Wildlife Quests

In this episode, we sit down with Nate Wilbourne, one of New Zealand’s most passionate young conservationists, to talk all things wildlife. From bird relocation projects to predator trapping, Nate shares his experiences working hands on in conservation across Aotearoa. We explore the challenges of protecting native species, the success stories that give hope, and how community led efforts are shaping the future of NZ’s unique ecosystems. Learn more about Nate and his work here:https://www.natewilbourne.com/https://www.forestandbird.org.nz/Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, we’re joined by Richard Pearce, founder of Bushido Japan and passionate conservationist, to uncover the mysterious world of the Japanese giant salamander one of the world’s largest and most elusive amphibians.Richard shares how he became involved with this ancient species, what makes it so unique, and the cultural and ecological importance it holds in Japan. From tranquil mountain streams to centuries-old legends, this episode explores the intersection of wildlife conservation, Japanese heritage, and the urgent need to protect a creature that has survived for over 30 million years but now faces an uncertain future.We also dive into Richard’s life in rural Japan, the challenges of working with endangered species, and how Bushido values influence his conservation efforts.Whether you're a nature lover, herpetology fan, or just curious about the wilder side of Japan, this is a conversation not to miss.Episode links: https://www.bushidojapan.com/Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, we dive into the cutting-edge science behind one of the most ambitious conservation experiments in history: the effort to bring back the giant moa. From ancient DNA and CRISPR technology to emu surrogates and artificial egg environments, William explores how scientists including those at Colossal Biosciences are rewriting extinction.But this isn't just science fiction. We unpack what this means for modern biodiversity, Indigenous collaboration, and ethical conservation, with reflections on how resurrection tech could benefit endangered species like the kākāpō and Māui dolphin today.Topics covered include:·        How moa DNA is extracted from fossils and feathers·        Why cloning birds is so complex and how researchers are working around it·        The role of emu surrogates and AI modeling·        What moa de-extinction could teach us about saving species before they vanishThis episode blends awe-inspiring science with grounded conservation insight, asking: What do we owe the extinct? And how can their legacy guide us forward?Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

Life on Ice: Jean Pennycook on Living and Researching in Antarctica In this fascinating episode, I sit down with Jean Pennycook, a scientist and educator who has spent over two decades living and working in the icy wilderness of Antarctica. Jean shares what it’s like to sleep in a tent on the frozen continent, conduct penguin research in extreme conditions, and witness some of Earth’s most extraordinary wildlife up close. From the daily routines of survival in sub-zero temperatures to the breathtaking beauty of the polar landscape, Jean offers a rare, first-hand look at life and science at the end of the world.🔗 Learn more about Jean Pennycook: WikipediaFollow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, I’m joined by renowned Alaskan wildlife photographer Tom Walker, whose powerful images have brought the raw beauty of the north into homes around the world. We dive deep into what it truly takes to capture Alaska’s untamed landscapes and elusive animals from frigid nights spent alone in a photo blind to heart pounding encounters with bears. Tom shares unforgettable stories from the field, the patience and persistence behind every frame, and the quiet, magical moments that nature sometimes offers to those willing to wait. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this conversation offers a rare glimpse behind the lens of a true wilderness storyteller.🔗 View Tom's work: tomwalkerphotography.comFollow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, I take you deep into the heart of Sumatra, starting from the jungle village of Bukit Lawang a gateway to the vast Gunung Leuser National Park, one of Southeast Asia’s last true wildernesses. Trekking through dense rainforest, I encountered wild orangutans, swinging gibbons, and even bioluminescent millipedes lighting up the jungle floor at night. I camped on the edge of a jungle river, surrounded by the sounds of the wild, and spent time in the village connecting with locals sharing laughter, music, and late night jam sessions with guitars and dancing.This is a story of raw nature, wildlife encounters, and the rich human spirit found deep in the Sumatran jungle.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, I sit down with Seth Kantner, acclaimed author, subsistence hunter, and lifelong Alaskan who grew up in a sod igloo on the remote tundra of Arctic Alaska. We dive into what it was really like to be raised off the grid hauling water, hunting for food, and living in deep connection with the land and its rhythms.Seth shares vivid stories from his wild upbringing among the Inupiat people, his deep respect for caribou and Arctic wildlife, and the challenges of balancing tradition with the modern world. We talk about hunting not just as survival, but as a way of life and what it means to live in a place where winter lasts nine months and the sun doesn't rise for weeks.From gritty survival to lyrical storytelling, this conversation is a rare glimpse into a disappearing world one Seth has spent his life living, preserving, and writing about.Show links:Seth's website: https://www.sethkantner.com/Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

