Dark Outdoors

For decades, Chester Moore has investigated reports of mysterious cats roaming the American wilds. Some can probably be explained as mountain lions. Others aren't nearly so easy. In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester digs into some of the strangest big-cat encounters people have personally brought to him—including the astonishing account of a Texas man who said he walked outside and discovered what appeared to be an African lion in his chicken coop. Then there are the tracks. Chester recounts his own investigation of enormous cat tracks that seemed far too large for what should have been walking through that country, along with other reports involving unusually large and possibly exotic cats. Could escaped exotic cats explain some of the strangest predator sightings reported across Texas and the South? How many unusual animals have disappeared into the woods without anyone ever knowing they were there? Some sightings are mistakes. Some have ordinary explanations. But every once in a while, somebody sees something that isn't supposed to be there.

Sometimes the strangest thing you encounter in the woods isn't an animal. Over the years, Dark Outdoors® host Chester Moore has collected some truly bizarre stories from hunters, anglers and other people who spend serious time in wild places. In this episode, he digs into some of the strangest—encounters involving people who seemingly shouldn't have been where they were, doing things that made absolutely no sense. It starts with a man who says he encountered someone in the woods dressed head to toe like a ninja, complete with swords. Then there's Chester's friend sitting alone in a hunting blind in the middle of nowhere when he suddenly heard a voice. It sounded almost like a whisper, yet somehow carried with incredible volume. “Feels good.” He never saw who—or what—said it. From there, Chester shares more strange accounts of unexpected people, unexplained voices and unsettling encounters in remote places. We spend a lot of time worrying about predators, dangerous wildlife and things that go bump in the night. But sometimes the weirdest thing waiting beyond the trail is another human being. And all you can ask afterward is... Who in the green hill was that?

Some wildlife crimes are difficult to comprehend. Years ago, Chester Moore traveled to a location where someone had illegally killed a buffalo, removed its head with a chainsaw and abandoned the rest of the animal to rot. What he encountered there opened a window into a side of the outdoors most people never see. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester explores some of the most disturbing and bizarre poaching cases he has encountered and investigated over the years. There are poachers willing to kill wildlife simply for trophies. Criminals willing to threaten the very people charged with protecting wildlife—including a shocking case involving shots fired into a game warden's home on Christmas Eve. And then there is the international black market, where wildlife trafficking can become almost unimaginable, including a case in which U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials discovered a coat smuggled into America that had been made using the skins of five jaguars. These aren't hunting stories. They're stories about greed, cruelty and the people who operate outside the laws designed to protect wildlife—and the wildlife officers who sometimes put themselves in danger trying to stop them. Because the outdoors has a dark side.

Deep along the Brazos River, something attacked a calf in the darkness. The people who witnessed the event couldn't see exactly what was happening—but they could hear it. They heard the struggle. They heard multiple animals involved. And, most disturbingly, they described hearing bones being broken and the calf seemingly being pulled apart with astonishing speed. In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore examines this chilling eyewitness account from the Brazos River country and asks what kind of predators—and what kind of circumstances—could produce an attack like the one described. The episode also ventures deeper into the strange world of predator-prey relationships, exploring unusual observations from the outdoors that don't always fit neatly into what we expect from coyotes, wild canines and other predators. Nature isn't a horror movie. Predators kill because that's how they survive. But every once in a while, someone witnesses—or simply hears—something in the darkness that reminds us just how wild the outdoors really is. And sometimes hearing it is worse than seeing it.

ne night in the Texas darkness, Chester Moore found himself looking through the sights of a rifle at an animal he had every opportunity to shoot. He didn't pull the trigger. What Chester believes stood in front of him that night was a red wolf—an animal officially declared extinct in the wild across its historic Texas range decades ago. In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester tells the story of that encounter and others he has had with mysterious wild canines over the years. Some looked remarkably like the red wolves that once roamed Texas and Louisiana. Others were harder to explain. The official story of the red wolf is complicated by hybridization with coyotes, disappearing populations and decades of debate over what exactly constitutes a red wolf. But what happens when animals resembling those supposedly lost wolves continue turning up in unexpected places? This is a journey into the swamps, forests and backroads of the Gulf Coast in search of one of America's most mysterious predators—and an exploration of the possibility that what people are seeing in the darkness isn't always what we've been told should be there. Sometimes extinction leaves behind ghosts. And sometimes those ghosts have four legs.

What exactly is a feral human? The phrase conjures images of people living beyond civilization—hidden deep in forests, mountains and other wild places. But the reality behind the idea may be stranger, and far more complicated, than the legends. In this special episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore explores the concept of feral humans and expands the definition beyond the usual stories of mysterious wild people lurking beyond the edge of society. At the center of the episode is a bizarre account from Oklahoma involving a helicopter, thermal imaging and a human figure spotted moving through rugged country below. Who was this person? What were they doing in such an isolated place? And why has the encounter remained so unsettling to those familiar with it? From people deliberately disappearing into the wilderness to individuals living outside the boundaries most of us consider normal, this episode ventures into a shadowy corner of the outdoors where folklore, human behavior and unexplained encounters collide. Because sometimes the strangest thing hiding in the woods isn't an animal. It's one of us.

In 1997, Chester Moore and his wife Lisa were driving to Pasadena, Texas, to visit a friend when they came upon a scene they would never forget. Police and investigators had converged on an area near a retention pond. Chester and Lisa didn't know exactly what had happened, but they would soon learn they had driven upon the scene where, that very day, the body of 12-year-old Laura Smither had been discovered following a massive search. Nearly three decades later, Chester returns to that moment in this deeply personal episode of Dark Outdoors®, exploring Laura's murder, serial killer William Reece and the larger, haunting history of the Texas Killing Fields. And remarkably, this isn't just history. As this episode drops, the Texas Killing Fields are back in the news. More than four decades after 16-year-old Laura Miller disappeared, James Dolphs Elmore Jr. has become the first person convicted in connection with the deaths of the four women whose bodies were found in the infamous Calder Road field. The guilty verdict came just one day before this episode's release, and Elmore has now been sentenced to 20 years in prison. Chester examines those stunning new developments before turning to another question at the heart of Dark Outdoors: Why can places like this become hunting grounds for human predators? From isolated roads and abandoned fields to marshes, woods and the forgotten edges of growing communities, this is a story about what can happen where civilization meets the darkness. Because sometimes the most dangerous predator in the outdoors is human.

