This episode dives into the fascinating world of the Gila Monster, inspired by a request from Sam of the Turtle Tortoise Preservation Group.\nHosts Chris and Angie explore this venomous lizard, unique to the United States, discussing its venomous nature, diet, habitat, and surprising contributions to modern medicine through a venom-derived diabetes and weight loss drug. They also touch on the Gila Monster's slow reproductive rate and near-threatened status due to habitat destruction and climate change. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the importance of education and conservation, featuring organizations working to protect these creatures and seeking public assistance through citizen science projects.\nPodcast Timeline\n00:00 Welcome to the Creatures Podcast: Unveiling the Gila Monster\n01:13 The Fascinating World of the Gila Monster: An Introduction\n02:24 Diving Deep into Gila Monster Facts and Myths\n03:26 Venomous Lizards and Their Unique Traits\n04:49 Listener Engagement and Upcoming Topics\n13:01 Exploring the Gila Monster's Habitat and Conservation Status\n15:33 The Gila Monster's Role in Modern Medicine\n17:59 Climate Change and Its Impact on Desert Ecosystems\n25:54 Evolution and Longevity of the Gila Monster\n30:19 Survival Strategies of the Gila Monster in Harsh Climates\n32:22 Gila Monster's Water Retention Abilities\n33:38 Understanding Gila Monster's Osmoregulation\n34:45 Unique Skin and Survival Strategies\n35:33 Behavioral Insights: From Slow Movement to Nighttime Activities\n37:06 Venom: A Defense Mechanism with Medical Potential\n42:46 From Venom to Pharmaceutical Breakthroughs\n47:26 Diet and Hunting Techniques\n51:37 Social Behavior and Reproduction\n01:02:57 Conservation Efforts and Why They Matter\n------------------------------------------------------\nAnother 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.\xa0\nPlease considering supporting us at Patreon HERE.\nWe 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.\nPlease contact us at advertising@airwavemedia.com\nif you would like to advertise on our podcast\nYou can\xa0also visit our website HERE.\xa0\nLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices