That's WILD! A Little Rock Zoo Podcast

That's WILD! A Little Rock Zoo Podcast

di Susan Altrui & Joy Matlock

Animali domestici e animali Natura

Stagione 1

That's WILD: What If?

Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock team up with zookeeper Hannah Baker for a playful but powerful thought experiment: What if humans had the superpowers of animals? From cheetah-speed sprints to gorilla strength and kangaroo jumps, this imaginative episode uses humor to explore real conservation issues hiding beneath the “what if” scenarios. But the conversation turns deeper: What if accredited zoos didn’t exist? The hosts reflect on the life-saving impact of AZA-accredited zoos—from black-footed ferrets and California condors to great ape medical research, hero rats, venom-derived medicines, habitat conservation, and the emotional and educational moments that shape communities. This episode celebrates the superpowers of animals, the essential work of zoos, and the life-changing connections formed when people meet wildlife up close. In this episode you’ll learn How animal “superpowers” actually work—including cheetah speed, gorilla strength, kangaroo jumping, and why many animals use these abilities in short bursts. Why habitat loss threatens even the strongest species, and how zoos work with partners to protect open spaces and ecosystems. What would happen if accredited zoos didn’t exist, and which species (like black-footed ferrets and California condors) likely wouldn’t be here today. How zoos contribute to science and medicine, including research on great ape heart disease, venom-derived treatments, and disease-detection breakthroughs using hero rats. Why real, in-person animal encounters matter, especially for sparking empathy, curiosity, childhood development, and community wellness. The powerful human stories—from children learning to walk again through animal motivation to kids choosing birthday donations to the zoo. Highlights & Key Takeaways Animal abilities inspire awe—yet even super-strong or super-fast species can’t overcome habitat destruction without human help. Accredited zoos are essential for conservation, safeguarding genetically diverse populations, funding global wildlife programs, and rescuing species from extinction. Zoos are living classrooms. Seeing animals in person fosters empathy and inspires future conservationists more effectively than digital media. Research at zoos benefits humans too, from studying great ape heart health to disease-detection work and venom-derived medicines. Community value goes far beyond the exhibits. Zoos provide emotional refuge for families in medical crisis, spark joy, and offer inclusive, healing spaces for the public. Ambassador animals and hands-on experiences change lives, inspiring children to grow into scientists, conservationists, and wildlife advocates.

That's WILD: Saved by the Zoo: Species Back from the Brink of Extinction

Summary Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock celebrate conservation comeback stories and the teamwork behind them. Through a game of Two Truths and a Lie and a visit from zookeeper Hannah Baker (and ambassador ferret Hagrid), this episode explores how AZA-accredited zoos, government agencies, scientists, and communities combine tools like captive breeding, reintroduction, habitat protection, disease management, and genetics to bring species back from the brink. In this episode you’ll learn Why bald eagles declined and which policy and habitat actions enabled their recovery. How black-footed ferrets were rescued from near extinction via captive breeding, reintroduction, and genetic tools (including cloning). What Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and national recovery programs do and why collaboration matters. Ways listeners can support comeback work through zoo visits, memberships, events, and everyday choices. Highlights & Key Takeaways Bald eagles rebounded mainly after the DDT ban and habitat/legal protections. Black-footed ferrets depended on prairie dogs; their collapse required multi-pronged recovery efforts. Zoos play a vital role but recovery requires coordinated action among many partners. Ambassador animals like Hagrid help connect people to conservation stories. Mentioned Little Rock Zoo & Arkansas Zoological Foundation; hosts Susan Altrui, Joy Matlock; emcee Dustin Bean; zookeeper Hannah Baker; ambassador ferret Hagrid; bald eagles Lynn & Griffin; Black-Footed Ferret Recovery Program; AZA; U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; Arkansas Game & Fish Commission; Species Survival Plans (SSPs). Quote “Saving species takes more than one thing — laws, captive breeding, habitat protection, and people working together. Everyone can be part of that team.” — Susan Altrui Call to action Support comeback work: visit or join the Little Rock Zoo, attend conservation events, and make wildlife-friendly choices. Learn more at littlerockzoo.com.

