Host Chris Jennings, co-host Dr. Mike Brasher, and (retired) DU Chief Scientist Dr. Tom Moorman, break down the 2020-2021 waterfowl season from late summer 2020 until the end. The trio discusses La Niña impacts on waterfowl, physiology of ducks and geese, and a glimpse of regional conditions gleaned from past Podcasts. While it wasn’t all bad news, this podcast brings to light significant issues hunters faced throughout the season. Brasher and Jennings wrap up Season 3 and preview Season 4: The Off Season, which begins May 1.
Hear how a generous land donation from the DeLuca family to the University of Florida has turned into a conservation, education opportunity for the next generation and beyond. Host Chris Jennings discusses this massive land donation with DU CEO Adam Putnam; Florida Fish and Wildlife Foundation CEO Andy Walker; and Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources for the University of Florida Dr. Scott Angle. Each provide insights as to the how this conservation effort benefits a wide range of organizations, people, wildlife, the next generation.
Mark Horobetz, DU’s manager of youth and education programs, joins the DU Podcast to provide an overview on the history and growth of DU’s youth programs, starting with Greenwings and continuing to today’s Varsity and University chapters. Also discussed are green shoots from these efforts including DU’s University Scholarship Program and other exciting new initiatives.
Phil Bourjaily, DU Magazine shotgunning columnist, joins host Chris Jennings to discuss a recent column – The Physics of Shotgunning. Bourjaily breaks down the science behind being a better shooter. He also provides an update on his duck season. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dr. Scott Boomer, USFWS wildlife biologist, rejoins the show to offer his thoughts on sex-specific regulations and provide a brief update on the ongoing revision to the Pintail harvest strategy. Scott also shares his thoughts on the relative importance of harvest management vs. habitat conservation in achieving duck population goals.
First developed for midcontinent mallards, Adaptive Harvest Management has since been expanded to eastern and western mallards, black ducks, pintails, and scaup. Dr. Scott Boomer, wildlife biologist with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, joins the DU Podcast to discuss modern changes to AHM and provides insights on what all has to be considered when expanding AHM to new species or entertaining alternative ideas for harvest regulations.
Brandon Cerecke, founder of Boss Shotshells, joins the show to discuss the ballistics of their loads. Chris Jennings and Cerecke get into the technical side of Boss, and how Cerecke started an ammunition company based upon his personal experiences as a waterfowl hunter. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois rejoins the DU Podcast to share the stories behind his recently launched video project, “Duck Camp Dinners”. This new show details duck camp life at a floating lodge in south Louisiana. He walks through the full process of shopping for meals, cutting brush, and even just getting to the camp. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dr. Jim Dubovsky, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service central flyway representative, rejoins the DU Podcast to provide nostalgic reflection as he share insights on the role of sex-specific duck regulations, how they were formulated under the point system, and what determined if a bird was worth 10, 15, or 35 points. Despite being conceptually sound, the point system was withdrawn in 1994, largely due to challenges with the practicality of its implementation and enforcement.
Mathematics was once a required practice in the duck blind, courtesy of the point system of the 70s and 80s. Dr. Jim Dubovsky, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service central flyway representative, joins Dr. Mike Brasher for a trip down memory lane to discuss the origination, objectives, implementation, and critiques of the old point system, a once common regulatory alternative for duck harvest. Although liked and enjoyed by managers and hunters alike, it wasn’t without its challenges.
Steve Cordts, waterfowl staff specialist for Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, joins Dr. Mike Brasher to provide a recap of the 2020-21 waterfowl season and share insights on a waterfowl hunter opinion survey being used to gather input from Minnesotans on preferences for future waterfowl regulations. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The northeastern U.S. provides habitat for waterfowl throughout the annual cycle, making it a critical region for DU’s conservation work on breeding, migration, and wintering habitats. Sarah Fleming, DU’s director of conservation programs in the northeastern U.S., joins the DU Podcast to discuss important habitats, waterfowl species, and priority conservation activities in the New England states. Our discussion closes with a look at how wetland conditions for breeding waterfowl are shaping up.
Mallori Murphey and Katie Burke welcome back Colin McNair, Decoy Specialist for Copley Fine Art Auctions. In this episode, Mallori must endure Katie and Colin nerding out on the history of decoys and their evolution from utilitarian object to highly sought-after collectibles. The crew also discusses what collecting is like during the pandemic and how you can still find that elusive missing piece to your collection.
