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Just the Zoo of Us

Just the Zoo of Us

By Ellen & Christian Weatherford

Join us, Ellen and Christian Weatherford, while we review your favorite species of animals and rate them out of ten in the categories of effectiveness, ingenuity and aesthetics.
More information can be found at justthezooofus.com 😊
Got a species you want us to review? Submit your animal friend to us at ellen@justthezooofus.com and when we review your animal we'll give you a shoutout! 😊
Cover art by Mrs. Brainbow (Taylor Gordon-Wood). Theme music by Louie Zong.
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Currently playing episode

51: Wrasses w/ Yi-Kai Tea!

Just the Zoo of UsMay 06, 2020

00:00
39:59
121: Nine-banded Armadillo w/ Carly Haywood!

121: Nine-banded Armadillo w/ Carly Haywood!

Join Ellen & special guest Carly Haywood for a review of the scaly, pig-snouted friends of the underbrush: nine-banded armadillos! In this episode, we discuss whether you should be afraid of getting leprosy from an armadillo, what “pancaking” is and why they do it, and little tiny clone parades scuttling through the underbrush. You can follow Carly on Twitter at @MotherOfDasypus :) Cover photo: Svetlana Foote, via Getty images
Dec 01, 202152:10
120: Acorn Woodpecker & West African Lungfish

120: Acorn Woodpecker & West African Lungfish

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian brings the acorn woodpecker to trial for its rampant vandalism &  Ellen goes for a ride in a time machine with the West African lungfish. Along the way, we discuss the physics of using your face as a jackhammer, snot cocoons, and Sonic hedgehog. Cover photos: Luis Echeverri Urrea via Getty images (woodpeckers), voltan1 via Getty images (lungfish)
Nov 24, 202154:22
119: Pigeons w/ Rosemary Mosco!

119: Pigeons w/ Rosemary Mosco!

Join Ellen & special guest, science writer & naturalist Rosemary Mosco, for a review of the little grey guy strutting down a street near you: the pigeon! We discuss the history of why pigeons live alongside us, how they evade the clutches of even the world’s fastest predator, ways pigeon couples keep the romance alive, and the joy of appreciating these metropolitan doves. You can find Rosemary's work, including her brand new book A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching at her website: rosemarymosco.com Cover photo by Junichi Yamada, via Getty Images.
Nov 17, 202101:01:31
118: Ocean Sunfish & Tanuki

118: Ocean Sunfish & Tanuki

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode inspired by Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Ellen basks in the unexpected glory of the ocean sunfish & Christian pays respect to the mischievous tanuki. You'll learn what to bring to a sunfish's dinner party and how the tanuki earns the title of power couple.
Nov 10, 202101:05:05
117: Flatfish w/ Dr. Kory Evans!

117: Flatfish w/ Dr. Kory Evans!

Join Ellen & special guest evolutionary biologist Dr. Kory Evans for a review of the dimensionally innovative flatfish! Learn the story of why these quirky fishes developed such peculiar body plans and how their bizarre adaptations help them live their best life beneath the sand. We discuss migrating eyes, transient feet, and which cartoons got flounders right and wrong. Keep up with Kory and his lab's work on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sternarchella Cover photo: Jodi Jacobson via Getty Images
Nov 03, 202142:44
116: Painted Bat & Dracula Parrot

116: Painted Bat & Dracula Parrot

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's festively spooky episode, Christian kicks off the celebration with the painted bat & Ellen counts up points for the iconic Dracula parrot.  Photos: Merlin Tuttle (painted bat), Ondrej Prosicky (Dracula parrot)
Oct 27, 202147:08
115: Myriapods (Millipedes, Centipedes & Pauropods) w/ Dr. Derek Hennen!

115: Myriapods (Millipedes, Centipedes & Pauropods) w/ Dr. Derek Hennen!

Join Ellen & special guest, entomologist Derek Hennen, for a review of our many-legged friends, the myriapods! We’re talking millipedes, centipedes, and pauropods: what the difference is between these long guys, how they manage to scurry around without tripping over all of those feet, and what they’re up to down there underneath the leaf litter. Join the millipede fan club: @DearMillipede Cover photo by Derek Hennen, of "one of the prettiest cherry millipedes (Polydesmida: Xystodesmidae) I've come across!"
Oct 20, 202101:02:24
Meet the Neighbors: Just the Zoo of Us x One Bad Mother

Meet the Neighbors: Just the Zoo of Us x One Bad Mother

Just the Zoo of Us and One Bad Mother got together to celebrate MaxFun Block Party!  If you enjoyed this conversation we had with host Biz Ellis, be sure to subscribe to One Bad Mother on maximumfun.org!
Oct 18, 202138:17
114: Amazon Molly & Aardvark

114: Amazon Molly & Aardvark

Ellen inspects an army of fish clones, the Amazon molly, and Christian finally digs in to the details of the inimitable aardvark. Learn how clones are made in nature, what's going on inside the aardvark's porcine snout, and why it's so crucial to never leave home without tippy-tappies. Amazon molly photo by Manfred Schartl. Aardvark photo by Michael Viard via Getty Images.
Oct 13, 202150:14
Special announcement: We're joining Maximum Fun!

Special announcement: We're joining Maximum Fun!