That's WILD: Conservation Worldwide

Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock explore how local actions support global conservation. From hummingbird migrations to endangered pancake tortoises, this episode pulls back the curtain on AZA-accredited zoo work, Species Survival Plans (SSPs), community events like Drink Beer, Save Turtles, and simple steps listeners can take to protect wildlife. Zookeeper Hannah Baker brings Short Stack the pancake tortoise to show how ambassador animals help spark conservation. In this episode, you’ll learn: How tiny ruby-throated hummingbirds migrate ~3,300 miles each year. Which swans, fish, and songbirds travel thousands of miles through Arkansas (trumpeter swans, Alabama shad, bobolinks). What AZA accreditation and SSPs actually do to preserve species (examples: Jahari, Andazi & rhino calf Kevin). How the Little Rock Zoo partners with organizations like the Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) and hosts community fundraisers (e.g., Drink Beer, Save Turtles at Flyway Brewing). Practical actions you can take: visit/support the zoo, research pets before buying, remove litter, and back habitat protection initiatives. Highlights & Key Takeaways The Arkansas ruby-throated hummingbird flies thousands of miles each year — a reminder that conservation crosses borders. Species Survival Plans coordinate genetics and transfers across accredited zoos so populations remain healthy and viable. Pancake tortoises (Short Stack) are critically endangered in the wild; pet trade and habitat loss are major threats. Community events and everyday choices (zoo membership, attending fundraisers, reducing litter) directly fund and support conservation. Even small, local acts matter because wildlife populations and migratory routes are interconnected across the hemisphere. Mentioned in the Episode Little Rock Zoo & Arkansas Zoological Foundation AZA (Association of Zoos & Aquariums) accreditation Species Survival Plans (SSP) — rhino example (Jahari, Andazi → Kevin) Ruby-throated hummingbird migration (~3,300 miles) Trumpeter swans, Alabama shad, bobolinks Pancake tortoise ambassador: Short Stack Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) & Drink Beer, Save Turtles at Flyway Brewing Quote “By showing up — visiting the zoo, joining programs, and learning — you’re already helping global conservation.” — Joy Matlock Call to Action Support local conservation: visit the Little Rock Zoo, become a member, follow upcoming events (like Drink Beer, Save Turtles), and always research pets from sustainable sources. Learn more and get involved at littlerockzoo.com.

That's WILD: Animal Management

Episode Summary: Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock kick off with a fun audio quiz—identifying Siamang apes, ponies, capuchin monkeys, geese, and alligators by their calls—then dive into how That’s Wild animals are cared for. Learn about AZA accreditation, Species Survival Plans (SSPs), and the day‑to‑day enrichment and husbandry that keep zoo residents thriving. Zookeeper Hannah brings Iris the blue‑tongued skink to demonstrate protocols for ambassador animals. In this episode, you’ll learn: Iconic Calls: What a Siamang’s “whoop,” pony neighs, capuchin squeaks, goose honks, and alligator bellows mean in the wild. AZA Accreditation: Why only ~200 of 2,000 USDA‑licensed facilities earn elite approval, and how it drives rigorous animal‑care standards. Species Survival Plans (SSPs): How zoos cooperatively manage gene pools—e.g., Jahari & Andazi’s rhino pairing—to sustain healthy populations. Elephant Retirement Home: Little Rock Zoo’s specialized habitat for senior female elephants, tailored to their physical and emotional needs. Ambassador Animal Care: Iris the skink’s heat‑gradient enclosure, UV requirements, glove‑on handling, enrichment routines, and “aposmatic” blue‑tongue warning coloration. Key Takeaways: Siamangs’ territorial calls echo miles across Little Rock, reminding neighbors the zoo is “alive.” SSPs coordinate transfers, breeding recommendations, and “proven breeder” records to avoid inbreeding and ensure animal welfare. AZA accreditation audits everything from veterinary care to guest engagement every five years—no easy sticker to earn. Iris’s semi‑permeable skin lets her breathe through her blue tongue—protected by gloves to prevent toxin absorption. Enrichment for ambassador animals includes heat‑basking, prey‑hunting simulations, hiding spots, and mobility breaks. Mentioned in the Episode: AZA Accreditation (Association of Zoos & Aquariums) Siamang Gibbons (territorial calls) Pony “Lily” (neighs & knickers) Capuchin Monkeys (30+ vocalizations) Geese (regional “dialects”) American Alligators (low‑frequency bellows) Rhinoceros SSP (Jahari & Andazi → Kevin) Elephant Habitat for Aging Females Blue‑Tongued Skink Ambassador (Iris) Quote: “If you don’t hear an animal at first, slow down and listen—those calls are their way of thriving alongside us.” – Susan Altrui Enjoy this blend of “That’s Wild” sounds trivia and an inside look at the high standards and heartfelt dedication driving modern zoo conservation.