Mallori Murphey and Katie Burke are joined by Colin McNair, Decoy Specialist at Copley Fine Art Auctions. In this episode, Colin talks about his life growing up carving decoys and hunting waterfowl with his dad and brother. The crew dives into the world of a decoy specialist as well as the practice of using x-rays to prove authenticity. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
With the Shooting Hunting and Outdoor Tradeshow canceled for 2021, the DU Podcast is excited to be able to introduce a new waterfowling product to the market with Benelli USA. George Thompson, director of product management for Benelli USA, joins Chris Jennings to discuss the new Super Black Eagle 3, along with other new guns for 2021. Experience a SHOT Show product launch, without attending the show. If you have questions for George Thompson, or for the DU Podcast, please email us at DUPodcast@ducks.org.
In this concluding episode about the implementation of Adaptive Harvest Management, Dr. Jim Nichols and Dr. Mike Brasher discuss the importance of population data, band returns, and harvest estimates in AHM mechanics. This episode wraps up with a reflection on 25 years of liberal regulations, the legacy and influence of AHM beyond waterfowl management, where it ranks in the history of waterfowl management, and thoughts on why it has withstood the test of time.
Is duck harvest mortality additive or compensatory? Is duck production strongly or weakly density dependent? Which habitat features most influence duck production? And how are optimal duck harvest regulations selected in the face of this imperfect knowledge? The DU Podcast is again thankful to be joined by Dr. Jim Nichols, retired senior scientist and Adaptive Harvest Management expert, to dig deeper into the workings of AHM and how annual duck regulations are selected.
As regular duck seasons wind down, Jay Anglin, Great Lakes Region migration editor, joins the show to talk about weather, habitat, and late-season goose hunting opportunities. Anglin and host Chris Jennings discuss solid Canada goose numbers throughout Illinois, Indiana, southern Michigan, and Ohio. The pair preview an early glimpse of light goose opportunities as well. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Luke Naylor, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission waterfowl program coordinator, joins host Chris Jennings to discuss the current state of habitat and hunting conditions in the Natural State. Naylor recently finished tabulating the mid-winter aerial survey and the pair discuss numbers and potential causes for the end results.
Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dr. Jim Nichols rejoins the DU Podcast to share stories about early champions of Adaptive Harvest Management and how they promoted it as a better way of setting harvest regulations, with unexpected support resulting from unusual political maneuverings in the mid-90s. Dr. Nicholas and Dr. Mike Brasher also begin discussing key components of AHM, including harvest management objectives and regulatory packages, with a goal of demystifying some of the “black box” of AHM.
Concern for waterfowl populations and frustration with the status quo of duck harvest management in the late 80s stimulated new ideas for setting annual regulations and learning about their effects. Dr. Jim Nichols, retired senior scientist from Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and one of the godfathers of Adaptive Harvest Management, joins the DU Podcast to introduce waterfowl harvest dynamics, adaptive management, and the regulatory atmosphere that ultimately produced AHM.
With the 2020-21 duck season winding down, we look ahead at how spring wetland conditions may be shaping up. Dr. Scott Stephens, DU Canada’s director of regional operations for prairies and boreal, rejoins the DU Podcast to discuss conditions needed to produce abundant spring wetlands and provides an update on where we currently stand. Lingering drought from 2020, poor frost seal, and sparse winter snow across much of the Canadian prairies create a grim forecast at this stage.
The ideas of “fair” and “equitable” in harvest distribution have been a challenging undercurrent for regulatory decisions over the years. Dale Humburg and Ken Babcock join the DU Podcast one last time to discuss zones and splits, “shortstopping” in geese, the frustration it caused, and how managers tried to adapt. Also discussed are lead poisoning, non-toxic shot regulations, and the birth of Adaptive Harvest Management, each of which brought their own need for adaptation.
The 1970s and 80s brought a flurry of activity, including early teal seasons, stabilized regulations, foundational analyses of compensatory vs. additive mortality, new views on harvest management, and the most important development for waterfowl management in at least 50 years – the North American Waterfowl Management Plan. Repeat guests Ken Babcock and Dale Humburg rejoin the DU Podcast to continue a discussion about the history of waterfowl harvest management.
Dr. Tom Moorman, former DU Chief Scientist, shares in-depth information about certain aquatic vegetation ducks prefer over others. Host Chris Jennings and Moorman discuss species-specific food preferences and how duck and goose hunters can find, and identify, these natural food sources. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Kyle Spragens and Brandon Reishus rejoin Dr. Mike Brasher to expand their discussion about harvest management for Canada and Cackling geese in Oregon and Washington. Today’s discussion focuses on Dusky Canada Geese and how harvest regulations are crafted to protect them from harvest without undue risks and burdens for hunters and other regional stakeholders. Brandon and Kyle also dispel misconceptions about subsistence harvest and whether the Dusky is endangered.