We've got big, exciting, great news! Just the Zoo of Us is joining the Maximum Fun network! Listen to our announcement for more information about the network, the date of our first episode as members, and a very special treat if you stick around to the end (it's less than two minutes!). Check out Maximum Fun & their other wonderful shows over at www.maximumfun.org :)
Oct 08, 202101:57
113: Freshwater Sponges w/ Mallory McNulty!

113: Freshwater Sponges w/ Mallory McNulty!

Join Ellen & special guest Mallory McNulty for a review of our porous friends, freshwater sponges! Get the real answers to your burning sponge questions, like what a sponge feels like in your hands, how a completely stationary animal gets to new places, what kind of role they play in their ecosystem & why freshwater sponges have earned their chance in the spotlight!
Oct 06, 202142:58
112: Mexican Mole Lizard & Echidna

112: Mexican Mole Lizard & Echidna

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian reviews the reptile disguised as an earthworm, the Mexican mole lizard, and Ellen evaluates the eclectic, enigmatic echidna.
Sep 28, 202148:25
111: Common Loon w/ Ivan Phillipsen!

111: Common Loon w/ Ivan Phillipsen!

Join Ellen & special guest, naturalist Ivan Phillipsen, for a review of the iconic common loon! In this episode, we discuss why they got stuck with such a rude name, how they’ve managed to master both water AND air, and the hidden meanings behind those ethereal (and slightly spooky) songs in the night.  Ivan's podcast, The Science of Birds, can be found wherever you get your podcasts. For more information, visit their website at https://www.scienceofbirds.com/
Sep 21, 202150:35
110: Backswimmers w/ Gavin Campbell!

110: Backswimmers w/ Gavin Campbell!

Join Ellen & special guest, ecologist Gavin Campbell, for a review of the surprising little bugs zipping just beneath the surface of a pond near you: backswimmers! In this episode, Gavin tells us his stories of raising dragons, a mysterious entomological cold case, and his very own super villain origin story.
Sep 15, 202156:29
109: Philippine Eagle & Humpback Whale

109: Philippine Eagle & Humpback Whale

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen details what makes the Philippine eagle soar above the competition & Christian sings praises for the humpback whale.
Sep 06, 202154:47
108: Great Horned Owl w/ Ashley Bray!

108: Great Horned Owl w/ Ashley Bray!

Join Ellen & special guest, wildlife biologist Ashley Bray, for a review of the tigers of the sky: great horned owls! In this episode, we discuss fake ears, silent feathers, tactical pantaloons, and more. Ashley is the creator & host of the Get Out Alive podcast, which can be found at www.getoutalivepodcast.com (listener discretion advised!)
Aug 30, 202144:45
107: Thresher Shark w/ Jaida Elcock!

107: Thresher Shark w/ Jaida Elcock!

Join Ellen & special guest, shark scientist & co-founder of MISS Jaida Elcock, for a review of the chronically anxious scorpion of the sea: thresher sharks! Topics include the unique features that make thresher sharks particularly amazing, what it's like to study sharks, how to safely share the ocean with them, marine science in Finding Nemo, and more. You can learn more about MISS's work promoting diversity and inclusion in shark science & support their organization at their website: https://www.misselasmo.org/
Aug 23, 202158:35
106: Mudskipper & Hoatzin

106: Mudskipper & Hoatzin

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian reviews how the mudskipper gets the best of both worlds & Ellen strongly relates to the smelliest living dinosaur, the hoatzin.
Aug 16, 202139:39
105: Fossa w/ Asia Murphy!

105: Fossa w/ Asia Murphy!

Join Ellen & special guest, ecologist Asia Murphy, for a review of the fossa! In this episode, we discuss their catlike (but not feline!) features, an unusual bachelor-deterring disguise, and what makes the buffed-up fossa such a unique and gorgeous animal. This episode was made in collaboration with the Lemur Conservation Network! Learn more about the wildlife of Madagascar & how we can help protect them at www.lemurconservationnetwork.org 
Aug 02, 202128:13
104: Blue-Eyed Black Lemur w/ Dr. Jen Tinsman!

104: Blue-Eyed Black Lemur w/ Dr. Jen Tinsman!

Join Ellen & special guest, evolutionary biologist Dr. Jen Tinsman, for a review of Madagascar's striking blue-eyed black lemurs! In this episode, we discuss Madagascar's incredible biodiversity, the relationships between humans and lemurs, and just how charming these arboreal friends are.  This episode was made in collaboration with the Lemur Conservation Network. Learn more about their work supporting conservation in Madagascar at their website: https://www.lemurconservationnetwork.org/
Jul 26, 202144:27
103: Malayan Tapir & Lone Star Tick

103: Malayan Tapir & Lone Star Tick

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen takes a look at the long-snouted Malayan tapir & Christian checks every nook and cranny for lone star ticks.
Jul 20, 202149:08
102: Plants w/ Dr. Vikram Baliga!

102: Plants w/ Dr. Vikram Baliga!

Join Ellen & special guest, horticulturist Dr. Vikram Baliga, for a review of... plants! We left the animal kingdom for this look at some of the fascinating adaptations that plants have made to stay thriving. In this episode, we discuss millenia-old trees, diabolical beetle-trapping lilies, living toilets, cold-blooded plant warfare happening right in front of our eyes, and other fun facts guaranteed to give you a deeper appreciation for the plant life all around us.
Jul 12, 202101:03:21
101: Mantis Shrimp w/ Alice Chou!

101: Mantis Shrimp w/ Alice Chou!

Join Ellen & special guest, marine neurobiologist Alice Chou, for a review of the ocean's feisty boxers, mantis shrimps! In this episode, we discuss why the mantis shrimp is so good at punching stuff, what's up with their funky disco eyes, and other delectable treats for your brain.
Jul 05, 202145:43
100th Episode Q&A Celebration!

100th Episode Q&A Celebration!

Join Ellen & Christian for a special episode answering questions from our beautiful listeners about topics including (but not limited to): making the podcast, things we've learned about animals and nature, our favorite video games, and more!
Jun 28, 202158:10
99: Bald Eagles w/ Patch, creator of TierZoo!

99: Bald Eagles w/ Patch, creator of TierZoo!

Join Ellen & special guest Patch, creator of zoology-meets-gaming web series TierZoo, for a review of North America's iconic raptor, the bald eagle. In this episode we discuss the intersection between ecology and video games as well as how the bald eagle measures up to its competitors. Find TierZoo on YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook!
Jun 11, 202130:36
98: Cockroaches w/ Charles Wallace!

98: Cockroaches w/ Charles Wallace!

Join Ellen & special guest entomologist Charles Wallace for a review of nature's oft-maligned rogues, cockroaches! In this episode, we bust myths about the roaches that cozy up to human spaces, learn about some of the fascinating strategies that different types of roaches all over the world use to thrive, and give these hardy insects some long overdue praise.
Jun 02, 202101:06:27
97: Sea Otter & Blue-Ringed Octopus

97: Sea Otter & Blue-Ringed Octopus

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen reviews the ocean's most adorable monsters, sea otters, & Christian rates the dazzling blue-ringed octopus.
May 24, 202147:38
96: Orangutans w/ Dr. Lara Durgavich!

96: Orangutans w/ Dr. Lara Durgavich!

Join Ellen & special guest, biological anthropologist Dr. Lara Durgavich for a review of the arboreal royalty, orangutans! In this episode, we discuss how orangutans have adapted to make themselves at home in the tree tops, how we see ourselves reflected in their faces & behavior, and how we can help support orangutans in their habitats.
May 14, 202147:14
95: Cape Stumpnose w/ Dr. Yanasivan Kisten!

95: Cape Stumpnose w/ Dr. Yanasivan Kisten!

Join Ellen & special guest, marine ecophysiologist Dr. Yanasivan Kisten for a review of the unassuming yet impressive Cape stumpnose! In this episode, we discuss the crucial role that estuaries play in a healthy ecosystem & spotlight how this little silver fish that can stand up to some pretty big challenges.
May 07, 202136:13
94: American Black Bear & Scaly-foot Snail

94: American Black Bear & Scaly-foot Snail

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian teaches us why you should resist that urge to feed the bears & Ellen takes a deep dive into the heavily fortified extremophile, the scaly-foot snail.
Apr 30, 202142:48
93: Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle w/ Alex Troutman!

93: Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle w/ Alex Troutman!

Join Ellen & special guest wildlife biologist Alex Troutman for a review of the most dedicated beach babes of all, Kemp's ridley sea turtles! In this episode, we discuss what we can learn about life from sea turtles, why it's so important to be kind to our beaches, and how we can all make the shores a little friendlier to the wildlife that we love.
Apr 23, 202142:23
92: Archerfish w/ Dagmar der Weduwen!

92: Archerfish w/ Dagmar der Weduwen!

Join Ellen & special guest ecologist Dagmar der Weduwen for a review of the sharpshooting archerfish! In this episode, we discuss the archerfish's unparalleled precision, cunning, and attitude as well as what it's like to work with them in the lab.
Apr 16, 202145:29
91: Periodical Cicadas & Portuguese Man O' War

91: Periodical Cicadas & Portuguese Man O' War

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen gives the buzz on periodical cicadas & Christian unfurls the sails of the Portuguese man o' war.
Apr 07, 202138:34
90: Pronghorn w/ Vinny Thomas!

90: Pronghorn w/ Vinny Thomas!

Join Ellen & special guest, comedian Vinny Thomas, for a review of the champion of the sagebrush, the pronghorn! In this episode, we discuss how this charming little ungulate outran extinction, attempts to face modern challenges, and continues to do the absolute most at all times. Follow Vinny on Twitter, Instagram & TikTok! Intro & outro music: "Adventuring", Louie Zong
Mar 26, 202136:41
89: Vietnamese Mossy Frog w/ Gina Zwicky!

89: Vietnamese Mossy Frog w/ Gina Zwicky!

Join Ellen & special guest, biologist & naturalist Gina Zwicky, for a review of the amphibian master of disguise, the Vietnamese mossy frog! In this episode, Gina makes the case for frogs as simple yet refined masterpieces, shares some tricks of the frog-finding trade, and geeks out with Ellen over science communication via anime.  Intro & outro music: "Adventuring", Louie Zong
Mar 19, 202137:46
88: Stargazer & Pink Fairy Armadillo

88: Stargazer & Pink Fairy Armadillo

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's very fossorial episode, Christian reveals the hidden nightmares of the stargazer fish and Ellen digs into the buried secrets of the pink fairy armadillo.
Mar 11, 202138:33
87: Jumping Spiders w/ Dr. Sebastian Echeverri!

