Advertise on podcast: Rewildology

When Lewis and Clark traveled the Missouri River in the early 1800s, they encountered bison herds stretching to the horizon, grizzly bears roaming the plains, and wildlife in numbers that seemed endless—but just 100 years later, it was nearly all gone. In this episode, Brooke sits down with Dr. Danny Kinka, Director of Rewilding at American Prairie, to explore the science behind the largest landscape rewilding project in the continental United States. American Prairie is working to restore 5,000 square miles of Montana's Great Plains by restoring keystone species like bison and creating the conditions for wildlife like beaver, prairie dogs, and eventually large carnivores to naturally return and thrive. They discuss why bison grazing is essential to grassland diversity, how prairie dogs are the unsung heroes of the plains, why American Prairie isn't ready for wolves yet but grizzly bears are a different story, the complexities of conservation in working ranch landscapes, community relations, and what you can do to support wildlife restoration wherever you live in the world. This is the science of rewilding, Montana's Great Plains comeback, and the tangible hope happening on the ground right now. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Return of Wildness in Central Montana 00:22 Introduction to Rewildology and today’s guest 01:51 Meet Dr. Daniel Kinka: From Psychology to Rewilding 03:17 The Historical Transformation of the Great Plains 07:27 The Ecological Impact of Wildlife Loss 12:12 American Prairie: Mission and Goals 16:53 Rewilding Strategies and Challenges 26:57 The Role of Large Carnivores in Rewilding 33:15 Current Status and Future of American Prairie 35:57 Functional Recovery of the Ecosystem 36:08 Rewilding Progress and Challenges 37:37 Wildlife Restoration and Management 38:07 Community and Economic Impact 40:40 Public Support and Skepticism 50:54 Global Significance of Rewilding 57:08 Personal Reflections and Hope 01:00:38 How to Support Rewilding Efforts 01:07:28 Final Thoughts and Call to Action SUPPORT AMERICAN PRAIRIE https://americanprairie.org/ LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 7, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ LISTEN TO THE REWILDOLOGY PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3YXWSsF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oW6artLcvxX0QoW1TCcrq?si=ff3b5e2ec90542a2 FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology

Join Brooke and Charles for their end-of-year Nature Coffee Hour as they reflect on 2025's biggest conservation moments! They swap their usual evening beers for morning caffeine and dive into the stories that shaped this year: green sea turtles downlisted from endangered to least concern, Florida's record-breaking leatherback nesting season, the troubling rollback of U.S. wetland protections, Ecuadorian fishing communities protecting mangroves from industrial shrimp farms, and the historic High Seas Treaty protecting two-thirds of our oceans. They also share personal updates—Rewildology's Project Patagonia series becoming a Jackson Wild finalist, Charles's health recovery and new PhD students, and some unexpected philosophical realizations about humanity and our shared planet. This conversation covers the conservation wins, losses, and everything in between as we close out 2025 and look ahead to what's next. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 01:34 Morning Beverage Chat 06:49 Project Patagonia Success 20:05 Charles' Health and Lab Updates 30:43 Top Headlines of 2025 40:49 State Policies and Their Impact on Wildlife 41:40 Ecological Consequences of Removing Protections 43:21 Private Land and Wetland Conservation 43:54 The Importance of Wetlands and Potential Risks 44:33 State-Level Actions and Public Responsibility 46:57 Positive News: Green Sea Turtles' Recovery 47:48 Sea Turtle Conservation Success Stories 55:10 Community-Led Conservation in Ecuador 01:02:42 Global Conservation Efforts and Personal Reflections 01:12:55 High Seas Treaty and Ocean Conservation 01:21:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 7, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ LISTEN TO THE REWILDOLOGY PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3YXWSsF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oW6artLcvxX0QoW1TCcrq?si=ff3b5e2ec90542a2 FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology CONTACTS Brooke Mitchell, [email protected] SPONSORSHIPS & BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Send your ideas to Brooke at [email protected]

In this inbetweenersode, Brooke sits down with Natalie Cibel and Coral Carson from Planet People Podcast to explore the Mojave Desert—part of California's overlooked "desert heart". Discover the surprising Raven-Tortoise-Human conflict threatening desert wildlife, the complex relationship between renewable energy development and habitat conservation, and innovative solutions like laser technology and captive breeding programs saving desert tortoises. Learn about pressing challenges including off-roading impacts, solar farm expansion, and illegal poaching, plus inspiring conservation wins like the Chuckwalla National Monument, Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, and the "Kill Your Lawn" rewilding movement. This episode reveals why the Mojave Desert is a critical conservation hotspot and how small actions—like closing dumpster lids—create cascading positive effects for desert ecosystems. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction and Special Episode Announcement 01:03 Meet the Hosts: Natalie and Coral 04:11 Exploring the Mojave Desert 06:02 Desert Biodiversity and Conservation 09:05 Challenges Facing the Mojave Desert 11:37 Raven and Desert Tortoise Conflict 14:29 Human Impact and Conservation Efforts 21:06 Renewable Energy and Land Use 26:24 Balancing Renewable Energy and Recreation 28:01 Off-Roading and Its Impact on the Mojave 31:21 Kill Your Lawn Movement 34:30 Conservation Success Stories 38:19 The Joshua Tree Conservation Act 41:43 Final Thoughts and Call to Action LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 7, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology

Join host Brooke Mitchell as she speaks with puma researcher Nicolas Lagos and conservation technologist Javiera de la Fuente about revolutionizing human-wildlife coexistence with Blink+A, an innovative deterrent device combining flashing lights, sounds, and IoT connectivity to protect livestock and carnivores. From selling a wildlife photography book to fund their idea to testing weatherproof devices across ranches from the US to Saudi Arabia, this unlikely collaboration between a Patagonian field biologist and Santiago digital designer shows how conservation technology can address predator-livestock conflict. Named after a one-eyed puma from Torres del Paine, Blink+A demonstrates open-source innovation in wildlife management, promoting peaceful coexistence between ranching communities and endangered carnivores like pumas, jaguars, and bears. Support the $25,000 fundraiser to expand Blink+A testing globally at givebutter.com/projectpatagonia. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction & Project Overview 1:45 Meet Nico & Javi 2:25 Nico's Background - From Santiago to Patagonia Pumas 4:40 Javi's Story - From Nintendo to Conservation Tech 7:35 The Problem: Century-Old Human-Wildlife Conflict 12:45 Designing Blink+A: Deterrent 2.0 16:25 15 Prototypes and Counting 19:30 Learning to Prototype on a Budget 22:55 Funding Through Puma Photography Book 26:15 Why This Device Works: Predator Biology 30:50 The Human Element: Working with Ranchers 36:35 Rancher Feedback: Virtual Fences Concept 38:25 Technical Details: Lights, Sounds & Sensors 42:10 PIR Sensors & Customizable Components 45:10 Current Status & Next Phase 47:50 What Success Means to Each of Them 51:30 How Blink+A Got Its Name 53:25 The One-Eyed Puma: Blinka's Story 54:35 Final Thoughts & Advice 57:10 Call to Action & Fundraiser 58:25 Outro & Expedition Information LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! September/October Book - Crossings by Ben Goldfarb https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology SPONSORSHIPS & BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Send your ideas to Brooke at [email protected]