For Chester Moore, the question isn't simply an internet legend. It is connected to a mystery that has fascinated him since childhood. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester digs into his archives and revisits an investigation into reports of giant rattlesnakes, including an extraordinary account involving a rattlesnake said to have measured approximately 11 feet long. It's a mystery Chester first encountered as a kid and one he has spent years trying to understand. How large can rattlesnakes actually grow? Where did some of the incredible historical claims about enormous rattlesnakes originate? And when stories are passed down for decades, how do we separate exaggeration and mistaken measurements from accounts that deserve a closer look? Chester follows the evidence, examines the giant-rattlesnake mystery and reveals what his investigation uncovered about a story that has stayed with him for much of his life. It's an exploration of giant snakes, outdoor history and one childhood mystery that refused to disappear.  

Lightning can turn a fishing trip, hike, hunt or day on the water into a life-threatening situation in seconds. And some of the most dangerous storms can arrive with frightening speed. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore reaches into his archives for an interview recorded several years ago with legendary meteorologist Greg Bostwick that has never before aired on Dark Outdoors. Bostwick discusses the dangers of lightning, squall lines and severe thunderstorms, with important information for hunters, anglers, hikers, campers, boaters and anyone who spends time outside. The conversation explores how quickly dangerous weather can develop, the threats associated with lightning and fast-moving storms and why being caught in an exposed outdoor location can become deadly. It's a timely look back at a conversation with one of the region's most respected meteorologists and a reminder that some of the greatest dangers in the outdoors don't come from animals or people. Sometimes they come from the sky.

Could black jaguars still roam Texas? Reports of black panthers, mysterious big cats and possible jaguar sightings have circulated throughout Texas for generations, but some eyewitness accounts are much harder to dismiss than others. In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore talks with his friend David Cleaver, a dedicated outdoorsman and hiker, about an extraordinary black jaguar sighting in Texas. Chester considers David a highly reliable witness, and the details of what he saw raise fascinating questions about the possibility of rare big cats moving through the Lone Star State. They also examine the history of jaguars in Texas, other Texas jaguar reports and the enduring mystery surrounding black panther sightings in Texas and across the South. Are all of these encounters cases of mistaken identity, or could an occasional jaguar—or another unexpected big cat—still appear where conventional wisdom says it shouldn't? Hear David's firsthand account and explore one of the most intriguing Texas wildlife mysteries on Dark Outdoors.

Before heading into the Missouri Ozarks for a story, Chester Moore received a strange warning from someone who had given him credible information about secretive organizations before: Watch out for the Bald Knobbers. The only Bald Knobgbers Chester knew were the famously silly country music and comedy entertainers from Branson. But behind that name is a much darker history. In the 1880s, the real Bald Knobbers were masked vigilantes who held secret meetings in remote areas of the Missouri Ozarks. Some became associated with intimidation, beatings and murder. Members of the notorious Christian County faction wore bizarre black masks with horns and grotesque features that look like something straight out of a horror movie. But could someone still be borrowing that imagery today? In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester digs into the disturbing history of the Bald Knobbers and the modern warning that led him down this strange rabbit hole. He also explores something that has surfaced repeatedly in Dark Outdoors investigations: reports of hooded, masked and strangely dressed people gathering in isolated outdoor locations. From the different-colored robes historically used by Ku Klux Klan organizations to occult imagery, ceremonial traditions and previous reports investigated in The Mystery of the Hooded Ones, history shows that people have long used masks, hoods and frightening symbolism for secrecy, ceremony and intimidation. There is no credible evidence that the original Bald Knobbers survive as an organized group today. But could modern people adopt their masks, name or imagery? And when hikers, hunters or others encounter bizarrely dressed people deep in the woods, could the explanation sometimes be stranger—and more human—than the supernatural? Sometimes the most unsettling thing you can encounter in the wilderness isn't an animal or a monster. It's another human being. Dark Outdoors investigates terrifying encounters, unsolved mysteries, true crime and dangerous wildlife—because the outdoors has a dark side.

The New World screwworm is one of the most disturbing parasites in North America. Unlike ordinary maggots that typically consume dead tissue, screwworm larvae infest wounds and feed on the living flesh of warm-blooded animals. The parasite was eradicated from the United States decades ago, but in 2026 it returned to the U.S. mainland, creating serious concerns for livestock, wildlife and anyone responsible for protecting animals in affected areas. For generations, one of the primary weapons against screwworm has been the sterile insect technique—producing enormous numbers of sterile male flies and releasing them into affected areas to disrupt reproduction. But could the next major weapon against screwworm come from genetics? In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore talks with Matt James of Colossal Biosciences about the potential for advanced genetic technologies to change the fight against New World screwworm. Colossal has publicly discussed the possibility of using genetic biocontrol and gene-drive technology against the parasite. The basic concept is remarkable: instead of simply releasing sterile flies generation after generation, genetic tools could potentially introduce traits designed to interfere with reproduction and drive those traits through a screwworm population. Moore and James discuss what this technology could mean, how genetics might complement existing eradication methods, and the much larger question surrounding modern conservation biotechnology: Can we use our growing ability to manipulate genetics not only to save threatened species, but to fight organisms threatening wildlife and livestock? It's a fascinating intersection of wildlife conservation, emerging biotechnology and one of the nastiest parasites imaginable. The New World screwworm is back. Could genetics help send it away again? Dark Outdoors investigates terrifying encounters, unsolved mysteries, true crime and dangerous wildlife—because the outdoors has a dark side.

