Defender Radio and The Switch
Defender Radio and The Switch bring experts and solutions to wildlife advocates and animal lovers around the world. Hosted by award-winning journalist Michael Howie, Defender Radio and The Switch are produced by The Fur-Bearers (TheFurBearers.com) and released weekly. Learn more at DefenderRadio.com
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Surviving The Wildfire feat. Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
08/11/2026
Surviving The Wildfire feat. Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society
Over 21,000 people were , British Columbia, when the Bald Range fire rapidly grew to over 156 square kilometres. Among the thousands of homes that were impacted or destroyed by the wildfire is . The volunteer-run organization, led by founder Eva Hartmann, focuses on water birds, bats, reptiles, and small mammals like beavers, otters, and muskrats. When the call to evacuate came in Eva and her partner chose to enact the Interior Wildlife evacuation plan – and saved all the animals in their care. Tragically, the Interior Wildlife facilities were destroyed by the wildfire. Now, the Interior Wildlife team is to rebuild when the time is right, and get back to helping wildlife who need it most. To share more about Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society, the impact of the wildfires, how the team is managing, and what’s next, Defender Radio is joined by volunteer Ryan Elisabeth Cope. SHOW NOTES Cover image by E. Hartmann/IWRS Donate to IWRS Rebuilding Effort: Learn more about IWRS: Find IWRS on Facebook ( and Instagram ( BC 2-1-1 Wildfire Resources: BC SPCA Wildfire Animal Support: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Urban Habitats and Connectivity featuring Dr. Lenore Fahrig
07/07/2026
Urban Habitats and Connectivity featuring Dr. Lenore Fahrig
When we talk about wildlife, we often talk about it as though it belongs somewhere else. A forest. A park. A protected area. Somewhere north of us, away from the roads, neighbourhoods, shopping centres, and backyards where we spend most of our lives. But nature is not somewhere else. It's everywhere. Coyotes on city streets, raccoons in backyards, skunks under sheds, birds crossing parking lots, insects searching for flowers — all are living in landscapes we have shaped, divided, paved, and rearranged. So what does that mean for them? And what does it mean for us? Dr. Lenore Fahrig, a highly-cited landscape ecologist at Carleton University joins Defender Radio to discuss what habitat loss and fragmentation mean for wildlife, how fur-bearing animals move through cities, and what we can do as individuals and in our communities to create more essential connectivity. SHOW NOTES: Episode art by / Getty Dr. Lenore Fahrig's Lab page: Dr. Lenore Fahrig's Bio page: Study – Nature-based solutions for urban biodiversity: Spatial targeting of retrofits can multiply ecological connectivity benefits: Podcast interview on above study: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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The Space Wildlife Needs feat. Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin & Tijana
06/16/2026
The Space Wildlife Needs feat. Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin & Tijana
Defender Radio host Michael Howie is joined by colleagues and Tijana (Wildlife Campaigns and Advocacy Manager at The Fur-Bearers) to talk about studies covering drones and British Columbia's endangered species, plus a chat about what kind of space wildlife needs this time of year. SHOW NOTES Episode artwork of an edangered Vancouver Island Marmot by Learn more about Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin: Instagram: Articles on TheFurBearers.com: Articles and Studies referenced: When Drones Disturb Nature: What Wildlife Research Is Telling Us: Species at Risk in British Columbia: What 17 Years of Data Reveal: Dear Grizzly Bear 142, Mother of a Train-Struck Cub (by Cleo Shedden): The Lost Words by Robert McFarlane: How to Pronounce Arthropod: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Fur Farming and the Next Pandemic featuring Dr. Neil Vora
06/02/2026
Fur Farming and the Next Pandemic featuring Dr. Neil Vora
It feels like yesterday – and a lifetime ago – that the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the world. I don’t know about you, but I’m still dealing with that experience, and I see the impact of it around me regularly. What’s most upsetting, perhaps, is that experts are sending clear messages: it’s not if, but when the next pandemic will hit. A major source for potential virus spillover is fur farms, of which there remain dozens in Canada today, despite a British Columbia mink fur farm ban announced in 2021. , a former CDC epidemiologist, Executive Director of the Preventing Pandemics at the Source Coalition and Orchestrator in Residence at Integral, and passionate conservationist, is one of many people pushing for change. Dr. Vora joins Defender Radio to discuss the risks of fur farms, how Canada and other nations can embrace One Health policies, and how our relationship with nature is at the core of it all. SHOW NOTES Photo of a mink on a Canadian fur farm by We Animals Dr. Neil Vora's website: Preventing Pandemics at The Source: Ban fur farming or risk a new pandemic (The Guardian, by Dr. Neil Vora): Marking the end of fur farming in British Columbia: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Spring in the Wild City featuring Nathalie Karvonen
05/19/2026
Spring in the Wild City featuring Nathalie Karvonen
This time of year is glorious for all of us – and for the wild neighbours with whom we share our communities. From black bears and coyotes to skunks and squirrels, wildlife is out and about, finding new den sites, food sources, and introducing their families to the world around them – even in cities. Sadly, human infrastructure and behaviours can lead to tragic outcomes for many animals; and that’s why dedicated wildlife rehabilitators across the country need your help. Joining us to talk about spring wildlife and their families, the surprising biodiversity of major cities like Toronto, and how you can help your local wildlife rehabilitator is Nathalie Karvonen, Executive Director and Founder of the Toronto Wildlife Centre. SHOW NOTES Episode art of a Toronto raccoon by bukharova / Getty Images Toronto Wildlife Centre website: Toronto Wildlife Centre Instagram: Impacts of Wildlife Feeding Along RBG Trails: Paris has successfully cut noise pollution, but urban birds still can’t sing at their natural pitch: Ontario Gov page on Wildlife Rehab: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Communicating Coexistence feat. Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin + Tijana S.
05/05/2026
Communicating Coexistence feat. Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin + Tijana S.
Defender Radio host Michael Howie is joined by colleagues Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin and Tijana S. (Wildlife Campaigns and Advocacy Manager at The Fur-Bearers) to talk about The Fur-Bearers' recent time at the Humane Canada Summit for Wildlife, two studies reviewed for our article, and how communication is a key aspect to wildlife coexistence. SHOW NOTES Episode artwork by / Getty Learn more about Dr. Valli Fraser-Celin: Instagram: Articles on TheFurBearers.com: Articles and Studies referenced: Humane Canada recap – Study: Helping Landowners Live with Beavers – Why Nocturnal Wildlife Gets Less Love – Surprising ways skunks help your ecosystem – Raccoons at Noon? Don’t Panic. – Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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What's Next?
10/27/2025
What's Next?
