Rarefied Podcast

Meredith Meeker

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NATURAL SCIENCES
UPDATED DAILY

This podcast is about rare and wonderful creatures that are at risk of disappearing and the amazing people working hard to save them!Have you ever wanted to know why they call the Loggerhead Shrike the Butcher Bird? Have you wondered where have all the bats gone? Or asked yourself what is being done to protect the creatures that can’t stand up for themselves? Well this is the podcast for you!

2025-05-29

Caribou: Deep Snow, Deep Impact

Send us a text In the final episode of Rarefied's first season, host Meredith Meeker delves into the world of caribou, focusing on their significance, unique characteristics, and the challenges they face. Meredith interviews Eddie Petryshen, a conservation specialist from Wild Sight, who works tirelessly to protect the deep snow caribou in British Columbia. They discuss the threats of habitat loss, climate change, and industrial development, as well as ongoing conservation efforts, including penning initiatives and habitat protection. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of biodiversity and the importance of preserving these majestic creatures and their habitats. Tune in to learn fascinating facts about caribou, their adaptations, and the critical work being done to ensure their survival. https://thenarwhal.ca/bc-rainforest-old-growth-detectives/ 00:00 Welcome to Rarefied: Season Finale 00:27 Introducing the Caribou 00:31 Caribou Facts and Female Antlers 01:12 Caribou Conservation Efforts with Eddie Partition 02:19 Understanding Caribou Populations and Habitats 03:58 Southern Mountain Caribou: Unique Adaptations 07:20 Threats to Caribou Survival 11:56 Conservation Actions and Challenges 31:29 The Human Connection to Caribou 32:11 Exploring the Mysteries of Inland Rainforests 35:00 Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts 36:10 How to Help Protect Magical Places 39:36 Memorable Field Experiences with Caribou 42:41 Rapid Fire Questions about Caribou 53:49 Aha Moments and Career Reflections 57:18 Conclusion and Season Wrap-Up

59 min
2025-05-23

Snuffbox: More than a filter

Send us a text In this episode of Rarefied, host Meredith Meeker dives into the fascinating world of freshwater mussels, focusing on the snuffbox mussel's crucial role in maintaining healthy freshwater ecosystems. Joined by Dr. Catherine Febria and PhD student Lauren Damphousse from the University of Windsor, the discussion covers the unique biology and habitat of the snuffbox, the challenges they face due to environmental changes, and ongoing conservation efforts. Key highlights include the mussels' intricate reproductive strategies, their status as canaries in the coal mine for water quality, and the importance of community and conservation efforts to ensure their survival. https://www.facetsjournal.com/doi/10.1139/facets-2022-0207 Bkejwanong Eco-Keepers love mussels, too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvNSe6gCbDI&t=2s Snuffbox traps a logperch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1YcaIN8cRs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0YTBj0WHkU 00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast 00:41 Meet the Snuffbox Mussel 01:27 Guest Introductions 03:38 Understanding Freshwater Mussels 06:13 Habitat and Behavior of Mussels 09:21 Reproductive Strategies of Mussels 14:58 Threats to Freshwater Mussels 19:14 Conservation Efforts and Community Involvement 25:15 Field Work and Research Techniques 30:41 Understanding Mussel Translocation Challenges 31:57 Freshwater Restoration and the Endangered Species Act 32:43 Assessing the Mackey Protocol and Translocation Data 33:19 The Importance of Site-Specific Conditions 37:08 Community Involvement in Conservation Efforts 39:32 Citizen Science and the Clam Counter App 41:38 Field Stories and Team Building 43:27 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts 51:22 Hope and Future Directions in Conservation 54:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

56 min
2025-05-15

Basking Shark: Disappeared or at Depth?