87: Jumping Spiders w/ Dr. Sebastian Echeverri!

Join Ellen & special guest, arachnologist Dr. Sebastian A. Echeverri for a review of the overpowered bards of the arachnid world, jumping spiders! In this episode, we discuss jumping spiders' incomparable processing power, hunting skill, and flair for the dramatic.  Episode cover photo by our guest himself, Dr. Sebastian Echeverri! Intro & outro music: "Adventuring", Louie Zong
Mar 03, 202145:14
86: Copepods w/ Jimmy Bernot!

86: Copepods w/ Jimmy Bernot!

Join Ellen & special guest, evolutionary biologist Jimmy Bernot, for a review of the microscopic crustaceans truly running the world, copepods! In this episode, we discuss what makes copepods so successful at what they do, the role that parasites play in an ecosystem, and the biodiversity you can find among fish boogers. Intro & outro music: "Adventuring", Louie Zong
Feb 24, 202154:08
85: Opossum & Burrowing Owl

85: Opossum & Burrowing Owl

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen's heart is stolen by the trash bandit opossum & Christian digs up all the dirt on the burrowing owl.
Feb 18, 202149:25
84: Cheetahs w/ Gabi Fleury!

84: Cheetahs w/ Gabi Fleury!

Join Ellen and special guest, conservation biologist Gabi Fleury, for a review of the punk nerds of the big cat family, cheetahs! In this episode we discuss how cheetahs go so fast, what sets them apart from the rest of the cats, and conflict between humans and wildlife.
Feb 10, 202143:48
83: Tarantulas w/ Tea Francis!

83: Tarantulas w/ Tea Francis!

Join Ellen & special guest, artist and arachnid enthusiast Tea Francis, for a review of our fuzzy, chunky, leggy friends: tarantulas! In this episode we discuss why tarantulas deserve admiration, how (and why) to respect their boundaries, and what it's like to live with hundreds of tiny roommates in the Spider Room.
Jan 27, 202155:17
82: Olm & Maned Wolf

82: Olm & Maned Wolf

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! Christian returns with the secretive underground cave puppy, the olm, and Ellen reviews the uniquely stunning maned wolf.
Jan 21, 202132:59
81: Barnacles w/ Elizabeth Mills!

81: Barnacles w/ Elizabeth Mills!

Join Ellen and special guest, marine biologist Elizabeth Mills, for a review of the often-overlooked ride-or-die friends of the sea, barnacles! Topics include (but are not limited to): barnacle reproductive anatomy, whale armor, zombie crab mechs, and whether or not geese are fruit.
Jan 15, 202146:31
80: Sea Stars w/ Dr. Christopher Mah!

80: Sea Stars w/ Dr. Christopher Mah!

Join Ellen and marine biologist Dr. Christopher Mah for a review of the mysterious, complicated, many-armed predators of the deep, sea stars! In this episode, we discuss why sea stars are so important to marine ecosystems, their secret drama playing out in slow motion, and their captivatingly unfamiliar beauty.
Jan 06, 202101:07:33
79: Reindeer (aka Caribou) w/ Olivia deBourcier!

79: Reindeer (aka Caribou) w/ Olivia deBourcier!

Join Ellen and special guest, environmental scientist & host of the Beyond Blathers podcast Olivia deBourcier, for a review of a festive icon, the reindeer (also known as caribou)! In this episode, we talk about what makes reindeer so lovable (spoiler alert: so many things), what it's like to work with them, and the challenges they're facing in their native habitats.
Dec 25, 202045:13
78: Ants w/ Aaron Fairweather!

78: Ants w/ Aaron Fairweather!

Join Ellen and special guest, entomologist Aaron Fairweather, for a review of the industrious, conniving, world-conquering ants! In this episode, we discuss what makes ants so successful, the theatrical levels of drama going on under our feet every day, and as a special treat, a free idea for a D&D character.
Dec 21, 202051:09
77: Orb Weavers & Wolf Spiders w/ Madison Bush!

77: Orb Weavers & Wolf Spiders w/ Madison Bush!

Join Ellen & special guest, field biologist Madison Bush, for a review of a couple of very leggy friends, orb weavers & wolf spiders! In this episode we discuss the World Wide Web, moustaches made out of eyes, and buff Tom Holland.
Dec 09, 202052:52
76: Olympic Torrent Salamander w/ Travis Kurtz!

76: Olympic Torrent Salamander w/ Travis Kurtz!

Join Ellen and special guest, herpetologist Travis Kurtz, for a review of Washington's very own Olympic torrent salamander! In this episode, we go over what makes salamanders so charming, the mysteries that make this little one so special, and what it's like to study them.
Nov 20, 202047:27
75: Coquerel's Sifaka w/ Keriann McGoogan!

75: Coquerel's Sifaka w/ Keriann McGoogan!

Join Ellen and special guest, conservationist & primatologist Keriann McGoogan, for a review of Coquerel's sifaka! In this episode, we chat about what makes sifakas so special as well as what it's like to work with and study them in the wild in Madagascar.  This episode was made in collaboration with the Lemur Conservation Network for the World Lemur Festival. You can celebrate World Lemur Day on Friday, October 30! https://www.lemurconservationnetwork.org/world-lemur-day/
Oct 28, 202038:31
74: Scalloped Hammerhead w/ Ryan Hegseth!