We want to look into the future for Defender Radio and The Switch – and that means hearing from you! We've put together a short (really) that will take fewer than 5 minutes and can help us know in which direction to go. It includes episode length/frequency, guest mix, accessibility, and more. To show our appreciation, we're also offering a $100 Visa Gift Card that will be randomly drawn and awarded to a survey taker (must be 18+, live in Canada excluding Quebec, and provide name/contact information in the survey to participate). Click here to get started or visit . Thank you. SHOW NOTES: Artwork by Enrico Staine / Getty Images Take the survey at Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Animal Law at University of Toronto featuring Dr. Angela Fernandez
09/22/2025
Animal Law at University of Toronto featuring Dr. Angela Fernandez
Animal law is a topic of growing interest to Canadians, advocates, and legal experts. While there are some great people doing great work related to animal law in Canada, there haven’t been any university-associated programs on it – until now. Angela Fernandez, a long-time University of Toronto law professor, is taking on the project as the director of the University of Toronto Animal Law Program. To share what the vision for the program is, what prospective students may learn, why there’s a need for the program, and how it could reshape law in Canada, Professor Fernandez joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Cover image by / Getty Images Animal Law Program at UofT: Animal Law Program on LinkedIn: Animal Law Program on Instagram: Dr. Angela Fernandez's UofT bio page: Animal Justice Law Conference: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Fashion's Future is Fur-Free featuring PJ Smith
09/15/2025
Fashion's Future is Fur-Free featuring PJ Smith
September is fashion month, with massive week-long events in major cities worldwide, including New York, London, Milan and Paris. And the question on many peoples’ minds is: will we be seeing fur, or will more designers choose to go fur-free? PJ Smith, Director of Fashion Policy for Humane World for Animals thinks the future of the industry is fur-free, and joins Defender Radio to discuss trends, textile innovation, and what gives him optimism. SHOW NOTES Humane World for Animals: Humane World for Animals Woolrich Campaign: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Canmore Cougar Tragedy Update feat. John Marriott and Maggie Spizziri
09/08/2025
Canmore Cougar Tragedy Update feat. John Marriott and Maggie Spizziri
The tragic story of a locally beloved cougar being killed near Canmore, Alberta, earlier this year was heartbreaking. John Marriott, an award-winning wildlife photographer and co-founder of Exposed Wildlife Conservancy shared his harrowing experience with Defender Radio – along with his discovery of two cougar kits, orphaned by the incident. Several months later, the cougar kits were transferred to Parc Safari in Quebec, and the outcry for policy change in Alberta rages on. To share more about these updates and introduce the new Executive Director of Exposed Wildlife Conservancy, John Marriott and Maggie Spizziri join Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES Cougar kit photo by John E. Marriott / WildernessPrints.com Exposed Wildlife Conservancy website: EWC on YouTube: EWC on Instagram: EWC on Facebook: Canmore Cougar Tragedy (original episode): Conservationst article mentioned: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Bring Back the Night: Light Pollution featuring Tijana Selak
09/01/2025
Bring Back the Night: Light Pollution featuring Tijana Selak
From streetlights to skyscrapers and everything in between, lighting up the night can help keep people safe. But, this often excessive lighting has a consequence: light pollution. Native wildlife across Canada gets impacted by light pollution in many ways–and they're not alone. Humans, too, are impacted in surprising ways by our bright night skies. Tijana Selak, Wildlife Campaigns and Advocacy Manager at The Fur-Bearers, joins The Switch to talk about the impacts of light pollution on wildlife, humans, and the simple solutions that can help us make a switch for the better. SHOW NOTES: Episode art of Calgary at night by Gelu Popa / Getty Images Check out Tijana's excellent article on light pollution at TheFurBearers.com: Learn more about window strikes and their impact on birds with FLAP Canada at: CBC Article "Urban wildlife team finds alarming rise in bird-window collisions in downtown Calgary": Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Navigating Climate Grief featuring Dr. Shawna Weaver
08/25/2025
Navigating Climate Grief featuring Dr. Shawna Weaver