Kyle Spragens, waterfowl section manager for Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, and Brandon Reishus, migratory game bird coordinator for Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, join the DU Podcast to discuss the 7 subspecies of white-cheeked geese found in the Pacific northwest. Topics covered include population status, historical and current distributions, causes for recent changes in abundance and distribution, and how these 7 subspecies influence harvest regulations.
Kelly Warren, DU regional biologist in western Oregon, joins Dr. Mike Brasher for an introduction to geese and goose hunting in the Pacific Northwest. We learn about the 7 subspecies of white-cheeked geese, including the dusky Canada goose for which harvest is not allowed, goose identification tests, and harvest challenges surrounding these sub-species. We also discuss white-fronts, snows, and how conservation efforts by DU and state and federal partners benefit these species.
Building from earlier discussions in episodes 41, 42, and 43, Dr. Mike Brasher visits with John Vradenburg, USFWS supervisory biologist for the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex to get an update on the alarmingly low waterfowl numbers, habitat conditions, and difficult hunting in the Klamath Basin. John concludes on an optimistic tone by discussing some of the positive work underway and opportunities for future wetland and waterfowl improvements in the region.
Threats of a closed season in the Mississippi Flyway in 1968 led to intense disagreement, restrictive regulations, and amplified the challenges of managing the resource while considering the interests of people. Collectively, these times generated solid foundations for future progress. Dr. Mike Brasher is rejoined by Ken Babcock and Dale Humburg to discuss these topics, while also introducing an elegant alternative regulation system that began in the 1960s– the Point System.
With growing band recoveries and a newly implemented Breeding Population and Habitat Survey, waterfowl managers in the 1950s sought a more science-based understanding of population dynamics and harvest regulations. The 1960s brought plummeting waterfowl populations, reductions in harvest limits, declining hunter numbers, and shifts in waterfowl distribution. On this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher discusses these important changes and concerning times with Dale Humburg and Ken Babcock. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Facing difficult hunting conditions in the early portions of the season, Richard talks about how he used certain techniques to overcome stale ducks. He discusses how he uses footage from Higdon Outdoors TV to help him find discrepancies in his decoy spreads and hides. He also hints at some new Higdon products for 2021. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Show description: The DU Podcast is joined by Dr. Andy Raedeke, migratory game bird coordinator for Missouri Department of Conservation, for a Christmas week update on habitat conditions, waterfowl numbers, and hunting reports from the show-me state. It’s a message similar to that shared by other states and waterfowl hunters, but hope remains for a minor Christmas gift or perhaps a change in the long-term forecast. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The DU Podcast was excited to welcome Brandon Reishus, migratory game bird coordinator for Oregon Dept of Fish and Wildlife, and Kyle Spragens, waterfowl section manager for Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife, for a quick update on migration status, habitat conditions, and hunter success from their respective states. A bout of favorable weather may be on the horizon, just in time for a welcome Christmas change. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
World War II brought global upheaval in the 1940s and caused a redirection of national priorities and placed a temporary pause on regulatory and conservation momentum of the 1930s. After the war, returning veterans became the pioneers in waterfowl management and led to a new era of scientific discovery, regulatory creativity, and a growing need for state and federal coordination via Flyways. The DU Podcast continues its discussion with Ken Babcock and Dale Humburg.
Throughout the 1920s, the Federal government experienced growing pains in its new-found regulatory responsibilities for waterfowl harvest. Then, the 1930s brought about a Dust Bowl, Great Depression, and catalysts for conservation, eventually producing the Duck Stamp Act, National Wildlife Refuge expansions, the Pittman-Robertson Act, and Ducks Unlimited. Dr. Mike Brasher continues his discussion with Ken Babcock and Dale Humburg about the evolution of waterfowl harvest management. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Weather is one of many variables that play heavily into a decoy strategy. John Pollmann, Ducks Unlimited magazine freelance contributor, talks with Chris Jennings about several odd weather situations where an outside-the-box tactic may work. Pollmann shares details of a past, popular article he wrote about the topic and the two go into great lengths discussing these helpful strategies. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
As the mercury dips, keep a close eye on your retriever. Mike Stewart, owner of Wildrose Kennels, joins host Chris Jennings for a cold-weather retriever care discussion. Ice, snow, extremely cold winds can have an impact on your dog, and Stewart points out several things to look for when hunting in wintry conditions. He also talks about some other topics like cold-tail, retriever blind bags, hypothermia, and feeding regimens. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Following legal challenges to early attempts at Federal protection of migratory birds, policy makers and conservation leaders sought alternative avenues for establishing Federal jurisdiction. Dale Humburg and Ken Babcock rejoin Dr. Mike Brasher to discuss the Migratory Bird Treaty Act becoming law in 1918, its role in a landmark Supreme Court case, and its emergence as the foundation for regulated waterfowl harvest and migratory bird management.
