The Science of Whiskers

About this episode

This episode explores the science of whiskers through the insights of whisker biologist Robyn Grant.

This is a re-broadcast of a favorite episode from 2019. We actually won our first AAAS Kavli Award for this episode, along with The Cave of the Underground Astronauts. Check it out! Why do seals have whiskers? Listener Karah’s question dives into the wonderful world of whisker science. Robyn Grant, a self-described “whisker biologist” shares her discoveries of how whiskers work, from training a friendly seal named Moe to making slow-mo movies of super speedy “whisking.” (You will find no cuter field of research… but if you do, tell us about it!) Listen to learn about humans’ hidden whisker muscles and find out to rank whiskers like the pros! Want to learn more about whisker science? We have more from our interview with Robyn on our Patreon podcast feed! Subscribe for $1/month at patreon.com/tumblepodcast. You can also tune in on the Castbox podcast app by tuning into our Premium Channel. Find more whiskery educational resources on our blog, at sciencepodcastforkids.com. If you want a t-shirt from our merch store, go check it out at tumblepodcast.dashery.com.

People in this episode

Guest: Robyn Grant

Topics covered

• whiskers
• seal biology
• animal science
• education
• podcast rebroadcast

Keywords

• whiskers
• seals
• whisker science
• animal research
• AAAS Kavli Award

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tumble Media, AAAS Kavli Award

Places: Patreon, Castbox, sciencepodcastforkids.com, tumblepodcast.dashery.com

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