Wildfires and drought, floods and ice storms, and a seemingly never-ending news cycle of chaos around us is a lot. I’ll be honest – there are days I want to hide from it all myself. But carrying the weight of what’s happening to the natural world around us isn’t new, and it has a name – climate grief. This intense grief and anxiety can come from any source and impact anyone. It can be the terrifying scenes of wildfires across Canada, the floods impacting other parts of the world, or even noticing the subtle quiet in greenspaces, once filled with bird calls and buzzing insects. But there are ways to navigate this grief, to listen to ourselves and the world around us, and re-establish connections for resilience and hope. To share insights into how climate grief can impact us, how it manifests differently for different people, and strategies to manage, climate grief expert and author Dr. Shawna Weaver joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES Episode title card photo of wildfire in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley by shootthebreeze / Getty Images Dr. Shawna Weaver's book Climate Grief: Dr. Shawna Weaver's website: Mental Health Supports: The Government of Canada's landing page for mental health supports offers a variety of services, organized by province/territory and type. Visit to find support for yourself or loved ones. You can call 9-8-8 in Canada and the United States to be connected to crisis intervention. You're not alone. Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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The Mink VIRUS Act featuring Devan Schowe
04/14/2025
The Mink VIRUS Act featuring Devan Schowe
Mink fur farms are a virus’s favourite place. There’s lots of opportunity to transmit, mutate, and lead to more virulent strains that threaten public health. With the devastating economic impact of H5N1 or avian flu in the news, the reintroduction of the Mink Virus Act to the United States Congress is well timed. To share what this legislation is about, why it matters, and how people on both sides of the border can support it, Devan Schowe, Campaigns Associate for joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES Photo of a mink on a Canadian fur farm by We Animals. BornFree USA's Mink VIRUS Act page and action: BornFree USA on Instagram: BornFree USA on Facebook: BornFree USA on Tiktok: BornFree USA on YouTube: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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The Canmore cougar tragedy featuring John E. Marriott
04/07/2025
The Canmore cougar tragedy featuring John E. Marriott
Anyone who follows John E. Marriott or Exposed Wildlife Conservancy on social media knows that a cougar John had tracked for many years was killed near Canmore, Alberta, earlier this year. It led to two orphaned kits, a harrowing experience for John, and a clear mission: to share this story with the public and lead to change for wildlife in Alberta. To give us the story from the very beginning and what he wants to see happen next, John Marriott joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Photo of the orphaned cougars provided by John E. Marriott / WildernessPrints.com Exposed Wildlife Conservancy: John's Photography website: EWC on YouTube: EWC on Instagram: EWC on Facebook: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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A Dam Good Conversation: Ben Goldfarb on Beavers, Wetlands, and Rewilding the World
03/25/2025
A Dam Good Conversation: Ben Goldfarb on Beavers, Wetlands, and Rewilding the World
Fifty years ago this week, Canada officially made beavers one of our national symbols. In celebrating this anniversary – and the many ecological services and benefits provided by beavers – The Fur-Bearers have a bit of beaver fever. And who better to talk to about beavers than , the journalist behind . This book has made big waves since it landed in 2018, and Ben joins Defender Radio to share how he started out writing Eager, what he loves about beavers, his newer works, and how we can look to beavers for hope in uncertain times. SHOW NOTES: Cover photo by jamesvancouver / Getty Images Ben Goldfarb's website: More about Eager: More about Crossings: Ben on Bluesky: Learn more about Canada's 50th anniversary of the beaver as a national symbol from The Fur-Bearers at: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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Canada's Most Distinct Species featuring Emma Kominek
03/17/2025
Canada's Most Distinct Species featuring Emma Kominek
Canada’s iconic wildlife include moose, beavers, and wolves. But of the many species of vertebrate, which are the most evolutionarily distinct? And why does that matter? A team of researchers from Simon Fraser University (emma Kominek, Olivia Cornies, Arne Ø. Mooers, and Wildlife Preservation Canada's Hannah McCurdy-Adams) explored these questions in their paper, , published in the journal . The final list included some not so surprising results – like beavers being near the top for mammals, and some unusual species that aren’t commonly known, like mudpuppies, an amphibian that can be found in a relatively small range of southern Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec. To share more about the paper, how the species lists were developed, and why it’s important for conservationists to learn about, study coauthor Emma Kominek joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Episode photo by Chuck Miller / Getty Images Evolutionary isolation of Canadian terrestrial vertebrate species: SFU's coverage of the study: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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The Switch: Going Green for March Break Travel
03/10/2025
The Switch: Going Green for March Break Travel
Whether you’re heading south to escape the cold, across the provinces for an adventure, or just a town over for a quick getaway, there are a lot of choices we can make while travelling for March Break that reduce our impact on the environment – and can even improve it. SHOW NOTES Episode art photo by Petmal / Getty Images Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio and The Switch? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram (), Facebook (, or Bluesky (. Defender Radio and The Switch is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Takaya's Ongoing Legacy featuring Cheryl Alexander
03/03/2025
Takaya's Ongoing Legacy featuring Cheryl Alexander
The journey of Takaya the Lone wolf on Vancouver Island was one of hope, inspiration, and ultimately tragedy. Cheryl Alexander, acclaimed conservation photographer and Founding Executive Director of Takaya’s Legacy has shared her story countless times – but this past year the story took a new twist. An iconic photo of Takaya, taken by Cheryl, was used by a wolf hunting guide’s website without permission. This not only created a social media outrage, but put the spotlight back on the pressures facing wolves in British Columbia and the need to connect public belief with policy. To share these updates and explore the impact the misuse of Takaya’s image had both personally and publicly, Cheryl Alexander joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Photo of Takaya by Cheryl Alexander Takaya's Legacy website: Takaya's Legacy on Facebook: Takaya's Legacy on Instagram: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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The Switch: Road Salt Solutions
02/24/2025
The Switch: Road Salt Solutions
Winter salt keeps sidewalks safe but harms Ottawa’s waterways. A five-year study shows toxic chloride levels in local streams year-round. Learn how to reduce salt use, protect aquatic life, and keep winter walkways safe. SHOW NOTES: Episode art photo by / Getty Images Check out Ottawa Riverkeeper's work on salt monitoring and reduction: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio and The Switch? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram (), Facebook (, or Bluesky (. Defender Radio and The Switch is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Saving North Atlantic Right Whales featuring Sheryl Fink
02/17/2025
Saving North Atlantic Right Whales featuring Sheryl Fink
North Atlantic Right Whales are at extreme risk of extinction, with only around 370 individuals and around 70 reproductive females. According to , over 142 individuals have been injured or died since 2017 – a shocking 35% of the current population. Fortunately, individuals like Sheryl Fink of the or IFAW are working hard to collaborate and find solutions to protect this endangered whale species, who can be found off the coast of Canada. To share more about how North Atlantic Right Whales reached such critically low levels, what the largest impacts on their populations are, and how scientific collaboration can lead to solutions, Sheryl joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Episode art credit: Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. Image taken under NOAA Research Permit 665-1652 (). Find more about Sheryl and IFAW's work to save North Atlantic Right Whales at: . Find IFAW on Instagram: Find IFAW on Bluesky: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Bluesky () and Facebook ().
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The Switch: Meal Planning to Reduce Food Waste
02/10/2025
The Switch: Meal Planning to Reduce Food Waste
Canadians waste a ton of food - literally! Learn how meal planning can reduce food waste, save you money, and reduce your impact on emissions and climate change by listening now. SHOW NOTES: LoveFoodHateWaste.ca: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio and The Switch? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio and The Switch is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Biodiversity and Urban Connectivity feat. Dr. Thami Croeser and Dr. Holly Kirk
02/03/2025
Biodiversity and Urban Connectivity feat. Dr. Thami Croeser and Dr. Holly Kirk