For decades, people along the Texas coast reported seeing strange, wolf-like animals roaming the beaches and marshes of Galveston Island. Most dismissed the sightings as coyotes. They were only partially right. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore investigates one of the most remarkable wildlife mysteries in America and explores how it unexpectedly intersects with one of the biggest scientific stories of our time: de-extinction. From the groundbreaking work of Colossal Biosciences and the renewed public fascination with the dire wolf to the incredible discovery of the "Ghost Wolves" of Galveston Island—wild canids carrying rare red wolf ancestry thought to have been largely lost—this episode examines the science, the mystery, and the conservation implications behind these extraordinary animals. How did these wolf-like canids survive unnoticed for so long? Could their genetics help recover one of North America's most endangered predators? And what does the growing field of de-extinction mean for the future of wildlife conservation? Join Chester as he separates myth from reality while exploring a story where eyewitness reports, cutting-edge genetics, and conservation collide in ways few could have imagined. In This Episode: The science behind de-extinction Colossal Biosciences amazing dire wolf project The mystery of Galveston's Ghost Wolves Red wolf genetics and hybridization How local sightings led to a remarkable scientific discovery What this means for the future of wildlife conservation Sometimes the greatest mysteries of the outdoors aren't solved by folklore—they're solved by science. And sometimes, that truth is even more remarkable than the legend. Follow Dark Outdoors for more investigations into wildlife, true crime, conservation, history, and the unexplained—where the natural world meets mystery.

Did advanced technology play a role in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, or are investigators and online sleuths reading too much into the available evidence? In Part 2, Chester Moore and Daniel from the Drunk Turkey Show take a deeper dive into one of the most debated aspects of the case. The discussion explores digital evidence, cell phone technology, surveillance capabilities, location tracking, and other investigative tools that have fueled speculation that Nancy's disappearance may have involved someone using technology in ways few people considered at the time. The episode examines these ideas critically, separating documented facts from speculation while asking whether the "high-tech killer" theory deserves serious consideration. As always, Dark Outdoors follows the evidence rather than sensationalism. This episode is not about declaring guilt or promoting conspiracy theories—it's about examining difficult questions, evaluating the available information, and understanding why the Nancy Guthrie case continues to generate so much discussion years later. Special thanks to Daniel from the Drunk Turkey Show for lending his research and perspective to this investigation. You can find his channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@drunkturkeyshow 

Nancy Guthrie vanished in the remote Arizona desert, leaving behind a mystery that has captivated investigators, true crime followers, and independent researchers alike. In this first installment, Chester Moore is joined by Daniel from the Drunk Turkey Show for an in-depth look at the disappearance that sparked countless questions and theories. Together they examine who Nancy Guthrie was, the timeline leading up to her disappearance, the challenging terrain investigators faced, and why the isolation of the Arizona desert makes this case so uniquely difficult. They also explore how modern technology—from cell phones to digital evidence—has changed the way investigators approach missing persons cases, setting the stage for some of the more controversial questions surrounding Nancy's disappearance. Rather than rushing to conclusions, this episode focuses on the known facts, the environment where Nancy vanished, and the unanswered questions that continue to haunt the investigation. Understanding the landscape, the evidence, and the timeline is essential before examining the more controversial theories explored in Part 2. Special thanks to Daniel from the Drunk Turkey Show for joining this investigation. Check out his excellent true crime coverage on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drunkturkeyshow This investigation was so detailed that we broke it into two parts. Today we're looking at Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, the Arizona desert, and the role isolation and technology played in the investigation. On Tuesday, we'll examine the controversial 'high-tech killer' theory and whether the evidence supports it.  

In Part 2 of this powerful Dark Outdoors interview, Chester Moore continues his conversation with registered nurse Chris Carroll, whose life was forever changed after swimming toward a woman who had been attacked by a tiger shark in the Caribbean. After recounting the rescue attempt in Part 1, Chris reflects on what happened next—and how the experience reshaped his understanding of courage, fear, and the unpredictable power of the natural world. He shares the emotional aftermath of the attack, the lasting lessons it taught him, and why he believes ordinary people are capable of extraordinary acts when the moment demands it. The conversation also explores what Chris learned about shark attacks through firsthand experience, separating Hollywood myths from the reality of these rare but traumatic events. Rather than promoting fear, this discussion offers a thoughtful perspective on risk, human resilience, and respect for wildlife. In Part 2 you'll hear: The emotional impact of the rescue attempt after the emergency ended. What Chris learned about sharks and why these incidents are so complex. How the experience changed his outlook on life and helping others. Why courage isn't the absence of fear, but the decision to act despite it. The message Chris hopes listeners will take away from one of the most defining moments of his life. This is more than the conclusion of a shark attack story. It's a conversation about character, compassion, and the choices that reveal who we really are when everything is on the line.

A woman is screaming in the water. People on shore don't know what to do. Then one man makes a decision few ever would—he swims toward the danger. In this gripping first installment of a two-part Dark Outdoors interview, Chester Moore talks with registered nurse Chris Carroll, who found himself in the middle of a fatal tiger shark attack while vacationing in the Caribbean. What began as a relaxing day at the beach became a life-and-death emergency that tested his training, his instincts, and his courage. Chris shares, in remarkable detail, the moment he realized he wasn't responding to a drowning victim—but to someone who had just been attacked by a large shark. He recounts the terrifying swim, the rescue attempt, and the split-second decisions that unfolded in the water. This is not a sensationalized shark attack story. It's an honest conversation about courage, fear, and what drives someone to risk their own life to help another person. In Part 1 you'll hear: Chris Carroll's firsthand account of the attack and rescue attempt. The moment he realized a shark was involved. What was going through his mind as he swam toward the victim. How his experience as a nurse prepared him for an unimaginable situation. The lessons he learned from one of the most intense moments of his life. If you've ever wondered how an ordinary person responds when confronted with extraordinary danger, this is an interview you won't forget.

Could the largest shark that ever lived still be swimming our oceans? Scientists say the megalodon disappeared approximately 3.6 million years ago. Yet for more than a century, experienced fishermen, sailors, explorers, and divers have reported seeing sharks so enormous they defied explanation. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore investigates the enduring legend of the megalodon. From Zane Grey's famous encounter in the South Pacific to Australia's mysterious giant shark reports, the legend of Baja's "Black Demon," and other intriguing eyewitness accounts, we separate documented history from maritime myth. But if these witnesses weren't seeing a living megalodon...what were they seeing? Chester explores the remarkable reality of giant great white sharks, including the legendary catches of Frank Mundus and the famous Deep Blue, along with whale sharks, basking sharks, and the surprising discovery of the megamouth shark—a species science didn't even know existed until 1976. Follow Dark Outdoors for more investigations into wildlife, true crime, history, conservation, and the unexplained where the natural world meets mystery.

