will be available later this week at TheFurBearers.com, in the iTunes store, or anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

Bear With Us: www.BearWithUs.org

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_523_Spring_Bears.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:16pm EST

This week I’ve got a special episode for you. I’m going to tell you about the #RefuseTheGoose campaign we’ve launched, targeting Canada Goose for their ongoing use of coyote fur. If you just want to get straight to signing the letter and sharing with your friends and family, head to TheFurBearers.com/refusethegoose.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Canada Goose and coyote fur, let’s start at the beginning. And don’t worry – I won’t be using graphic language.

Take Action: https://goo.gl/sjsdeq

Fur Free Retailer Program: https://furfreeretailer.com

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Sign Up for Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_522_Refuse_The_Goose.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:43pm EST

LaSalle Park in Burlington, Ontario, is a beautiful area, right on the shore of Lake Ontario. It’s a diverse area, full of wildlife, walking trails, and natural history. But it’s also where some individuals have complained coyotes are spending time, and not reacting how residents believe the wild canids should. I spent a few hours with Lesley Sampson, co-founder and president of Coyote Watch Canada, walking the trails, discussing what factors could lead to behaviour in coyotes that is received as troubling, and what we can do about it.  Following our walk, we recorded a conversation in the parking lot of LaSalle Park to review our thoughts and observations.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_521_Coexisting_Coyotes_Burlington.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 1:30pm EST

LaSalle Park in Burlington, Ontario, is a beautiful area, right on the shore of Lake Ontario. It’s a diverse area, full of wildlife, walking trails, and natural history. But it’s also where some individuals have complained coyotes are spending time, and not reacting how residents believe the wild canids should. I spent a few hours with Lesley Sampson, cofounder and president of Coyote Watch Canada, walking the trails, discussing what factors could lead to behaviour in coyotes that is received as troubling, and what we can do about it.  Following our walk, we recorded a conversation in the parking lot of LaSalle Park to review our thoughts.

This episode is a news brief edit of our interview. A full version will be available later this week at TheFurBearers.com, the iTunes store, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eNews: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_521_Coexisting_With_coyotes_in_Burlington.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 8:10pm EST

We’ve all heard the phrase Wildlife management should be science-based. It’s spoken loudly by advocates who are opposed to all hunting and trapping, those who think hunting and trapping is all that stands between humanity and bedlam, and everyone in between.

But is wildlife management in North America actually science-based? That’s the question posed by a team of scientists from Raincoast Conservation Foundation, Simon Fraser University, University of Victoria, and the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Their study, Hallmarks of science missing from North American wildlife management”, published by Science Advances earlier this month, asked this question: and came up with some disturbing results.

Defender Radio connected with Dr. Kyle Artelle, one of the authors of the study to get a deeper understanding of what the team found.

A five-minute edit of this interview is also available at TheFurBearers.com, in the iTunes store, or where ever you listen to podcasts.

Read the study: http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/4/3/eaao0167.full

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eMail Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_520_Science_Based_Management.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 1:36pm EST

We’ve all heard the phrase Wildlife management should be science-based. It’s spoken loudly by advocates who are opposed to all hunting and trapping, those who think hunting and trapping is all that stands between humanity and bedlam, and everyone in between.

But is wildlife management in North America actually science-based? That’s the question posed by a team of scientists from Raincoast Conservation Foundation, Simon Fraser University, University of Victoria, and the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Their study, Hallmarks of science missing from North American wildlife management”, published by Science Advances earlier this month, asked this question: and came up with some disturbing results.

I connected with Dr. Kyle Artelle, one of the authors of the study to get a deeper understanding of what the team found.

Read the study: http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/4/3/eaao0167.full

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Defender Radio eMail UpdateS: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_520_Science_Based_Management.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:47pm EST

The Gryphon Press is a wonderful publishing company The Fur-Bearers met through the Humane Education Coalition. Their children’s books on subjects from adopting dogs, rescuing rabbits, and of course, why the animals need their fur, all reflect the publisher’s tagline: a voice for the voiceless.

Emilie Buchwald, publisher of The Gryphon Press, joined Defender Radio last week to discuss why she came out of retirement to start up a new business that’s published several award-winning books, how truthful stories can create compassion in children, and what Gryphon Press looks for in a story about animals.

