That's WILD! Podcast

The episode kicks off with Susan and Joy sharing an incredible viral video of a diabetic support dog detecting its owner's shifting blood sugar levels from all the way across the street. This remarkable display of animal senses prompts a deeper conversation about how zoo veterinarians must routinely rely on intuitive care, but in reverse—interpreting the silent signals of animals that are experts at hiding their pain.Dr. Stoneburg completely reframes what it means to be a vet, revealing that the job relies far less on textbook science and much more on human connection. She notes that while veterinary school teaches you the biology of traditional animals, the real work is learned on the ground. Surprisingly, the most critical skill is managing human dynamics. Because zookeepers are the frontline eyes and ears monitoring the animals daily, a zoo vet must know how to communicate seamlessly with them to decode what is wrong with a patient. It becomes a puzzle of translating human observations, managing their concerns, and directing proper diagnostic care.The trio also looks closely at how veterinary medicine at a zoo relies on a massive network of human healthcare specialists. Because arkansas has limited veterinary specialists, the zoo relies heavily on human doctors—from cardiologists and endodontists to urologists and OB-GYNs—who generously donate their time and medical equipment out of a shared love for the animals.Dr. Stoneburg also opens up about "compassion fatigue," a heavy reality in the veterinary world. Zoo vets act as primary care providers from an animal's birth to its death, making it incredibly easy to become emotionally compromised. Navigating the sudden shift from a joyful newborn exam to an emergency euthanasia can weigh heavily on a vet's soul. Dr. Stoneburg emphasizes that to survive the field, a vet must possess the emotional discipline to step away, find an outlet for stress, and turn off the constant "what-ifs".The conversation moves into the intense logistics of sedating dangerous animals. Dr. Stoneburg walks through the steps of putting down a large animal, explaining the use of "hand-injection" training where keepers teach animals to safely present a limb for a voluntary injection. If voluntary cooperation isn't possible, darting is required. She shares a tense but heartwarming story about sedating an elderly tiger in renal failure. Even though he was weak, the tiger willingly laid down, presented his hip for the dart, and "chuffed" at her afterward, showing a profound level of trust and understanding.Finally, Dr. Stoneburg highlights the true purpose of modern zoos: global conservation. Beyond standard medical procedures, zoo vets are actively contributing to the global body of scientific knowledge through post-mortem studies, archival tissue research dating back to the 1980s, and standardizing preventative care. She underscores that the ultimate goal is shepherding species so they do not expire for future generations, making her life's work a vital gift to the world.Notable Quotes"A lot of what we learn outside of it is on-the-field learning. Dealing with different people, I think, is a big thing that schools don't always teach you about... You think about you're going to work with animals, you love animals so much, but a most of what we do is work with people." — Dr. Sarah Stoneburg

In this episode of That’s Wild, hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock dive into the prehistoric history of Arkansas with special guest Dr. Jessica Scott, a paleoecologist. They explore how the state’s landscape has shifted from deep oceans to dinosaur-inhabited shorelines and eventually to the age of mammoths.Key Discussion PointsPaleoecology Explained: Dr. Scott defines paleoecology as the study of past ecosystems, comparing the work to a detective piecing together an ancient puzzle from limited fossil evidence.Arkansas’s State Dinosaur: The episode highlights Arkansaurus, the first and most complete dinosaur specimen found in the state.It was a bird-like, bipedal dinosaur belonging to the ornithomimosaur group.It stood approximately 8 feet tall, could be up to 15 feet long, and likely possessed feathers.Geological Shifts: Arkansas was once entirely underwater during the Paleozoic era and later partially submerged by the Western Interior Seaway during the Mesozoic era.Fossil Variety: Beyond dinosaurs, the state is home to fossils of marine invertebrates (oysters, coral) and "recent" ice-age giants like mammoths, mastodons, and Megalonyx (giant ground sloths).The Process of Fossilization: Detailed explanation of how organic material is replaced by minerals over time to become stone.Conservation Connection: The guest emphasizes that understanding past extinctions—such as the asteroid-driven end of the dinosaurs—helps us understand and combat the human-caused extinctions occurring today.Guest InformationDr. Jessica Scott: A paleoecologist, native Arkansan, and long-time advocate for the Little Rock Zoo.

In this episode, hosts Dustin Bean and Joy Matlock are joined by Hannah Baker to discuss the often-overlooked world of bugs. The conversation features a special appearance by Miguel, a three-banded armadillo, to illustrate the direct link between mammals and their insect-based diets.Key Discussion PointsMeet Miguel the Armadillo:Miguel is a three-banded armadillo, a species from South America capable of curling completely into a ball for protection.Unlike the nine-banded armadillos common in Arkansas, three-banded armadillos can "snap" their shell closed to potentially pinch a predator's paw.His shell is called a carapace, made of bony plates known as osteoderms covered in keratin.The Insectivore Diet:As an insectivore and omnivore, Miguel relies on a sharp sense of smell to find bugs several inches underground.He uses a long, sticky tongue and sharp claws to extract insects, similar to his close relatives, the anteaters and sloths.Behind the Scenes: The "Bug Room":The Little Rock Zoo maintains a dedicated "Bug Room" to breed and raise food for its animals.The facility produces approximately 8,000 crickets and 35,000 mealworms per week.The largest consumers of bugs at the zoo are the sloth bears, which use their lack of front incisors to "slurp" up insects.The Importance of Invertebrates:Bugs serve as the "infrastructure" of the ecosystem, acting as pollinators, decomposers, and a primary food source.A global decline in insect populations threatens the entire food chain.The episode highlights the danger of invasive species, such as the hammerhead worm, which preys on essential native earthworms.Tips for Supporting Local PollinatorsPlant Native: Choose native plants for your garden to support local insect species.Leave the Leaves: Keeping leaf litter in your yard provides a habitat for various bugs and animals.Create Spaces: Designate a small section of your yard to grow wild as a pollinator garden.Bugtopia runs from March 21st through September 20th at the Little Rock Zoo, allowing guests to see the world from a bug's perspective and appreciate the "giants" of the tiny world.

In this episode of That’s Wild, we go behind the scenes at the Little Rock Zoo with Erin Dauenhauer-Decota, Assistant Curator for Primates, to explore the complex world of Great Apes and the personal "calling" of conservation.From the hilarious personalities of chimpanzees like Mikey to the "original PSL" (the Pygmy Slow Loris), Erin shares what it’s really like to manage one of the most diverse primate collections in the country. We also dive deep into the enduring legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall, discussing how her work shattered barriers for women in science and redefined our understanding of animal intelligence.In this episode, you’ll discover:Primate Personalities: Why a "smiling" chimp might actually be telling you they are uncomfortable, and why patience is the most important tool for a zookeeper.The Intertwined Path of Conservation: How recycling your old smartphones through programs like Gorillas on the Line directly impacts animal habitats and human rights crises in Africa.The Reality of the Calling: A candid look at the "allostatic load" of conservation work, the emotional investment of caring for wildlife, and advice for the next generation of animal advocates.A Look Ahead: Exciting news about the new squirrel monkey species arriving at the Little Rock Zoo next year.Whether you are a lifelong animal lover or a curious neighbor, this episode offers a grounded, inspiring look at how small changes in our daily lives can create massive ripples of hope for wildlife halfway around the world.

In this episode of That’s Wild, hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock take a nostalgic trip back to the 1970s and 80s to explore a pivotal era of transformation at the Little Rock Zoo. Joined by Arkansas broadcasting legend and former radio DJ Craig O’Neal. The team dives into the history of the "Bring Down the Bars" campaign—a community-led movement that revolutionized animal habitats by replacing traditional iron bars with more naturalistic environments.Highlights from this episode include:The "Bring Down the Bars" Legacy: Discover how the zoo transformed the historic WPA Big Cat House (now Café Africa) and moved iconic animals like Buck the Bengal Tiger into modern exhibits.A Community Effort: Craig O'Neal shares hilarious and heartfelt stories of 80s-era fundraisers, including the "Spots and Stripes Forever" benefit, and how the entire city rallied together to reshape the zoo's future.The Power of Tradition: From the 100-year-old Over-the-Jumps Carousel to the simple joy of family outings, the discussion explores why the zoo remains a "cathedral" for multi-generational Arkansas memories.Wild Stories: Craig recounts the time he "sponsored a monkey" that immediately escaped and shares the bizarre tale of the "Arkansas Husband Display" at a past Zoo Day.As the Little Rock Zoo embarks on its current "Wildly Reimagined" campaign, this episode celebrates the enduring energy and community spirit that continue to drive the zoo's "nine lives".Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your own zoo memories with us.

Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock speak with Little Rock Zoo's Conservation and Research Coordinator, Dr. Laura Bernstein-Curtis, about sloth bears and international conservation.The episode starts with "Wild News": celebrating the hopeful increase in the endangered Red Wolf population (supported by AZA zoos) and the rediscovery of the sailback hound shark, highlighting the vulnerability of microendemic species.Dr. Bernstein-Curtis clarifies that sloth bears, native to India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, are not sloths. They are insectivores and their primary diet of ants and termites is called myrmecophagous. Their unique adaptations include long claws for digging and a gap in their front teeth for sucking up insects.The core of the discussion is the Little Rock Zoo’s role in the AZA SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) Sloth Bear Program. Dr. Bernstein-Curtis explains that SAFE works with field partners like Wildlife SOS to address threats like the historical "dancing bear" trade by supporting local communities. The program also funds simple, effective solutions to human-wildlife conflict, such as distributing metal sticks with bells (bear deterrent sticks) to prevent surprise encounters. She shares a highlight from her field trip to India and Sri Lanka where she helped facilitate veterinary and conservation training.Zoos are essential for conservation. The animals on exhibit are ambassadors who inspire the public to care, and every visit directly supports research and field work to save species worldwide.In this episode you’ll learnSloth Bear Facts: Why they are not sloths, their range, and the term myrmecophagous for their unique insect diet.AZA SAFE Program: How the Little Rock Zoo coordinates the SAFE effort to fund and direct conservation, aligning with field partner needs.Success Stories: The recovery efforts for the Red Wolf and the rediscovery of the microendemic sailback hound shark.Conflict Reduction: The use of bear deterrent sticks in India to prevent aggressive human-sloth bear encounters.Zoos & Conservation: Why zoos must exhibit animals (to create ambassadors) and actively engage in field work (to save species).Highlights & Key TakeawaysZoos are critical funding sources and knowledge partners for global efforts.Sloth bear claws are for digging, and they use a dental gap for sucking up termites.Successful conservation prioritizes the needs and knowledge of local communities.Seeing animals in person inspires action and makes the public part of the work to save species.

Summary Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock celebrate conservation comeback stories and the teamwork behind them. Through a game of Two Truths and a Lie and a visit from zookeeper Hannah Baker (and ambassador ferret Hagrid), this episode explores how AZA-accredited zoos, government agencies, scientists, and communities combine tools like captive breeding, reintroduction, habitat protection, disease management, and genetics to bring species back from the brink.In this episode you’ll learnWhy bald eagles declined and which policy and habitat actions enabled their recovery.How black-footed ferrets were rescued from near extinction via captive breeding, reintroduction, and genetic tools (including cloning).What Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and national recovery programs do and why collaboration matters.Ways listeners can support comeback work through zoo visits, memberships, events, and everyday choices.Highlights & Key TakeawaysBald eagles rebounded mainly after the DDT ban and habitat/legal protections.Black-footed ferrets depended on prairie dogs; their collapse required multi-pronged recovery efforts.Zoos play a vital role but recovery requires coordinated action among many partners.Ambassador animals like Hagrid help connect people to conservation stories.Mentioned Little Rock Zoo & Arkansas Zoological Foundation; hosts Susan Altrui, Joy Matlock; emcee Dustin Bean; zookeeper Hannah Baker; ambassador ferret Hagrid; bald eagles Lynn & Griffin; Black-Footed Ferret Recovery Program; AZA; U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service; Arkansas Game & Fish Commission; Species Survival Plans (SSPs).Quote “Saving species takes more than one thing — laws, captive breeding, habitat protection, and people working together. Everyone can be part of that team.” — Susan AltruiCall to action Support comeback work: visit or join the Little Rock Zoo, attend conservation events, and make wildlife-friendly choices. Learn more at littlerockzoo.com.