Flash floods are among the deadliest hazards in the outdoors—and they can develop in minutes, often with little warning. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore welcomes Dr. Tracy Fanara of Inspector Planet to discuss the devastating Texas Hill Country floods and, more importantly, the life-saving lessons every outdoorsman, hiker, camper, angler, and traveler should know. Drawing on the recent Texas disaster, Dr. Fanara explains how flash floods form, why some landscapes are especially vulnerable, and how changing weather patterns are increasing the risk of these dangerous events in many parts of the country. You'll learn: Why flash floods are so deadly. How to recognize conditions that can quickly become dangerous. Common mistakes people make around floodwaters. What hunters, hikers, campers, anglers, and off-road enthusiasts should watch for before heading outdoors. Practical safety strategies that could save your life or the life of someone you love. Whether you spend your weekends deep in the backcountry or simply enjoy the outdoors close to home, this conversation will help you better understand one of nature's fastest-moving and most underestimated dangers.  

Most people assume the greatest dangers in the outdoors come from bears, sharks, snakes, or other wild animals. After spending decades exploring remote forests, marshes, islands, and backcountry across America, I've learned something different. Sometimes the most unsettling encounters don't involve wildlife at all. In this deeply personal episode of Dark Outdoors, I share five true stories from my years in the field—encounters that reminded me the wilderness isn't always as empty as it seems. From discovering a bizarre hunting blind unlike anything I've ever seen, to mysterious infrared lights deep in the woods, an unsettling late-night encounter at an Arkansas boat ramp, finding myself surrounded by armed strangers on a remote island, and stumbling onto an active meth lab in the middle of nowhere, each experience taught me an important lesson about awareness, instinct, and reading what I call human sign. Outdoorsmen spend years learning to read animal tracks, trails, and behavior. But sometimes it's the signs left by people that tell the most important story. These aren't ghost stories. They aren't urban legends. They're true experiences that changed the way I approach remote places—and may change the way you think about them too.  

Twenty-four years ago, four-year-old Dannarriah Finley disappeared from her home in Orange, Texas. Three days later, her body was found on a remote stretch of marshland near Pleasure Island in Port Arthur. Despite decades of investigation, the case remains unsolved. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, award-winning wildlife journalist and conservation communicator Chester Moore examines one of Southeast Texas' most heartbreaking cold cases through the lens of the outdoors. From the role remote landscapes sometimes play in criminal investigations to advances in DNA technology that continue to give investigators hope, this episode explores why this case still matters today. Moore also shares his personal connection to Pleasure Island, a place he's fished since childhood, and discusses how hunters, anglers, birders, and other outdoor enthusiasts can unknowingly become important witnesses simply by paying attention to their surroundings. If someone listening remembers something—no matter how insignificant it may seem—it could help bring answers to a family that has waited more than two decades for justice. If you have information about the murder of Dannarriah Finley, contact the Orange Police Department, the Texas Rangers, or Crime Stoppers at 800-252-TIPS (8477).

As concerns grow over the northward movement of the New World screwworm, one of the most important lessons comes from an outbreak that occurred nearly a decade ago in the Florida Keys. In 2016, the flesh-eating parasite struck the endangered Key deer, threatening one of America's most unique wildlife populations. What followed was a remarkable response involving wildlife biologists, veterinarians, entomologists, and conservation agencies working together to stop the outbreak before it spread further. The outbreak ultimately killed roughly 15% of the Key deer population, but it was successfully contained and eradicated through an intensive, coordinated effort. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, host Chester Moore talks with Dr. Roel Lopez, Director of the Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute and one of the scientists who worked on the Key deer screwworm response. Dr. Lopez shares what happened on the ground during the crisis, how researchers monitored the endangered deer herd, what was learned from the outbreak, and why those lessons remain relevant as wildlife and livestock managers prepare for today's screwworm challenges. This is the story of an endangered deer, a devastating parasite, and a conservation effort that offers valuable insight into one of the most important wildlife health issues facing North America today.

In this episode of Dark Outdoors, we sit down with legendary African safari guide and wildlife expert Dave Fulson of Safari Classics and Facts Across Africa to explore some of the continent’s most intense and unforgettable snake encounters. From heart-pounding close calls with the infamous black mamba—Africa’s fastest and most feared venomous snake—to dangerous encounters with well-camouflaged puff adders and other deadly reptiles, Dave shares firsthand stories from decades spent in the African bush. Join us for an eye-opening conversation filled with adventure, survival, natural history, and respect for the wild places that make Africa unlike anywhere else on Earth.  

Few wildlife threats are as horrifying—or as potentially devastating—as the New World screwworm. Today on Dark Outdoors, we're taking a deep dive into a parasite that eats living flesh—and it's no longer a problem confined to the history books. The New World screwworm is in Texas, it is spreading, and wildlife professionals, ranchers, hunters, and animal health experts are sounding the alarm. Joining me is legendary wildlife biologist Larry Wyzun, known throughout the hunting and conservation world as "Mr. Whitetail." Larry is one of America's most respected deer experts and one of the foremost authorities on whitetail deer biology in the world. What makes Larry's perspective especially important is that he witnessed the original screwworm crisis firsthand. Early in his career, he saw the devastating effects this flesh-eating parasite had on wildlife and livestock before America achieved one of the greatest animal health victories in history by eradicating it from the United States. Now, decades later, screwworm has returned as a growing threat. As it spreads, concerns are mounting about the impact on whitetail deer, endangered species, livestock, pets, and rural communities. The consequences could reach far beyond individual animals, affecting wildlife management, conservation efforts, agriculture, and hunting traditions across America. Many experts view the New World screwworm as the most significant wildlife health threat our nation has faced in the last half-century. Unlike many diseases that weaken animals over time, screwworm larvae consume living tissue, creating horrific wounds that can ultimately lead to death if left untreated. In this episode, "Mr. Whitetail" Larry Weishuhn, a globally renown wildlife biologist shares firsthand memories from the battle against screwworm decades ago, explains why this parasite is so dangerous, and offers his expert insight into what its spread means for the future of America's wildlife. This is Dark Outdoors. I'm Chester Moore, and today we're examining what may be the greatest threat to American wildlife in 50 years—the return of the New World screwworm.

