A forgotten fossil from beneath Toronto reveals a new species of deer — and a missing chapter in North American history. In this episode, Aaron Shafer explains how his lab used ancient DNA to uncover the Toronto ceris deer, an ancestor of modern whitetail and blacktail deer.

They explore what Toronto looked like 12,000 years ago, how mass extinctions unfolded after the Ice Age, and what genetics can tell us about why species disappear. From raccoon-free forests to genetic meltdowns, this story isn’t just about a deer — it’s about what we might be losing next.

And yes, they talk about cloning it.

GUEST:
Aaron Shafer

Originally aired on 2025-11-17

A forgotten fossil from beneath Toronto reveals a new species of deer &mdash; and a missing chapter in North American history. In this episode, Aaron Shafer explains how his lab used ancient DNA to uncover the Toronto ceris deer, an ancestor of modern whitetail and blacktail deer.
They explore what Toronto looked like 12,000 years ago, how mass extinctions unfolded after the Ice Age, and what genetics can tell us about why species disappear. From raccoon-free forests to genetic meltdowns, this story isn&rsquo;t just about a deer &mdash; it&rsquo;s about what we might be losing next.
And yes, they talk about cloning it.
GUEST: Aaron Shafer
Originally aired on&nbsp;2025-11-17

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.