Even the most dedicated backyard bird lovers sometimes run into trouble, empty feeders, spoiled seed, or disappearing birds. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie, Laurie, and producer Chris roll up their sleeves to help listeners troubleshoot their bird-feeding setups. From moldy seed and filler-heavy mixes to misplaced feeders and seasonal slowdowns, they cover the small details that make a big difference in attracting and keeping healthy flocks.

The trio revisits the basics of building a thriving wildlife habitat; food, water, shelter, and sustainable gardening practices, and digs deeper into what to do when the birds just aren't showing up. Along the way, you'll learn why "cheap seed" can cost you more in the long run, how to spot hidden mold, and which feeder styles best suit different species. Whether you're a first-time feeder or a seasoned bird enthusiast, this episode offers smart, practical advice to help you create a safe, sustainable, and bird-friendly backyard all year long.

This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we're revisiting one of our most popular and seasonally fitting episodes, "We're Talkin' About Pumpkins!" Originally aired in October 2021, this encore favorite is the perfect listen for fall. Join Debbie and Laurie as they explore the fascinating world of pumpkins, from surprising agricultural facts and record-breaking gourds to their valuable role in supporting backyard wildlife.

Did you know pumpkins are technically a fruit? Or that they can be repurposed after Halloween to help feed everything from squirrels and deer to backyard birds and even chickens? Debbie and Laurie share creative and eco-friendly ways to give your pumpkins a second life, including making your own pumpkin bird feeder! It's a fun, festive, and sustainable way to celebrate the season while helping nature thrive right outside your door.

So grab your favorite fall beverage and tune in to learn how pumpkins can do more than decorate your porch, they can help nurture the wildlife you love. 🍂

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In this week's episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie take listeners on a fascinating update tour of several topics previously featured on the show, all of which continue to evolve in the natural world. From hopeful signs of recovery to growing ecological concerns, this episode is packed with new developments and ways for citizen scientists to get involved.

You'll hear encouraging news about the Red Wolf Recovery Project, where careful management and breeding efforts in North Carolina are giving this critically endangered species a better shot at survival. Then, the hosts revisit the ongoing battle against Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer, often dubbed the "zombie disease." Learn about the latest testing results, updated hunting restrictions, and why understanding this issue matters beyond state lines.

The team also checks in on two invasive species making headlines: the striking but destructive Spotted Lanternfly, now spreading across the Southeast, and the large, brightly patterned Joro Spider, whose range has expanded into the Carolinas. You'll discover how to spot, report, and help manage these species using simple tools like iNaturalist, proving that everyone can play a role in conservation.

Tune in for science, stories, and a few laughs (especially from those less-than-fond of spiders)! This episode reminds us that nature is always changing, and so is our understanding of it.