Nearly 51 years after Jaws changed movie history and forever altered the way people viewed sharks, Chester Moore sits down with Jeffrey Voorhees, the actor who portrayed Alex Kintner, the young boy whose shocking death scene became one of the most unforgettable moments in cinematic history. In this special episode of Dark Outdoors®, Jeffrey shares memories from the set of Jaws, discusses the legacy of the film, and reflects on being forever connected to one of the most famous shark attacks ever depicted on screen. From the iconic yellow raft scene to the cultural impact of Jaws on public perceptions of sharks, this fascinating conversation explores the intersection of film, fear, and the natural world. How did one movie create a generation afraid to enter the ocean? What was it like to be at the center of one of the most memorable scenes in movie history? And how does Jeffrey Voorhees view the legacy of Jaws nearly five decades later? Join Chester Moore for an exclusive interview with the real Alex Kintner. Keywords: Jaws, Alex Kintner, Jeffrey Voorhees, shark attack movie, Jaws 50th anniversary, shark conservation, great white sharks, Steven Spielberg, Amity Island, ocean fear, shark movies, Dark Outdoors podcast.

Deep in the California redwoods, beneath a towering owl statue hidden among the trees, robed figures gather around firelight as chants echo through the darkness. For decades, Bohemian Grove has fueled rumors involving secret ceremonies, elite power, occult symbolism, and hidden rituals far from public view. But what if scenes like this are not isolated? In this unsettling episode of Dark Outdoors®, Chester Moore investigates disturbing similarities between the mysterious rituals of Bohemian Grove and terrifying firsthand encounters reported deep in remote wilderness areas. Witnesses describe hooded figures gathered around fires… strange nighttime ceremonies…and mysterious leaders dressed in red standing at the center while others watch from the darkness. The episode also explores the ancient symbolism of the owl across cultures, from Mesoamerican beliefs surrounding death and sorcery to the owl’s modern role in secretive ceremonial traditions. Are these merely recurring symbols rooted in human psychology and ancient mythology? Or do the stories point toward something darker hidden deep in the outdoors? From elite gatherings beneath giant owls to terrifying encounters in isolated forests, this episode examines the mystery, fear, and symbolism surrounding one of the strangest recurring images in Dark Outdoors history: the hooded figures in the wilderness.

In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, we explore the frightening reality of digital stalking, GPS tracking, location sharing, and how smartphones, apps, social media, and outdoor tech can expose campers, hikers, hunters, and travelers to real-world danger in remote areas. From trailheads and campsites to isolated backroads and deep forests, modern technology can reveal far more about your location and movements than most people realize. We examine how predators, criminals, stalkers, and opportunists may exploit digital footprints in the outdoors — and how outdoor enthusiasts can better protect themselves. If you enjoy true crime, wilderness mysteries, survival stories, outdoor safety, and dark explorations of modern threats, this episode of Dark Outdoors is for you. Topics include: GPS tracking dangers Digital stalking Camping and hiking safety Smartphone privacy risks Trailhead security Outdoor survival awareness Wilderness crime prevention Remote area safety Because sometimes the greatest danger in the woods… is already connected to you.

Are jaguars really being secretly released into Texas… or is the internet being flooded with AI-generated wildlife hoaxes? In this episode of Dark Outdoors, Chester Moore dives deep into the viral rumors, fake predator stories, AI-generated wildlife content, and online fear campaigns spreading across social media. From bogus jaguar release conspiracies in South Texas to fake trail camera images and AI-powered Facebook bot pages, this episode explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping public perception of predators and damaging real wildlife conservation. Discover how AI-generated misinformation spreads online, why predator fear stories go viral, and how fake wildlife news affects real jaguar conservation efforts in Texas and beyond. Chester breaks down the rise of AI wildlife hoaxes, social media engagement farming, automated bot accounts, and the dangerous consequences of sensationalized predator content. Topics include: Jaguars in Texas AI-generated wildlife hoaxes Fake predator sightings Social media misinformation Wildlife conservation Texas jaguar history AI bot networks Viral wildlife conspiracy theories Fear-based media Dark Outdoors investigations As AI-generated content becomes harder to distinguish from reality, one question remains: Are people losing their ability to tell the difference between real wildlife and manufactured fear? #DarkOutdoors #Jaguars #TexasWildlife #AI #WildlifeConservation

Cocaine sharks are real! In this interview, environmental engineer and science communicator Dr. Tracy Fanara explains what scientists are actually discovering about sharks, pharmaceuticals in the ocean, and how chemical exposure could be affecting marine life. From trace contaminants in coastal waters to broader questions about water quality, we explore how human activity is changing ocean ecosystems—and what that could mean for sharks, fish, and other wildlife. How do substances like pharmaceuticals—and even drugs—end up in the ocean? What impact can they have on marine animals? And are these changes something new, or something we’re only just beginning to detect? This conversation goes beyond the viral idea of “cocaine sharks” to look at the real science behind pollution, behavior, and the future of ocean life.

Deep in the dark waters of Texas, stories still surface about giant garfish lurking beneath the current. Recently, a viral social media graphic exploded online claiming a massive 12-foot alligator gar made an unbelievable journey up the Trinity River — igniting debate, fear, and fascination across the internet. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, I dig into the real story behind the viral image and track down answers directly from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. To verify the claims, I contacted TPWD’s media branch personally. According to TPWD media representative Kirk McDonnell, the department consulted Inland Fisheries biologists about the photo and the incredible claims attached to it. What they revealed may surprise you. But this episode goes far beyond internet rumors. I also share a firsthand account of a terrifying gar encounter that nearly turned deadly. What started as a normal outing became one of the most intense and unsettling wildlife encounters I’ve ever experienced and it was my fault. But it did involve a big gar! Are giant gar legends exaggerated folklore… or is there something bigger moving through Texas waters than most people realize? Watch now as we separate fact from fiction, investigate the viral “12-foot garfish” claim, and dive into one of the strangest encounters ever featured on Dark Outdoors. #DarkOutdoors #AlligatorGar #TexasMysteries #RiverMonsters #Cryptid #Fishing #Wildlife #OutdoorStories #Texas #Garfish #MonsterFish

