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

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2,353 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.

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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?

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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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