That's WILD: Animal Superpowers

Episode Summary: Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock explore the “superpowers” that let wildlife hide, survive, and sustain ecosystems. From master camouflagers in the upcoming Hidden Corners exhibit to the semi-permeable skin of a smooth-sided toad, learn how animals blend in, breathe through skin, and even regenerate limbs. Zookeeper Hannah introduces a native Amazonian toad ambassador to demonstrate these incredible adaptations up close. In this episode, you’ll learn: Animal Invisibility: How Vietnamese mossy frogs, tentacled snakes, and Amazon milk frogs use camouflage, sensory tentacles, and skin coatings to hide or thrive. Forest Mindfulness: Why slowing down and really looking is essential—animals like leaf-mimicking toads vanish if you don’t pay attention. Amphibian Adaptations:Semi-permeable Skin: Smooth-sided toads can breathe and absorb moisture through their skin—if you touch them, you must wear gloves! Poison vs. Venom: Toads are poisonous (must be ingested), not venomous (injected), so you’re safe handling them—but don’t eat them! Regeneration & Jumping: Young frogs/toads can regrow limbs; some frogs leap 50× their body length with super-fast tongues. Zoo Conservation: How the Hidden Corners exhibit, opening soon, brings hidden specialists into view—and how accredited zoos support global and local conservation. Key Takeaways: Invisibility is a survival strategy—not a magic trick. Many species blend perfectly into leaves, bark, or water. Amphibians’ semi-permeable skin is both a superpower (gas exchange) and a vulnerability (must stay moist, absorb toxins). Poison dart frogs display aposematic coloration—bright warning colors that say “don’t eat me.” Handling ambassador animals requires specialized training and protocols to protect both species and people. Visiting an accredited zoo fuels critical conservation, from global exhibits to local species recovery. Mentioned: Hidden Corners Exhibit (launching soon) Vietnamese Mossy Frog Tentacled Snake Amazon Milk Frog Smooth-sided Toad (Amazon native) Poison Dart Frogs (aposematic coloration) Quote: “If you don’t see wildlife at first glance, slow down and look again—it’s hiding in plain sight.” – Susan Altrui Enjoy this journey into nature’s hidden superpowers—and remember, true magic often lies in what you almost miss.

That's WILD: Komodos Galore

Hosts Susan Altruy and Joy Matlock dive into the astonishing world of lizards—exploring Komodo dragons, bearded dragons, and Arkansas’s eastern collared lizard “dragons.” Learn what makes Komodos fearsome predators and how local zoos breed and release native species to restore Ozark glade ecosystems. Zookeeper Hannah also introduces Steve the bearded dragon, a laid-back ambassador who helps families connect with reptiles. In this episode, you’ll learn: Reptile vs. Lizard vs. Dragon: Why all lizards are reptiles but only certain “dragon” species earn that nickname. Komodo Dragon Biology: How their venomous bite, venom glands, and ambush tactics make them top predators on Indonesian islands. Bearded Dragon Traits: Why Steve “puffs” his spiky beard, blinks with eyelids, and uses color changes to communicate mood and temperature. Arkansas’ “Native Dragons”: How the Little Rock Zoo partners to breed and re-release eastern collared lizards—bright green, two-legged runners—back into Ozark glades. Conservation Challenges: The impacts of habitat loss, poaching, and climate change on Komodo populations and regional “dragon” species. Key Takeaways: Komodo Size & Strength: Records show Komodos up to 10.5 ft and 266 lbs—capable of killing deer or water buffalo with venom-induced blood loss. Dragon Names: “Komodo dragon” comes from a 1927 book; locals call them Ora. Zoo dragons Iris & Circe are named after Greek deities of chaos and magic. Ambassador Care: Komodos Iroh (1½ yr) and Tia (3½ yr) undergo quarantine, target-training, and specialized habitat management before public display. Bearded Dragon Ambassador: Steve (named for Steve Irwin) lives 10–15 years, requires UV light, dietary variety, and expert handling—pets demand research before adoption. Local Restoration: Eastern collared lizards depend on glade ecosystems; captive-breeding programs aim to rebuild wild populations at risk from development. Mentioned in the Episode: Komodo Dragons (Varanus komodoensis) Bearded Dragon Ambassador (Steve) Greek-named Dragons: Iris & Circe Eastern Collared Lizard Recovery Program Little Rock Zoo Reptile House Quote: “Komodos may not breathe fire, but their venomous bite and stealth make them real-life dragons.” – Susan Altruy Enjoy this reptilian adventure—and remember: supporting accredited zoos fuels vital conservation efforts worldwide!

That's WILD: Nature's Pantry

Episode Summary: Hosts Susan Altruy and Joy Matlock explore how animals secure food—through foraging, hunting, and special tactics—and how habitat loss endangers those sources. Zookeeper Hannah then presents Monty, a Ball Python, to demonstrate snake adaptations for locating and subduing prey. Learn simple actions you can take to protect natural food chains. In this episode, you’ll learn: Foraging vs. Hunting: Black bears gather berries and carrion; river otters dive for fish; red-tailed hawks hunt rodents. Habitat & Food: Clearing forests or draining wetlands removes vital plants and prey for box turtles, penguins, and pollinators. Python Biology: Monty’s infrared “pit organs,” backward-curved teeth, and glottis “snorkel” let him ambush and swallow prey whole. Conservation Steps: How the Seafood Watch app guides you toward sustainable seafood to help maintain healthy food webs. Key Takeaways: Arkansas Black Bears: Once so plentiful the state was nicknamed “Bear State,” these omnivores switch from plant foraging to small-mammal hunting. River Otter Fishing: Otters chase fish underwater with streamlined bodies and paddlelike tails. Red-Tailed Hawks: Using sharp talons and keen eyesight, they patrol skies to catch rodents—showing aerial predator roles. Box Turtle Foraging: Native turtles eat insects, berries, and mushrooms; habitat loss removes their essential food. Monty the Ball Python:Pit Organs: Detect heat from warm-blooded prey in darkness. Ambush Tactics: Strike quickly, grip prey with backward teeth, and constrict. Glottis “Snorkel”: Allows breathing while swallowing large meals. Ecosystem Impact: Losing predators or pollinators (snakes or bees) triggers imbalances—rodent overpopulation or plant declines. Practical Actions:Don’t Litter Roadsides: Food scraps attract rodents, which lure snakes or owls into traffic. Use Seafood Watch: A free Monterey Bay Aquarium app to choose sustainable fish and protect ocean ecosystems. Mentioned: Arkansas Black Bear River Otter Red-Tailed Hawk Box Turtle Pollinators: Bats & Fireflies Ball Python (Monty “Monica”) Seafood Watch App Quotes: “Wetlands and forests aren’t just landscapes—they’re grocery stores for wildlife.” – Susan Altruy “Monty’s pit organs are like an infrared GPS toward prey.” – Hannah (Zookeeper)