In light of the growing public interest surrounding UFO disclosure, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs), and recent government revelations involving military encounters and unexplained objects, Dark Outdoors® is releasing a special exclusive mini-episode featuring a never-before-heard eyewitness interview from far offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. In this brief but chilling conversation, an offshore fisherman recounts a stunning nighttime encounter that took place more than 100 miles off the Texas coast. Alone in deep Gulf waters under dark skies, the witness describes unexplained lights and strange aerial activity unlike anything he had ever seen at sea. As congressional hearings, military footage, and declassified reports continue to fuel worldwide discussion about UAPs and unexplained phenomena, this exclusive testimony offers a rare firsthand account from one of the most isolated environments imaginable — far offshore in the Gulf at night. This Dark Outdoors® Exclusive explores the intersection of mystery, eyewitness testimony, offshore life, and the unknown, bringing listeners a real-world account tied to one of the most talked-about subjects in modern history. #UFO #UAP #UFODisclosure #TexasCoast #GulfOfMexico #OffshoreFishing #DarkOutdoors #UFOFilesUnsealed #AlienEncounter #EyewitnessTestimony #GovernmentDisclosure #UnexplainedMysteries #ParanormalPodcast #UFOInvestigation #MysteryPodcast

In this episode of Dark Outdoors, I look into reports of sea snakes—like highly venomous banded sea kraits—being spotted in the Gulf, far outside their natural range. After going through the available records and research, one thing is clear: there are no verified reports of true sea snakes in the Gulf of Mexico. But sightings still happen. This episode focuses on the research I’ve done into those claims, why they keep coming up, and what might actually be behind them.

There are stories from places like Haiti about people who were buried… and then seen again—walking through fields, along tree lines, and out on empty roads. Not dead. But not fully there. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, we take a look at the real idea of zombification—where it comes from, the documented case of Clairvius Narcisse, and how similar encounters are still happening today. From rural Haiti to modern America, there are reports of individuals found wandering in strange, disconnected states—moving without awareness, not responding, and behaving in ways that feel deeply unsettling in the moment. Whether it’s culture, chemistry, or something we don’t fully understand, the image remains the same. A person in the distance… walking… and something about them just isn’t right. If you spend enough time out in the woods, on backroads, or far from everything familiar… you might understand why these stories never really go away.

In this Dark Outdoors mini episode, we step into the shadowy intersection of wilderness and human predators. Joined by Stephen G. Michaud, co-author of The Only Living Witness and Ted Bundy: Conversations with a Killer, we examine how Ted Bundy and other killers exploited false injuries, manufactured helplessness, and social trust to lure victims—and why those same tactics become even more dangerous in the woods. Away from crowds and witnesses, trails and campsites offer predators distance, silence, and plausible deniability. This episode explores killer psychology, deception in outdoor spaces, and how moments meant for solitude can turn threatening without warning. Dark, eerie, and rooted in real conversations with a killer, this Dark Outdoors mini episode will change how you think about helping strangers—and what might be watching from just off the trail.

In this chilling episode of Far Dark Outdoors, we dive deep into the disturbing true crime case of Israel Keyes, one of the most calculating and methodical serial killers in modern American history. Known for his meticulous planning, hidden “kill kits,” and ability to blend into everyday life, Keyes exploited remote wilderness areas, highways, and outdoor recreation spaces to commit his crimes—and to evade law enforcement for years. This episode explores how Israel Keyes used the outdoors as both a hunting ground and a hiding place, targeting victims across multiple states while leaving almost no forensic evidence behind. We break down his background, psychology, travel patterns, and the role that isolation, camping culture, and remote landscapes played in his crimes. From national parks to quiet roadside stops, no place felt truly safe. Listeners will learn about Keyes’ methods, his eventual capture, and the haunting confessions that followed—confessions that revealed how many questions still remain unanswered. This episode is a must-listen for fans of true crime podcasts, serial killer documentaries, unsolved mysteries, and dark outdoor survival stories. Topics covered: Israel Keyes’ kill kits and long-term planning How wilderness and remote locations enabled his crimes Psychological profile and behavioral patterns If you’re fascinated by true crime, serial killers, missing persons cases, and the dark side of the outdoors, this episode of Far Dark Outdoors will stay with you long after the final moment.

Ghost ships are not myths. They are real vessels—found drifting without crews, washed ashore on remote coastlines, or discovered floating silently in open water with no clear explanation of how they got there. This begins a five episode run of mini-episodes before the next big season of deep dives into outdoors dangers and mysteries. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, we explore the true stories behind ghost ships, abandoned boats, and mysterious vessels encountered by fishermen, sailors, and coast guards around the world. From derelict trawlers that appear without distress calls, to modern ships found intact but empty, these maritime mysteries reveal how quickly the ocean can erase human presence. We dive into real-world cases of abandoned ships at sea, theories behind missing crews, and the unsettling reality of encountering a silent vessel offshore—no lights, no radio response, and no signs of life. We also examine how weather, piracy, smuggling routes, and human error contribute to the growing number of ghost ships discovered each year. Dark Outdoors blends outdoor storytelling, maritime history, and atmospheric documentary-style narration to explore the darker side of life on the water—where isolation, silence, and vast distances turn ordinary vessels into something deeply unsettling. If you’re fascinated by ghost ships, maritime mysteries, abandoned vessels, or unexplained encounters at sea, this episode explores why some boats are never meant to be found—and why others drift until someone stumbles across them by accident.

For decades, people across Texas and the Southwest have reported strange hairless creatures attacking livestock — animals many claimed were the legendary Chupacabra. But the real explanation is far stranger, and far more disturbing, than most people realize. Plus, you'll hear about the night he was charged by a "chupacabra". In this Dark Outdoors investigation, Chester Moore breaks down the true wildlife science behind “Chupacabra” sightings and shows how coyotes, foxes, raccoons and even bears suffering from severe mange can transform into nightmarish creatures.

