Amazing Wildlife: A San Diego Zoo Podcast

A Special Conversation with Joan Embery

This week, host Marco is speaking with someone whose legacy helped shape the way we take care of wildlife on this beautiful planet. As the first ambassador for the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Joan Embery broke down barriers and helped define what it means to be a wildlife spokesperson. In this interview, she recalls her beginnings, the meaning of translational science, and some of her favorite animal moments. Tune in to hear a special conversation between two Wildlife Ambassadors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheetahs: The Purring Polka-Dotted Predator

Earlier this month was International Cheetah Day, so this week, Marco is learning all about the world’s fastest land mammal. The Cheetah Conservation Center at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is one of 10 U.S. breeding facilities for the South African cheetah, and there is a lot that makes this species of feline so special. Tune in to learn about their cleat-like toenails, amazing vision, and how they are not quite a big or small cat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Horticulture at Elephant Valley: Important and Immersive

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park doesn’t just have animals—it also has incredible plants! Last episode, we learned about elephants, and this week, we’re learning about their zoo habitat. Host Marco is speaking with Director of Horticulture Raj Brown about Elephant Valley and how his team creates a sense of immersion and place. Tune in to learn more about hot composting, force fields, and the meaning of “zookie.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Social Dynamics of Elephants

This week Marco is visiting Elephant Valley to learn all about the world’s largest land mammal. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to eight elephants, and they are very social animals! These intelligent mammals are special in the way they interact with each other and our care specialists. Tune in to hear about their social dynamics and learn more about the new and improved Elephant Valley. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Learning All About Gorillas — and Breaking Misconceptions

Did you know the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to 11 gorillas? This week, Marco is going behind the scenes at the bachelor habitat to learn more about the “jock” of the great ape family. Tune in to discover how they obtain their silverbacks, how you can donate your old cell phone to support conservation efforts, and much more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.