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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
This week on The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie Foster, Laurie Horne, and Chris take a playful trip through the animal kingdom with a trivia-style episode all about the names for male and female animals . Some are familiar — like a buck and doe , bull and cow , or stallion and mare — while others are far less obvious, including cob and pen for swans, jack and jill for opossums, and even cock and hen for lobsters. Along the way, the conversation wanders in true Backyard Naturalists fashion, from international listeners in places like Vietnam, Iraq, Uzbekistan, and Zambia to jellyfish at the Tampa aquarium, a "passel of possums," and whether anyone could ever win a Jeopardy category devoted entirely to Young Sheldon , Tombstone , and O Brother, Where Art Thou? It's a lighthearted, funny, and surprisingly educational episode that proves nature vocabulary can be just as wild as the animals themselves. In this episode, you'll hear about: Animal-name trivia for ants, bears, coyotes, deer, donkeys, elephants, foxes, goats, geese, horses, jellyfish, lobsters, mallards, opossums, pigs, seahorses, squirrels, swans, tigers, and zebras The difference between familiar terms like boar and sow , drake and hen , and billy and nanny Why some animals share naming patterns across species A few surprising terms, including vixen , cob , pen , sea mare , and sea stallion A fun detour into group names, including a passel of possums The podcast's growing international audience and a warm invitation to visit Backyard Birds in Matthews, North Carolina Whether you already know your ganders from your geese or you're just here for the laughs, this episode is a fun reminder that the natural world is full of curious details hiding in plain sight.
This week on The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne explore the fascinating world of wildlife bridges, wildlife crossings, green bridges, and ecoducts — structures designed to help animals safely move across fragmented habitats caused by highways, railroads, canals, and other human-made barriers. From deer, elk, badgers, mountain lions, alligators, amphibians, turtles, and even endangered red wolves, these crossings are becoming an increasingly important tool for protecting wildlife and people alike. Debbie and Laurie discuss how wildlife crossings have been used in Europe since the 1950s, why places like the Netherlands and Banff National Park in Canada have become models for large-scale wildlife passage, and how thoughtful design — including native plants, fencing, underpasses, overpasses, and species-specific construction — can dramatically reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions. The episode also highlights current and future projects in North Carolina , including work along I-40 in the Pigeon River Gorge and US 64 near Alligator River , where crossings may benefit black bears, bobcats, turtles, snakes, and the critically endangered red wolf . Whether you're a longtime nature lover or just learning about the hidden ways wildlife moves through our landscapes, this episode offers a hopeful look at how smart planning and conservation can make roads safer for everyone — humans and animals included.
It's nesting season in the Carolinas, and this week on The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne take a fun, award-show-style look at the many ways birds build — or sometimes barely build — their nests. From the lightning-fast Carolina wren to the ground-nesting killdeer , the late-arriving American goldfinch , and the nest-hijacking brown-headed cowbird , this episode celebrates the clever, quirky, and sometimes downright surprising nesting strategies happening in our own backyards. Along the way, Debbie, Laurie, and Chris share backyard observations of downy woodpeckers, cardinals, nuthatches, robins, wrens, owls, starlings , and even a few off-topic but very naturalist-worthy sightings of deer, fox kits, and coyotes. Listeners will learn why some birds use mud like cement, why goldfinches wait until summer to nest, how killdeer protect their eggs with a broken-wing act, and why leaving seedheads on native plants like echinacea and black-eyed Susans can help support nesting birds. Have you found an unusual bird nest in your yard, on your porch, in a flowerpot, or somewhere completely unexpected? The Backyard Naturalists would love to hear about it — especially with photos. Share your nesting-season stories on our Facebook page and join the conversation.
