Creature Comforts

The weather is warmer and now those charming bio-luminescent creatures are lighting up the night’s sky.No matter if you call them lightning bugs or fireflies’ people are reporting seeing them around the state.Today we talked with a friend of the show Claire Graves about when and where is the best place to see them. Also, we talk with James Cummins from Wildlife Mississippi about the Mississippi Conservation Stewardship Bill.

The first Thursday of every month is dedicated to your pet questions answered by Dr. Troy Majure and Libby Hartfield helping with your recent brushes with nature. During this episode they talk about watching out for traveling turtles, taking care of older pets, and what bird calls you should be listening for.

In this edition of Creature Comforts, we welcome master naturalist Robin Whitfield back to the show.As an ecologist, naturalist, and artist, Robin brings people of all ages to better appreciate the natural world with workshops and beautiful art pieces.We catch up with her about her work, admiration for Walter Anderson, and stewardship at the Lee Tart Nature Preserve.Show Links:Robin Whitfield - Mississippi Arts Commission ProfileWalter Anderson: Extraordinary Life and Art of the Islander

The black bear and Mississippi have a storied history together, dating back to the days of President Theodore Roosevelt and the Teddy Bear.Dr. Dana Morin, Mississippi State University professor of Wildlife Biology, and Richard Rummel, Black Bear coordinator for Mississippi depart. of Wildlife Fisheries and Parks.They talk about the current bear population, where they are found, and what to do if you come face to face with one of these mighty creatures. Also, Libby talks about a recent possum sighting at her home and Dr. Majure answers your pet questions.

Dr. Frank Moore, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern Mississippi, has studied the biology of migratory songbirds across North America, but most intensely along the northern coast of the Gulf of Mexico for over 30 years. Today we will talk about these migratory birds that visit Mississippi along with their flights and some of the hazards they tend to face. Also, we hear from David Mizejewski as the National Wildlife Federation works with Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom to celebrate National Wildlife Week (April 4-8).

The Delta Wind Bird mission states: “Our mission is to encourage creation of high-quality stopover wetland habitat for birds on private working lands, to preserve the best natural wetland habitats, and to foster awareness of the value of wetlands for birds and people.” As president of Delta Wind Bird, Jason Hoeksema brings this mission to life every day and joins Creature Comforts to talk about some of their current work. While also answering questions about other birds spotted around the state, Jason talks with Kevin on the importance of conserving lands for these birds.