A five-minute news brief version of this interview is available at TheFurBearers.com or in your podcast feed.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eMails: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender-Radio-Podcast-519-Gryphon-Press-Storytelling.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:49pm EST

The Gryphon Press is a wonderful publishing company The Fur-Bearers met through the Humane Education Coalition. Their children’s books on subjects from adopting dogs, rescuing rabbits, and of course, why the animals need their fur, all reflect the publisher’s tagline: a voice for the voiceless.

Emilie Buchwald, publisher of The Gryphon Press, joined Defender Radio last week to discuss why she came out of retirement to start up a new business that’s published several award-winning books, how truthful stories can create compassion in children, and what Gryphon Press looks for in a story about animals.

This is the five-minute radio edit of our interview. The full interview will be available this week at TheFurBearers.com or in your podcast feed.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eMail Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_519_Gryphon_Press.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:43pm EST

You’ve probably heard the name Bryce Casavant: he’s the former Conservation Officer in British Columbia who made headlines when he refused an order to kill two healthy bear cubs. He also ran as an NDP candidate in the last provincial election in BC and continues to work for the government in the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. But it is his efforts as a student that has Bryce back into the news.

Bryce is working toward a doctoral degree in social sciences with Royal Roads University, and his area of study should come as no surprise: wildlife, law enforcement, and social change. Recently, Bryce was given the go-ahead to pursue a review of 100 years of wildlife enforcement records, described as a critical discourse analysis.  Bryce joined Defender Radio to get into what his research will look at, why it matters, and how understanding the history of wildlife enforcement could lead to a better world for people – and the animals.

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

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Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_518_Bryce_Casavant_Research.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:27pm EST

You’ve probably heard the name Bryce Casavant: he’s the former Conservation Officer in British Columbia who made headlines when he refused an order to kill two healthy bear cubs. He also ran as an NDP candidate in the last provincial election in BC, and continues to work for the government in the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. But it is his efforts as a student that has Bryce back into the news.

Bryce is working toward a doctoral degree in social sciences with Royal Rhodes University, and his area of study should come as no surprise: wildlife, law enforcement, and social change. Recently, Bryce was given the go-ahead to pursue a review of 100 years of wildlife enforcement records, described as a critical discourse analysis.

Hear more in this News Brief - the full interview will be available later this week on your podcast feed!

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio eMail Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_518_Bryce_Casavant_Research.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:25pm EST

While we all love wildlife and want to co-exist with the animals, sharing our bedrooms and walls with them isn’t exactly ideal; many species can cause significant electrical or structural damage to homes or businesses, putting everyone at risk. Some species do carry diseases that are harmful, particularly in locations like hospitals or restaurants. And, if you’re like me, having a squirrel scrabbling around in the vents causes the dogs to go absolutely insane.

Safely and removing wildlife is an important job that should often be left to experts – but who exactly are the experts, and what makes them humane operators are long standing questions. And now, the BC SPCA wants to help answer them.

The BC SPCA launched AnimalKind last week, a program that will help residents and business owners find accredited wildlife removal or pest control companies who put humane treatment of animals first. Dr. Sara Dubois, Chief Scientific Officer for the BC SPCA joined Defender Radio to explain the need for AnimalKind, how it was developed, and why it will benefit people, businesses, and the animals.

You can hear a five-minute edit of this interview in the News Brief released earlier this week in your podcast feed.

Defender Radio Patreon - www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio EMail Updates - www.TheFurBearers.com/updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_Podcast_517_BCSPCA_AnimalKind.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 12:26pm EST

The BC SPCA launched AnimalKind last week, a program that will help residents and business owners find accredited wildlife removal or control companies who put humane treatment of animals first. I connected with Dr. Sara Dubois, Chief Scientific Officer for the BC SPCA to talk more about this program.

The full interview will be available on Wednesday, March 7!