74: Scalloped Hammerhead w/ Ryan Hegseth!

Join Ellen and special guest, marine biologist Ryan Hegseth, for a review of the scalloped hammerhead! In this episode, we review what makes this hammerhead shark so successful and charming in addition to some slight detours along the way, visiting topics like octopus hickeys, learning to fight fear with education, and Shark Week.
Oct 22, 202058:27
73: Hagfish & Secretary Bird

73: Hagfish & Secretary Bird

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode Ellen untangles the slimebeast of the ocean floor, the hagfish, and Christian kicks it up a notch with the relentlessly stylish secretary bird.
Oct 14, 202047:11
72: Coyotes w/ Jazmin Murphy!

72: Coyotes w/ Jazmin Murphy!

Join Ellen & special guest Jazmin Murphy (AKA Sunny) for a review of the iconic coyote! In this episode, we discuss how coyotes have adapted to thrive in a wide variety of environments and what makes them so delightfully special.
Oct 08, 202052:22
71: Dominican Anole w/ Chelsea Connor!

71: Dominican Anole w/ Chelsea Connor!

Join Ellen and special guest Chelsea Connor for a review of the Dominican anole! In this episode we talk dewlaps, eyespots, and what it's like to work with these little lizards with big attitudes. Photo: Chelsea Connor
Sep 30, 202042:10
70: American Bison & Giraffe-Necked Weevil

70: American Bison & Giraffe-Necked Weevil

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian charges in with the American bison and Ellen explains the quirky appearance and lifestyle of the giraffe-necked weevil.
Sep 23, 202047:45
69: Gopher Tortoise w/ Tori Wingerter!

69: Gopher Tortoise w/ Tori Wingerter!

Join Ellen and special guest Tori Wingerter for a review of Florida's very own dinosaur burger, the gopher tortoise! We dig in to what makes these mini tanks so special and delightful, and why they're so important to their ecosystems.
Sep 16, 202049:01
68: Pigeon & Banded Sea Krait

68: Pigeon & Banded Sea Krait

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen brings it home with the common pigeon & Christian explains what makes the sea krait a real spicy noodle.
Sep 09, 202055:47
67: Sawfish w/ Jasmin Graham!

67: Sawfish w/ Jasmin Graham!

Join Ellen and special guest Jasmin Graham for a review of the most dangerous snoot in the water, the sawfish! In this episode we discuss what's up with that wild saw on their face, what makes them such impressive predators, how they're affected by human activity, and what we can do to help.
Sep 02, 202047:07
66: Pika & North American Giant Millipede

66: Pika & North American Giant Millipede

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian takes us on a tour of the pika's digestive system & Ellen shows some love to the North American giant millipede and its role as an unsung ecological hero. (Heads up: this episode mentions poop a lot.)
Aug 26, 202049:41
64: Emu & Whale Shark

64: Emu & Whale Shark

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen explains why emus don't bother flying and Christian dives into the mysterious world of the cryptic whale shark.
Aug 12, 202054:57
63: Waterfall Climbing Gobies w/ Kelly Diamond!

63: Waterfall Climbing Gobies w/ Kelly Diamond!

Join Ellen and special guest Kelly Diamond for a review of Hawaii's peculiar and charming waterfall climbing gobies, o'opu nopili! In this episode we talk about the unique adaptations that these gobies have developed to allow them to overcome some impressive obstacles, as well as the adaptations the scientists had to develop to overcome some unexpected challenges in studying these unique fish!
Aug 05, 202054:14
62: Golden Mole & Red-Bellied Piranha

62: Golden Mole & Red-Bellied Piranha

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian gives us the lowdown on a shimmering jelly bean, the golden mole, and Ellen sets the record straight on piranhas. Photos: Galen Rathbun (golden mole), Gregory Moine (red-bellied piranha)
Jul 29, 202057:19
61: Geladas w/ Patsy DeLacey!

61: Geladas w/ Patsy DeLacey!

Join Ellen and special guest Patsy DeLacey for a review of the "bleeding heart" monkey, the gelada! In this episode we talk about what makes this monkey so unique AND so beautiful, as well as what it's like to work with them in the Simien Mountains.
Jul 22, 202040:57
60: Wolverine & Suriname Toad

60: Wolverine & Suriname Toad

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen squares up with the wolverine & Christian takes us on a leisurely stroll down Nightmare Lane with the Suriname toad. Check it out! Photos: Jonathan Othén (wolverine) & Matthieu Berroneau (Suriname toad)
Jul 15, 202048:15
59: Planarians w/ Prof. Oné R. Pagán!

59: Planarians w/ Prof. Oné R. Pagán!

Join Ellen and special guest, the bookworm with a worm book,  Prof. Oné R. Pagán for a review of the mysterious squiggles straight out of science fiction, planarians! In this episode we learn about what makes these worms so fascinating and how they serve as research models that could help save human lives.
Jul 08, 202001:00:18
58: Bold Jumping Spider & North American Porcupine

58: Bold Jumping Spider & North American Porcupine

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian leaps to new heights with the bold jumping spider & Ellen desperately resists giving the North American porcupine a great big hug. ***Photos by Tibor Nagy (bold jumping spider) and Janice Sveda (porcupine)***
Jul 01, 202045:51
57: Snow Leopard w/ Charlotte Hacker!