At the turn of the 19th Century, market hunting and unregulated harvest was taking a toll on waterfowl and other migratory birds. Growing concern produced the first attempts at federal regulation of migratory birds. In part 1 of the DU Podcast’s series on the history of waterfowl harvest management, Dale Humburg, former DU chief scientist, and Ken Babcock, former DU senior director of regional operations, discuss these early days and the resistance to federal intervention. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
John Pollmann, DU magazine freelance contributor, rejoins the DU Podcast to talk decoy strategies with Chris Jennings. The two go through a magazine feature Pollmann wrote, detailing how to create the simplest, most effective decoy spread possible. The two talk about the varying habitats where these unique spreads are used and how other hunters can recreate the scenarios in their hunting areas. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The Ducks Unlimited Podcast is joined by Aaron Yetter, waterfowl ecologist from the Forbes Biological Station, for an early December report on habitat conditions and duck numbers in the Illinois and Mississippi River Valleys. After a brief freeze that concentrated ducks for the previous survey, wetlands have thawed, spreading ducks across the landscape. Duck numbers are down and habitats remain dry, which has made for challenging outings in the 2020 waterfowl season. www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
DU President Doug Schoenrock joins host Chris Jennings to discuss DU events, conservation, and even chat about Schoenrock’s recent hunts. Schoenrock provides an update on fall event successes, in-person and digital, and talks about a specific new DU-member benefit, DU Sportsman Protection Plan. He shares his Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays message for all DU supporters and how excited he is to forge into 2021 for wetlands conservation. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Lee Kjos, co-owner and brand manager of Boss Shotshells, joins host Chris Jennings to talk about how Boss Shotshells was born from the passion of waterfowling and conservation. Kjos explains the mentality that drives Boss Shotshells – quality shotshells and ethical hunting. Learn about the wide variety of shotshells available direct to consumer. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Managing hunting pressure is one of the single greatest challenges for waterfowl managers today, as it is important for conserving the waterfowl resource while also providing quality hunting experiences. Dr. Mike Brasher is rejoined by Larry Reynolds and Mike Carloss to discuss the Atchafalaya Delta as a prime example of these challenges, the consequences of management decisions, and the evolution of understanding as hunters and scientists. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The DU Podcast resumes its discussion about history and change at the Atchafalaya and Wax Lake Deltas. Mike Carloss relives his experiences as manager at the Atchafalaya Delta WMA, including stories of remote living and hunter rescues in the dark. Larry Reynolds tells of the glory days of hunting at the Delta, including brute force navigation, hunting the rising tides, and increased hunting pressure that began to change bird behavior. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Larry Reynolds, waterfowl program coordinator, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and Mike Carloss, DU director of conservation programs, Louisiana/Texas/Oklahoma, join host Dr. Mike Brasher to discuss the south Louisiana coastal habitat and the importance, issues, and realities of the productivity of the region. Learn how this habitat has changed, degraded, improved, and the impacts of conservation. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Our eyes are upon Texas in this episode, as we visit with Andy Stetter, USFWS Supervisory Wildlife Biologist, to get an update on waterfowl abundance, habitat conditions, and general hunting success along the Texas coast during the early season. Andy also shares a personal retriever story that while somber at the outset, ultimately produces a surprising development and new hunting partner. We thank Andy for sharing! Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Cindy Anchor, a Master’s student at South Dakota State University, joins the show to discuss preliminary results from her telemetry-based study of the post-fledging and migration movements of mallards from North and South Dakota. Listen to our extended discussion about Cindy’s research, sponsored through DU’s Waterfowl Research Foundation Fellowship, and what it revealed regarding mallard movements out of the Dakotas and into winter. Contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Lt. John Nores, Jr. (Retired) from California Department of Fish and Wildlife discusses his most recent book, Hidden War: How Special Operations Game Wardens are reclaiming America’s wildlands from drug cartels. Nores shares stories from the book about tactics and cleanup of illegal grow operations, and how these operations contaminate water supply, kill wildlife, and damage public lands. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Lt. John Nores, Jr. (Retired) from California Department of Fish and Wildlife discusses his most recent book, Hidden War: How Special Operations Game Wardens are reclaiming America’s wildlands from drug cartels. Nores talks about issues with water, wildlife, and how California game wardens dealt with an attack on public and private lands, and how the issue continues across the U.S. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Jon Deeter, co-owner of Guyette and Deeter Auction House, joins the show to discuss the business side of collecting waterfowling history. Hosts Mallori and Katie discuss the current decoy market and the impact of COVID-19. Deeter discusses the auction house’s record-breaking sales and some of the industry’s most historic finds. Katie and Jon lament on the wonderful community of collectors and how they both can’t wait for things to be back in person again. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Brook Richard, manager of corporate relations for Higdon Outdoors, joins the DU Podcast to talk about Higdon Outdoors full line of decoys, MOMarsh blinds, Powers Calls, and even provides a few decoy tips in the process. Richard talks about the importance of motion in your decoys and new products from Higdon Outdoors. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Re-air from 2019. Our Thanksgiving show, plucked from the DU Magazine archives (Nov/Dec 2007), is a humorous story about the idiosyncrasies of waterfowl hunters. "Duck Blind Intervention" written by Doug Larson and narrated by Tom Gallagher.