Enhancing biodiversity in urban areas is a critical step in improving our ecosystems, resilience against the climate crisis, and ensuring nature exposure for residents. But how do you increase biodiversity on pavement? According to two researchers, it can start with stepping stones. Drs. Thami Croeser and Holly Kirk tackled this issue and showed the brilliance of available solutions in their paper . In short, the researchers showed that converting underutilized parking spaces in urban Australia can improve ecological connectivity – the ability for various species to move across the landscape from one patch of greenspace to another. To share the need for such connectivity changes, how they developed and ran their study, the incredible benefits to both people and ecosystems, and what lessons we can learn, Drs. Thami Croeser and Holly Kirk join Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Episode art provided by Dr. Thami Croeser Read the paper: Dr. Thami Croeser on LinkedIn: Dr. Holly Kirk's website: The Conversation Article: Sound of Mole Crickets via Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Dealing With Winter Drafts
01/27/2025
Dealing With Winter Drafts
Cold drafts in winter aren’t only unpleasant, they could be costing you money and wasting energy. Listen now to The Switch to hear how to quickly identify and deal with a draft. SHOW NOTES: Photo of a door equipped with two types of draft stoppers by AndreyPopov / Getty Images Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Tizzy and Me: Fifteen Ways To Love A Mink feat. Dr. Nadja Lubiw-Hazard
01/20/2025
Tizzy and Me: Fifteen Ways To Love A Mink feat. Dr. Nadja Lubiw-Hazard
One day at school, 7-year-old animal loving Georgia discovers her best friend is wearing a coat made with mink fur; with the companionship of her dog Tizzy, Georgia and her friend begin to learn about animals that live in fur farms – and that they must stand up for them. Tizzy and Me: Fifteen Ways to Love A Mink is the lovely chapter book by NML Hazard (also known as Dr. Nadja Lubiw-Hazard), a former veterinarian turned author. Published in late 2024 by Red Deer Press with illustrations by Alice Priestly, Tizzy and Me is a wonderful story for young people and families who want to discuss issues of animal welfare, talking about difficult topics, and making an impact for animals in our lives. To discuss her unique background, what went into writing Tizzy and Me, what she hopes people learn, and some great writing tips, Defender Radio is joined by Dr. Nadja Lubiw-Hazard. SHOW NOTES: Dr. Nadja Lubiw-Hazard (NML Hazard): Tizzy & Me from Red Deer Press: Episode art photo of a mink by DanielLacy / Getty Images Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Season 11 Coming Soon!
01/13/2025
Season 11 Coming Soon!
I’m excited to announce season 11 of Defender Radio and The Switch is going live this month! You’ll be hearing long-form interviews from expert scientists around the world talking about wildlife behaviour, population dynamics, and the environment. We’ll be exploring ways you can reduce your impact on the climate crisis and become more resilient through bi-weekly episodes of The Switch. And I can’t wait to hear from you! Make sure you’re following The Fur-Bearers on and find us on , , and by searching The Fur-Bearers, where you can leave comments about the latest episodes, share your tips, and chat with me about upcoming episode ideas! Remember to subscribe and follow Defender Radio and The Switch wherever you listen, and to ensure you hear about each new episode! Find more episodes and how to listen at DefenderRadio.com.
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Rescuing Rabbits with Amy's Bunny Barn
09/27/2024
Rescuing Rabbits with Amy's Bunny Barn
We’re releasing this episode in time for International Rabbit Day – a celebration of our favourite floppy-eared lagomorphs. While rabbits do make wonderful companions, they are frequently released or dumped in the wild – and with an exceptionally quick gestation period, that can lead to a lot of domestic rabbits in the wild, really fast. Fortunately, there are incredible people who are working to find homes for rabbits and prevent the need for dumping – like Amy McLaughin of on Vancouver Island. A vet assistant, past SPCA worker, and passionate advocate for rabbits, Amy is providing essential education, foster care, and resources to help keep bunnies in homes with full, happy lives. To share more about what goes into caring for a pet rabbit, why dumping is such an issue, and the importance of meeting the many needs of bunnies in homes, Amy joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES The rabbit shown in the episode artwork is named Bella, and is one of many bunnies available for adoption! Visit to see more. Amy's Bunny Barn online: Support Amy's Bunny Barn with a tax deductible donation: Amy's Bunny Barn on Facebook: Amy's Bunny Barn on Instagram: Amy's Bunny Barn on Pinterest: Amy's Bunny Barn on YouTube: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Speak at Humane Canada’s Summit for Animals with Natalia Hanson
09/16/2024
Speak at Humane Canada’s Summit for Animals with Natalia Hanson
