Islands of Insight: Science, Species & Sustainability in the Galápagos pt1

In this awe-inspiring episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon sits down with Dr. Donald McFarlane, biologist and cave ecologist from Claremont McKenna College, for a deep dive into biodiversity, climate science, and the mysteries of island ecosystems — all from aboard a National Geographic vessel in the Galápagos Islands.

Dr. McFarlane reflects on a life dedicated to biological exploration, from Jamaican bat caves to the marine-rich Galápagos. Together, they discuss the unique accessibility of wildlife in the Galápagos, its striking volcanic geography, and how nutrient-rich upwellings fuel the region’s astonishing biodiversity.

The conversation delves into the mechanics of evolution on islands, the impacts of climate change, and the story of white-nose syndrome decimating bat populations across North America. Dr. McFarlane also highlights how emerging technologies like ultrasonic recorders and AI are transforming the way we study ecosystems — offering hope and new tools even amid ecological decline.

This episode is a celebration of scientific curiosity, environmental stewardship, and the power of firsthand experience in nature to shape a conservation mindset.

🌿 Why Listen?

"We have all taken a bite out of the apple." This episode invites listeners to reconnect with nature’s raw intelligence — from the cliffs of the Galápagos to the caves of Borneo — and explore the balance between species discovery and extinction. With climate urgency looming, Dr. McFarlane and Mike emphasize the need to preserve ecosystems while fostering the next generation of environmental stewards.

Important Timelines:

00:01:06 – Introduction of Dr. Donald McFarlane

00:02:35 – First impressions of the Galápagos

00:03:34 – Wildlife encounters: Sea lions, sharks, and vibrant marine life

00:04:46 – Unexpected sighting of a blue whale

00:06:30 – Discussion on Ecuador’s geography, economy, and education

00:08:01 – How nutrient upwellings fuel biodiversity

00:09:44 – Dr. McFarlane's lifelong journey into biology and caves

00:11:02 – Fossil discoveries and natural preservation in caves

00:13:21 – Climate migration of species in mountain ecosystems

00:16:13 – Using cave records to study climate history

00:17:00 – White-nose syndrome and its devastating impact on bats

00:19:22 – Ecological roles of bats and their global diversity

00:20:42 – DNA and audio tech in species identification

00:23:31 – The role of AI in processing massive ecological datasets

00:25:13 – Conservation as a universal responsibility

00:26:31 – Reflection on ecosystems as global systems

00:30:06 – Decline in species classification experts and knowledge gaps