That's WILD: Decoding Animal Languages

Join hosts Susan Altruy and Joy Matlock on That’s Wild Podcast as they explore the myriad ways animals communicate—through dance, color changes, smells, and vocalizations. From honeybee waggle dances to skunk foot stomps, squid chromatophores, and the hoots of a great horned owl named Lincoln, this episode reveals how nonverbal and verbal signals shape survival and social bonds in the wild. Zookeeper Hannah also brings Lincoln on-mic to demonstrate visual cues and territorial hoots firsthand. In this episode, you’ll learn: How honeybees perform their “waggle dance” to share precise directions to food sources. The role of body language and color changes (chromatophores) in squids and octopuses, and how those signals convey threat or courtship. Why skunks combine foot-stomping with powerful scents to warn predators, and how fireflies use bioluminescent “Morse code” flashes to attract mates. The different purposes behind great horned owl Lincoln’s hoots, hisses, and feather-tuft displays, and how visual throat-patches reinforce his vocal messages. Practical ways listeners can help minimize road-kill prey signals (like not littering) to protect owls and other wildlife. Highlights & Key Takeaways: Honeybee Waggle Dance: Honeybees waggle through a figure-eight pattern to pinpoint distance and direction to nectar. Squid Chromatophores: Squids (and octopuses) control pigment-filled sacs (chromatophores) to flash warning colors, signal mates, or evade predators. Skunk Warning System: Foot stomps plus pungent musk are an effective “back-off” communication—watch for raised tail and stomping feet. Firefly Flash Codes: Fireflies synchronize blinking patterns as mating signals; each species has its own “light language.” Lion’s Roar vs. Owl Hoot: Verbal calls—like a lion’s roar or owl’s hoot—serve for territorial claims, mate attraction, or alarm calls. Lincoln the Great Horned Owl: Female horned owls are larger. Lincoln’s hoots mark a roughly one-mile territory and can also court mates. His black eye resulted from a past injury, explaining why he lives at the zoo. Owl Vision & Hearing: Forward-facing eyes, a heart-shaped facial disk, and asymmetrical ear placement give owls pinpoint auditory and visual precision—essential for hunting nocturnal prey. Preventing Roadside Predation: Avoid tossing food scraps or trash roadside; it lures rodents, which then attract predatory owls to dangerous road edges. Mentioned in the Episode: Little Rock Zoo (and its honeybee exhibit) Chromatophores (pigment cells in cephalopods) Great Horned Owl (Lincoln) Zookeeper Hannah Quotes: “Imagine if we could change color when we’re mad—turning bright red might give away too much!” – Susan Altruy “Lincoln’s throat patch literally flashes—reinforcing his hoot for territory or a date.” – Hannah, Zookeeper Enjoy this fascinating dive into nonverbal and vocal animal “languages,” and be sure to subscribe for more “That’s Wild” episodes that inspire you to value—and protect—our natural world.