57: Snow Leopard w/ Charlotte Hacker!

Join Ellen and special guest Charlotte Hacker for a review of the elusive fluffball of the mountains, the snow leopard! In this week's episode we talk about what makes these beautiful cats so hard to find and so worth protecting. ***Photo: Dennis W. Donohue***
Jun 24, 202046:00
56: Vampire Finch & Eastern Indigo Snake

56: Vampire Finch & Eastern Indigo Snake

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen takes us to the Galápagos Islands to learn about the vampire finch & Christian tells us what makes the Eastern indigo snake really shine. ***Photos: Dr. Simon J. Pierce (vampire finch) & Kevin Schafer (indigo snake)
Jun 17, 202050:31
55: Naked Mole Rat w/ Benjamin Lancer!

55: Naked Mole Rat w/ Benjamin Lancer!

Join Ellen & special guest Benjamin Lancer for a review of the sand puppy, AKA the naked mole rat! In this week's episode, we dig in to what makes these wrinkly little guys such marvels of nature and what unexpected adaptations they've developed that lets them thrive in their crowded underground burrows. ***Photo: Oregon Zoo***
Jun 10, 202052:43
54: Texas Horned Lizard & Sperm Whale

54: Texas Horned Lizard & Sperm Whale

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode Ellen reviews the spiciest pancake in the desert, the Texas horned lizard, and Christian dives deep into the world of the sperm whale.
May 27, 202039:51
53: Sharks w/ Dr. Catherine Macdonald!

53: Sharks w/ Dr. Catherine Macdonald!

Join Ellen and special guest Dr. Catherine Macdonald for a review of... sharks! In this episode, we tour the diversity of sharks, learn about some of the incredible ways they have adapted to excel, and examine the relationships humans have with sharks & how you (yes, you) can help them.
May 20, 202001:04:45
52: Our First Anniversary Q&A!

52: Our First Anniversary Q&A!

As of the day this episode airs, Just the Zoo of Us will have been broadcasting for one full calendar year! In this episode, we celebrate by answering fun and thoughtful questions from our listeners and friends. We're incredibly thankful for everyone who has joined and supported us on this amazing journey. 
May 13, 202051:19
51: Wrasses w/ Yi-Kai Tea!

51: Wrasses w/ Yi-Kai Tea!

Join Ellen and special guest Yi-Kai Tea for a review of the mind-blowingly diverse and impressive wrasse family! In this episode we go over the crucial roles wrasses play in their ecosystems, how expertly they've adapted to excel in those roles, and of course how striking their beautiful colors and markings are. 
May 06, 202039:59
50: Moose & Desert Rain Frog

50: Moose & Desert Rain Frog

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian reviews the towering moose & Ellen squeals over the desert rain frog.
Apr 29, 202043:34
49: Bobtail Squid w/ Dr. Sarah McAnulty!

49: Bobtail Squid w/ Dr. Sarah McAnulty!

Join Ellen and special guest Dr. Sarah McAnulty for a review of the sparkly dumpling of the sea, the Hawaiian bobtail squid! In this episode we talk about the amazing inner workings of these soft round friends, their complex relationship with very special bacteria, and the amazing science communication project Skype a Scientist!
Apr 22, 202052:16
48: Southern Flannel Moth & Chambered Nautilus

48: Southern Flannel Moth & Chambered Nautilus

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen warns you not to touch the deceptively fuzzy caterpillar of the southern flannel moth & Christian waxes poetic about the chambered nautilus.
Apr 15, 202039:56
47: Tiger w/ Tyus Williams!

47: Tiger w/ Tyus Williams!

Join Ellen and special guest Tyus Williams for a review of the strikingly striped tiger! In this episode, we basically just gush about how amazing tigers are for an hour. It's wonderful.
Apr 08, 202053:53
46: The Doomerang w/ Isaac!

46: The Doomerang w/ Isaac!

Join Ellen and a special guest for a very serious and definitely completely true review of an incredible animal so rare that only one person on Earth has ever studied it: 6-year-old Isaac.
Apr 01, 202024:24
45: Hippopotamus & Northern Mockingbird

45: Hippopotamus & Northern Mockingbird

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian treats us to some delightfully absurd hippo facts and stories & Ellen sings praises for the northern mockingbird.
Mar 25, 202051:22
44: Green Anole w/ Emily Bell!

44: Green Anole w/ Emily Bell!

Join Ellen and special guest Emily Bell for a Florida native wildlife review! In this week's episode, Emily deepens our appreciation for a Florida icon, the green anole, as well as the native ecosystem, impacts of invasive species, adaptability in the face of competition, and the beauty dwelling in even the most ordinary, everyday little lizard: in the words of Rev. S. Lockwood, "everything that is commendable, clean, inoffensive, pretty, and wonderfully entertaining, provoking harmless mirth, and stirring up in the thinker the profoundest depths of his philosophy."
Mar 18, 202001:13:43
43: Roseate Spoonbill & Tree Kangaroo

43: Roseate Spoonbill & Tree Kangaroo

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen clacks her beak over roseate spoonbills & Christian climbs to new heights with Matschie's tree kangaroo.
Mar 11, 202041:04
42: Tuatara w/ Thomas Rillstone!

42: Tuatara w/ Thomas Rillstone!

Join the Weatherfords and special guest Thomas Rillstone from the History of Aotearoa New Zealand podcast for a review of the tuatara! In this episode we get educated on what makes this ancient reptile and other New Zealand wildlife so special, with a few fun surprises along the way.
Mar 04, 202001:02:08
41: Red Velvet "Ant" & Solomon Islands Skink

41: Red Velvet "Ant" & Solomon Islands Skink

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian hypes up the showstopping fashion sense of the red velvet ant and Ellen recounts what makes the Solomon Islands skink a very unique friend.
Feb 26, 202035:32
40: Harris's Hawk w/ Corina Newsome!

40: Harris's Hawk w/ Corina Newsome!

Join Ellen and special guest Corina Newsome for an animal review! In this week's episode, Corina shares her insight on Harris's hawk, with sharp talons and even sharper minds, as well as birding, wildlife education and science communication.
Feb 19, 202034:28
39: Fennec Fox & Horseshoe Crab

39: Fennec Fox & Horseshoe Crab

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen explains the special ears of the fennec fox & Christian gives us the story about the Atlantic horseshoe crab's blue blood.
Feb 12, 202001:04:04
38: Rothschild's Giraffe w/ Kattie Stoneman!

38: Rothschild's Giraffe w/ Kattie Stoneman!

Join the Weatherfords and special guest Kattie Stoneman for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Kattie shares insight into the giraffe world from her experience working with these very tall friends.
Feb 05, 202058:09
37: Common Cuttlefish & Giant African Land Snail

37: Common Cuttlefish & Giant African Land Snail

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's mollusc mania, Christian hypnotizes us with cuttlefish wisdom and Ellen confronts some biases against snail intelligence.
Jan 29, 202059:30
36: Burmese Python w/ Corbin Maxey!

36: Burmese Python w/ Corbin Maxey!

Join the Weatherfords and special guest Corbin Maxey from Animals to the Max for an animal review! In this week's episode, we get to know our wildlife expert friend and Corbin takes the reigns to rate and review the Burmese python.
Jan 22, 202057:59
35: Dik Dik & Bobbit Worm

35: Dik Dik & Bobbit Worm

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen whistles a tune about the antelope fairy, Kirk's dik dik, and Christian brings us back to the abyss of horrors with the Bobbitt worm!
Jan 15, 202044:15
34: Anglerfish & Desert Kangaroo Rat

34: Anglerfish & Desert Kangaroo Rat

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian lights the way with the humpback anglerfish & Ellen kicks back with the desert kangaroo rat.
Jan 08, 202038:48
33: Luna Moth & Koala

33: Luna Moth & Koala

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen reviews the spectacular real-life fairy, the luna moth, and Christian rates the grey bag bear, the koala.
Jan 01, 202058:22
32: Inca Tern & European Eel

32: Inca Tern & European Eel

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian gives us a lesson on the role of the Inca tern's droppings in United States history & Ellen tells the story of the European eel doing the absolute most.
Dec 11, 201938:40
31: Sudan Plated Lizard & Orca (LIVE)

31: Sudan Plated Lizard & Orca (LIVE)

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's special live episode at Cultivate in Jacksonville Florida, Ellen meets a Sudan plated lizard face-to-face and Christian tells us why we would not want to meet an orca face-to-face.
Dec 04, 201940:13
30: Blue Footed Booby & Dingo

30: Blue Footed Booby & Dingo

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian explains where the supremely elegant blue-footed booby gets its very serious and dignified name and Ellen howls about the controversial dingo.
Nov 27, 201936:17
29: Delacour's Langur & Komodo Dragon

29: Delacour's Langur & Komodo Dragon

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen reviews Vietnam's best-dressed citizens, Delacour's langur, and Christian backs up the Komodo dragon's swagger.
Nov 20, 201944:34
28: Great Potoo & African Giant Pouched Rat

28: Great Potoo & African Giant Pouched Rat

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian does a spot-on impression of a potoo & Ellen drops some knowledge bombs about the African giant pouched rat.
Nov 13, 201940:47
27: Sentry Dragonfly & Leafy Sea Dragon

27: Sentry Dragonfly & Leafy Sea Dragon

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's dragon-themed episode, Ellen focuses her complete attention on the sentry dragonfly and Christian spotlights the decorated diva of the sea, the leafy.
Nov 06, 201951:27
26: Black Widow & Vampire Squid

26: Black Widow & Vampire Squid

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's very special very spooky episode, Christian debunks some myths about the black widow spider & Ellen illuminates the mysterious vampire squid.
Oct 30, 201945:43
25: Capybara & Gaboon Viper

25: Capybara & Gaboon Viper

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen chills out in the capybara language & Christian begs you not to touch the Gaboon viper.
Oct 23, 201948:48
24: Tardigrade & Platypus

24: Tardigrade & Platypus

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian zooms in on the tardigrades & Ellen demystifies the unique platypus.
Oct 16, 201954:58
23: Roly Poly & Keel-billed Toucan

23: Roly Poly & Keel-billed Toucan

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this episode, Ellen conglobates with the roly poly and Christian revels in the fabulous keel-billed toucan.
Oct 09, 201950:50
22: Mata Mata & Emperor Penguin

