Welcome, nature enthusiasts, to another captivating episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast! We're thrilled to be reaching listeners in 115 countries, all 50 states, and across the beautiful Carolinas. A proud recipient of the Best of the Weeklies podcast award from the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, our podcast continues to explore the wonders of nature.   This week, hosts Debbie and Laurie dive into a thought-provoking conversation with the esteemed Monica Macoubrie from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Returning for the third time, Monica sheds light on the intriguing topic of what unfolds in the wild when life comes to an end.   From the intricacies of decomposition to the role of scavengers like foxes and vultures, we embark on a journey through the stages of this natural process. Join us in unraveling the mysteries of nature's recycling system, from the fresh state to the fascinating world of anaerobic microbes. It's an evolutionary arms race, and we're here to guide you through the wonders that occur when something dies in the wild.   As always, we invite our cherished listeners to share their thoughts—tell us where you're from and what aspects of the podcast you find most enthralling. Your feedback fuels our passion for exploring the great outdoors!   If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you.   Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram.   Please visit and support our presenting sponsor, Backyard Birds at http://www.thebirdfoodstore.com/. A mecca for bird lovers and bird watchers, Backyard Birds is an independent family-owned business located in Matthews, NC (next to Dairy Queen), just southeast of Charlotte.   Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists.  We hope you have a day filled with the wonders of nature. Get outside and take a walk on the wild side! Please don’t forget to leave a 5-star review for The Backyard Naturalists podcast.   Production services for The Backyard Naturalists podcast are provided by Downtown Podcasting. To start a conversation on how you can have a podcast, simply send an email to info@downtownpodcasting.com.   While recording the Backyard Naturalists podcast, Debbie and Laurie enjoy coffee provided by the Good Cup Coffee Company  in Matthews, North Carolina. Follow Good Cup Coffee on Instagram and look for them at the Matthews Community Farmer’s Market  this Saturday morning.