Join host Brooke Mitchell for an incredible conversation with Dr. Rosa Espinoza, PhD scientist and author of "The Spirit of the Rainforest: How Indigenous Wisdom and Scientific Curiosity Reconnects Us to the Natural World." Rosa shares her groundbreaking Amazon rainforest research, including her discovery of stingless bees as Earth's oldest pollinators (80 million years old) and their medicinal honey properties used in COVID-19 treatment by indigenous communities. Learn how traditional indigenous knowledge bridges with modern conservation science, from animal self-medication research inspired by ayahuasca experiences to new Peruvian legislation protecting native bee species. Rosa explains why everyone on Earth is connected to the Amazon ecosystem through weather patterns, food systems, and natural medicines, while exploring zoopharmacognosy (animal self-medication), ethnobotany, and the beautiful indigenous concept of "living beautifully" as environmental stewardship. This episode reveals how traditional ecological knowledge from Amazonian communities guides cutting-edge scientific discoveries in biodiversity conservation, pollinator research, and sustainable environmental practices. Perfect for listeners interested in conservation biology, indigenous rights, traditional medicine, Amazon biodiversity, climate science, and innovative approaches to environmental research and cultural preservation. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome 00:55 Rosa's Unique Upbringing in the Amazon 03:27 Journey to Pursuing Science 06:33 Cultural Shock and Adaptation 10:22 The Spirit of the Rainforest: Book Discussion 14:22 Global Connection to the Amazon 19:27 Indigenous Wisdom and Modern Science 27:26 The Importance of Preserving Indigenous Knowledge 42:24 Cultural Pride and Social Media Influence 43:40 Indigenous Voices in Science 46:17 Introduction to Stingless Bees 48:08 The Medicinal Power of Stingless Bee Honey 54:55 Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts 01:00:21 Writing and Storytelling Process 01:05:21 Reconnecting with Nature and Self 01:18:57 Book Release and Final Thoughts LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! July / August Book - The Spirit of the Rainforest by Dr. Rosa Espinoza https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology SPONSORSHIPS & BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Send your ideas to Brooke at [email protected]

Join me, Brooke Mitchell, for an exciting conservation update from Chile's Route of Parks of Patagonia with Rewilding Chile's Wildlife Director Cristian Saucedo. Discover the dramatic helicopter discovery of 10 endangered huemul deer at Cape Froward, southern river otter (huillín) sightings in coastal areas, the first international Darwin's rhea translocation between Argentina and Chile, Andean condor rehabilitation successes, and groundbreaking puma coexistence research. This Inbetweenersode provides exclusive access to conservation breakthroughs across 1,700 miles of protected Patagonian wilderness, showcasing cutting-edge rewilding efforts, endangered species recovery, and sustainable wildlife tourism initiatives. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and anyone passionate about wildlife conservation success stories from one of the world's most ambitious conservation projects. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Welcome to Rewildology: Exciting Updates from Patagonia 00:44 Conservation Stories from Patagonia's Route of Parks 01:11 Meet Cristian Saucedo: Wildlife Director for Rewilding Chile 02:48 The Journey of Rewilding Chile 08:54 Breakthrough Discoveries in Cape Forward 28:40 The Importance of Baseline Data for Conservation 34:43 Translocation Success: Moving Darwin's Rhea from Argentina to Chile 37:08 Monitoring and Releasing Darwin's Rhea in Patagonia 38:23 Challenges and Successes in Rhea Conservation 42:29 Andean Condor Rehabilitation and Release Program 50:18 Puma Conservation Efforts in Patagonia 57:56 Wildlife Conservation in Pumalin National Park 01:04:02 Closing Remarks and Future Plans LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! July / August Book - The Spirit of the Rainforest by Dr. Rosa Espinoza https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology CONTACTS Brooke Mitchell, [email protected] SPONSORSHIPS & BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Send your ideas to Brooke at [email protected]