Defender Radio Patreon: www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio

Defender Radio Email Updates: www.TheFurBearers.com/Updates

 

Direct download: Defender_Radio_News_Brief_517_BCSPCA_AnimalKind.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 1:56pm EST

I love raccoons. They’re smart little problem-solvers, who have learned to adapt into a landscape that’s difficult to navigate for a non-human animal and taken up an essential role in many ecosystems. But the furry bandits’ cuteness isn’t enough to prevent media from maligning them, social media posts blaming them for human-centric problems, and keeping them safe when conflict does occur. That said, their cuteness can be too much: some advocates and animal lovers may go too far in trying to help raccoons, which creates new issues, from generating future conflict to disease transmission.

To sort it all out, and understand what raccoons are up to this time of year – as well as address a few issues that have come up in the news, like rabies – I connected with Cara Contardi of Urban Wildlife Care in Grimsby, Ontario.

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Direct download: 2018-02-28_Defender-Radio-Podcast-Raccoons.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 7:52pm EST

This is the first Defender Radio News Brief, a more traditional radio interview, edited down to its core points, and kept within 5 to 7 minutes, for quick and easy listening. Regular, full-length episodes will still be published, but now on Wednesdays!

Raccoons are on the move. Whether you’re in an urban centre like Hamilton or Vancouver, or have forests or farmlands as your backyard, the masked critters are likely making more appearances – as well as interesting sounds – in your community. I connected with Cara Contardi of Urban Wildlife Care, a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Grimsby, Ontario, to talk raccoons. Full interview releases on Wednesday, February 28.

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In our world, there are many types of dogs, each unique and wonderful. And in a 12-episode podcast series, Adam Winston has explored makes our relationships with them so incredible. Adam has combined his passions for learning, his love of dogs, and his experience as an Air Force Radio and Television Producer to create this journey of discovery called Dogs In Our World. Each episode features a produced interview with an expert, including a philosopher, a historian, multiple trainers and behaviourists, and even Dr. Temple Grandin. These experts all discuss with Adam the dogs with whom we share our lives, history, and homes, revealing incredible insights. The thought provoking episodes are a wonderful chance for life long dog lovers and trainers to those who know little about our domestic canines to learn alongside Adam.

Having recently wrapped his first season, Adam joined Defender Radio for an exclusive, in-depth interview exploring his journey to becoming a dog person and ultimately developing Dogs In Our World, the excitement of nabbing conversations with high-profile experts, highlights from the season, and what he’s learned about himself and the world around him through a love of dogs.

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Direct download: 2018-02-19_Defender-Radio-Podcast-515-Dogs-In-Our-World-v3.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:22pm EST

The story of Russell, the orphaned and injured bear cub outside of Calgary, broke hearts around the world. Wildlife rehabilitators and veterinarians were ready, willing, and able to assist by examining his injured leg, and providing a safe environment for his rehabilitation over winter, but Alberta Environment and Parks refused. While the story of Russell is sad, and his fate following hibernation remains unknown, it highlighted a greater problem: several indigenous species that the government has decided cannot or should not be rehabilitated from injury or illness, or cared for as orphans.

The story of Russell also accomplished something remarkable: the government has stated they are now reviewing and implementing protocols for black bear rehabilitation in the province. Due to an overwhelming response by all of you, and the hard work of a core of advocates in Alberta, the media did not relent, and the science, ethics and logic of rehabilitation, forced a change.

To discuss the cautious optimism of this important victory, the combination of ethics and science behind rehabilitation, and why the advocacy can’t end now, Defender Radio was joined by biologist and former rehabilitator Lisa Dahlseide.

Take Action: Send a Letter to Alberta's Government

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Direct download: 2018-02-12_Defender-Radio-Podcast-Russell-Alberta-Rehab.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 2:32pm EST

Host Michael Howie discusses The Fur-Bearers' push for trap warning signs in provinces and territories across Canada, how it can help protect dogs, cats, other domestic animals, and children, and how easy it is for you to take action with our one-click advocacy letter!

Direct download: 2018-02-05_Defender-Radio-Podcast-Trap-Warning-signs.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:33pm EST

New research from Dr. Adrian Treves and his colleagues Drs. Francisco Santiago-Avila and Ari Cornman highlights that lethal management of wolves to prevent depredation of livestock on properties in Michigan may be ineffective and could create detrimental effects for neighbouring properties.

