Episode 13: Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long?
Aye-Ayes have extra-long middle fingers. On this episode, Mike and Chanel learn WHY with guest Tim Eppley from Wildlife Madagascar.
Watch the Episode
Discover how aye-ayes use their extraordinary long middle fingers to find hidden insects inside trees, and uncover other fascinating facts about these one-of-a-kind lemurs!
Watch the Episode
Discover how aye-ayes use their extraordinary long middle fingers to find hidden insects inside trees, and uncover other fascinating facts about these one-of-a-kind lemurs!
Zooquarium Educational Activities
Bonus Video!
This bonus episode features Mike and Chanel continuing their conversation with conservation biologist Dr. Tim Eppley about aye-ayes, Madagascar's incredible lemurs, the importance of protecting biodiversity, and Tim's journey from animal-loving kid to Chief Conservation Officer at Wildlife Madagascar.
This bonus episode features Mike and Chanel continuing their conversation with conservation biologist Dr. Tim Eppley about aye-ayes, Madagascar's incredible lemurs, the importance of protecting biodiversity, and Tim's journey from animal-loving kid to Chief Conservation Officer at Wildlife Madagascar.
Our Featured Guest
Dr. Timothy Eppley is a conservation biologist and primatologist who has spent nearly two decades studying wildlife in Africa, with a particular focus on the lemurs and ecosystems of Madagascar. As Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, he leads research and conservation programs that help protect some of the world's most endangered species while supporting local communities. Tim's passion for wildlife began at an early age and has taken him from studying bonobos and lemurs in the field to publishing more than 100 scientific papers and helping shape conservation efforts across Madagascar. He loves sharing stories about the incredible animals he works with and helping people discover why biodiversity matters.
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MEET OUR HOSTS
MIKE BENNETT
He/Him
An artist, educator, and immersive space designer, Mike turns old buildings, house-paint and plywood into cartoon worlds with animal education and creativity at the helm. Mike brings his colorful characters to life to help curious kids (and kids at heart!) learn, laugh, and explore the world around them. Whether its cryptids, dinosaurs, ocean-life or lawn alphabets, Mike is always ready to tackle his next creative endeavor!
CHANEL HASON
She/Her
Chanel is a marine biologist, environmental educator, and lifelong animal lover who yearns to understand, and teach about, the natural world around us. She has led hands-on marine science programs in Puerto Rico for Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment, represented the United States at the Miss Scuba International pageant in Malaysia, and now serves as Director of Outreach & Community Relations for the Elakha Alliance, where she’s helping restore Oregon’s sea otter population. Chanel shares her passion for wildlife and conservation through fun, curious, and inspiring conversations.
Milo asks: Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long? What a fascinating question about a fascinating animal! Mike and Chanel are joined by ecologist Tim Eppley, the Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, to answer Milo's question and teach us more about these elusive animals!
Dr. Timothy Eppley is a conservation biologist and primatologist who has spent nearly two decades studying wildlife in Africa, with a particular focus on the lemurs and ecosystems of Madagascar. As Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, he leads research and conservation programs that help protect some of the world's most endangered species while supporting local communities. Tim's passion for wildlife began at an early age and has taken him from studying bonobos and lemurs in the field to publishing more than 100 scientific papers and helping shape conservation efforts across Madagascar. He loves sharing stories about the incredible animals he works with and helping people discover why biodiversity matters.
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- Learn more about Wildlife Madagascar
- Check out Wildlife Madagascar's Aye-Aye page
- Follow Wildlife Madagascar on Instagram: @wildlifemadagascar
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- Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and here at thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
- Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason
- Guest: Dr. Tim Eppley
- Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson
- Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings
- Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation
- Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to:
Milo & Milo's family, Dr. Tim Eppley, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and every single aye-aye!