Songbird accents, eating rats, and why we need the moon

It’s that special time again! Scientists everywhere hold their breath as the team opens the Outside/Inbox and answers listener questions about the natural world. In this episode, we consider Flaco the Eurasian eagle owl, an impulsive goat purchase, and a big night for salamanders. Plus, we’re graced with Nate’s rendition of a Tom Waits song. 

Questions:

1. What would NYC look like in 50 years if humans disappeared?
2. What if the earth had no moon?
3. Could humans survive a worst-case climate scenario?
4. Do birds have regional accents?
5. How do we keep wildlife safe when crossing the road?

Featuring Stephon Alexander, Luke Kemp, Chris Sturdy, and Sandi Houghton.

 

SUPPORT

Outside/In is made possible with listener support. Click here to become a sustaining member. 

Subscribe to our (free) newsletter.

Follow Outside/In on Instagram or Twitter, or join our private discussion group on Facebook.

 

LINKS

Check out these gorgeous visualizations created by the Mannahatta Project, which has since been renamed the Welikia Project.

Flaco the Eurasian eagle owl died after crashing into a building earlier this month. His autopsy revealed his body to be riddled with rodenticide and pigeon herpes, cementing his status as “a real New Yorker” for some observers. Still, building collisions, rat poison, and disease are all major risks for birds of prey in urban environments.

 

CREDITS

Outside/In host: Nate Hegyi

Reported and produced by Felix Poon, Taylor Quimby, and Justine Paradis 

Mixed by Justine Paradis

Edited by Taylor Quimby and Rebecca Lavoie

NHPR’s Director of Podcasts is Rebecca Lavoie

Music by blacksona, Katori Walker, Bisou, Young Community, Diamond Ortiz, Brightarm Orchestra, Kevin MacLeod, Tellsonic, Walt Adams, and ProleteR. 

Outside/In is a production of New Hampshire Public Radio.