The paper, titled Killing wolves to prevent predation on livestock may protect one farm but harm neighbors, was published by Public Library of Science, or PLOS One earlier this month. The researchers were given access to 16 years of data on wolf depredation and control in Upper Michigan and used multiple methods to analyze it. What they found was, in their words, that “given the evidence available, we cannot conclude that lethal management had the desired effect of preventing future livestock losses.

There is also evidence of a spill-over effect to other properties in the region.

The questions raised by this study play into a paper published by Dr. Treves with several colleagues in Nature Ecology and Evolution, titled Intergenerational equity can help to prevent climate change and extinction. This is an important subject that combines ethics, environmental sciences, and how we as a society, and as a species, must look at what we’re doing today and how it will impact tomorrow’s world.

Dr. Adrian Treves of the Carnivore Coexistence Lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison joined Defender Radio to explore the implications of his latest wolf depredation study, the importance of adapting policies to match science, and how we can all play a role in safeguarding wildlife and the environment for future generations.

Support the Defender Radio Patreon with as little as $1/month at Patreon.com/DefenderRadio!

Direct download: 2018-01-29_Defender-Radio-Podcast-Treves-Wolves-Depredation.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:17pm EST

Cat declawing sounds like a reasonable way to prevent damage to furniture and homes, and keep cats who may be given to shelters with families. But the science simply doesn’t support any of it – and declawing isn’t even what it sounds like.

In this special report, I connected with Dr. Margie Scherk, a veterinarian who specializes in feline medicine and surgery, and wants the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia to outlaw the practice. According to a CBC article, nearly 80 per cent of BC vets who responded to the survey support a ban on declawing, and 62 per cent already stopped conducting the procedure themselves.

Dr. Scherk is hoping that greater public awareness on the truth about cat declawing and support for a petition she has created will push the College into moving forward with a ban – something that happened in Nova Scotia just last December.

This special report is brought to you by our wonderful Patrons – become a supporter at Patreon.com/DefenderRadio to help the show grow and increase our audience, and gain access to exclusive content.

Sign the petition: https://www.change.org/p/college-of-veterinarians-of-british-columbia-stop-declawing-cats-in-bc

Direct download: 2018-01-25_Defender-Radio-Podcast-511-Cat-Declawing.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:06pm EST

The International Fund for Animal Welfare, or IFAW, has a campaign called the Northern Dogs Project. On the face of it, the program is straightforward: assist remote First Nations communities in Quebec and Canada to live with dogs in a positive way and manage populations humanely. But it’s a lot more than that – and it has less to do with dogs than you may think.

Jan Hannah, manager of the Northern Dogs Project, joined Defender Radio to discuss the project, the history of working with Cree and Anishinaabe communities, and why it matters that as advocates we focus on listening.

Before we get to the interview, I want to acknowledge how sensitive a subject this is. Colonialism and intergenerational trauma are subjects I don’t have a firm grasp on as I have not studied or researched extensively in this area, nor had the opportunity to be immersed in this culture. I do understand that they impact the lives of First Nations, Metis and Inuit people and society significantly. The reason I wanted to do this episode is because it’s a subject that we as animal advocates and compassionate individuals must try to learn more about. I believe that IFAW’s method of working with communities through listening is a concept we can all learn from.

I believe we all can have a positive impact on the people around us, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, or history, so long as we move forward with compassion and respect, and accept responsibility for the errors we have made, and those that we continue to make. And if this is a subject of interest to you, I recommend that you visit the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada website or visit your local library to learn more about colonialism, intergenerational trauma, and the cultures and history of First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people of this land. I'll be doing that myself.

Direct download: 2018-01-22_Defender-Radio-Podcast-Northern-Dogs-Project.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 6:12pm EST

Fashion Animals, set to be published by Vegan Publishers and funded through Indiegogo, takes on the fur fashion industry in a whole new way. Fashion Animals was a labour of love for Joshua Katcher, who spent five years developing it, compiling research, data and a spectacular archive of rare images. Joshua joined Defender Radio from the road to discuss the writing of Fashion Animals, what readers and Indiegogo supporters can expect, and how he believes it will change the lives of countless animals around the world. 

 

See the Indiegogo campaign at https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/fashion-animals-art-vegan.

