The Backyard Naturalists
Embark on a magical adventure into the wonders of your backyard with ‘The Backyard Naturalists’ podcast. Whether you’re a curious nature lover or a seasoned enthusiast, our show is your ticket to discovering the enchanting world of your own outdoor space.
Join us on a journey of discovery as we celebrate the beauty of your backyard and explore a wide range of fascinating topics. Learn how to transform your little piece of nature into a haven for local wildlife, and discover the joy of citizen science by participating in events like the Great Backyard Bird Count.
We’ll guide you in creating a thriving ecosystem right at home by using native plants. Discover which fascinating creatures share your area, and learn how to attract specific bird species to your garden. We’ll also delve into the world of raptors, both common and rare, that inhabit the Greater Charlotte region, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of spring and fall bird migrations.
But that’s not all! We’ll also introduce you to the magical world of plants that attract butterflies and so much more. Join us in unlocking the hidden treasures within your very own backyard and nurturing a deeper connection with the natural world.
- Update frequency
- every 7 days
- Average duration
- 26 minutes
- Episodes
- 112
- Years Active
- 2023 - 2025
Recycle Right: A Conversation with Mecklenburg County Solid Waste
What really happens to your recyclables after they leave the curb? This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we sit down with Jeff Smithberger, Director of Mecklenburg County’s Solid Waste Management P…
Earth Day 2025: Our Power, Our Planet
This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we're honoring Earth Day 2025 with a powerful and inspiring episode centered around this year’s global theme: “Our Power, Our Planet.” 🌍💚
Join us as we explore …
Eco-Friendly Fixes for Springtime Yard Woes
Spring has sprung, and so have weeds, pests, and garden invaders! In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie dig into eco-friendly solutions for common yard and garden chal…
Native Plants vs. Cultivars—What’s the Buzz?
This week on The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Dr. Carrie DeJaco—botanist, native plant advocat…
Battling Aquatic Invaders – How You Can Help
Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.
Aquatic invasive species are more than just a nuisance—they pose serious threats to ecosystems,…
Saving the Monarchs – What You Can Do to Help
Monarch butterflies are in serious trouble, and this week’s episode of The Backyard Naturalists dives into why. Our award-winning hosts, certified Master Naturalists and Wildlife Ambassadors, break …
Spring Cleaning for a Wildlife-Friendly Yard
Spring is here, and it’s time to give your backyard a refresh—nature-friendly style! In this award-winning episode of The Backyard Naturalists, our expert hosts, certified Master Naturalists and Wil…
After the Storm: Hurricane Helene’s Impact on NC’s Waters
In this episode of the award winning Backyard Naturalists podcast, we dive into the lasting effects of Hurricane Helene on western North Carolina’s aquatic ecosystems. Our special guest, Corey Oakle…
Nature Fact or Fiction? Test Your Wild Knowledge!
Get ready for a wild ride through the world of nature myths! In this fun and engaging episode of The Backyard Naturalists, an award-winning podcast loved in over 115 countries, hosts Debbie and Laur…
From Alpacas to Agritourism: The Magic of Apple Hill Farm
Get ready for a heartwarming and inspiring episode of The Backyard Naturalists! This week, our award-winning podcast welcomes Lee Rankin, owner of Apple Hill Farm in North Carolina, to share her inc…
Healing Wildlife: The Mission of NC Wildlife Rehab with Ruby Davis
Step into the wild with this award-winning episode of The Backyard Naturalists! This week, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Ruby Davis, a wildlife biologist and environmental scientist, to discuss th…
Growing a Greener Future: How Trees Charlotte is Shaping the Urban Canopy
Charlotte is on a mission to stay green, and this week on The Backyard Naturalists, we’re digging into how Trees Charlotte is making it happen! As an award-winning podcast hosted by certified nature…
The Dirty Truth About Toilet Paper: Sustainability, Forests, and Your Choices
Flush out the facts on toilet paper sustainability in this eye-opening episode of The Backyard Naturalists! As an award-winning podcast hosted by certified nature enthusiasts—including Master Natura…
Birds, Binoculars, and Big Data: Get Ready for the Great Backyard Bird Count!
Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, an award-winning podcast heard in 115 countries, all 50 states, and throughout the Carolinas. Hosted by Debbie and Laurie, passionate nature advocates with crede…
Forest Bathing: Nature’s Prescription for Mind, Body, and Soul
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome Melanie Choukas-Bradley, a certified nature and forest therapy guide, author, and naturalist, to explore the art and science of…
A Different Buzz on Honeybees
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Dr. Carrie DeJaco, an ecological consultant and native plant expert, to explore the fascinating—and sometimes surprising—…
Moon Gardens
Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.
If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Fac…
Endangered Species in North Carolina
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Laurie and Debbie welcome Sarah Schweitzer from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to discuss endangered species in the state and the criti…
Holiday Memories and Traditions
Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.
In this festive episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Chris, Laurie, and Debbie share hear…
Eco-Friendly Holidays: Food, Decorations, and Gifts
Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature.
In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie explore ways to celebrate …