Guinness World Record holder Erden Eruç joins me to talk about rowing solo across three oceans, cycling across continents, and what it means to live a life of human powered exploration. An unforgettable story of determination and discovery.You can see the list of world records Erden hold here: https://www.erdeneruc.com/world-recordsFollow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, I take you deep into one of the most remote and raw corners of Indonesia Lumarara, a traditional whale hunting village on the island of Lembata.After a motorbike journey spanning over 1,800 km, ferries between islands, language barriers, and sleeping in strangers’ homes, I finally reached this elusive coastal village known for its ancient whaling traditions.From arriving with no plan, to being welcomed with strange gifts and sharing coffee with locals beneath trees hung with shark fins, this story is as real as it gets. I share what I saw, how I felt witnessing manta rays and a whale shark being brought in, and the tension between cultural heritage and modern conservation.Unfiltered. Personal. Eye-opening. This is the side of travel most people never see.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In one of the wettest regions on Earth Meghalaya, India a remarkable tradition thrives: bridges made not from steel or stone, but from the living roots of rubber fig trees. In this episode, I speak with Morningstar Khongthaw, founder of the Living Bridge Foundation, to learn how these extraordinary living structures are created, maintained, and passed down through generations. With over 130 bridges still standing some dating back 500 years Morningstar shares the cultural significance, ecological value, and the need to protect these natural marvels. We also dive into his personal journey, including the moment he saved a sacred tree destined to be chopped down.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this solo episode, I share my raw, real story of how I stumbled into the mysterious and beautiful world of the pearling industry. From having no clue about oysters to spawning them by hand, I take you on my journey to Beagle Bay a remote Aboriginal community two hours north of Broome, Western Australia  where I lived and worked for eight months on private land.I talk about the unexpected path that led me there, the gritty life in a hatchery, unforgettable moments at sea aboard a pearling ship with Clipper Pearls, and the wild freedom of fishing in untouched waters. It's a story about saying yes to the unknown, learning fast, and finding adventure in the most remote corners of Australia.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

Dive into the untold story of Keiko, the beloved orca who captured the world’s heart in Free Willy. Join me as I sit down with environmentalist and wildlife filmmaker Karla, along with musician and director Theresa, to uncover the real life journey of Keiko beyond the Hollywood spotlight. This episode explores the truth behind his captivity, the efforts to return him to the wild, and the powerful documentary Keiko: The Untold Story, which shines a light on his legacy. If you’ve ever wondered what really happened to Keiko or questioned the ethics of marine captivity this is a must listen.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this episode, we sit down with Christine Rose founder and chair of Māui and Hector’s Dolphin Defenders to explore her remarkable three decade journey protecting two of the world’s rarest marine mammals. Christine shares powerful stories from her encounters with these elusive dolphins, both from the shoreline and at sea, and discusses what first sparked her passion for their protection.We unpack the serious threats these dolphins face from fishing bycatch to habitat degradation and why every New Zealander should care about their survival. With fewer than 60 Māui dolphins left, this is a conversation about urgency, hope, and what it means to become a lifelong guardian of our oceans.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Leif Cocks renowned primatologist and founder of The Orangutan Project. We explore Leif’s remarkable journey from zookeeper to one of the world’s most vocal advocates for orangutan conservation. Leif shares what inspired him to dedicate his life to protecting great apes, the early challenges of establishing The Orangutan Project, and the complex realities of working on the front lines of wildlife conservation.We dive into the threats facing orangutans today from poaching and habitat loss to the dark underbelly of the illegal wildlife trade and black markets. Leif’s insights are raw, eye opening, and deeply moving, offering a rare look into the heart of one of the world’s most urgent conservation battles.Leif is also the founder of the International Tiger Project, International Elephant Project, and Forests for People. He has helped raise over 25 million dollars, protect thousands of acres of rainforest, and save hundreds of orangutans.To learn more and help support the projects head over to: https://www.orangutan.org.auTo find out more about this channel and the shows head over to my website: https://www.wildlifequests.comFollow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com

In this debut episode, I share the story of how I left the UK in 2015 and began a life of travel and adventure. From working on the road to encountering incredible wildlife across continents, this episode kicks off the podcast with personal stories, lessons learned, and what it’s like to live a nomadic life close to nature.Follow me on YouTube for full videos of my travels: https://www.youtube.com/@itsawildlife4999You can reach out to me on my blog if you have a story you would like to share, or if you are interested in learning more about my journey or my guests: https://wildlifequests.com