Direct download: 2018-01-15_DefenderRadio-Podcast-Fashion-Animals-Joshua-Katcher.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:23pm EST

The law exists to protect everyone, and for advocates like us, that includes non-human animals. Canadian law isn’t quite there yet, but the folks at Animal Justice are always working to change that. And pretty soon, you’ll be able to hear a little bit more about the ins and outs of the legal fight for animals.

Paw and Order, the new podcast from Animal Justice, is set to release its first episodes this month. Animal Justice Executive Director Camille Labchuk board member and law professor Peter Sankoff will talk about the organization’s cases, legal news that relates to animals, and more in the new show. It’s an exciting prospect, as the intricacies of law, especially animal law, is hard to communicate in brief media clips – this in-depth discussion format will be fascinating for animal lovers of all stripes.

Become a Patron of Defender Radio and help grow the show and support The Fur-Bearers, and also get access to exclusive bonus content at www.Patreon.com/DefenderRadio.

Direct download: 2018-01-08_Defender-Radio-Podcast-Paw-and-Order.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 10:09am EST

The next regular episode of Defender Radio: The Podcast for Wildlife Advocates and Animal Lovers will be available January 8, 2018, featuring Animal Justice and their new podcast Paw and Order. In this short episode, Host Michael Howie explores the question of how to grow hope in the world after a difficult year, and his promises to the animals for 2018.

Direct download: 2017-12-30_DefenderRadioPodcast_Hope.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:41pm EST

This is the Defender Radio Family Christmas Special! Christmas In A Cozy Cave is a heart-warming Christmas tale of two very different animals who were the best of friends, as they try to give each other holiday gifts to show how much they appreciate each other. But in their efforts, they may jeopardize Christmas for one another!

An audio drama written by Michael Howie and Megan Howie. Adapted from O. Henry's Gift of the Magi.

Narrated by Barbara Howie

Chipmunk played by Tracy Garnett

Otter played by Kate Howie

Bear played by Michael Howie

Episode art by Shannon Darch

Full credits, thanks, and acknowledgements in bonus file "Defender Radio Family Christmas Special (Thanks and Acknowledgements)."

Direct download: 2017-12-17_DefenderRadioPodcast_FamilyChristmasSpecial.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:52pm EST

We just released the Defender Radio Family Christmas Special, and decided to do this brief episode separately to not interfere with your enjoyment of the special. I’m going to tell you a bit about why I made the special, and thank and acknowledge those who supported and helped out. If you haven’t listened to Christmas In a Cozy Cave, go do that first, and then come back to listen to this special feature.

Direct download: 2017-12-17_DefenderRadioFamilyChristmas-THANKS.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:45pm EST

John Marriott is a wonderful wildlife photographer. I’ve had the good fortune to chat with him in the past about his work, particularly on the subjects of ethics and advocacy. When I saw the news that he’d released a new book, I immediately tweeted him, asking for a review copy and an interview. Then I emailed him. I think I called him at 3 am once or twice, too.

Long story short, I loved the book, wrote a review of Tall Tales, Long Lenses: My Adventures in Photography, for The Fur-Bearers, and managed to tie down John for an interview between his numerous signings and speaking engagements in recent weeks. We discussed the process of developing this new book, what it was like to invite readers into his memories and life, and why one of Canada’s most popular wildlife photographers is also one of Canada’s most outspoken conservationists.

Direct download: 2017-12-11_Defender_Radio_Podcast_John_Marriottv2.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 3:30pm EST

In October I received a slew of emails about an injured bear cub in a community outside of Calgary, Alberta. Ordinarily, I’d just do a quick google search and provide the concerned animal lover with contact information for their closest wildlife rehabber. But that didn’t work in the case – because Alberta doesn’t allow for the rehabilitation of orphaned bear cubs.

Unlike neighboring British Columbia, and here in Ontario, Alberta has strict policies that will not allow several species of orphaned wildlife to be rehabbed – and they don’t really offer any studies or scientifically-based reasons as to why. As one can expect, this policy, particularly in the case of this injured bear cub, named Russell by area children, led to an outcry.

