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The Backyard NaturalistsAuthor: Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne
Embark on a magical adventure into the wonders of your backyard with 'The Backyard Naturalists' podcast. Whether you're a curious nature lover or a seasoned enthusiast, our show is your ticket to discovering the enchanting world of your own outdoor space. Join us on a journey of discovery as we celebrate the beauty of your backyard and explore a wide range of fascinating topics. Learn how to transform your little piece of nature into a haven for local wildlife, and discover the joy of citizen science by participating in events like the Great Backyard Bird Count. We'll guide you in creating a thriving ecosystem right at home by using native plants. Discover which fascinating creatures share your area, and learn how to attract specific bird species to your garden. We'll also delve into the world of raptors, both common and rare, that inhabit the Greater Charlotte region, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of spring and fall bird migrations. But that's not all! We'll also introduce you to the magical world of plants that attract butterflies and so much more. Join us in unlocking the hidden treasures within your very own backyard and nurturing a deeper connection with the natural world. Language: en Genres: Hobbies, Leisure, Nature, Science Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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What's Happening in Your Habitat
Episode 3
Saturday, 9 May, 2026
Spring is finally making itself known, and that means our backyard habitats are changing fast. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie talk about what listeners may be seeing, hearing, and experiencing in their own outdoor spaces — from nesting bluebirds, Carolina wrens, catbirds, frogs, butterflies, lizards, bats, possums, raccoons, snakes, deer, and even coyotes. Whether your habitat is an apartment balcony, suburban yard, garden, greenway, or several acres of land, this episode is a reminder that every space can support wildlife in meaningful ways. The conversation also turns practical, with timely spring habitat maintenance tips for nature lovers, birders, and backyard gardeners. Debbie and Laurie discuss when to cut back old plant stems, how to create brush piles and natural shelter, why nest box placement and monitoring matter, and how to keep birdbaths clean, shallow, and filled during dry weather. They also cover wildlife-friendly food sources, live mealworms for baby birds, no-melt suet, mosquito control without harmful sprays, and why avoiding chemical fertilizers and weed killers can make your yard healthier for pollinators, birds, and the entire backyard food chain. This episode is full of seasonal reminders to slow down, look closely, and enjoy the wildlife already happening right outside your door.