Episode Summary: Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock kick off with a fun audio quiz—identifying Siamang apes, ponies, capuchin monkeys, geese, and alligators by their calls—then dive into how That’s Wild animals are cared for. Learn about AZA accreditation, Species Survival Plans (SSPs), and the day‑to‑day enrichment and husbandry that keep zoo residents thriving. Zookeeper Hannah brings Iris the blue‑tongued skink to demonstrate protocols for ambassador animals.In this episode, you’ll learn:Iconic Calls: What a Siamang’s “whoop,” pony neighs, capuchin squeaks, goose honks, and alligator bellows mean in the wild.AZA Accreditation: Why only ~200 of 2,000 USDA‑licensed facilities earn elite approval, and how it drives rigorous animal‑care standards.Species Survival Plans (SSPs): How zoos cooperatively manage gene pools—e.g., Jahari & Andazi’s rhino pairing—to sustain healthy populations.Elephant Retirement Home: Little Rock Zoo’s specialized habitat for senior female elephants, tailored to their physical and emotional needs.Ambassador Animal Care: Iris the skink’s heat‑gradient enclosure, UV requirements, glove‑on handling, enrichment routines, and “aposmatic” blue‑tongue warning coloration.Key Takeaways:Siamangs’ territorial calls echo miles across Little Rock, reminding neighbors the zoo is “alive.”SSPs coordinate transfers, breeding recommendations, and “proven breeder” records to avoid inbreeding and ensure animal welfare.AZA accreditation audits everything from veterinary care to guest engagement every five years—no easy sticker to earn.Iris’s semi‑permeable skin lets her breathe through her blue tongue—protected by gloves to prevent toxin absorption.Enrichment for ambassador animals includes heat‑basking, prey‑hunting simulations, hiding spots, and mobility breaks.Mentioned in the Episode:AZA Accreditation (Association of Zoos & Aquariums)Siamang Gibbons (territorial calls)Pony “Lily” (neighs & knickers)Capuchin Monkeys (30+ vocalizations)Geese (regional “dialects”)American Alligators (low‑frequency bellows)Rhinoceros SSP (Jahari & Andazi → Kevin)Elephant Habitat for Aging FemalesBlue‑Tongued Skink Ambassador (Iris)Quote:“If you don’t hear an animal at first, slow down and listen—those calls are their way of thriving alongside us.” – Susan AltruiEnjoy this blend of “That’s Wild” sounds trivia and an inside look at the high standards and heartfelt dedication driving modern zoo conservation.

Hosts Susan Altruy and Joy Matlock dive into the astonishing world of lizards—exploring Komodo dragons, bearded dragons, and Arkansas’s eastern collared lizard “dragons.” Learn what makes Komodos fearsome predators and how local zoos breed and release native species to restore Ozark glade ecosystems. Zookeeper Hannah also introduces Steve the bearded dragon, a laid-back ambassador who helps families connect with reptiles.In this episode, you’ll learn:Reptile vs. Lizard vs. Dragon: Why all lizards are reptiles but only certain “dragon” species earn that nickname.Komodo Dragon Biology: How their venomous bite, venom glands, and ambush tactics make them top predators on Indonesian islands.Bearded Dragon Traits: Why Steve “puffs” his spiky beard, blinks with eyelids, and uses color changes to communicate mood and temperature.Arkansas’ “Native Dragons”: How the Little Rock Zoo partners to breed and re-release eastern collared lizards—bright green, two-legged runners—back into Ozark glades.Conservation Challenges: The impacts of habitat loss, poaching, and climate change on Komodo populations and regional “dragon” species.Key Takeaways:Komodo Size & Strength: Records show Komodos up to 10.5 ft and 266 lbs—capable of killing deer or water buffalo with venom-induced blood loss.Dragon Names: “Komodo dragon” comes from a 1927 book; locals call them Ora. Zoo dragons Iris & Circe are named after Greek deities of chaos and magic.Ambassador Care: Komodos Iroh (1½ yr) and Tia (3½ yr) undergo quarantine, target-training, and specialized habitat management before public display.Bearded Dragon Ambassador: Steve (named for Steve Irwin) lives 10–15 years, requires UV light, dietary variety, and expert handling—pets demand research before adoption.Local Restoration: Eastern collared lizards depend on glade ecosystems; captive-breeding programs aim to rebuild wild populations at risk from development.Mentioned in the Episode:Komodo Dragons (Varanus komodoensis)Bearded Dragon Ambassador (Steve)Greek-named Dragons: Iris & CirceEastern Collared Lizard Recovery ProgramLittle Rock Zoo Reptile HouseQuote:“Komodos may not breathe fire, but their venomous bite and stealth make them real-life dragons.” – Susan AltruyEnjoy this reptilian adventure—and remember: supporting accredited zoos fuels vital conservation efforts worldwide!