When 24-year-old Shannan Gilbert vanished into the pitch-black marshland of Oak Beach in 2010, no one knew her disappearance would open a corridor of horror stretching miles along Long Island’s desolate barrier islands. While police searched the reeds for one missing woman, cadaver dogs led them to something far worse—multiple bodies hidden in the dunes, placed where the darkness itself seemed to protect the killer. In this episode of Dark Outdoors, we travel deep into the windswept emptiness of Ocean Parkway, the cold marshes, and the shifting sands of Gilgo Beach. We explore how the terrain became the killer’s camouflage and how the man now charged, Rex Heuermann, was once described by a key witness as an “ogre-like” figure stalking the night. Prosecutors say he nurtured a predatory mindset—seeing himself not just as a murderer, but as a hunter. From Shannan’s haunting 911 call to the cadaver dogs who “heard the dead,” from the eerie witness descriptions to the final unraveling of a man who believed the wilderness would hide him forever, this is the story of a landscape that concealed unspeakable secrets… until the darkness turned on the predator himself. The wild can hide many things. But not forever.

Author and researcher Lyle Blackburn joins the program again and we give a detailed behind the scenes look at the new documentary Wild Men: The Search for Feral Humans & Lost Tribes that details reports of primitve people in East Texas in areas of the Trinity Triangle. This is our second show on this topic but now with fresh reports and new insight. Watch the new documentary and subscribe to Chester Moore's YouTube channel here.    

It’s our annual Halloween Monster Special! Lyle Blackburn returns to Dark Outdoors to dive into the legends of Momo, the Lizard Man, and the Lake Worth Monster in this chilling cryptid deep dive. In this special Halloween edition of the Dark Outdoors podcast, we welcome back Lyle Blackburn—renowned cryptozoologist, author, and monster hunter—for our Annual Monster Episode. This time, we're plunging deep into the chilling backwoods lore of Momo the Missouri Monster, the swamp-dwelling Lizard Man of Scape Ore Swamp, and Texas’s own Lake Worth Monster. These aren’t your average urban legends. These regional cryptids have sparked mass hysteria, eyewitness encounters, and intense investigations. Lyle unpacks the folklore, historical sightings, and what makes each of these monsters so unique in the world of American cryptozoology. Whether you're a lifelong believer or a curious skeptic, this episode will make you think twice before heading out into the woods after dark... 🔍 Topics Covered: Origins and sightings of Momo in 1970s Missouri The strange case of the Lizard Man of South Carolina How the Lake Worth Monster terrorized North Texas Cultural impact and media coverage of these cryptids What these legends say about human fear, folklore, and the wilderness 💀 Perfect for fans of: Cryptids, Bigfoot, Halloween podcasts, folklore, Lyle Blackburn, The Legend of Boggy Creek, paranormal investigation, backwoods horror, and creepy creature encounters. 📌 Don’t miss this spine-tingling journey into the darker corners of the outdoors… because in the wild, you’re never really alone.

Mysterious lights flicker through the woods of Bragg Road and the Louisiana fields — are they swamp gas, headlights, or something not of this world? The 13 Days of Dark Outdoors begins where science and the supernatural collide. They’ve appeared for generations — glowing orbs floating above the dirt roads and swamps of East Texas and Louisiana. Some say they’re lanterns carried by the dead. Others swear it’s nothing more than chemistry in the dark: methane gas, refracted headlights, or static electricity. In this kickoff to 13 Days of Dark Outdoors, we travel from Bragg Road in the Big Thicket to Fields, La. chasing the mysterious “ghost lights” that have haunted both states for decades. Along the way, we talk to locals, dig into folklore, and explore the science that tries to explain the unexplainable. Is it superstition, optical illusion… or proof that some mysteries still live out there in the dark?

What if America’s wilderness hides a predator science won’t acknowledge? In this episode of Dark Outdoors®, author Michael Mayes—known for his work Shadow Cats—joins us to dig into the controversial and chilling reports of black panthers roaming across the U.S. For decades, eyewitnesses from Texas to the Appalachians have sworn they’ve seen something impossible: massive black panthers prowling the woods, stalking farmlands, and vanishing into the shadows. Yet, mainstream science insists such creatures don’t exist in North America. In this thought-provoking episode of Dark Outdoors, we sit down with author and researcher Michael Mayes to explore the mystery at the heart of his book Shadow Cats. Together, we examine chilling accounts, folklore, and the deep cultural roots of black panther sightings. Are these elusive predators a product of myth, mass misidentification, or could there be something truly hidden in America’s wild places? Expect a conversation that pushes beyond campfire tales—diving into history, biology, and the unsettling implications of predators that may walk unseen. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this is one episode that will make you think twice the next time you walk into the woods after dark. Are they black mountain lions - black cougars? Are they black jaguars? Are they jaguarundi? Are they escaped exotics? What about the mysterious black longtail? Take a deep dive on black panthers with us.

A family hike turned into a fight for survival when a father, his wife, their toddler, and infant daughter came face-to-face with a mountain lion. Dark Outdoors dives deep into the wilderness dangers that most people never see coming. On this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors, we recount the terrifying true story of a family’s dangerous encounter with a mountain lion. What began as an ordinary hike quickly spiraled into a life-or-death struggle when a father, hiking with his wife, three-year-old son, and infant daughter strapped to his chest, came face-to-face with one of nature’s most feared predators. Listeners will hear how this quiet day on the trail turned into a desperate fight for survival. With his young children and wife at risk, every decision mattered. The father’s quick thinking, protective instincts, and raw courage kept his family alive against all odds. This episode goes beyond the story itself, exploring the realities of mountain lion behavior, how families can prepare for dangerous wildlife encounters, and what survival experts recommend if you ever come face-to-face with a predator in the wild. What you’ll learn in this episode: A firsthand account of a family’s mountain lion encounter on the trail. How a father protected his wife, toddler, and infant from a deadly threat. Survival insights and safety tips for hikers and families in mountain lion country. The hidden dangers of hiking with young children — and how to prepare. If you’re fascinated by true survival stories, wildlife encounters, and the resilience of the human spirit, this episode will keep you on the edge of your seat.  