When people think of waterfowl habitats in California, places such as Humboldt Bay and San Francisco Bay probably aren’t the first that come to mind. However, these areas provide valuable habitat for hundreds of thousands of wintering waterfowl annually. On this episode, we visit with DU Regional Biologist, Dr. Renee Spenst, to learn about DU’s wetland conservation priorities, unique restoration opportunities, and a diverse supporter base along the California coast. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Mike Lewis, Arkansas Duck Call Collector and Current Chairman of the Board of Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, joins hosts Mallori and Katie to talk about his journey into call collecting. Lewis speaks about what drew him to Arkansas duck calls and the state’s rich history in waterfowling. He also describes his personal relationship with Call Carver, Billy Ray Starks, and his influence on Lewis’s own call making and collecting. The trio talks about Lewis’s book “Calling the Wild: The History of Arkansas Duck Calls” and the years of research that went into such an endeavor. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Ducks Unlimited’s goal of abundant waterfowl populations depends fundamentally on a robust base of productive wetlands across North America. In many regions, wetlands face persistent threats from the exotic, invasive plant known as Phragmites. Today we visit with Emily Tarsa, PhD student at Utah State University and DU Fellowship Recipient, to hear about her research into the restoration of native wetland vegetation in the Great Salt Lake following removal and control of Phragmites. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Luke Naylor, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission waterfowl program coordinator, joins the DU Podcast to discuss current conditions going into the 2020-2021 Arkansas waterfowl season. Naylor explains that the state is fairly dry, yet remains optimistic about the opener, and the season to follow. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
John Pollmann, DU magazine contributor, joins host Chris Jennings to talk about all-things blinds. The two discuss different approaches for various styles of waterfowling blinds and address the benefits and drawbacks to each one for waterfowl hunters. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
In this concluding episode, Drs. Dave Mauser and Mark Petrie discuss recent developments that have further eroded the ability of Refuges in the Klamath Basin to effectively manage wetlands for waterfowl. The consequences of these developments are likely to include fewer birds, less hunting opportunities, and more frequent outbreaks of avian botulism. We close with a discussion of how DU is helping to imagine and deliver conservation solutions for the future. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The mid-20th Century was a period of variation and transition for Lower Klamath and Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuges, in the hey days supporting upwards of 6 million migrating pintails, but in troubled years being an avian botulism hotspot. The emergence of endangered fish species in the 1990s, however, began to fundamentally change the fate of waterfowl habitat in the region. Our story continues on this episode of the DU Podcast. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Located in southern Oregon and northern California, the Klamath Basin was once known as the most important wintering area for waterfowl on the planet. On this episode, join us and our guests, Dr. Dave Mauser and Dr. Mark Petrie, to learn about the region, its historical importance, and how legislation and water developments from over 100 years ago helped shape its conservation legacy and modern-day tribulations. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Chef Jean-Paul Bourgeios joins the DU Podcast to talk about his new project promoting duck-camp cooking and recipes from south Louisiana. He also shares a handful on cooking tips and rants about the ethics of Instagram chefs. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Phil Bourjaily, DU Magazine shotgunning columnist, joins Chris Jennings to talk about the 20-gauge as a viable waterfowl gun. Bourjaily is currently testing out several models and shares his opinions of the 20-gauge. The two discuss new models, improved ammunition options, and other highlights of choosing this small- bore option. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Hunter reports on snow geese suggest everything from a horrible hatch to great production, but what do researchers say? Lacking data from goose banding operations, we turn to field-based surveys of staging geese in prairie Saskatchewan. Worldwide snow goose expert, Dr. Ray Alisauskas, provides our first empirical look at snow and Ross’s goose production in 2020, and we then discuss explanations for low production and populations declines for white geese in the Midcontinent.