22: Mata Mata & Emperor Penguin

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Christian educates us on the mata mata turtle and Ellen praises the world's most dedicated dad bod, the emperor penguin.
Oct 02, 201944:47
21: Coquí & Bombardier Beetle

21: Coquí & Bombardier Beetle

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen sings the song of the coquí and Christian blasts us with some hot & spicy knowledge on the bombardier beetle.
Sep 25, 201942:25
20: Jaguar & Bearded Vulture

20: Jaguar & Bearded Vulture

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Christian spots South America's greatest overachiever, the jaguar, and Ellen "falls" in love with the clever bearded vulture.
Sep 18, 201951:07
19: Quokka & Peacock Mantis Shrimp

19: Quokka & Peacock Mantis Shrimp

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen poses for a selfie with the world's worst mom, the quokka, and Christian sees the true colors of the peacock mantis shrimp.
Sep 11, 201947:53
18: Giant Manta Ray & Red Panda

18: Giant Manta Ray & Red Panda

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode inspired by the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta, Christian reviews the alien spaceship of the sea, the giant manta ray, and Ellen gushes over the "original" panda.
Sep 04, 201947:15
17: Veiled Chameleon & Kea

17: Veiled Chameleon & Kea

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen explains how and why the chameleon changes its colors and Christian educates us on the Punk Rock Icon of New Zealand, the kea.
Aug 28, 201901:00:58
16: Blobfish & Three-Toed Sloth

16: Blobfish & Three-Toed Sloth

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's episode all about dismantling unfair animal prejudices, Christian caves to peer pressure and sets the record straight on the blobfish, and Ellen shifts the narrative on the three-toed sloth.
Aug 21, 201952:08
15: Flying Fox & Honey Bee

15: Flying Fox & Honey Bee

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode, Ellen cuddles up to the fluffy Malayan sky puppies and Christian gives us the buzz about western honey bees.
Aug 14, 201955:48
14: Botfly & Cownose Ray

14: Botfly & Cownose Ray

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Christian profoundly disturbs literally everyone by talking about the human botfly, and Ellen lightens the mood with some adorable sea puppies, the cownose rays.
Aug 07, 201945:10
13: Aye-aye & Raven

13: Aye-aye & Raven

Join the Weatherfords for a weekly animal review! In this week's very superstitious 13th episode, Ellen demystifies Madagascar's tree goblin the aye-aye, submitted by Dustin Barnett, and Christian sings some praises for our spooky bird friend, the raven.
Jul 31, 201938:41
12: Golden Poison Frog & Tamandua

12: Golden Poison Frog & Tamandua

 Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Christian gives us a cellular biology lesson about the golden poison frog & Ellen tells youexactly why you do not want to come at the tamandua, bro.
Jul 24, 201944:34
11: Meerkat & Warthog

11: Meerkat & Warthog

 Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen & Christian review the problem-free philosophies of the famous meerkat and warthog.
Jul 17, 201946:19
10: Atlantic Puffin & Aardwolf

10: Atlantic Puffin & Aardwolf

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Christian gushes over the Atlantic puffin & Ellen sheds a little light on the mysterious aardwolf.
Jul 10, 201946:06
9: Axolotl & Goblin Shark

9: Axolotl & Goblin Shark

 Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Ellen illuminates the axolotl's superpowers and Christian trashes the nightmarish horror of the deep, the goblin shark.
Jun 26, 201942:00
8: Florida Panther & Red Lionfish

8: Florida Panther & Red Lionfish

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this week's episode, Christian teaches us about the Florida panther and Ellen publicly calls out the lionfish for its egregious crimes. 
Jun 19, 201940:39
7: Asian Elephant & Immortal Jellyfish

7: Asian Elephant & Immortal Jellyfish

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode, Ellen fawns over the Asian elephant and Christian introduces us to a true hero, Mr. Immortal Jellyfish Man.
Jun 11, 201954:07
6: Canada Lynx & Shoebill

6: Canada Lynx & Shoebill

 Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode,  Christian respects the lynx's magnificent beard & Ellen has a few hot takes for the world's spiciest bird.
May 31, 201950:60
5: Blue Dragon Sea Slug & Water Moccasin

5: Blue Dragon Sea Slug & Water Moccasin

 Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode,  Ellen warns us not to touch the blue dragon sea slug & Christian defends our plump pals, the water moccasins.
May 24, 201944:18
4: Osprey & Arabian Camel

4: Osprey & Arabian Camel

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode, Christian teaches us all the osprey swoop & Ellen projectile vomits her very strong feelings about the Arabian camel.
May 17, 201937:57
3: Praying Mantis & Giant Panda

3: Praying Mantis & Giant Panda

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode, Ellen kinkshames praying mantises and Christian exposes the truly limitless laziness of the giant panda. LISTENER DISCRETION: We talk about reproduction in this episode.
May 14, 201945:05
2: Electric Eel & Okapi

2: Electric Eel & Okapi

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode, Christian lays down some eelectrifying knowledge and Ellen talks about the mysterious, secretive okapi.
May 14, 201935:48
1: American Alligator & Florida Manatee

1: American Alligator & Florida Manatee

Join the Weatherfords for an animal review! In this episode, Ellen recalls her gator coven and Christian rejects the cetology of sea pigs.
May 14, 201949:26