From the Woods Today - Prehistoric and Extinct Wildlife in Kentucky

From the Woods Today - Prehistoric and Extinct Wildlife in Kentucky

Author: Renee Williams, UK Forestry and Natural Resources - Extension June 24, 2026 Duration: 58:43
Do you ever wonder what animals roamed the forests in Kentucky 200 years ago? What about 20,000 years ago? Wildlife of Kentucky's past played a huge role in shaping our forests. Join Frannie Preston, with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources- Extension, to learn about these historic species and what they can tell us about forest management today.
 
Also on tap: Looking for trusted resources to help you manage your woodland? This week's episode dives into the wealth of tools, publications, and guidance available for woodland owners at UKForestry.org. Whether you're a new landowner or a seasoned steward, these resources can help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your woodland. Join Billy Thomas and Renee' Williams, University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources – Extension, as they navigate the website to show woodland owners where to find key resources, how to use them, and practical ways to apply them on your property. Don't miss this helpful walkthrough designed to connect you with the tools you need to succeed. 6.17.26
 
For more episodes of From the Woods Today, visit https://forestry.mgcafe.uky.edu/woods-today 

Every Wednesday, the digital airwaves fill with the sounds of rustling leaves, insightful conversation, and practical knowledge straight from the heart of Kentucky's landscapes. From the Woods Today is your weekly companion for exploring the intricate, often overlooked world of forests and natural resources. Co-hosted by Renee Williams and Billy Thomas with the UK Forestry and Natural Resources Extension, this live podcast serves as a direct line to experts, bringing the latest science, management tips, and ecological stories right to your ears. The discussions are grounded and accessible, moving beyond theory to focus on the tangible aspects of woodland stewardship, wildlife habitats, and the quiet wonders found just off the trail. You'll hear interviews with researchers, deep dives into seasonal changes affecting your local environment, and straightforward answers to the complex questions that landowners and nature enthusiasts face. Tuning in feels less like a lecture and more like a thoughtful conversation with a knowledgeable neighbor who has spent a lifetime observing the rhythms of the natural world. This is a podcast for anyone curious about the life cycle of a tree, the management of a healthy watershed, or simply the latest news from the field of environmental science. It’s where professional insight meets personal passion, all dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the resources that sustain us. Join the live broadcast to be part of the conversation, or catch the episode on-demand to connect with the woods on your own time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

From the Woods Today
Podcast Episodes
From the Woods Today - Tornadoes and Woodlands [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:08
Severe weather is a fact of life in Kentucky, with tornadoes being one of the most dangerous—and misunderstood—threats we face. In this episode, Matt Dixon, senior meteorologist with the UK Ag Weather Center, breaks down…
From the Woods Today - April Fools Day Myths or Reality? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:15
Ever heard that cutting only the largest trees is good for a forest? Billy Thomas, UK Forestry & Natural Resources - Extension, calls that bluff on this April Fools Edition of From the Woods Today. Billy will break down…
From The Woods Today - Tree Physiology [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:51
In this episode of From the Woods Today, we dig into what's happening beneath our feet. Chris Wiedamann from the Kentucky Division of Forestry joins us to explain how tree roots really grow and where most of a tree's roo…
From the Woods Today - Ecological Engineering Solutions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:16
March 22 is World Water Day, a global reminder of how essential clean, fresh water is to our lives, forests, wildlife, and communities.This week on From the Woods Today, we're celebrating by highlighting innovative effor…
From the Woods Today - Wings of Kentucky [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:09
This week, Dr. D.J. McNeil from UK Forestry and Natural Resources returns with another installment of Wings of Kentucky, where he'll introduce us to one of our most fascinating feathered friends—the woodcock. Learn what…
From the Woods Today - Invasive Species Awareness Week [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:06
This week on From the Woods Today, we're welcoming Alexandra Blevins, Forest Health Specialist with the Kentucky Division of Forestry. Alexandra will kick things off by explaining what invasive species are and why they a…
From the Woods Today - Silvopasture [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:27
Silvopasture is the intentional integration of forages, livestock, and trees into a managed system. While there are many benefits of silvopastures, the single most important may be enhancing animal welfare by providing s…
From the Woods Today - Wings of Kentucky [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:10
Kentucky's forests are full of incredible wildlife—but some of the most fascinating birds are the ones hiding right on the trunks of trees! This week on From the Woods Today, Dr. D.J. McNeil, UK Forestry and Natural Reso…
From the Woods Today - Exploding Trees [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:33
Exploding trees? Is this real or AI? Dr. Jacob Muller, UK FNR - Extension, will have our first episode of Tree Tales: Rooting out the Myths. Will extreme temperatures make a tree explode? Find out on this episode. Also o…