Wild Tails

Episode 10: Eland Excitement in South Africa with Madison (Zoogirlq)

This week on Wild Tails, we’re joined by Madison, better known as @zoogirlq, a passionate wildlife advocate with hands-on experience in conservation and animal care. Madison’s journey has taken her to South Africa, where she worked with Vets Go Wild, learning essential skills for wildlife veterinary care in the field.
In this episode, she also recounts an unforgettable adventure involving the transportation of an eland—a massive and unpredictable antelope—where things didn’t go quite as planned. Tune in for an exciting behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to work with wildlife in challenging situations.
Whether you’re a conservation enthusiast or love hearing incredible animal stories, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
 
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Episode 9: Hand-Raising a Pangolin with Bob Cisneros

In this exciting episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona welcomes Bob Cisneros, a wildlife expert with decades of experience in animal care and conservation. Bob’s impressive career includes time as an animal keeper in San Diego, director of Utah’s Hogle Zoo, and USA board member for Action for Cheetahs in Kenya.
Bob shares an extraordinary story about hand-raising a pangolin at the San Diego Zoo—a rare and complex task that highlights the challenges of caring for one of the world’s most endangered and unique animals. Pangolins, often targeted by poachers for their scales, are notoriously difficult to care for in captivity, making Bob’s success all the more remarkable.
Listen as Bob dives into the process of nurturing this elusive mammal and explains why pangolins play such a critical role in global conservation efforts. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about wildlife, conservation, zookeeping or the incredible work being done to save species on the brink of extinction.
Available now on all major podcast platforms!
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Episode 8: Trapping a Tapir with John Scaramucci

In this episode of Wild Tails, join host Mike Bona as he sits down with experienced zookeeper John Scaramucci to share an extraordinary story of wildlife conservation. John takes listeners deep into the Amazon rainforest, recounting his work with the Lowland Tapir Conservation Initiative in Brazil. From the challenges of navigating dense jungle terrain to the meticulous process of safely trapping a tapir, John’s story highlights the critical efforts needed to protect these gentle and often-overlooked creatures.
Discover the fascinating world of tapirs, why they’re vital to the ecosystem, and the conservation work being done to save them from extinction. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife or just love a thrilling story from the field, this episode is a must-listen!
Tune in on your favorite podcast platform now!
Donate to IPÊ - Instituto de Pesquisas Ecológicas
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Episode 7: Inside the Rhino Trade with Jacob Calle

In this episode of Wild Tails, I sit down with filmmaker and conservationist Jacob Calle, who’s taking a bold approach to uncover the reality behind rhino poaching. Jacob shares stories from his work on his upcoming documentary in which he befriends rhino poachers to gain insight into their world and motives. It’s a raw and eye-opening look into the human side of wildlife trafficking and the complex forces driving the illegal trade.
Tune in for a conversation that challenges assumptions and digs deep into one of conservation’s toughest battles.
Follow Jacob Calle on Instagram @Jacobcalle
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Episode 6: Showbiz Surprises with Mara Rodriguez

In this episode of Wild Tails, Mara Rodriguez, Zoo Development Coordinator for America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College, takes us behind the scenes of the entertainment industry. Mara shares a memorable story from the 90s, when she brought a trained sea lion to perform on a Nickelodeon show with an up-and-coming host. As she recounts the experience, we get a glimpse into the challenges and joys of training animals for TV and film, and what it takes to make everything run smoothly on set.Learn More about America's Teaching Zoo at www.https://www.moorparkcollege.edu/current-students/teaching-zoo/home
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Episode 5: Protecting Giants with Julian Fennessy

This week on Wild Tails, we welcome Julian Fennessy, the president and founder of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation. Julian shares an intense and eye-opening story from the frontlines of wildlife conservation, recounting a tense encounter with poachers while conducting a giraffe survey in the remote wilderness of Ethiopia. His dedication to protecting these majestic creatures takes him into dangerous and unpredictable territory. Don’t miss this gripping episode, where Julian reveals the challenges and triumphs of conserving giraffes in the wild.Follow Giraffe conservation Foundation on IG: @giraffe_conservation and learn more on their website www.giraffeconservation.org
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Email the show at wildtailspod@gmail.com

Episode 4: Finding Comedy in the Wild with Eddie Pepitone

In this episode, we’re joined by the hilarious Eddie Pepitone, known for his sharp wit and satirical humor. Eddie shares a unique story about finding a surprising connection to nature without ever leaving his home. From his window, he observes and appreciates the beauty of the feathered creatures that visit, revealing a softer side of the comedian who’s often known for his rants. Tune in for laughs, reflections, and Eddie’s unexpected love for the birds that brighten his daily life.  
Follow Eddie Pepitone on IG: @eddiepep check out his podcast "Apocalypse Soon" and get tour dates and more at his website www.eddiepepitone.com
Follow Wild Tails podcast in Instagram @Wildtailspod
Email the show at wildtailspod@gmail.com

Ep. 3 Jungle Jordan

Join us for an unforgettable episode of Wild Tails as we sit down with the renowned Jungle Jordan. A lifelong conservationist and advocate for wildlife, Jordan shares his passion for protecting our planet's creatures. He has a exciting story to tell. Hopefully you can "bear" it! Follow Jungle Jordan @JungleJordan23 and visit www.junglejordan.com
Follow Wild Tails podcast in Instagram @Wildtailspod
Email the show at wildtailspod@gmail.com

Ep 2 Carolyn Hennesy

Get ready for a heartwarming tale as Emmy Award-winning actress Carolyn Hennesy shares a personal encounter with a majestic elephant. Join us as she recounts a life-changing experience that has shaped her perspective on the animal kingdom. From her iconic roles on screen to her dedication to conservation efforts, Carolyn's passion for nature is undeniable. Discover how her love for animals has influenced her career and inspired her to become a voice for the voiceless. Follow Carylon @carolynhennesy and visit www.carolynhennesy.com

Ep. 1 Bradley Trevor Greive

Join us for the premiere of Wild Tails as we sit down with acclaimed author and conservationist, Bradley Trevor Greive. Known for his stunning illustrations and heartfelt stories about the animal kingdom, Bradley brings a unique perspective to the world of wildlife. Get ready to be captivated by his passion for nature and his inspiring journey as a storyteller and advocate for our planet's creatures. Follow Bradley on Instagram @tasmanian_grizzly