Send us a text Exploring the Ocean's Gentle Giants: A Dive into Basking Sharks with Dr. Dave Ebert In this episode of 'Rarefied,' host Meredith Meeker dives into the world of the basking shark, one of the ocean's gentle giants. Joining her is Dr. Dave Ebert, a renowned shark scientist and the director of the Pacific Shark Research Center. They discuss the enigmatic basking shark, its behaviors, threats, and the mystery of its declining numbers. Dr. Ebert also shares stories from his extensive fieldwork, the importance of shark conservation, and the fascinating behaviors of various shark species. Listeners will learn about the significance of sharks in the marine ecosystem, the challenges of studying elusive species, and the critical role of education and awareness in conservation efforts. This episode is packed with intriguing facts, expert insights, and passionate advocacy for our ocean's most misunderstood inhabitants. Lost Sharks series: https://www.youtube.com/@lostsharkguy/ Beyond Jaws Podcast: https://www.speakupforblue.com/show/beyond-jaws/ 00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast 00:34 Meet the Basking Shark 01:17 Interview with Dr. Dave Ebert 02:18 Basking Shark Characteristics 04:19 Basking Shark Population Decline 07:00 Global Basking Shark Sightings 08:29 The Mystery of Disappearing Sharks 16:20 The Lost Sharks Program 29:50 Exploring the Diversity of Rays and Sharks 30:13 Challenges of Studying Deep-Sea Species 31:50 Searching for Lost Sharks 32:59 The Importance of Shark Conservation 33:48 Global Efforts in Shark Protection 34:54 The Mystery of Basking Sharks 35:52 The Vast Diversity of Shark Species 37:40 Encouraging Shark Research and Conservation 41:34 Fascinating Shark Behaviors and Discoveries 44:42 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts 53:10 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

55 min
2025-05-08

Northern Spotted Owl: Messengers of the Old Growth Forests

Send us a text In this episode of Rarefied, host Meredith Meeker talks with Jasmine McCulligh (she/her), the facility coordinator at the Northern Spotted Owl Breeding Program. They discuss the critical situation of the Northern Spotted Owl, its unique reliance on old growth forests, and the significant challenges it faces from habitat loss and competition with Barred Owls. Jasmine shares insights into the breeding program, the complexities of reintroducing owls into the wild, and the importance of conservation efforts. Listeners will learn about the owl's specialized needs, the efforts to protect and expand their habitat, and the intricate care involved in breeding and releasing these endangered birds. Join us to discover the story of the Northern Spotted Owl and the dedicated efforts to ensure its survival. www.nsobreedingprogram.com 00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast 00:49 Meet the Northern Spotted Owl 02:32 The Habitat and Challenges of the Northern Spotted Owl 07:32 Conservation Efforts and Breeding Programs 15:28 The Role of Barred Owls and Ecosystem Impact 22:02 Funding and Support for the Owl Program 23:04 Breeding Program Successes 25:21 Personal Experiences and Favorite Memories 26:57 Owl Personalities and Behaviors 29:30 Rapid Fire Questions 39:29 Concluding Thoughts and Final Questions 40:28 Episode Wrap-Up and Final Notes

43 min
2025-05-01

Southwest Spring Firefly: The Gateway Bug

Send us a text In this episode of Rarefied, host Meredith Meeker introduces listeners to the Southwest Spring Firefly, an understudied species primarily found in Arizona. Joined by Rachel Laura, Deputy Executive Director at Friends of the Verde River and a PhD student at the University of Arizona, the episode dives into the unique characteristics, life cycle, and habitat of this rare firefly. Rachel shares insights from her field research, including the challenges of studying an imperiled species and the importance of conserving wetland habitats. Listeners will also learn fascinating facts about firefly bioluminescence and the broader ecological significance of protecting these enchanting insects. https://www.fireflyatlas.org/ https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0259379 00:00 Introduction: A Legacy in Nature 00:23 Welcome to Rarefied: Meet Your Host 00:51 Spotlight on the Southwest Spring Firefly 01:54 Firefly Basics and Unique Traits 02:57 Habitat and Ecology of the Southwest Spring Firefly 05:35 Research and Conservation Efforts 09:30 Field Research Insights and Discoveries 11:49 Challenges and Methods in Firefly Research 20:13 The Magic and Importance of Fireflies 23:05 Community Involvement and Conservation Tips 27:36 Future Research and Final Thoughts 40:37 Conclusion: Every Species Has a Story

42 min
2025-04-24

Jefferson Salamander: Do a little dance

Send us a text In this episode of Rarefied the podcast, host Meredith Meeker delves into the intriguing world of the Jefferson Salamander, a rare and imperiled amphibian found in Ontario, Canada. Meredith is joined by Jessica Linton, a senior biologist and project manager at NRSI, who shares her expertise on the species' lifecycle, habitat, and the unique reproductive strategy involving unisexual salamanders. The discussion also covers the threats facing the Jefferson Salamander, including habitat loss and climate change, and outlines efforts being made to protect this essential species, from road closures to conservation advocacy. Listeners are encouraged to take action to support endangered species protection and learn more about the fascinating lives of these elusive creatures. https://ecojustice.ca/news/ford-government-guts-endangered-species-act-slashes-wildlife-protections-in-ontario/?utm_campaign=Nature&utm_content=330670154&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-762549 00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast 00:33 Meet the Jefferson Salamander 01:54 Lifecycle and Unique Traits 04:57 Habitat and Conservation Challenges 05:57 Reproductive Strategies and Genetic Complexity 14:06 Conservation Efforts and Public Engagement 14:34 Threats and Protective Measures 22:11 Public Involvement and Advocacy 24:02 Eco Justice and Conservation Efforts 24:36 Field Stories: Adventures with Salamanders 26:38 Salamander Trapping Techniques 27:28 Rapid Fire Questions: Fun Facts and Myths 30:46 Challenges and Successes in Salamander Conservation 35:25 Career Path and Outreach 38:23 Conclusion and Call to Action

42 min
2025-04-17

Vancouver Island Marmot: Space Travel, Plague, and Nose Boops

Send us a text In this episode of Rarefied with host Meredith Meeker, we explore the inspiring recovery story of the critically imperiled Vancouver Island Marmot. Joining Meredith is Adam Taylor, Executive Director of the Marmot Recovery Foundation, who shares his extensive experience in wildlife conservation. Discussions include the unique biology and habitat of the Vancouver Island Marmot, the efforts and challenges of captive breeding programs, the role of human intervention, and the global significance of preserving biodiversity. This episode sheds light on the perseverance required to save endangered species and emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts. www.marmots.org https://zslpublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/acv.12448 00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast 00:33 The Vancouver Island Marmot: A Conservation Success Story 01:12 Meet Adam Taylor: Executive Director of the Marmot Recovery Foundation 01:51 Understanding the Vancouver Island Marmot 06:28 The Unique Habitat of the Vancouver Island Marmot 09:24 The Social Structure and Colonies of the Vancouver Island Marmot 12:52 Threats to the Vancouver Island Marmot 19:59 The Role of Captive Breeding in Marmot Conservation 27:12 Challenges in Marmot Reintroduction 27:52 Innovative Strategies for Success 29:59 The Importance of Biodiversity 31:26 Conservation Success Stories 34:40 How You Can Help 37:55 Fieldwork and Personal Experiences 42:07 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Facts 52:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

55 min
2025-04-10

Chimney Swift: Your Good Neighbor

Send us a text In this episode of Rarefied, host Meredith Meeker spotlights the Chimney Swift, a bird known for its aerial acrobatics and unique nesting habits. Despite their global security, Chimney Swifts face vulnerability and imperilment across Canada. Meredith is joined by experts Gabriel Evans Cook, Ontario's aerial insectivore biologist, and Gwendolyn Clark, coordinator of the Chimney Swift Chimney Restoration Fund at Birds Canada. They discuss the Chimney Swift's adaptation to urban environments, the threats they face, and the initiatives in place to conserve their habitat. This episode emphasizes the integral role of citizen science and community engagement in species conservation. www.birdscanada.org/about-us/funding-opportunities/chimney-swift-fund www.birdscanada.org/bird-science/swiftwatch https://birdgardens.ca/planning-your-garden/ 00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast 00:34 Meet the Chimney Swift 00:55 Personal Birding Journey 01:45 Chimney Swift Conservation Efforts 01:56 Introduction of Guests 03:55 Chimney Swift Characteristics 05:28 Chimney Swift Habitat and Adaptation 08:43 Chimney Swift Restoration Fund 14:34 Threats to Chimney Swifts 17:55 Conservation Actions and Citizen Science 22:20 How You Can Help 26:53 Gardening for Birds 28:33 A Different Birding Season 28:47 The Importance of Conservation 30:18 Why Care About Chimney Swifts? 31:09 Urban Wildlife and Human Connection 36:13 Conservation Efforts and Success Stories 41:20 Fieldwork Adventures and Fun Stories 44:03 Chimney Swifts' Unique Traits and Behaviors 48:19 Final Thoughts and Surprising Facts 53:10 Conclusion and Call to Action

56 min

TRAILER

Rarefied Trailer

Send us a text Can't wait to go on this auditory safari with you!!

S1

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4 min

This podcast is about rare and wonderful creatures that are at risk of disappearing and the amazing people working hard to save them!Have you ever wanted to know why they call the Loggerhead Shrike the Butcher Bird? Have you wondered where have all the bats gone? Or asked yourself what is being done to protect the creatures that can’t stand up for themselves? Well this is the podcast for you!

Creator

Meredith Meeker
Years Active

2024 - 2025
Episodes

26
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2025 Rarefied Podcast
Show Website

Rarefied Podcast