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After more than a century away, one tiny bird is finding its way back to Missouri. In this episode of Nature Boost, we head into restored shortleaf pine woodlands in Mark Twain National Forest to witness the final year of Brown-headed Nuthatch reintroduction efforts. These little birds (who sound like rubber duckies!) once called Missouri home, but habitat changes pushed them out. But thanks to MDC, the U.S. Forest Service, Ouachita National Forest and Northern Research Station, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and many other partners, these birds are so back. Join Jill and Missouri State Ornithologist Kristen Heath-Acre to learn how habitat restoration, partnerships, and a little assist from conservationists brought the Brown-headed Nuthatch back to Missouri. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From muddy riverbanks to snowy slides, river otters are among Missouri’s most energetic and entertaining wildlife species. But behind their playful behavior is a conservation success story decades in the making. In this episode of Nature Boost, MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock shares how researchers study otters and why these predators are important for balanced aquatic ecosystems. Plus, hear the remarkable story of former MDC cinematographer Glenn Chambers, whose close work with captive otters helped generations of Missourians connect with wildlife in a whole new way. Nature Boost takes a fun look at the plants, animals and outdoor experiences that make Missouri special through engaging stories and expert interviews. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of each month. If you enjoy Nature Boost, be sure to review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and follow MDC on Instagram and Facebook! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Get in, bestie, we're going birding ... again! In our April episode, we're talking about the Missouri Birding Challenge, a team-based event that's turned a relaxing hobby into a fun competition. U.S. Fish and Wildlife ornithologist (and former Missouri Department of Conservation ornithologist) Sarah Kendrick joins us once again to break down how it works, share birding tips, and more. The best part? You don't have to be an expert to join this challenge ... you just have to be curious! Registration is open for the 2026 Missouri Birding Challenge through April 30! Learn more and register online at Missouri Birding Challenge | Missouri Department of Conservation Nature Boost takes a fun look at the plants, animals and outdoor experiences that make Missouri special through engaging stories and expert interviews. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of each month. Have an idea for an episode? Send us a message at Nature Boost | Missouri Department of Conservation If you enjoy Nature Boost, be sure to review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and follow MDC on Instagram and Facebook! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It looks beautiful each spring, but the Callery pear has a complicated story. In the March episode of Nature Boost, we discuss how a popular ornamental tree introduced decades ago became one of Missouri's most problematic plants. Hear about its rise and spread, learn about new legislation banning its sale, and discover how the Missouri Invasive Plant Council's Callery Pear Buyback Program is helping Missourians replace Callery pears with native trees. This episode features interviews with MDC Forestry Programs Supervisor Russell Hinnah, Missouri State Representative Bruce Sassmann, and Missouri Prairie Foundation Executive Director Carol Davit. Have an invasive Callery pear on your property? Register for the Callery Pear Buyback Program March 16 - April 16 to receive a free, native tree to replace it! Learn more at Pear Buyback | Missouri Invasive Plant Council Nature Boost takes a fun look at the plants, animals and outdoor experiences that make Missouri special through engaging stories and expert interviews. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of each month. Have an idea for an episode? Send us a message at Nature Boost | Missouri Department of Conservation If you enjoy Nature Boost, be sure to rate and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and follow MDC on Instagram and Facebook! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

February isn't just for Valentine's Day - it's also peak breeding season for many Missouri wildlife species. In this month's Nature Boost, we explore weird and fascinating mating rituals. Plus, Missouri State Herpetologist Dr. Jeff Briggler is back to explain the spotted salamander's unique "breeding frenzy" and why it's one of nature's most remarkable events. Learn more about Missouri's wild lovers from MDC's online Field Guide at Field Guide | Missouri Department of Conservation Nature Boost takes a fun look at the plants, animals, and outdoor experiences that make Missouri special through engaging stories and expert interviews. New episodes are released on the third Thursday of each month. Have an idea for an episode? Send us a message at Nature Boost | Missouri Department of Conservation If you enjoy Nature Boost, be sure to rate and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and follow MDC on Instagram and Facebook! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For years, David Berry Jr. and his family were at the center of Missouri’s most notorious wildlife poaching case, leaving hundreds of illegally killed deer in their wake. In this special true crime episode of Nature Boost, we take an in-depth look at Operation Geronimo, the investigation that finally stopped Berry Jr., and hear firsthand from the conservation agent that brought him to justice, Andy Barnes. This episode explores the impacts of poaching and why reporting wildlife crimes is critical to protecting Missouri’s natural resources for everyone. Poaching – taking wildlife out of season, without the proper permit, or in other violation of the Wildlife Code of Missouri – hurts Missouri wildlife and those who appreciate it. The Operation Game Thief hotline allows Missourians to project nature by reporting poaching. If you witness or suspect a wildlife violation, report it to your local conservation agent, or call the OGT 24-hour, toll-free number at 1-800-392-1111. Learn more at http://short.mdc.mo.gov/o39 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This winter, Missouri may get some Arctic visitors. On the December episode, explore the rare phenomenon of snowy owls migrating way beyond their frozen tundra. Ornithologist Kristen Heath-Acre breaks down their ecology, what an irruption year is, and shares tips for viewing these magical birds of prey responsibly. Learn more about snowy owl movements at projectsnowstorm.org. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How does caring for wildlife and wild places help us care for ourselves? Join MDC’s Lorisa Smith and Dr. Sherri Russell as they discuss how the One Health framework connects the well-being of people, animals, and the environment. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just in time for spooky season, Nature Boost is shining a light on one of Missouri’s most misunderstood residents … the tarantula! In this mini episode, hear from experts with the University of Missouri–St. Louis and the Missouri Department of Conservation about their research on Missouri’s native tarantula population. Discover where these “creepy crawlers” call home, what makes them unique, and why they deserve a little love and appreciation, not screams, this Halloween. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Autumn in Missouri offers more than colorful leaves … it’s a season full of wild flavors, too! In October’s episode, MDC’s Ginger Miller and Pat Whalen join us to guide us through the basics of foraging. Get tips on identifying wild edibles, fun ways to transform them in the kitchen, and how you can harvest food throughout the year! Whether you’re gathering ingredients for a wild treat or looking to learn more about the outdoors, this episode is sure to inspire you to slow down and appreciate Missouri’s natural abundance. Helpful links discussed in this episode include: Wild Edibles | Missouri Department of Conservation Wild Edibles of Missouri Game Recipes | Missouri Department of Conservation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Birding is blowing up on TikTok and Instagram lately – especially with younger generations! People from all backgrounds are discovering the joy of this accessible outdoor hobby. But while birding is trending, birds themselves are in trouble. Since 1970, North America has lost nearly 3 billion birds. We hear from Kaylee Woelfel from the Missouri River Bird Observatory on why these declines are happening, and easy steps we all can take to save our birds. And yes, birding is one of them! Helpful links discussed in this episode include: https://www.3billionbirds.org/ https://mrbo.org/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trees are more than just scenery – they’re living investments that provide shade, beauty, wildlife habitat, and a myriad of health benefits. MDC’s Forest Entomologist Robbie Doerhoff is back to tell us how tree health is connected to human health, and how to keep our trees healthy for generations to come. Get practical tips on watering, mulching, and spotting signs of stress and disease. Whether you have a single backyard oak tree or a grove of maples, learn how small steps today can help your trees thrive for years to come. Helpful resources discussed in this episode: MDC Tree Planting Guides -- Planting Trees | Missouri Department of Conservation Find a certified arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture at TreesAreGood.org See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this Mini Boost, we’re diving into the incredible story of the lake sturgeon — a prehistoric fish making a modern comeback! Once on the brink of disappearing from many Midwestern waters, lake sturgeon are now at the center of inspiring conservation efforts right here in Missouri. Join us as we explore the biology, history, and recovery of this iconic species with MDC Fisheries Biologist Travis Moore and learn how biologists are working to ensure these ancient giants continue to thrive. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The hiking boots are broken in, the bag is packed (but hopefully not overpacked), and the trailhead is in sight! Join Jill as she sees if all her prep paid off as she sets off on her first backpacking trip in the Mark Twain National Forest. Topics include what Jill packed (and what she wish she had), advice and stories from program instructors and other backpackers, and the sounds and serenity of the beautiful Paddy Creek Wilderness Trail. Whether you’re planning your own first trip or just curious about life off the grid, this episode is a candid, immersive look at stepping into the wild for the first time. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thinking about hitting the trail for your first backpacking trip? Us, too! Join Jill as she prepares to backpack in the Mark Twain National Forest as part of MDC’s Backpacking 101 program. This episode has hiking tips, expert advice from MDC’s backpacking instructors, and personal stories from Missouri Conservationist Magazine Editor Larry Archer (who has a magazine article coming out on backpacking!) Whether you’re heading out for a weekend or dreaming of thru-hiking, this episode will help you feel confident and prepared for your journey. Lace up those boots – your adventure starts now! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.