Local wildlife lovers have come together to push for change to the policy – both through a temporary permit for the local Cochrane Ecological Institute, which is set up and did rehab bears and bear cubs for decades, and for other cubs moving forward. The Fur-Bearers have proudly supported those initiatives. The informal group of advocates have also created a stir in area media on the issue, created a man-made den for Russell, and are on alert for changes in his health or behaviour. Lisa Dahlseide, a biologist and former rehabber at Cochrane Ecological Institute, connected with me to have an in-depth talk about the story of Russell, the lack of evidence behind the government’s no-rehab policy, the ins and outs of actions taken by the informal group, and what animal lovers from across Canada and around the world can do to help Russell, and other cubs in his situation.

Direct download: 2017-12-04_DefenderRadio-RussellBearCubAlberta.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 1:36pm EST

More than four million animals were used in research in Canada in 2016, a 21% increase from the previous year. Included in this increase were the use of cats, up 68%, dogs, up 58%, nonhuman primates, up 53%, and pigs, up 70%.

It isn’t just that so many animals are used though. It’s that so many animals are used for research purposes that aren’t necessarily effective, when more effective and humane options exist. Dr. Elisabeth Ormandy, Executive Director of the Animal in Science Policy Institute, joined Defender Radio to break down the data, explain the alternatives, and share how everyone, from school kids to advocates to researchers can be a part of the necessary change.

Direct download: 2017-11-27_DefenderRadioPodcast_AnimalsinScience.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 4:32pm EST

Joshua Barkman, creator of the False Knees web comic, takes every day circumstances for the animals we see around us in urban areas, like raccoons, rabbits, and various species of birds, and applies absurdly humourous conversations or thoughts.  

Joshua gives great detail to his drawings, creating a wonderful juxtaposition between beautiful artwork and absurd humour. But he also gives life, emotion, character, and introspection to animals often seen, but seldom considered in our daily lives. Joshua sat down with Defender Radio at the popular Café Pyrus in Kitchener, Ontario for an interview, a locally roasted cup of coffee, and an opportunity to dive into the world of False Knees.

Direct download: 2017-11-20-DefenderRadioPodcast-FalseKnees.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 5:02pm EST

Here we are – season five! I can’t think of a better way to kick off this momentous run than with coyote expert, and my good friend, Lesley Sampson of Coyote Watch Canada. Lesley and I spent some time recording in a forest in the Niagara Falls region last week, talking about building community buy-in to co-existence programs, the ups and downs of developing a plan, and why living with coyotes isn’t just possible, but preferable.

That’s not all I have to share with you though – I have a few new features of the show I want to share with you. First is the 60-second advocacy bit – in less than one minute, I’m going to share with you what the primary focus of my guest’s advocacy is, what solutions they have, and how you can get involved. That way if you can’t stay for the whole episode, or it’s a subject you may struggle with, you’ll get the basics so you can still help the cause.

I hear from a lot of you that there’s an interest in helping the show, too, and that’s why I’ve created a new Patreon! That’s the online way of supporting creators – podcasters like myself, artists, designers, musicians, and so on. It’s simple: visit patreon.com/defenderradio, choose a tier of giving, and click! Each tier – starting at $1 per month and going up to $150 per month – has rewards. For only $1 per month you’ll get access to exclusive behind the scenes videos, blogs, outtakes and more. Bump up to $5 and you’ll also get an additional stream of content from each interview that can’t be heard anywhere else. As the tiers go up, so do the rewards – a Defender Radio t-shirt, advocacy gear from The Fur-Bearers, and even an executive producer title are available! Check out www.patreon.com/DefenderRadio to learn more and help the show, And The Fur-Bearers grow.

Of course I can’t start a new season without a contest, so here we go: register to receive Defender Radio updates and The Fur-Bearers’ eNews at thefurbearers.com/updates and you’ll be entered in a chance to win a shirt and advocacy pack from The Fur-Bearers. If you’re already signed up, you’re already in the draw! If not, just visit thefurbearers.com/updates and make sure you opt-in to receive both email types and you’ll be entered. Winner will be announced on next week’s episode!

Direct download: 2017-11-13_DefenderRadioPodcast-coyotewatchcanadav2.mp3
Category:Season 05 -- posted at: 7:02pm EST

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