In this powerful finale, I reveal the five revolutionary conservation principles that make Chile's Route of Parks a global blueprint for planetary healing. From tracking pumas with scientist Nicolás Lagos in Torres del Paine to discovering endangered huemul deer in a Patagonian snowstorm, this 1,700-mile conservation corridor spanning 17 national parks is transforming wildlife conservation and climate action. Learn why temperate rainforests store three times more carbon than the Amazon, explore groundbreaking puma coexistence research, and discover Darwin's rhea restoration programs across 28 million acres of protected wilderness. I announce Project Patagonia's three pillars: Listen (this podcast), Protect (supporting $20,000 for puma research), and Experience (my exclusive April 2026 Torres del Paine expedition). From ancient Alerce trees to innovative wetland protection, discover how corridor connectivity, indigenous co-management, and ecosystem restoration offer hope for addressing climate change and biodiversity loss worldwide. This conservation revolution proves that landscape-scale thinking, community partnerships, and sustainable tourism can heal damaged ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods. What conservation lesson resonated most with you? Drop me a note in the comments! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks EPISODE TITLE Episode 8: Where Hope Flourishes: The Promise of Patagonia's Route of Parks TIMESTAMPS 00:00 A Snowy Encounter in Patagonia 01:21 Introduction to the Journey 02:02 Close Encounters with Pumas 03:48 Darwin's Rhea Breeding Program 05:08 The Melting Glaciers 07:05 Interconnected Ecosystems 08:19 Conservation in Working Landscapes 09:05 A Blueprint for Planetary Healing 12:26 The Five Pillars of Conservation 16:21 Project Patagonia: How You Can Help 19:19 Conclusion and Acknowledgements LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY

Experience the stunning yet sobering reality of Patagonia's vanishing glaciers as I soar over Chile's massive ice fields and uncover groundbreaking climate research with Chilean glaciologist Dr. Ines Dussaillant. In this urgent episode, I explore the Northern and Southern Patagonian Ice Fields - covering over 16,500 square kilometers and representing the largest temperate ice masses in the Southern Hemisphere. Discover the alarming reality that five of the last six years have broken records for glacial mass loss, with some Patagonian glaciers retreating over 15 kilometers in just one century. Learn why these ancient ice formations serve as "sentinels of climate change," functioning as crucial water towers that sustain river systems across Chile and Argentina while storing massive amounts of fresh water. I was amazed to discover that Patagonia contains both the world's fastest-retreating glacier and fastest-growing glacier within the same ice field. From understanding why glacial ice appears that stunning blue color to exploring how satellite technology tracks ice loss across decades, this episode reveals the critical role glaciers play in global sea level rise and local water security. Dr. Dussaillant's recent Nature publication documents the accelerating pace of glacial retreat, while offering hope through Chile's emerging glacier protection laws and the Route of Parks conservation corridor. What spoke to you the most? Drop me a note in the comments! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks EPISODE TITLE Episode 7: Where Ice Meets Sky: Patagonia's Vanishing Glaciers TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Awe-Inspiring Aerial Views of Patagonia 01:49 Introduction to Patagonia's Glaciers 02:54 Meeting Dr. Ines Dussaillant: A Glaciologist's Journey 05:59 Understanding Glaciers: Formation and Function 09:13 The Crucial Roles of Glaciers 11:18 Fieldwork and Satellite Observations 13:07 The Unique Glaciers of Patagonia 19:31 The Impact of Climate Change on Glaciers 23:08 Hope and Conservation Efforts 29:54 Join Project Patagonia LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ LISTEN TO THE REWILDOLOGY PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3YXWSsF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oW6artLcvxX0QoW1TCcrq?si=ff3b5e2ec90542a2 FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology CONTACTS Brooke Mitchell, [email protected]...

