Wild Tails

Episode 16: The Unbreakable Pack with Greg Rasmussen

On this episode of Wild Tails, I’m joined by Greg Rasmussen, renowned conservationist and founder of the Painted Dog Research. Greg has dedicated his life to protecting one of Africa’s most endangered predators—the African painted dog.
He shares a thrilling and eye-opening story from the field, giving us a firsthand look at the challenges of studying and conserving these remarkable animals. From close calls in the wild to the critical role painted dogs play in their ecosystem, Greg’s passion for their survival is contagious.
 
Learn More at Painted Dog Research website
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Episode 15: Being Bird Shamed with Chris Mortensen

In this episode of Wild Tails, Chris Mortensen, scientist, educator and co-host of All Creatures Podcast, shares a hilarious and humbling experience about being "bird shamed." Despite his expertise in animal science, Chris found himself outmatched by a bird-watching friend who had spotted far more bird species than he ever had.
Chris and Mike discuss the joys and challenges of birdwatching, why some people excel at identifying birds, and how even the most knowledgeable wildlife experts can be caught off guard in nature. Whether you're a passionate birder, a zoology enthusiast, or just love a good wildlife story, this episode is packed with fun insights and laughs.
🔊 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!
 
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Episode 14: A Cheetah’s High-Speed Hunt with Mary Wykstra

Join us on this episode of Wild Tails as we welcome Mary Wykstra, founder and director of Action for Cheetahs in Kenya. Mary has dedicated her career to cheetah conservation in Africa, working closely with local communities, farmers, and researchers to ensure the survival of one of the world’s most endangered big cats.
In this episode, Mary shares an incredible firsthand story from the field, giving listeners a glimpse into the real challenges of wildlife conservation. From tracking cheetahs in the wild to navigating human-wildlife conflict, Mary’s work highlights the delicate balance between protecting predators and supporting local livelihoods.
If you're passionate about big cats, African wildlife, and conservation efforts, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to hear how dedicated conservationists like Mary are making a difference for cheetahs in Kenya.
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!
 
Learn More about Action for Cheetahs at https://www.actionforcheetahs.org/
Follow Action for Cheetahs on Instagram @actionforcheetahs
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Episode 13: Observing Nature with Gary Wilson

In this episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona welcomes Gary Wilson, former instructor and director of the Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College. With decades of experience working with exotic animals, Gary shares an intense and dangerous encounter with a mountain lion at the zoo—one that highlights the unpredictability and power of wild animals, even in managed care.
Beyond thrilling wildlife stories, Gary and Mike dive into their shared passion for observing animals in their natural habitats, discussing the importance of patience, respect, and conservation in truly understanding wildlife. From close calls to peaceful moments in nature, this episode is packed with insights and excitement for animal lovers of all kinds!
📢 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform!
Learn More about America's Teaching Zoo at www.https://www.moorparkcollege.edu/current-students/teaching-zoo/home
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Episode 12: Tiny Tragedies with Eddie Pence

Comedian Eddie Pence brings his signature humor to Wild Tails as he shares stories about his lifelong history of pets and the unfortunate ends some of them met. In this episode, we explore the highs and lows of pet ownership with a humorous yet thoughtful discussion about death, loss, and the special connections we share with animals.
Eddie Pence is a celebrated comedian known for blending sharp wit with relatable storytelling. This conversation offers a heartfelt mix of laughter and reflection, making it a must-listen for animal lovers and comedy fans alike.
 
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Episode 11: Getting cancelled with Taylor Williamson

On this episode of Wild Tails, comedian Taylor Williamson—best known for his hilarious performances on America’s Got Talent—shares the story of his beloved dog, Betty, and how she became part of his life. From heartwarming moments to laugh-out-loud anecdotes, this episode is packed with humor, dog lover vibes, and Taylor’s signature wit.
Taylor also talks about his new persona of trying to be a "bad guy", dragging host Mike down with him. Hopefully we both don't get cancelled. If you love comedy, dogs, or both, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
PS: This episode was recorded on Dec 26, hence any reference to Hanukkah. 
Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.
Follow Taylor Williamson on Instagram: @Taylorcomedy
Follow Betty the Puppy Dog: @Bettythepuppydoggy
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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!
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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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