Were U.S. soldiers in Vietnam battling only human enemies—or were they also encountering undiscovered apes in the jungle? Author RC Bramhall joins Dark Outdoors to reveal the terrifying legend of the Rock Apes. Were U.S. soldiers in the Vietnam War facing more than just human enemies? Many veterans swore they encountered Bigfoot-like creatures, known as the “Rock Apes,” while fighting in the dense jungles of Southeast Asia. On this episode of Dark Outdoors, RC Bramhall, author of Haunted War Tales, joins Chester Moore to share chilling stories of these bipedal, ape-like beings and the battles that ensued. Blending military history, cryptid lore, and firsthand soldier accounts, Bramhall explores whether these encounters were stress-induced hallucinations or genuine brushes with an undiscovered primate. If you’re drawn to the eerie crossroads of war stories, wilderness mysteries, and the legend of Bigfoot, this episode is one you can’t miss.

Join us on Dark Outdoors® for an unforgettable conversation with Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Mike R. Vining—explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) pioneer and Delta Force operative—and his wife, acclaimed wildlife photographer and author Donna Ikenberry. Married atop Mauna Kea in 1999 after Mike’s decorated 30‑year military career (including Vietnam, Eagle Claw, Desert Storm, and more) Donna has since published over a thousand images, guidebooks, and magazine articles from nearly every continent Donna Ikenberry Photography.  In this episode we explore: Top strategies for staying safe in remote terrains—from avalanche zones to wildlife territory. How Donna approaches storytelling through photography in unpredictable environments. Lessons Mike has learned from decades of military and outdoor leadership: situational awareness, risk assessment, and self-reliance. Tips for adventure couples: teamwork, planning, resilience—and capturing moments worth preserving. Tune in for a uniquely dynamic pairing: military precision meets nature’s art—illuminated by humor, hard-earned wisdom, and couple‑led courage in the wild.    

In this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors, we investigate the heartbreaking double homicide that has shaken Arkansas and the hiking community nationwide. On July 26, 2025, Clinton and Cristen Brink were brutally murdered while hiking with their two young daughters at Devil’s Den State Park—a place known for peace and natural beauty, now marked by violence and fear. We dive deep into: The latest updates from Arkansas State Police and the FBI-led manhunt for a still-unidentified suspect. The composite sketch and vehicle description released to the public. How the Brinks died protecting their daughters, who miraculously survived the attack. The timeline of events, the 6-hour delay in public alerting, and the investigative challenges posed by rural terrain and limited cell service. A chilling pattern of trail and park-related murders across North America, from the Appalachian Trail to remote campsites in Oregon and Canada. How we can balance our love for the outdoors with realistic safety strategies. This episode is a powerful reminder that wilderness crimes are not just urban legends—they’re happening now, in places we trust. With true crime insight, emotional storytelling, and expert analysis, we bring you the full scope of this ongoing tragedy and the broader implications for hikers, families, and nature lovers.

From Texas pastures to Nevada ranches, horses are turning up shot, mutilated, and poisoned—and the killers are still at large. Chester Moore investigates this chilling, underreported crime wave and what it means for ranchers and outdoor enthusiasts. In this gripping episode of Dark Outdoors, host Chester Moore uncovers a chilling and ongoing mystery across Texas and beyond: horses being found shot, mutilated, or poisoned in a string of brutal, unexplained attacks. From Kendall, Waller, Bexar, and Smith Counties in Texas to ranches near Las Vegas, Nevada, horses are being executed in pastures, dumped in brush, or tied up and shot at point-blank range. Authorities have few leads—and the killers remain free. This episode examines: Whether these killings are tied to the illegal horse meat trade, ritualistic activity, or thrill killers Exclusive insights from Higher Calling Wildlife’s investigative reports Why the pattern may represent one of the most underreported animal cruelty crime waves in the U.S. If you’re a rancher, horse owner, or outdoor enthusiast, you won’t want to miss this deep dive into a crime wave spreading fear and silence across rural communities.

Jaws terrified moviegoers and changed how we see the ocean—but the fear didn’t end on screen. Chester Moore explores the real shark attacks, behind-the-scenes chaos, and decades of shark persecution sparked by Spielberg’s masterpiece. Beneath the surface of Hollywood’s most iconic ocean thriller lies a deeper, darker truth. In this chilling episode of Dark Outdoors, we journey into the murky waters behind the making of Jaws—a film that forever altered public perception of the sea and its apex predator. But the terror didn’t stay confined to the screen. We dive into: Real-life great white shark attacks that fueled lasting fear How Steven Spielberg’s cinematic masterpiece triggered decades of shark persecution, misinformation, and ecological imbalance Behind-the-scenes stories of chaos, mechanical monsters, and production nightmares The cultural fallout that left both sharks and oceans misunderstood From blood-soaked beaches to the legacy of misunderstood killers, this is the untold story of fear, fiction, and fallout.

From Murder Mountain to grow ops, Chester Moore reveals chilling encounters in the wild—traffickers, killers, attack dogs, and survival stories that prove the outdoors can turn deadly without warning. Encountering an illegal grow or trafficking operation is one of the most dangerous threats in the great outdoors—and in this shocking episode of Dark Outdoors, we share terrifying real-life accounts. You’ll hear stories of: A savage trained killer dog unleashed on a hiker who stumbled onto a grow site The infamous “Murder Mountain” and its deadly legacy, made famous by the Netflix series A serial killer who turned himself in carrying a human breast in a bag A hunter held at gunpoint on a deer lease after crossing the wrong path A special defense and safety segment with Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County, Florida These chilling accounts expose the hidden dangers lurking where crime and wilderness collide—and why every outdoor enthusiast should take precautions.

Chester Moore unravels a bizarre case that begins with a man posing as a woman to poach deer in a city park—and spirals into a shadowy world of wildlife trafficking, exotic animal cloning, and black-market “Frankensheep.” In this unusual episode of Dark Outdoors, we uncover one of the strangest wildlife crime stories ever told. It begins with a man posing as a woman to gain illegal access to a city park—and its vulnerable deer population. But what starts as a bizarre poaching scheme quickly spirals into something far darker: A hidden web of wildlife trafficking and exotic animal cloning Shocking connections to the black-market trade of Marco Polo sheep The creation of “Frankensheep hybrids” for high-stakes deals in the underground animal trade Join us as we follow the trail from urban deer blinds to the global black market, exposing a story where greed, cloning, and poaching collide in the darkest corners of the outdoors.