Venture into Chile's Patagonia National Park, where I witnessed one of conservation's most inspiring comeback stories—the Darwin's rhea (Rhea pennata) rescued from the brink of local extinction. In this captivating episode, I explore the remote Aysén region and meet Alejandra Saavedra, who has dedicated eight years to bringing these remarkable flightless birds back from just 22 individuals to over 70 and counting. Journey with me through the ethereal marble caves of General Carrera Lake, across the dramatic spires of Cerro Castillo National Park, and into the golden grasslands of this 640,000-acre conservation success story that was once degraded ranch land. Discover how this revolutionary rewilding project began with an unexpected discovery by border police in 2014, leading to an innovative breeding program that has released 130 rheas into the wild. Learn about the critical ecological role these "nature's gardeners" play in the Patagonian steppe ecosystem, dispersing seeds and maintaining grassland health while serving as prey for apex predators like pumas. From the challenges of genetic diversity management to community engagement and ecosystem-wide restoration, this episode reveals the complex science behind modern conservation work. Witness how the transformation of Estancia Valle Chacabuco represents one of Earth's most ambitious habitat restoration projects, proving that with patience, dedication, and scientific rigor, we can repair damage to wild ecosystems one bird, one guanaco, one removed fence at a time. What did you think of this episode? Drop me a note in the comments! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks TIMESTAMPS 00:00 An Encounter with Birds Brought Back from the Brink 01:37 Welcome to Aysén: The Wild Heart of Patagonia 03:15 A Homestay at Cerro Castillo National Park 04:38 The Marvel of Marble Caves 06:01 Arrival at Patagonia National Park 07:22 How Patagonia National Park Came to be 09:56 The Darwin's Rhea: A Conservation Success Story 19:44 Challenges and Triumphs in Rhea Conservation 22:59 Reflections and Looking Ahead 24:26 A Call to Action: Join Project Patagonia LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ LISTEN TO THE REWILDOLOGY PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3YXWSsF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oW6artLcvxX0QoW1TCcrq?si=ff3b5e2ec90542a2 FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/...

Journey with me deep into Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, the ecological crown jewel of Chile's Route of Parks, where I stood in awe before ancient Alerce trees (Fitzroya cupressoides) that have thrived for over 3,000 years. In this immersive episode, I explore one of Earth's most pristine temperate rainforests, spanning nearly one million acres and storing an estimated 229.3 million metric tonnes of carbon. Witness the remarkable conservation legacy of Douglas Tompkins, founder of The North Face, who transformed controversial land purchases into a revolutionary approach to ecosystem preservation. I was stunned to discover how this biodiversity hotspot receives a staggering 6,000mm of annual rainfall, creating one of the planet's wettest temperate forests where coastal fog-swept valleys meet Andean peaks. Learn why these forests store three times more carbon per hectare than the Amazon and how they protect 25% of the world's remaining Alerce trees - cousins to California's giant sequoias. From the eruption-scarred town of Chaitén to breathtaking "Jurassic Park" landscapes, this episode reveals how Pumalín represents the future of conservation: not just protecting wilderness, but creating corridors that maintain ecological connections across an entire region. What spoke to you the most? Drop me a note! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Ancient Giants of Patagonia 01:48 Welcome to Puma Douglas Tompkins National Park 02:48 Journey to the Heart of the Park 05:58 Chaiten Volcano Eruption 07:18 The Visionary Behind the Park 10:09 Pumalin’s Unique Geography 11:27  Patagonian Jurassic Park 17:08 Exploring the Alerce Trail 24:04 Reflecting on Conservation and Legacy 26:02 Join the Conservation Adventure LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ LISTEN TO THE REWILDOLOGY PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3YXWSsF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oW6artLcvxX0QoW1TCcrq?si=ff3b5e2ec90542a2 FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology CONTACTS Brooke Mitchell, [email protected] SPONSORSHIPS & BRAND PARTNERSHIPS Send your ideas to Brooke at [email protected]