Aaron Yetter of the Forbes Biological Station in Havana, Illinois, joins the DU Podcast to provide an update on waterfowl numbers in the Illinois and Mississippi River Valleys during late October and early November. We also discuss recent reports of hunting success and hear about the crazy movements of a radiomarked wood duck. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Waterfowl hunt clubs have played an important role in waterfowl and wetlands conservation since the mid-19th Century. The Winous Point Shooting Club, at the southwestern end of Lake Erie, stands as North America’s oldest, continuously running duck club. In this episode, we visit with John Simpson, manager of Winous Point, for an introduction to its history and vital contributions to waterfowl hunting, wetland conservation, scientific research, and habitat management. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Hosts Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings have a quick discussion on the basics of what separates these waterfowl types. Brasher explains anatomy, feeding types, and other differences between these ducks, while Jennings brings a handful of fun facts to the show. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Host Chris Jennings is joined by John Pollmann, Ducks Unlimited magazine contributor, to take a deep dive into lifetime skills for waterfowl hunters. Pollmann wrote a piece that relates to this topic for ducks.org, but the pair go even further into the discussion about becoming an all-around duck and goose hunter. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Continuing with a focus on winter weather and how it is influencing waterfowl migrations, we are joined by Dr. Mike Schummer, SUNY ESF, to discuss his use of weather metrics to forecast duck migration in the eastern U.S. We also get an update on conditions in the Northeast and discuss the potential implications of a strengthening La Nina for winter weather, habitat conditions, and hunter opportunities. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Jay Anglin, DU’s Great Lakes Region Migration Editor joins the show to talk about the current state of migration. Multiple weather systems have pushed ducks and geese into historical migration corridors and Anglin provides a glimpse into the current hunting conditions. He also explains that the best is yet to come. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
As a series of strong mid-October cold fronts settles across the prairies and Midwest, there are widespread reports of frozen wetlands, snow-covered fields, and an exodus of waterfowl out of Canada. On this episode, we go back to our trusty source of intel from the Canadian Prairies, Dr. Scott Stephens, fresh from his likely “last hunt of the season” for a report on weather conditions, migration, and a bit of informed speculation on how these conditions are affecting behaviors of ducks and geese. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Guest hosts, Mallori Murphey and Katie Burke, are joined by Marty Hanson, world-renowned master decoy carver, to discuss how he became a carver and much more. Hanson gets into detail about different species and even individual species he prefers to carve. The trio talk about his unique approach and what makes his carving style different from other carvers throughout North America. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Waterfowl hunters are certainly familiar with leg bands on waterfowl, but there are sometimes other markers they should look for and report. One example is web tags. Clemson University grad student Jake Shurba joins the podcast to tell us about web tags and provides a Public Service Announcement on how to report them when encountered. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
With the regular waterfowl season opener in Missouri creeping closer, Tony Vandemore joins the show to talk about habitat management, the upcoming season, and new changes at Habitat Flats. Vandemore shares some information about habitat in comparison to last year, and what we he is looking forward to in 2020. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
A remarkable wildlife success story and amazing table fare, the growth and expansion of the eastern population of sandhill cranes is providing a delightful new opportunity for migratory bird hunters in portions of the eastern U.S. Dr. John Brunjes rejoins the podcast to share insights on the process that was followed to open a sandhill crane season in the eastern U.S. and describe steps taken to ensure harvest does not harm the population. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Many waterfowl hunters and migratory bird enthusiasts have crossed paths with sandhill cranes somewhere along the way. Dr. John Brunjes, Kentucky Dept of Fish and Wildlife Resources, joins the podcast to educate us on their ecology, distribution, taxonomy, management, and changes in their population size and distribution, with an emphasis on eastern North America. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dan Drust, Filson director of wholesale sales, joins Chris Jennings to talk about the fantastic history of Filson and how the iconic brand transitioned into the markets of today, yet maintained their quality standards. Drust also shares information on several new products from a lifestyle and a waterfowling perspective. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
As the overall number of waterfowl hunters continues to decline, it is increasingly important that we invite and welcome new hunters from all backgrounds. An encouraging trend is a recent increase in the number of women participating in hunting. In part 2 of our discussion on Women in Waterfowl, our guests share their experiences and accomplishments as female hunters. We close with advice and guidance for other women interested in hunting or joining the waterfowl and wetland conservation profession.
For the longest time, the vast majority of waterfowl professionals and waterfowl hunters have been men. Although the balance continues to tilt in this direction, we are witnessing an exciting shift in female participation and leadership in waterfowl science, management, and conservation, as well as in the blind. The DU Podcast is joined by Dr. Susan Ellis-Felege, Dr. Karla Guyn, and Casey Setash to discuss this change and hear first-hand of their experiences as women in the waterfowl profession.