Think you need a big backyard to help wildlife? Think again! In this encore episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie and Laurie prove that even the tiniest patio, balcony, porch, apartment landing, condo space, or HOA-approved corner can become a welcoming wildlife habitat. With a little creativity — and maybe a bit of "no mess, no evidence" bird feeding strategy — you can provide food, water, shelter, and nesting spots for birds and other backyard visitors without creating chaos or attracting unwanted attention. From sunflower hearts and Hot Meats to tiny hummingbird feeders, decorative birdbaths, hanging plants, wreaths, baskets, and roosting huts, this episode is packed with practical, small-space nature ideas that are fun, doable, and surprisingly sneaky in the best possible way. Whether you live in a townhouse, senior living community, apartment, or neighborhood with lots of rules, Debbie and Laurie share how to support wildlife, keep things tidy, and even certify your tiny habitat through the National Wildlife Federation. Big nature moments really can happen in small spaces! In this episode, you'll hear about: Creating a certified wildlife habitat in a small space Bird feeding ideas for apartments, patios, balconies, and condos Zero-waste bird seed options like sunflower hearts and hot pepper seed Tiny water features, misters, and small birdbaths Natural shelter ideas using hanging plants, baskets, wreaths, and roosting huts How to support birds while keeping your space clean and neighbor-friendly Creative wildlife habitat ideas for HOA communities and senior living spaces
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne celebrate spring planting season with a practical conversation about choosing plants that support wildlife and strengthen local ecosystems. Using the idea of "Plant This, Not That," they compare native plants that thrive in the Carolinas with invasive or problematic plants that can outcompete native species, spread aggressively, or reduce habitat value. The discussion also highlights Constructive Plant Rescue , a local nonprofit working to save native plants from construction sites and give them a second life in home landscapes. Debbie and Laurie walk through helpful plant swaps by category, including vines, groundcovers, perennials, shrubs, trees, and grasses. From coral honeysuckle, wild ginger, oakleaf hydrangea, native dogwoods, oaks, and muhly grass to plants best avoided — like Japanese honeysuckle, English ivy, butterfly bush, Chinese privet, Bradford pear, crape myrtle, monkey grass, and pampas grass — this episode offers approachable guidance for anyone hoping to make more environmentally friendly planting choices. They also remind listeners to research what is native or invasive in their own region, consider sun exposure and soil type, and match each plant to the goals of their yard, garden, balcony, or habitat space. In this episode, you'll learn about: Why native plants are better adapted to local soil, rainfall, and temperatures How invasive plants can outcompete native plants and reduce habitat value What Constructive Plant Rescue does to save native plants from development sites Native vine options like Carolina jessamine and coral honeysuckle Better groundcover choices, including wild ginger, bloodroot, green and gold, native phlox, and dwarf crested iris Native perennial, shrub, tree, and grass options for wildlife-friendly landscapes Why plants like English ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, butterfly bush, Bradford pear, Chinese wisteria, monkey grass, and pampas grass can become problems How oaks support hundreds of insects, butterflies, and moths Why it matters to check plant names carefully before buying How to evaluate sun, soil, moisture, and planting goals before choosing new plants
Spring is finally making itself known, and that means our backyard habitats are changing fast. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie and Laurie talk about what listeners may be seeing, hearing, and experiencing in their own outdoor spaces — from nesting bluebirds, Carolina wrens, catbirds, frogs, butterflies, lizards, bats, possums, raccoons, snakes, deer, and even coyotes. Whether your habitat is an apartment balcony, suburban yard, garden, greenway, or several acres of land, this episode is a reminder that every space can support wildlife in meaningful ways. The conversation also turns practical, with timely spring habitat maintenance tips for nature lovers, birders, and backyard gardeners. Debbie and Laurie discuss when to cut back old plant stems, how to create brush piles and natural shelter, why nest box placement and monitoring matter, and how to keep birdbaths clean, shallow, and filled during dry weather. They also cover wildlife-friendly food sources, live mealworms for baby birds, no-melt suet, mosquito control without harmful sprays, and why avoiding chemical fertilizers and weed killers can make your yard healthier for pollinators, birds, and the entire backyard food chain. This episode is full of seasonal reminders to slow down, look closely, and enjoy the wildlife already happening right outside your door.
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne take us into the fascinating world of barred owls , inspired by a local owl box success story just in time for Earth Day. From the excitement of watching young owlets leave the nest to the unmistakable "who cooks for you?" presence of barred owls in the Carolinas, this conversation explores how these remarkable birds live, hunt, nest, and raise their young in our neighborhoods and natural spaces. Debbie and Laurie discuss what makes barred owls such efficient hunters, including their almost silent flight, incredible night vision, asymmetrical ear openings, and the ability to pinpoint prey by sound alone. They also share practical ways listeners can help barred owls thrive, such as protecting large mature trees, considering properly placed owl nesting boxes, and reducing pesticide use. Whether you have heard barred owls calling in your own backyard or are hoping to spot one on a local greenway, this episode will deepen your appreciation for one of North America's most recognizable and adaptable owls. In this episode, you'll learn about: How barred owls nest and raise their young Why mature trees and creekside habitats are so important The size, markings, and features that distinguish barred owls from great horned owls How owls use sound, vision, and head rotation to hunt What barred owls eat, from mice and voles to crayfish, reptiles, and fish Why barred owls are expanding their range and creating challenges for spotted owls in the Pacific Northwest Simple backyard habitat choices that support owls and other wildlife
What do you do when tadpoles take over a horse trough? In this fun and wide-ranging episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie, Laurie, and Chris dive into the fascinating world of tadpoles after a listener from California asks how to handle an unexpected amphibian boom in her horses' water troughs. Along the way, the conversation explores why frogs choose certain places to lay eggs, what tadpoles need to survive, and how understanding wildlife habitat — food, water, shelter, and places to raise young, can help explain nature's behavior right in your own backyard. Listeners will also learn practical tips for encouraging or discouraging tadpoles, what they eat as they grow, why shade and clean water matter, and how these tiny creatures can actually provide natural mosquito control. Equal parts educational and entertaining, this episode is a reminder that even a simple horse trough can become a window into the amazing processes of metamorphosis, backyard ecology, and the everyday wonder of the natural world.
