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This weird trick will help you summon an army of worms - Kenny Coogan

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2,368 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

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In the middle of Florida’s Apalachicola National Forest, a bizarre, almost magical scene is unraveling. Sliding a metal strip over a wooden stake, a master summoner is sending deep croaking noises reverberating throughout the area. And, as if in a trance, hundreds of earthworms begin emerging from the soil. What’s going on? Kenny Coogan explores the tradition known as worm grunting.

WatchThink Dig Deeper Discuss
Why do the worms still come to the surface when they sense the vibrations, even though they could be created by humans, wood turtles or herring gulls?

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Kenny Coogan
  • Director Martina Meštrović
  • Narrator Alexandra Panzer
  • Storyboard Artist Martina Meštrović
  • Animator Martina Meštrović, Marko First
  • Compositor Martina Meštrović, Marko First
  • Art Director Martina Meštrović
  • Sound Designer Marko First
  • Director of Production Gerta Xhelo
  • Producer Anna Bechtol
  • Associate Producer Abdallah Ewis
  • Editorial Director Alex Rosenthal
  • Editorial Producer Cella Wright

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