The Backyard Naturalists

• Quiet Invasives — Why Invasive Plants Spread, and What You Can Do About It

  In this eye-opening episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie sit down with Benjy Strope, Private Lands Management Biologist for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, to explore the sneaky, persistent, and surprisingly complex world of invasive plants. Inspired by Benjy's article "Quiet Invasives," this conversation gets right to the root of how invasive species spread, why they're so hard to control, and what homeowners, land managers, and nature lovers can realistically do to fight back. Benjy explains why invasive plants don't follow the "rules" we imagine for our landscapes, how seeds hitchhike on everything from shoes to dogs to truckloads of dirt, and why even well-intentioned gardeners may unknowingly contribute to the problem. From statewide offenders like mimosa, Japanese stiltgrass, kudzu, Bradford pear, and Bermuda grass, to emerging threats like Japanese knotweed and fig buttercup, he breaks down what makes each plant so troublesome—and why identification and planning are essential first steps. The discussion covers effective control methods (including when herbicides are the responsible choice), the myth of "one-and-done" removal, the importance of seed banks and site-specific conditions, and the value of choosing hardy native alternatives like blanketflower and coreopsis. Whether you've battled invasives in your backyard, spotted them in local parks, or want to protect native habitat in your community, this episode offers an honest, practical look at the ongoing fight to restore and preserve natural ecosystems. It's informative, candid, and full of the kind of grounded, real-world expertise that helps listeners take meaningful action—one plant at a time.

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• Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees — Which Is Better for You and the Environment?

  In this festive episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie dig into a holiday-season debate that comes up year after year: Should you buy a real Christmas tree or an artificial one? The answer may surprise you and it definitely has more to do with nature, sustainability, and even family traditions than you might expect. Debbie and Laurie compare the environmental impacts, benefits, drawbacks, and unexpected trivia behind both types of trees (including the very unusual product that inspired the original artificial Christmas tree, yes, it's true!). You'll learn why artificial trees have a larger carbon footprint, how long you need to keep one to reduce its environmental impact, and why most of them eventually end up in landfills. Then the hosts explore the world of real Christmas trees, from where they're grown, to how long they take to reach your living room, to the important role they play in local ecosystems and rural economies. With more than 15,000 farms and millions of trees grown annually, real Christmas trees help stabilize soil, protect water, support wildlife, and provide pure, fresh oxygen, plus they're fully biodegradable. This episode also touches on the family traditions tied to choosing a tree, how tree farms replant for the future, and why real trees still come out on top in sustainability studies. And stay tuned: Debbie and Laurie will follow up with a companion episode on what to do with your Christmas tree after the holidays, whether real or artificial.

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• Encore Episode: Animal Adaptations with Wildlife Expert Stan Tekiela

  This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we're revisiting a fan-favorite conversation with wildlife expert, naturalist, and author Stan Tekiela, a flock-level guest whose knowledge always leaves us wide-eyed and amazed. In this encore episode, Stan takes us on a deep dive into the remarkable world of animal adaptations, exploring how species survive, evolve, and thrive through millions of years of change. From the hollow white hair of the polar bear, to the extraordinary echolocation of bats, to the nomadic lifestyle of American Goldfinches, Stan explains how nature's most surprising traits came to be and why adaptation is the ultimate key to survival. Listeners will also hear fascinating insights into hibernation (and why bears aren't true hibernators), the plant-bird "arms race" shaping hummingbird bills and flower corollas, the freeze-solid survival strategy of wood frogs, and the uncanny abilities of monarch butterflies, turtles, and even snakes that can climb walls without limbs. Stan's stories offer a perfect blend of science, wonder, and humor, reminding us just how ingenious the natural world truly is. Whether you're a backyard birder, a curious learner, or a longtime fan of Stan's work, this encore episode is packed with discoveries that will change the way you see the creatures around you.

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• What Do I Do If I Find…? Wildlife Rehab Q&A with Ruby Davis

  In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome back "Flocker" and trusted friend of the show, Ruby Davis of NC Wildlife Rehab, for a rapid-fire myth-busting session about what to do when you encounter wildlife in your own backyard. From possums playing dead to raccoons out in the daytime, baby bunnies hidden in plain sight, fallen squirrel nests, mysterious fawns, mangy foxes, and even the occasional bat on the ground—Ruby walks us through what's normal, what's concerning, and when to step in (or absolutely not step in). Her calm, science-based guidance cuts through the online chaos of Google, Facebook groups, and Nextdoor "experts," reminding us that common sense and compassion go a long way when we share space with wild neighbors. Packed with practical tips, safety reminders, and fascinating facts about animal behavior, this episode aims to replace misinformation with clarity. Whether you're a seasoned backyard watcher or someone who simply wants to do the right thing when wildlife shows up unexpectedly, Ruby's insights will leave you more confident—and more connected—to the natural world right outside your door.

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• Encore: The Spotted Lanternfly with Dr. Kelly Oten

  In this encore presentation of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie Foster and Laurie Horne revisit one of the most important conversations of Season 2 — their discussion with Dr. Kelly Oten, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at NC State University, about the invasive and destructive Spotted Lanternfly. This brightly colored but harmful insect has become a serious concern for North Carolina's forests, vineyards, and backyards. Dr. Oten explains how the Spotted Lanternfly arrived from Asia, what it looks like in each stage of its life cycle, and why early detection is crucial to protecting native trees and agricultural crops. From fascinating facts about its preferred host plant, the invasive Tree of Heaven, to how trained detector dogs are now helping locate infestations, this encore episode remains as timely and informative as ever. Key Topics: How to identify the Spotted Lanternfly in every life stage The risks it poses to grapes, trees, and native habitats North Carolina's first confirmed sighting and rapid response Surprising details about the insect's spread across 13 states The role of trained detector dogs in tracking this invasive pest How listeners can help spot, report, and prevent its spread Takeaway: Awareness is the first step in protecting our natural spaces. By learning what the Spotted Lanternfly looks like and how to report sightings, we can all play a part in safeguarding North Carolina's environment and agriculture. Guest: Dr. Kelly Oten, Assistant Professor & Extension Specialist, North Carolina State University Ph.D. in Entomology and Forestry Mentioned in this Episode: North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) Trained detector dogs used in invasive species management Presented by: Backyard Birds in Matthews, North Carolina — your destination for bird seed, feeders, and nature-friendly backyard essentials. Visit thebirdfoodstore.com or stop by in person to make your backyard a haven for wildlife.

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