Marcus walks us through his comprehensive oak study quantifying seasonal oak masting patterns and wildlife response. Join as he breaks down the methodology, findings, and implications of the research, and learn how oaks play a critical role in wildlife management. Resources: Demeny, K. M., et al. (2024). Intra-annual variation in oak masting affect…

In this bonus episode, Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by Dr. Scott Stephens, Josh Dooley (USFWS), and Frank Baldwin (CWS) for an impromptu update on the status of waterfowl migration and wetland conditions from Yellowknife to South Dakota. Cold weather in the far north is ushering birds south, while continued warmth in the prairies has blue-wings holdi…

For our 100th episode, we review (and react to) some memorable moments recorded throughout the last few years. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here’s to 100 more! Watch this episode on YouTube here. Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF D…

In this episode, host Katie Burke sits down with acclaimed wildlife artist and carver Jett Brunet. Jett shares insights into his early life, growing up under the influence of his equally renowned father, a master carver. He reflects on the pressures and inspirations of living up to such a legacy, discussing how his artistic journey has evolved over…

Prescribed fire is an essential tool for managing wildlife habitat, especially in grassland ecosystems. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss direct effects of prescribed fire on several wildlife species, differences between wildfires and prescribed fire, and some specific responses of northern bobwhite to prescribed fire from recent studies conducted …

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes his good friend Brodie Swisher. They reminisce about their memorable hunting camp experience that started their friendship. Matt highlights Brodie's incredible passion for the outdoors, youth involvement, and community betterment. Brodie shares insights into his own podcast…

In this third episode with Dr. Mark Turner, we discuss Mark's research exploring the factors that contribute to the variation in population-level buck antler size. He explains that deer tend to be larger in areas further north due to heat retention and dissipation. He also highlights the importance of landscape characteristics, such as row crop agr…

This month we are joined by Ted LaGrange, Wetland Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to discuss the incredible benefits that wetlands offer, the challenges facing them, and opportunities for farmers to work with wetlands. Resources: Wetlands of Nebraska Landowner Habitat Programs in Nebraska Ted LaGrange [email] Dr. Andrew L…

For the first episode in our Oaktober mini-series, we discuss the general biology of oaks. Listen as we breakdown the definition of mast seeding, the proximate and ultimate causes of masting, the direct and indirect effects it has on wildlife, local and regional scale masting effects, the differences in quality between oak species, the squirrel dea…

In this episode, Dr. Mark Turner discusses his research on the nutrient requirements of deer and the availability of native plants to fulfill those requirements. He sampled common deer forages throughout the Eastern US and found that only 44% of the forages sampled met the minimum crude protein requirement, and only 19% met the minimum phosphorus r…

James, Mark, and guest Dr. Heath Hagy from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service examine the intricate factors affecting duck migration, including habitat changes and the concept of flyway shifts. They discuss how genetics and environmental disturbances influence migration patterns and emphasize the importance of sanctuaries and cooperative efforts in…

James and Mark, along with guest John Mark Curtis of Quail Forever, explore the current state of Bobwhite quail in the Mid-South and the ongoing habitat restoration efforts aimed at preserving these iconic birds. They share personal stories about quail management success and emphasize the need for landowners to set realistic goals while seeking exp…

James and Mark, joined by Houston Havens from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, take a deep dive into dove hunting in Mississippi. They discuss the differences between hunting doves and other gamebirds, touching on resident vs. migratory populations and the timing of the season. Listeners will get practical tips on field…

Habitat drives duck populations! James and Brian are joined by Dr. Josh Vest of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to break down the latest waterfowl breeding population and habitat survey report. They explore how this critical data informs hunting management and waterfowl conservation, noting a modest increase in duck numbers amid significant habi…

In this inaugural episode, hosts James Callicutt and Mark McConnell introduce themselves and set the stage for the topics to come. They dive into key concepts like moist soil management for waterfowl and quail, discuss the complexities of teal migration, and explore challenges in managing ducks, quail, and the elusive woodcock. Join them for a glim…

Duck hunters are obsessive weather watchers, as it influences everything from large-scale migration to local movements and habitat use. In this episode, Dr. Mike Brasher welcomes Skot Covert, chief meteorologist at CBS 5News Fort Smith-Fayetteville, AR, and Chance Gotsch, meteorologist at ABC17 Columbia, MO, to discuss early season forecasts for th…

Safely operating a chainsaw, from the moment you start the engine to the moment you turn it off, is a critical piece of safe habitat management in many ecosystems. In our final episode of our 5-part Habitat Safety Miniseries, forestry educator and chainsaw expert Chris Evans from the University of Illinois takes Adam through every step of safe chai…

As temperatures drop, it's important to ensure your retriever stays safe and healthy. Mike Stewart, owner of Wildrose Kennels, joins host Chris Jennings to discuss essential cold-weather retriever care. From icy conditions and snow to bitter winds, Stewart highlights key warning signs to watch for when hunting in winter. He also delves into importa…

Our producer Charlotte drops by to read us some questions and comments from our YouTube audience. Be sure to leave us a comment on this episode’s YouTube video for a chance to win a turkey call! Signed by yours truly. Resources: 1st National Wild Turkey Symposium (1959) Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donatio…

On this episode of the Ducks Limited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes co-host Dr. Mike Brasher and special guest Edward Wall, a professional photographer and owner of Wall Media. Ed shares his journey from a hobbyist taking pictures of his dog and duck hunting to building a successful photography business over the past 10-12 years. He reflects …

From large bulldozers to small ATVs, habitat management often necessitates the use of heavy machinery. And safely transporting and using that equipment ensures we protect the people and the land engaged in this critical work! In this episode, the fourth in our Habitat Safety Miniseries, Adam visits with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Heavy Eq…

In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison welcomes 2008 ATA trap shooting world champion Foster Bartholow. The conversation delves into Foster's journey into the world of shooting, beginning with his childhood experiences in the outdoors and hunting alongside his family. Foster shares how a youth shooting program at his hig…

Establishing and maintaining a balanced fish population will boost fishing opportunities and enhance the ecology of your pond. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss common pitfalls with fish population management strategies and give tips on how to manage pond fish populations. Gain insight into how to develop and implement a plan that will have you on …