That's WILD: Nature’s Geniuses – Tool Use & Problem‑Solving in the Wild

Emcee Dustin Bean, host Susan Altrui, and co‑host Joy Matlock dive into animal intelligence and tool use on this episode of That’s Wild Podcast—brought to you by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation and produced by the Little Rock Zoo. From octopuses wielding coconut shells to crows bending wires, learn how creatures across the globe employ inventive strategies to survive. Plus, special guest Hannah brings Molly, a 28‑year‑old Moluccan cockatoo ambassador, to demonstrate the true brainpower of our feathered friends. Show Notes 1. Introduction & Mission (0:00) Welcome: Dustin Bean kicks off the episode, emphasizing the show’s goal to inspire wildlife conservation. Credits: Presented by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation and the Little Rock Zoo. 2. Tool Use in the Animal Kingdom (2:15) Octopuses: Use coconut shells and shells as mobile shelters—one famously “chunks” rocks at rival males. Primates: Chimpanzees at Little Rock Zoo fish peanut butter from termite‑mound replicas using sticks; capuchins crack nuts with stones. Birds: Crows bend wires into hooks; ravens solve multi‑step puzzles; sea otters crack shellfish on their chests. 3. Creative Problem‑Solving & Cognition (7:40) Elephants: Mirror tests demonstrate self‑recognition and high-level cognition. Dolphins: Work cooperatively to herd fish onto the shore, then share the feast with seagulls. Dogs & Rats: Dogs learn 250+ commands; rats navigate mazes and even “drive” miniature vehicles in experiments. Urban Adaptations: Raccoons show signs of evolutionary leaps by raiding trash bins, illustrating rapid behavioral adaptation to cities. 4. Featured Guest: Molly the Cockatoo (15:30) Meet Molly: A 28‑year‑old Moluccan cockatoo ambassador—one of the world’s smartest birds. Parrot Genius: Like Alex the African gray, Molly mimics speech, crafts cardboard tools to extract nuts, and uses her crest to communicate emotion. Conservation Point: Parrots live 60–70 years, face threats from the pet trade, and play a vital role in seed dispersal. 5. Conservation & Takeaways (24:00) Key Message: Intelligence and innovation are widespread in nature—every species has evolved unique survival tactics. Action Steps: Support accredited zoos and wildlife foundations, practice sustainable living, and share your favorite “That’s Wild” moments. Call to Action: If you enjoyed today’s exploration of animal tool use and problem‑solving, please subscribe, rate us, and share your thoughts with #ThatsWildPodcast. Stay tuned for more mind‑blowing stories from the wild!

That's WILD: Animal Parenting: Helicopter Moms, Super Dads & Penguin Pals

Emcee Dustin Bean welcomes you to That’s Wild Podcast, produced by the Little Rock Zoo and sponsored by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation. Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock explore the world’s wildest “parenting” strategies—from alligator moms ferrying babies in their mouths to seahorse dads carrying eggs. You’ll hear how orangutans bond for eight years, why cuckoo birds outsource childcare, and get an insider look at parenting in action at Little Rock Zoo, capped off by a special visit from Vinny the African penguin. Show Notes 1. Welcome & Mission Opening Music & Intro (0:00): – Dustin Bean sets the scene, introducing the podcast’s mission to inspire wildlife conservation. – Acknowledgment: Arkansas Zoological Foundation & Little Rock Zoo. 2. Parenting Extremes in the Animal Kingdom Helicopter Moms (2:34): – Alligator mothers carry hatchlings in their mouths for safety—true “no-boundaries” parenting. Long‑Term Bonding (3:17): – Orangutan moms at Little Rock Zoo nurse and protect offspring for up to eight years, fostering deep bonds. Super Dad Seahorses (4:05): – Female seahorse transfers eggs to the male’s brood pouch; he “gives birth” and provides oxygen and protection. 3. Brood Parasitism & Survival Cuckoo Bird Strategy (6:04): – Some cuckoos lay eggs in other birds’ nests, outsourcing parenting duties and ensuring their chick’s survival. 4. Zoo Spotlight: Family Dynamics at Little Rock Zoo Orangutan Family (7:10): – Meet Barani and Bandar, a rare hands‑on orangutan dad–mom unit raising two spirited youngsters. Penguin Boom (8:44): – Last year’s record of five African penguin chicks showcases successful conservation and husbandry techniques. 5. Special Guest: Vinny the African Penguin (9:43) Meet Vinny: – One of 17–18 penguin species, Vinny thrives in Arkansas’s warm‑climate exhibit. Pair Bonds & Parenting: – Penguins mate for life (with occasional re‑pairing), co‑parent two‑egg clutches, alternating incubation and fishing shifts. Chick Rearing: – When hand‑rearing is needed, keepers prepare a “fish milkshake,” mimicking parental regurgitation. 6. Conservation & Call to Action Status & Threats: – African penguins recently uplisted to Critically Endangered due to oil spills and overfishing. How You Can Help: – Download Seafood Watch (Monterey Bay Aquarium) for sustainable choices. – Support the African Penguin SSP and Sanccob conservation in South Africa. Engage: – Subscribe, rate, and share your wild parenting stories with #ThatsWildPodcast. – Visit Little Rock Zoo or your local accredited zoo to see animal families in action.

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