The DU Podcast is expanding its reach and soon you’ll begin to hear shows focusing on the history of our waterfowling heritage. Katie Burke, manager of the Waterfowling Heritage Center, and Mallori Murphey, social media specialist, will be hosting history-oriented shows. These shows will include decoy carvers, collectors, call collectors, and the wide variety of other historical topics. This show introduces you to Katie and Mallori. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
It is well-documented that predators kill ducks and destroy millions of nests annually. What is less understood is how landscape features may interact to influence rates of predation and whether we can thwart predator success by more targeted and strategic habitat conservation efforts. Today, we visit with Samantha Fino, PhD Candidate and recipient of DU’s Bonnycastle Fellowship for Prairie Ecosystem Studies, to learn how her research is helping answer these questions. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Anthony Jones, DU digital media and marketing director, joins Chris Jennings on the podcast to talk about the various digital tools built by waterfowl hunters, for waterfowl hunters. The list of tools for duck and goose hunters includes the highly popular DU Migration Map, DU App, and the all-encompassing Waterfowl360.com. Jones gets into the details of each and shares other insights into how you can use these tools. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
While there is no doubt that non-hunters can be effective wildlife conservation professionals, our four guests share their beliefs and experiences with how active engagement in hunting helped them develop a deeper appreciation and connection to the resource. In this concluding episode about University Hunt Programs, we hear stories about visceral connection, emotional reward, and personal enlightenment that resulted from the conscious decision to hunt. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
In today’s university-based wildlife conservation programs, it is increasingly common for enrolled students to lack prior exposure to or experience with hunting. In response to this trend, initiatives commonly referred to as “University Hunt Programs” are being developed, whereby students are given an opportunity to learn about and participate in waterfowl hunting. On this episode, we are introduced to these programs by 4 guests that have been active participants in them. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
With continued closure of the Canadian border to non-essential travel, the DU Podcast is rejoined by Dr. Scott Stephens to hear about and live vicariously through his latest pursuits of migratory game birds in the Land of the Living Skies --- Saskatchewan. Always a great guest with informative content and entertaining exchanges, Dr. Stephens shares his successes and challenges in chasing (and calling) cranes, specks, and ducks. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Host Chris Jennings is joined by Josh Miller, product training specialist for SportDOG Brand and owner of River Stone Kennels. Miller explains his transition to becoming a full-time trainer, and shares his expertise in choosing dogs, utilizing training tools, and even becoming a duck hunter. The two discuss their first retrievers and how these specific dogs improved their training and hunting over the years. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Perhaps unbeknownst to many North American waterfowlers, the state of Washington year-in and year-out supports a respectable population of breeding waterfowl, mostly mallards, that contribute to early harvest in that state. Matt Wilson, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, joins the podcast to share insights on breeding waterfowl in Washington and provides an update on summer habitat conditions and what we might expect later this year. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Jay Anglin, Great Lakes Migration Editor for Waterfowl360.com joins the show to discuss some early hunting and habitat conditions across the Great Lakes. Anglin, based in Northern Indiana shares some insights on hunting conditions in his area and reports he has heard from other hunters in the Great Lakes Region. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
In the Upper Midwest, trematodes that are ingested through consumption of faucet snails are known to cause mortality in lesser scaup and other waterbirds every year, yet the effects of trematode infection on those birds that survive is not well understood. Cheyenne Beach, recipient of the Ed and Sally Futch Fellowship through Ducks Unlimited, joins the podcast to update us on her research that is investigating this very question.
Phil Bourjaily, Ducks Unlimited magazine shotgunning columnist joins the show to talk about goose guns. Bourjaily discusses what he prefers when it come to a solid, late-season goose gun and shares some slight modifications for hunters looking to find the perfect goose gun.
Duck energy days (DED) are discussed regularly amongst conservation and waterfowl managers, but what does that mean. In this episode, hosts Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings have an in-depth conversation about this metric used by conservation leaders across North America.