In this special Earth Day episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie, Laurie, and Chris celebrate Earth Day 2026 by exploring the history behind this global movement and sharing practical, everyday ways listeners can make a real difference for the planet. From the surprising origins of Earth Day in 1970 to the staggering number of people who now participate around the world, this episode is packed with inspiration, useful resources, and plenty of the lively conversation listeners love. The trio highlights simple but meaningful actions you can take right now — from skipping plastic bags and straws to planting native trees, supporting pollinators, reducing chemical use, choosing shade-grown coffee, and voting with your dollars for environmentally responsible products and businesses. Whether you're already an avid environmental advocate or just looking for a few easy Earth Day ideas, this episode is a motivating reminder that caring for the planet does not have to be complicated. Small actions matter, and together they add up in a big way.
In this fun and fast-moving second installment of "How Big Is It?" , Debbie and Laurie explore some of the biggest creatures in the natural world—from the world's largest vulture and giant hummingbird to the Komodo dragon , Goliath frog , capybara , and even a massive Australian sea snail . Along the way, they share surprising facts about size, habitat, diet, and behavior, with plenty of laughter and off-the-cuff conversation that makes this episode feel like you're sitting right at the kitchen table with them. Listeners will come away with a new appreciation for the incredible diversity of wildlife around the globe, including species from South America, Australia, Indonesia, and Africa . Whether you are fascinated by record-breaking animals , love quirky nature trivia , or just enjoy hearing nature explained in an entertaining and approachable way, this episode delivers. It is a lighthearted but informative look at some of the most astonishing animals on Earth—and a reminder that nature is always bigger, stranger, and more wonderful than we expect.
This week on The Backyard Naturalists , we're bringing back a timely favorite from last spring as an encore presentation packed with practical, eco-friendly garden advice. Debbie and Laurie revisit smart, natural solutions for some of the season's most common backyard headaches, including weeds, garden pests, and unwanted plant invaders. From weed control methods like solarization and hand-pulling to chemical-free pest strategies using neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and even beer traps, this episode is full of easy, earth-friendly ideas for a healthier yard and garden. You'll also hear tips for attracting beneficial insects, protecting spring flowers, and managing problem plants without disrupting the environment or harming your local ecosystem. Whether you're a longtime gardener or just getting started with your backyard habitat, this encore episode offers plenty of helpful information, nature-based wisdom, and a few fun surprises along the way. Send us your ideas for future episode topics on our Facebook page or through our website — we'd love to hear from you.
What do you call the place an animal lives? In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie and Laurie dive into the surprisingly fascinating world of animal homes. From bird nests and squirrel dreys to eagle aeries, bobcat dens, bird rookeries, and bee hives, they explore the wide variety of places wildlife builds, borrows, and calls home. Along the way, they share fun facts about everything from turtles, termites, and raccoons to alligators, snakes, wolves, and even octopuses. As always, the conversation is lively, curious, and full of the kind of nature trivia that makes you look at the backyard a little differently. Whether you are a bird lover, a wildlife watcher, or just someone who enjoys learning the language of the natural world, this episode is packed with surprising discoveries and plenty of charm.
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie and Laurie take a fresh look at Project Pan , a social media trend encouraging people to use up every last bit of the products they already own before buying more. What starts with makeup and toiletries opens into a bigger conversation about mindful consumption , reducing waste, saving money, and making more environmentally responsible choices in everyday life. From cleaning supplies and pantry items to clothing and online shopping habits, this episode explores simple ways to cut back on excess and rethink what we bring into our homes. Along the way, the conversation connects personal habits to bigger environmental issues, including packaging waste, shipping impacts, and sustainable product choices like shade-grown, bird-friendly coffee . Debbie and Laurie remind listeners that small steps can add up, especially when communities work together. It's a practical, encouraging episode filled with ideas for living a little lighter on the planet — right from your own backyard.
In this popular encore episode of The Backyard Naturalists , Debbie and Laurie team up with Chris to tackle a timely spring topic: how to clean up your yard in ways that support birds, pollinators, and other backyard wildlife. From scrubbing bird feeders and bird baths to preparing bird houses for nesting season, they share practical, easy-to-follow tips for creating a healthier habitat just as migration and breeding season begin. Along the way, they explain why fresh water, mealworms, suet, and properly placed nesting boxes can make a big difference for the wildlife that depends on your yard. They also dig into one of the most important spring gardening reminders of all: don't clean up too soon. Debbie and Laurie explain why hollow stems, dried plant material, and leaf litter may still be sheltering beneficial insects, and how a little patience can help protect the food web that supports baby birds and other wildlife. Whether you're just getting started or looking to make your yard even more wildlife-friendly with native plants, better water sources, or fewer invasive species, this episode is full of smart spring strategies to help you welcome nature right outside your door.