In this episode of Rewildology, I explore the overlooked wetlands and sunken forests that form the northern gateway to Chile's Route of Parks in the rainy Maullín River Basin. Alongside Fernando, Andres, and David from Fundación Legado Chile, I track the elusive southern river otter (huillín) - an endangered species with only 15 individuals remaining in the entire 85-kilometer watershed. Through camera traps and conservation strategies, we discover how invasive American mink threaten this fragile ecosystem by competing for the same food sources. The Valdivian temperate rainforest here represents one of Earth's rarest forest types, with biodiversity found at similar latitudes only in New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Learn how Legado Chile's holistic conservation approach combines wildlife monitoring, environmental education, community engagement, and waste management to protect these vital wetlands. Despite challenges from rapid population growth and agricultural runoff, their work shows how protecting overlooked ecosystems is just as crucial as preserving Patagonia's famous landscapes. What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Patagonia's Hidden Wetlands: Gateway to Chile's Route of Parks 01:55 - Fundación Legado Chile: Heroes Saving Endangered Ecosystems 04:00 - Endangered Huillín Otter: Conservation in Chilean Wetlands 06:25 - Invasive Mink Crisis: Threats to Native Patagonian Wildlife 10:20 - Valdivian Rainforest: Chile's Last Remaining Sunken Forest 14:10 - Maullín River: Vital Corridor from Andes to Pacific Ocean 16:15 - Environmental Threats: Development & Climate Change Impacts 19:05 - Integrated Conservation: Protecting Biodiversity in Chile 22:00 - Environmental Education: Community Wetland Conservation 24:15 - Ecological Restoration: Planning for Future Generations 25:05 - Route of Parks: Connecting Puerto Varas to Tierra del Fuego 27:25 - Project Patagonia: Supporting South American Conservation LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ LISTEN TO THE REWILDOLOGY PODCAST Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3YXWSsF Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oW6artLcvxX0QoW1TCcrq?si=ff3b5e2ec90542a2 FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rewildology/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildology X: https://x.com/rewildology CONTACTS Brooke Mitchell, hel...

In this episode of Rewildology, journey to the southernmost point of continental America, where the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans collide at Cape Froward. I explore Chile's newest national park-in-the-making, where Gabriela Garrido of Rewilding Chile shares how this groundbreaking conservation project protects the crucial intersection between marine and terrestrial ecosystems. From zodiac adventures with playful dolphins to discussions about indigenous co-management with Kawésqar communities, discover how Cape Froward represents a revolutionary approach to conservation that bridges land and sea. Learn how Rewilding Chile recently acquired an additional 34,000 hectares of wilderness at the time of this recording, expanding their vision for a protected corridor that benefits both wildlife and local communities. The creation of this park demonstrates a fundamental shift in conservation thinking, extending protection from mountaintop to seafloor in one continuous system. What do you think about this integrated approach to conservation? Share your thoughts in the comments on YouTube, Spotify, or on Instagram! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks EPISODE TITLE Episode 3: Where Two Oceans Meet: The Birth of Cape Froward National Park TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction - A Wild Dolphin Encounter 01:39 Welcome to Episode 3 of Where the Wild Calls 02:08 Early Morning to Punta Arenas 02:17 Meet Gabriela Garrido, Marine Biologist and Project Coordinator for Rewilding Chile 07:10 How Cape Froward came to be 08:16  Cape Forward's relationship with indigenous communities 11:22 Beach walk 13:57 Challenges of creating a national park 22:49 Exploring the park’s lighthouse and viewing museum art about the whaling era 24:17 Chile’s dedication to marine conservation 28:08 Cape Froward - A new way to establish national parks 29:37 Invitation to next episode - Wetlands of northern Patagonia 30:28 Join the Adventure: Project Patagonia LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology....

In this episode of Rewildology, I take you into the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, where I had my breathtaking first encounter with Rupestre, a "queen of the Andes." Join me as I explore how these magnificent apex predators have become a conservation success story in Chilean Patagonia, thriving where they're often persecuted elsewhere. I sit down with Nicolás Lagos from Panthera to uncover groundbreaking discoveries about puma social behavior that challenge everything we thought we knew about these "solitary" cats. Then I visit Estancia Cerro Guido, where innovative solutions like livestock guardian dogs are transforming traditional ranching practices and proving that conservation and human livelihoods can flourish together. This episode reveals how Torres del Paine is pioneering the coexistence model that could reshape predator conservation worldwide. Discover how you can support Project Patagonia and be part of our conservation efforts in this remarkable landscape. What was your main takeaway from the episode? Let me know on YouTube or through Rewildology’s social channels! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction: A Puma Encounter 02:09 Welcome to Episode 2 of Where the Wild Calls 02:26 Exploring Torres del Paine National Park 06:31 Interview with Nicolas Lagos from Panthera 09:07 Revolutionary Puma Behavior Discoveries 13:55  Puma-rancher conflict 15:29 Panthera’s Puma Coexistence Program 18:43 Fostering pride for pumas 21:26 Visit to Cerro Guido 29:00 Conclusion: The Future of Puma Coexistence in Patagonia 30:46 Join the Adventure: Project Patagonia LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! May / June Path of the Puma by Jim Williams: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, https://rewildology.com/ SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Rewildology Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rewildology/