Episode Summary: Hosts Susan Altruy and Joy Matlock explore how animals secure food—through foraging, hunting, and special tactics—and how habitat loss endangers those sources. Zookeeper Hannah then presents Monty, a Ball Python, to demonstrate snake adaptations for locating and subduing prey. Learn simple actions you can take to protect natural food chains.In this episode, you’ll learn:Foraging vs. Hunting: Black bears gather berries and carrion; river otters dive for fish; red-­tailed hawks hunt rodents.Habitat & Food: Clearing forests or draining wetlands removes vital plants and prey for box turtles, penguins, and pollinators.Python Biology: Monty’s infrared “pit organs,” backward­-curved teeth, and glottis “snorkel” let him ambush and swallow prey whole.Conservation Steps: How the Seafood Watch app guides you toward sustainable seafood to help maintain healthy food webs.Key Takeaways:Arkansas Black Bears: Once so plentiful the state was nicknamed “Bear State,” these omnivores switch from plant foraging to small­-mammal hunting.River Otter Fishing: Otters chase fish underwater with streamlined bodies and paddle­like tails.Red­-Tailed Hawks: Using sharp talons and keen eyesight, they patrol skies to catch rodents—showing aerial predator roles.Box Turtle Foraging: Native turtles eat insects, berries, and mushrooms; habitat loss removes their essential food.Monty the Ball Python:Pit Organs: Detect heat from warm­-blooded prey in darkness.Ambush Tactics: Strike quickly, grip prey with backward teeth, and constrict.Glottis “Snorkel”: Allows breathing while swallowing large meals.Ecosystem Impact: Losing predators or pollinators (snakes or bees) triggers imbalances—rodent overpopulation or plant declines.Practical Actions:Don’t Litter Roadsides: Food scraps attract rodents, which lure snakes or owls into traffic.Use Seafood Watch: A free Monterey Bay Aquarium app to choose sustainable fish and protect ocean ecosystems.Mentioned:Arkansas Black BearRiver OtterRed-­Tailed HawkBox TurtlePollinators: Bats & FirefliesBall Python (Monty “Monica”)Seafood Watch AppQuotes:“Wetlands and forests aren’t just landscapes—they’re grocery stores for wildlife.” – Susan Altruy “Monty’s pit organs are like an infrared GPS toward prey.” – Hannah (Zookeeper)

Emcee Dustin Bean welcomes you to That’s Wild Podcast, produced by the Little Rock Zoo and sponsored by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation. Hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock explore the world’s wildest “parenting” strategies—from alligator moms ferrying babies in their mouths to seahorse dads carrying eggs. You’ll hear how orangutans bond for eight years, why cuckoo birds outsource childcare, and get an insider look at parenting in action at Little Rock Zoo, capped off by a special visit from Vinny the African penguin.Show Notes1. Welcome & MissionOpening Music & Intro (0:00): – Dustin Bean sets the scene, introducing the podcast’s mission to inspire wildlife conservation. – Acknowledgment: Arkansas Zoological Foundation & Little Rock Zoo.2. Parenting Extremes in the Animal KingdomHelicopter Moms (2:34): – Alligator mothers carry hatchlings in their mouths for safety—true “no-boundaries” parenting.Long‑Term Bonding (3:17): – Orangutan moms at Little Rock Zoo nurse and protect offspring for up to eight years, fostering deep bonds.Super Dad Seahorses (4:05): – Female seahorse transfers eggs to the male’s brood pouch; he “gives birth” and provides oxygen and protection.3. Brood Parasitism & SurvivalCuckoo Bird Strategy (6:04): – Some cuckoos lay eggs in other birds’ nests, outsourcing parenting duties and ensuring their chick’s survival.4. Zoo Spotlight: Family Dynamics at Little Rock ZooOrangutan Family (7:10): – Meet Barani and Bandar, a rare hands‑on orangutan dad–mom unit raising two spirited youngsters.Penguin Boom (8:44): – Last year’s record of five African penguin chicks showcases successful conservation and husbandry techniques.5. Special Guest: Vinny the African Penguin (9:43)Meet Vinny: – One of 17–18 penguin species, Vinny thrives in Arkansas’s warm‑climate exhibit.Pair Bonds & Parenting: – Penguins mate for life (with occasional re‑pairing), co‑parent two‑egg clutches, alternating incubation and fishing shifts.Chick Rearing: – When hand‑rearing is needed, keepers prepare a “fish milkshake,” mimicking parental regurgitation.6. Conservation & Call to ActionStatus & Threats: – African penguins recently uplisted to Critically Endangered due to oil spills and overfishing.How You Can Help: – Download Seafood Watch (Monterey Bay Aquarium) for sustainable choices. – Support the African Penguin SSP and Sanccob conservation in South Africa.Engage: – Subscribe, rate, and share your wild parenting stories with #ThatsWildPodcast. – Visit Little Rock Zoo or your local accredited zoo to see animal families in action.