Finding community is an important part of being an advocate – and in a post pandemic world, that can be a struggle. Fortunately, opportunities like bring together hundreds of likeminded people, sharing resources, ideas, and finding hope together. The is taking place in Montreal, Quebec on April 27, 28 and 29 – and there’s still time to submit a proposal to present yourself! To learn more about the Summit, the range of subjects that will be presented upon, and what kind of proposal is perfect, Humane Canada’s Natalia Hanson joins Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES Episode art photo by RT-Images / Getty Images Humane Canada's website: Humane Canada's Summit for Animals website: Humane Canada on Facebook: Humane Canada on Instagram: Humane Canada on LinkedIn: Humane Canada on X: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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The Ursa Project with Katie Graves
08/12/2024
The Ursa Project with Katie Graves
Hundreds of black bears are killed in British Columbia every year; often, the issue leading to government agents killing bears is attractants such as unsecure garbage that bears may want to explore or eat. While there is much to be said and debated about this situation, one thing is clear: communities need solutions. And that’s where the comes in. Founded in Nelson, BC, in 2022, the was created by concerned citizens who wanted to see the bears of their community protected, not killed simply for looking for food. To date, the non-profit has made inroads in getting new waste management tools, increasing education, and providing an important voice to represent the needs of bears in local decision-making. To share more about the origins, work, and goals of the , Defender Radio is joined by founding member Katie Graves. SHOW NOTES Ursa Project's website: Ursa Project on Facebook: Ursa Project on Instagram: FREE coexistence door hangers: The Fur-Bearers' Attractants page: The Fur-Bearers' BC Black Bears page: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Signs of Life with Sarah Cox
07/22/2024
Signs of Life with Sarah Cox
More than 5,000 wild species are at risk of extinction in Canada right now – it’s an overwhelming, staggering number, and it begs the question: what are we doing about it? Environmental journalist Sarah Cox explores this question with hope and curiosity in her new book, Signs of Life: Field Notes from the Frontlines of Extinction. Featuring interviews and experiences with advocates, researchers, Indigenous peoples, and even the Canadian military, Sarah explores several species at risk of extinction in Signs of Life, and what’s being done by different people to make an impact. Signs of Life is a must read for wildlife and environmental advocates in Canada, or anyone interested in how we can make an impact on climate change. Sarah joins Defender Radio to share more about what motivated her to write Signs of Life, how she manages the difficult narratives she shares, and how people of all walks of life can make a difference for the future. SHOW NOTES: Episode art photo by Frank Fichtmüller / Getty Images Sarah Cox's website: Signs of Life from Goose Lane Publishing: Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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Tales of the Urban Wild with Dr. Tiffany Yap and Meital Smith
07/08/2024
Tales of the Urban Wild with Dr. Tiffany Yap and Meital Smith
What’s the world like for a Puma in California? What would they encounter, and what would they make of the humans acting strangely in the landscape? Scientist and artist put together what they think that may look like in the incredible , now available from Reverberation Books. Dr. Yap, a conservation scientist, wrote the story of the puma named C-8 by local scientists who explores the world around him; Meital Smith, a multidisciplinary artist, developed the incredible artwork that pulls together the graphic novel into a poignant, evocative read. To share more about the motivation behind the story, the artwork, and why the narrative of a young puma navigating the world is more important today than ever before, Dr. Tiffany Yap and Meital Smith join Defender Radio. SHOW NOTES: Buy Tales of the Urban Wild: A Puma's Journey at Learn more about Meital Smith: Learn more about Dr. Tiffany Yap: Episode art by Meital Smith Want to suggest topics for Defender Radio? Reach out to us at by visiting DefenderRadio.com or engaging host Michael Howie on social media via Instagram () or Facebook (). Defender Radio is produced by The Fur-Bearers (), a charitable non-partisan organization whose mandate is to advocate on behalf of fur-bearing animals in the wild and in confinement, promote coexistence solutions in communities and protect the habitats of fur-bearing animals across Canada. You can follow The Fur-Bearers on Instagram (), Twitter () and Facebook ().
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