I'm Brooke Mitchell, and this marks the beginning of Rewildology's new series exploring Chilean Patagonia's magnificent Route of Parks: an epic conservation corridor spanning 1,700 miles, protecting 28 million acres across 17 (soon to be 18) national parks from Puerto Montt to Cape Horn. In this episode, I set the stage for our journey by diving into the region's fascinating natural and human history, from indigenous stewardship spanning 12,000 years to the groundbreaking Tompkins Conservation project that transformed private lands into public parks. Join me as we explore towering granite peaks, ancient Alerce forests, windswept pampas, and vital wetlands—discovering how this visionary conservation model is reshaping our understanding of what's possible when we give nature room to heal. I can't wait to hear what spoke to you most, so drop me a note in the comments! Thanks for listening! SERIES TITLE Where the Wild Calls: A Journey through Patagonia's Route of Parks TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction: A Breathtaking Morning in Patagonia 02:07 The Journey Begins: Exploring Chile's Route of Parks 03:16 Understanding Patagonia's Unique Geography 04:40 The Ancient Forces Shaping Patagonia 07:38 Indigenous Stewardship and European Impact 10:48 The Birth of Chile's National Parks 14:38 The Visionary Tompkins and Their Legacy 18:27 The Global Significance of Patagonia's Conservation 20:26 Conclusion: The Future of Conservation in Patagonia 22:16 Join the Adventure: Project Patagonia LEARN MORE ABOUT PROJECT PATAGONIA https://rewildology.com/projectpatagonia/ REWILDOLOGY FIELD EXPEDITIONS Where The Wild Calls: Patagonia Puma Expedition & Torres Del Paine Adventure, March 31 - April 6, 2026: https://rewildology.com/patagoniaexpedition/ JOIN THE REWILDOLOGY BOOK CLUB. IT’S FREE! March / April - The Wolverine Way by Douglas Chadwick: https://rewildology.com/rewildology-book-club/ SHOW NOTES & NEWSLETTER Show notes & subscribe to newsletter, www.rewildology.com SUPPORT REWILDOLOGY https://rewildology.com/support-the-show/ FOLLOW REWILDOLOGY YouTube:

Journey through Chile's Route of Parks of Patagonia with me, conservation biologist Brooke Mitchell, in this immersive podcast exploring South America's most ambitious rewilding project. From tracking elusive pumas in Torres del Paine National Park to standing beneath 3,000-year-old Alerce trees in Pumalín Douglas Tompkins National Park, from searching for endangered huillín otters in the Maullín River to witnessing the recovery of Darwin's rheas across the Patagonian steppe — I'll take you along every step of this remarkable 1,700-mile conservation corridor. Together, we'll discover how the visionary work of Douglas and Kristine Tompkins transformed private lands into protected wilderness, creating a revolutionary model for ecological restoration that benefits both biodiversity and local communities. Beyond the jaw-dropping landscapes lies a profound transformation in how we protect and restore our planet's wild spaces, a story I can’t wait to share with you. Episode 1 drops on Earth Day, April 22, 2025! Watch the trailer on Rewildology's YouTube Channel — https://youtu.be/UwaT_2PnQEk Trailer Credits: Editor & Co-Producer — Michelle McConville @batchcapturewild Writer & Co-Producer — Brooke Mitchell @brookerewild   Donate to Rewildology Join the Rewildology Book Club Visit the website to read the full show notes Recording gear provided by Mojave and Focusrite.