George Thompson, director of product management for Benelli joins the podcast to discuss Benelli’s new Benelli Surface Treatment (BE.S.T.). Thompson and host Chris Jennings talk about this new product, along with a breakdown of all Benelli’s waterfowl and upland shotguns. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Doug Schoenrock, DU President, joins the DU Podcast to share his experiences within the organization and how he rose through the volunteer ranks of the world’s leader in wetlands conservation. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Earlier this month the DU Podcast was joined by Larry Reynolds to discuss the results of LDWF’s early September teal survey as well observations of the damage and destruction left in the path of Hurricane Laura. Ducks Unlimited extends its support and prayers to all those affected by the storm and are wishing for a speedy and effective recovery. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The worldwide pandemic upended nearly all traditional research projects and banding efforts for Arctic-nesting geese in 2020, but that won’t stop the DU Podcast from asking the questions you want to hear. Frank Baldwin, Wildlife Biologist for Environment and Climate Change Canada, joins us to share a few insights on goose production in 2020 and an interesting side story on summer duck banding. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
During his research into hybridization between mallards and black ducks, Dr. Phil Lavretsky identified a mysterious genetic signature among mallards in North America. Playing the role of waterfowl detective, Phil and his colleagues uncovered the source of this signature and brought a surprising discovery to the world of waterfowl management. We explore this discovery and what it means in our concluding episode of this exciting series! Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dr. Phil Lavretsky dives into the latest scientific findings on the prevalence of mallard hybridization with black ducks, mottled ducks, Mexican ducks, and what to look for when identifying hybrids. We also learn that rumors of the demise of the American Black Duck due to mallards have been greatly exaggerated. Phil delivers the good news in the field of genetics. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The DU Podcast is joined by genetics expert, Dr. Phil Lavretsky of the University of Texas El Paso, to discuss genetics, the prevalence of hybridization in waterfowl, and their importance to waterfowl management. We also discuss mallards, their relationship to the many mallard-like ducks across the world, and what scientists have recently learned regarding the origin of “greenheads” in North America. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
We continue our discussion with Colorado State PhD student Casey Setash about her ongoing duck research in Colorado. Casey shares what she learned from her Master’s research in Colorado’s San Luis Valley about nesting and incubation habits of cinnamon teal. We also discuss her ongoing PhD research, in which she is studying a hay production practice known as “flood irrigation” and how it benefits breeding ducks. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast.
The drake cinnamon teal is arguably one of North America’s most distinctive and striking species of waterfowl, yet it’s one about which we know comparatively little. In this episode, we are joined by Casey Setash, a PhD student at Colorado State and one of only a few “experts” on this curious species, for a brief introduction to its ecology, distribution, and other interesting facts and unknowns. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dr. Scott Stephens, Ducks Unlimited Canada, shares his teal hunting experiences and offers some insight to the migration in Manitoba. Stephens also discusses current weather conditions impacting teal and local hunters. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
John Pollmann, DU Magazine contributor discusses targeting teal and how to prepare for early season ducks. Pollmann, a South Dakota native, brings to light a few helpful tactics for targeting early-season puddlers in the Prairies and beyond. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Tom Dokken, owner of Dokken’s Oak Ridge Kennels, joins the DU Podcast to talk about exciting new products from SportDOG Brand. Dokken brings more than 45 years of retriever training experience to the podcast and he discusses the changes in training over that span. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Dr. Dale Wrubleski rejoins the DU Podcast to continue our discussion of the decline and recovery of the Delta Marsh. With common carp identified as the principle trouble-maker, scientists, engineers, and conservationists devised a plan to combat the problematic fish and restore Delta Marsh to its historical productivity. Join us to learn how the marsh has responded and what’s next for this fabled location. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The Delta Marsh in southern Manitoba is the birthplace for some of the most foundational science upon which North American waterfowl management is built. It is also a place steeped in the traditions and history of waterfowling. Dr. Dale Wrubleski joins us to discuss some of this history and the long-term declines in habitat that have affected this area, ultimately leading to a discussion of recent restoration efforts for Delta Marsh. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Host Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher discuss waterfowl identification and its importance for not only waterfowl hunters, but also birders. Mike talks about identifying characteristics of certain species and shares a handful of helpful tips to improve your waterfowl identification. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
He’s harvested every species of waterfowl in North America except two, and he knows his way around the waterfowl landscapes of Canada like nobody else. Pat Kehoe, DU Canada’s Director of International Relationships, gives an update on late summer habitat conditions in Canada, the border closure, reduced hunting pressure in Canada, and his expectations for the 2020 Fall Flight. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Heading into fall, Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam joins the DU Podcast to discuss his thoughts on the coming fall, a few personal experiences, and provides a State of the Organization. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
Is your retriever ready for opening day? Mike Stewart, owner of Wildrose Kennels joins the show to discuss some early-season training options to have them better prepared for the first few days afield. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
The DU Podcast kicks off with an introduction show and a re-introduction for many. Hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher discuss the oddities of the current pandemic and how DU has reacted from a conservation perspective. The pair also discuss upcoming episodes and what listeners should expect to hear throughout the fall. Please subscribe, rate, and review the DU Podcast and contact the DU Podcast via email at DUPodcast@ducks.org with recommendations or questions.
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