Sawbones: Sentinel Chickens
Summary
Hosts Justin and Sydney McElroy discuss mosquito-borne diseases and the use of "sentinel chickens" to monitor viral activity. They explain how these birds act as early warning systems for illnesses like Murray Valley encephalitis by developing antibodies after mosquito bites. The episode also reveals Disney World’s extensive mosquito control strategies, including engineered drainage, predatory wasps, and garlic-scented air systems to keep guests bite-free.
Topics discussed
Intro and water bottle banter
Mosquitoes as deadly creatures and disease vectors
Introduction to sentinel chickens and Murray Valley encephalitis
History and mechanics of using chickens for mosquito surveillance
Sponsor reads for Squarespace and FIGS
Member of the Month and Just the Zoo of Us promo
Disney World's mosquito problem and General Joe Potter
Joe's Ditches and architectural mosquito prevention
The Smellitzer and garlic scent repellents
Disney's sentinel chickens and episode outro
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