The Backyard Naturalists

Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Nature
  • Updated weekly

Embark on a magical adventure into the wonders of your backyard with 'The Backyard Naturalists' podcast. Whether you're a curious nature lover or a seasoned enthusiast, our show is your ticket to discovering the enchanting world of your own outdoor space. Join us on a journey of discovery as we celebrate the beauty of your backyard and explore a wide range of fascinating topics. Learn how to transform your little piece of nature into a haven for local wildlife, and discover the joy of citizen science by participating in events like the Great Backyard Bird Count. We'll guide you in creating a thriving ecosystem right at home by using native plants. Discover which fascinating creatures share your area, and learn how to attract specific bird species to your garden. We'll also delve into the world of raptors, both common and rare, that inhabit the Greater Charlotte region, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of spring and fall bird migrations. But that's not all! We'll also introduce you to the magical world of plants that attract butterflies and so much more. Join us in unlocking the hidden treasures within your very own backyard and nurturing a deeper connection with the natural world.

  1. 3 days ago

    Amazing Animal Adaptations with Stan Tekiela

    Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.   In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie are joined by renowned nature photographer, author, and wildlife expert Stan Tekiela to explore the incredible world of animal adaptations. From polar bears' heat-absorbing fur and bats' echolocation abilities to the hibernation habits of bears and chipmunks, Stan shares fascinating insights into how animals survive and thrive in diverse environments.   Listeners will hear about remarkable examples of adaptation, like how American goldfinches change colors with the seasons, giraffes' long necks for feeding, and even the resilience of frogs that freeze solid in winter. Stan explains how these adaptations develop over millions of years and why backyard habitats are essential for supporting nesting birds and other wildlife. Dive into the wonders of evolution and discover how animals' unique traits help them overcome environmental challenges in this captivating episode!   If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.   Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.   Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.   Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists.  We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don't forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.   Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to info@downtownpodcasting.com.

  2. 8 Aug

    Summer in Your Habitat

    Summer is STILL here, and if you've stepped outside lately, you've probably felt it too—sweltering heat, sticky air, and maybe even a few critters making themselves a little too comfortable in your backyard. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie (with Chris chiming in, of course!) share a lighthearted but practical guide to keeping your habitat healthy during the hottest stretch of the year.   ☀️ Heat & Hydration – Creative ways to keep bird baths cool, from ice cubes to misters, plus why moving feeders into shade can make all the difference. 🐦 Summer Feeding Tips – When to swap out hummingbird nectar, how to keep suet from melting, and a freezer trick to protect birdseed from pests. 🌪️ Weather & Wildlife – Preparing your yard before storms, and what to do if you find a nest on the ground afterward. 🌱 Pests & Plants – Why spraying isn't the answer, how to handle Japanese beetles and mosquitoes naturally, and which invasive plants to watch out for. 🦝 Backyard Bullies – From raccoons and squirrels to starlings and outdoor cats, Debbie and Laurie share stories, laughs, and tried-and-true tricks to keep the peace.   This isn't just about surviving summer—it's about helping your backyard thrive. With practical tips, neighborly humor, and plenty of "whoa!" moments, you'll walk away ready to make your space a safe, welcoming spot for wildlife (and maybe a little cooler for yourself, too).   Don't miss this fun, informative episode of The Backyard Naturalists! Listen now, and be sure to subscribe, share with a friend, and leave us a review so more folks can discover how rewarding it is to care for the nature right outside their door.

  3. 1 Aug

    iNaturalist – Connecting People, Nature, and Science

    This week on The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome Allison Young, Director of Outreach Programs for iNaturalist, the global platform that's changing the way people experience nature. Whether you're snapping a photo of a butterfly in your backyard, spotting a rare bird on a hike, or identifying tracks in the mud, iNaturalist turns those moments into data that helps fuel research, conservation, and environmental education worldwide. Allison takes us behind the scenes of iNaturalist, from its humble beginnings as a grad school project at UC Berkeley in 2008 to a thriving community of over 3.5 million users who have contributed 260+ million observations from more than 130 countries. She shares amazing success stories—like the rediscovery of species thought extinct, surprising range expansions, and new species discoveries—proving that every observation matters. You'll also learn how easy it is to get started, why common species are just as valuable to document as rare ones, and how iNaturalist's unique mix of technology and community makes it "the friendliest place on the internet." Plus, Debbie and Laurie swap a few of their own backyard sightings and ideas for using iNaturalist in guided walks and local nature events.

  4. 25 Jul

    Snake Deterrents: What Works, What Doesn't

    Summer is heating up across the Carolinas, and that means snakes are on the move — and stirring up plenty of conversation. In this episode, Debbie and Laurie bust myths and tackle misinformation about snake deterrents, exploring what truly works (and what absolutely doesn't) to keep these fascinating reptiles out of spaces where they aren't welcome. From mothballs to marigolds, ultrasonic gadgets to sticky traps, the hosts share a science-based look at these so-called "solutions" and offer practical, humane advice for managing your yard in a way that discourages unwanted snake visits without harming them or other wildlife. If you've ever wondered how to keep your backyard nature-friendly and less attractive to snakes, you'll love this timely, sometimes funny, always down-to-earth episode. 🎧 The Backyard Naturalists is the podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 125 countries, all 50 U.S. states, and throughout the Carolinas. Proudly named Best of the Weeklies Podcast by Matthews–Mint Hill Weekly two years running!

  5. 18 Jul

    The Matthews Community Farmer's market

    Debbie and Laurie return to the Matthews Community Farmer's Market to record an episode "live" and on location!

  6. 11 Jul

    ENCORE EPISODE: Benefits of Trees

    Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.   In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, we dive into the many reasons why trees are invaluable to our health, environment, and economy. A recent study conducted by the University of Louisville shows that planting trees can significantly reduce heart disease markers, improve sleep quality, and encourage outdoor activities. Trees also offer environmental benefits like reducing flooding, improving air quality, and supporting the food chain for wildlife. Economically, they boost property values, tourism, and local programs.   Join us as we explore the critical role trees play in our daily lives and discuss how making informed decisions about planting can positively impact communities. Plus, learn about an upcoming TreesMatthews event in Matthews, North Carolina, and get inspired to plant more trees!

  7. 4 Jul

    ENCORE: Bird Feeding 2.0: Elevating Your Backyard Aviary

    Welcome to another exciting episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast! As spring blooms with vibrant life, Debbie and Laurie delve into the world of advanced bird feeding, exploring Bird Feeding 2.0. From the allure of black oil sunflower seeds to the strategic placement of multiple feeders near trees and bushes, this episode unlocks the secrets to attracting a diverse array of avian visitors to your backyard. Discover the allure of shelled peanuts for blue jays, the importance of live mealworms for baby birds, and the benefits of incorporating native plants and clean water sources into your bird-friendly oasis.   Tune in, and let's elevate your bird feeding game to new heights! And don't forget to share your thoughts with us - we're eager to hear where you're from and what keeps you coming back to The Backyard Naturalists podcast.

  8. 27 Jun

    ENCORE: Frogs, Toads and Backyard Choruses

    In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie take a fun and fascinating leap into the world of frogs and toads—those small but mighty voices you hear rising from ponds, ditches, and backyards as spring turns into summer. You'll learn how to spot (and hear!) some of North Carolina's most common amphibians, including the American Bullfrog, Southern Leopard Frog, Spring Peeper, American Toad, and the charmingly named Eastern Spadefoot Toad. The hosts break down what makes frogs different from toads, share the importance of ephemeral ponds for breeding, and encourage listeners to pay close attention to the nighttime chorus happening right outside their windows. If you've ever wondered who's making all that noise after dark, or simply want to better understand your backyard's hidden wildlife, this episode is for you. 🌿 The Backyard Naturalists is the podcast about anything and everything connected with nature — heard in all 50 states, 125 countries, and right here in the Carolinas. 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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About

Embark on a magical adventure into the wonders of your backyard with 'The Backyard Naturalists' podcast. Whether you're a curious nature lover or a seasoned enthusiast, our show is your ticket to discovering the enchanting world of your own outdoor space. Join us on a journey of discovery as we celebrate the beauty of your backyard and explore a wide range of fascinating topics. Learn how to transform your little piece of nature into a haven for local wildlife, and discover the joy of citizen science by participating in events like the Great Backyard Bird Count. We'll guide you in creating a thriving ecosystem right at home by using native plants. Discover which fascinating creatures share your area, and learn how to attract specific bird species to your garden. We'll also delve into the world of raptors, both common and rare, that inhabit the Greater Charlotte region, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of spring and fall bird migrations. But that's not all! We'll also introduce you to the magical world of plants that attract butterflies and so much more. Join us in unlocking the hidden treasures within your very own backyard and nurturing a deeper connection with the natural world.

Information

  • Creator
    Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    99
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Downtown Podcasting
  • Show Website
    The Backyard Naturalists

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