Join emcees Susan Altrui, Joy Matlock, and Dustin Bean on That’s Wild Podcast as they delve into the fascinating world of animal eating behaviors, from picky eaters like pandas and koalas to opportunistic feeders such as hyenas and owls. In this episode—brought to you by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation and produced by the Little Rock Zoo—the hosts uncover incredible animal adaptations, share conservation insights, and explore how these behaviors connect to the natural world.Show Notes:1. Introduction & MissionWelcome: Dustin Bean opens the show by celebrating the wonders of nature and introducing the theme of animal eating behaviors.Sponsors: Proudly presented by the Arkansas Zoological Foundation and produced by the Little Rock Zoo.2. Animal Eating Behaviors: Picky Eaters vs. Opportunistic FeedersPicky Eaters:Pandas: Learn about their bamboo-centric diet (99% bamboo!), their classification as carnivores, and the challenges zoos face in hosting these adorable yet selective eaters.Koalas: Discover how these marsupials stick to only 12 out of 90+ types of eucalyptus and even select the best leaves, akin to a toddler’s picky eating habits.Opportunistic Feeders:Hyenas: Explore their reputation as nature’s “garbage disposals,” eating everything from meat to bones, hooves, and even regurgitated leftovers. Plus, learn about their fascinating matriarchal social structure.Owls: Dive into their incredible adaptations, such as silent flight, asymmetrical ears for pinpointing sound, and their role as natural pest controllers.3. Guest Spotlight: Hannah & Willow the Barred OwlMeet Willow: Hannah introduces Willow, a rehabilitated barred owl, and shares insights into her hunting adaptations, including:Heart-shaped face for sound amplification.Silent flight for stealthy hunting.Regurgitating owl pellets to remove indigestible parts of their diet.Conservation Message: Hannah highlights how owls help control rodent populations and advises against using rodent poison to protect wildlife.4. Pop Culture & Fun FactsPicky Eaters in Pop Culture: Compare pandas and koalas to picky toddlers, sparking relatable humor.Hyenas in Media: Reference their portrayal in The Lion King and discuss their misunderstood nature.Owl Wisdom: Celebrate owls as symbols of wisdom and their role in folklore and literature.5. Conservation Insights & Final ThoughtsCall to Action: The hosts emphasize the importance of sustainable practices, such as recycling, avoiding rodent poisons, and building owl boxes to support wildlife.Engage: Subscribe, share your favorite animal facts using #ThatsWildPodcast, and follow the Little Rock Zoo on social media for more wild content.Join Susan, Joy, and Dustin for another adventure into the wild world of animals, inspiring listeners to value and conserve our natural world. See you next time!

This week on THAT’S WILD, Joy and Susan explore the natural world’s drama queens—animals with attitudes, quirks, and downright wild behaviors. From llamas asserting dominance to exploding ants and bubble-popping shrimp, this episode dives into the fascinating and sometimes bizarre behaviors that make these creatures true divas.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Drama Llamas: Fact or fiction? Discover the surprising (and occasionally dangerous) behaviors of llamas, including the infamous "Berserk Llama Syndrome."Animal Superpowers:Exploding Ants: Learn how Malaysian ants self-destruct to protect their colonies with a glue-like toxin.Pistol Shrimp: These tiny powerhouses create deadly bubbles that can kill prey, dig burrows, and even interfere with sonar technology.Special Segment: Animal Superpowers The natural world is full of creatures with jaw-dropping abilities that redefine drama. From ants exploding to save their colony to shrimp with sonic weapons, these animals take survival to the next level.Guest Spotlight: Hannah joins the discussion to introduce quest animals and share even more fascinating animal behaviors.Resources & Links:Learn more about Berserk Llama SyndromeExploding Ants ExplainedWhy Pistol Shrimp are Nature’s Power DivasStudy: Dogs and JealousyJoin the Conversation: What’s your favorite animal diva? Share your thoughts on our socials or tag us in your posts using #ThatsWildPodcast.