In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of the hyrax, an obscure but incredibly unique mammal often mistaken for a rodent. Fueled by a recent interview with renowned zoologist Dr. Eric Kirschenbaum, we explore the hyrax's complex songs, unique physiological traits, and surprising evolutionary history. Discover how these small, furry creatures are closely related to elephants and manatees, their peculiar thermoregulation challenges, and their communal living habits. The episode also touches on conservation efforts to protect these evolutionary marvels in their natural habitats. Podcast Timeline 00:00 Introduction to the Creatures Podcast 00:05 Discovering the Hyrax: An Obscure Species 01:27 Fascinating Facts About Hyraxes 02:16 Hyrax Evolution and Relatives 03:36 Supporting the Podcast and Dr. Kirshenbaum's Work 05:24 Describing the Hyrax 08:17 Hyrax Habitat and Range 10:08 Why Hyraxes Matter 13:59 Research Stories and Conservation Efforts 15:56 Elephant Research and Personal Stories 22:43 Elephant and Manatee Reproductive Studies 29:55 Hyrax Evolutionary History 37:36 The Miocene Era and Bovid Displacement 38:52 Primitive Traits and Lifespan of Hyraxes 39:48 Hyrax Physiology and Thermoregulation 43:00 Adaptations for Rock and Tree Life 45:15 Unique Dental and Digestive Systems 51:33 Social Structure and Communal Living 54:58 Vocalizations and Songs of Hyraxes 01:03:56 Reproductive Anatomy and Behavior 01:13:34 Conservation and Final Thoughts ------------------------------------------------------------- Another thank you to all our Patreon supporters. You too can join for one cup of "good" coffee a month. With your pledge you can support your favorite podcast on Patreon and give back to conservation. With the funds we receive each month, we are have been sending money to conservation organizations monthly. We now send a check to every organization we cover, as we feel they all are deserving of our support. Thank you so much for your support and for supporting animal conservation.  Please considering supporting us at Patreon HERE. We also want to thank you to all our listeners. We are giving back to every conservation organization we cover and you make that possible. We are committed to donating large portions of our revenue (at minimum 25%) to every organization we cover each week. Thank you for helping us to grow, and for helping to conserve our wildlife. Please contact us at [email protected] if you would like to advertise on our podcast You can also visit our website HERE.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices