In the final installment of this special series on waterfowl harvest estimation, Drs. Kathy Fleming and Paul Padding discuss the 2 critical surveys that are part of this process: Migratory Bird Hunter Survey and Parts Collection Survey. This episode sheds light on how these data are collected and used, and why none of this would be possible without the interest, cooperation, and participation by hunters. This is episode 3 of a 3-part series. Listen now : www.ducks.org/DUPodcast Send feedback : D...
Feb 22, 2025•50 min
Join host Katie Burke as she sits with renowned decoy carver Jamie Hand in his Cape May County workshop. Jamie shares his family's deep-rooted history in waterfowl hunting, the artistry behind traditional decoy carving, and the evolution of the craft. From learning under legendary mentors to passing on his knowledge to new generations, Jamie’s passion for carving and conservation shines through. Watch the video version on YouTube to see Jamie’s shop and carving process in action. Listen now : ww...
Feb 20, 2025•1 hr 1 min
In part 2 of this series on waterfowl harvest estimation, Drs. Kathy Fleming and Paul Padding go in-depth on the Harvest Information Program, known to most people simply as “HIP,” to explain how it works and how the data are used to select hunters for participating in the core surveys from which harvest is estimated. We also discuss additional uses of waterfowl harvest data. This is episode 2 of a 3-part series. Listen now : www.ducks.org/DUPodcast Send feedback : DUPodcast@ducks.org...
Feb 15, 2025•35 min
Ducks Unlimited Podcast: Season Wrap-Up Live Stream Hosts: Dr. Mike Brasher, Katie Burke, Matt Harrison Location: Ducks Unlimited HQ, Memphis, TN Presented by: Purina ProPlan & Bird Dog Whiskey 🔹 Episode Summary In this special live-stream wrap-up, the DU Podcast team reviews the 2024-2025 waterfowl season! From epic hunts and migration trends to avian flu updates and new hunting tactics, this episode has it all. Plus, we answer listener questions, preview off-season activities, and share k...
Feb 13, 2025•1 hr 5 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Dr. Jerad Henson discusses a unique educational opportunity for young people interested in conservation and waterfowl science. He is joined by 3 special guests: Jennifer Kross, an education biologist from Ducks Unlimited's Great Plains office; Elizabeth Palarski, a program manager from Texas Brigades, and Chase Schmidt, an assistant leader for Texas Brigades at the North Dakota Waterfowl Brigade. Jennifer and Elizabeth share a background on th...
Feb 11, 2025•38 min
What do eiders eat, how do they feed, why is their poop so stinky, how do they taste, how many are there, and what are the most pressing conservation concerns affecting them? These and other questions are explored as Kate Martin and Dr. Sarah Gutowsky rejoin Dr. Mike Brasher to wrap up our common eider species profile. Also discussed is new research that is improving our knowledge of eider population trends and identifying important breeding and winter sites. New telemetry results are revealing ...
Feb 06, 2025•1 hr 18 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, host Matt Harrison continues his coverage from the Dallas Safari Club International (DSC). They discuss the event's atmosphere, noting that attendance has been strong and engaging despite some weather challenges. The hosts welcome Mr. Jason Nash from Federal Premium Ammunition, highlighting the impressive booth setup and the show’s excitement. Tune in for insights on waterfowl hunting, conservation issues, and the latest from corporate partners sup...
Feb 04, 2025•26 min
Waterfowl hunters harvest 12–14 million ducks and 3 million geese annually in the U.S. The process used to estimate annual waterfowl harvest has several components and relies on the cooperation and participation by State wildlife agencies, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and most importantly waterfowl hunters. Drs. Kathy Fleming and Paul Padding of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service join Dr. Mike Brasher to help explain the harvest estimation process and some of the important uses of these e...
Feb 01, 2025•29 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, host Katie Burke talks with John Southworth, president of the Minnesota Decoy Collectors Association, to explore the fascinating world of waterfowl decoys. John shares how his passion for decoys began as a child, sparked by his dad bringing home treasures from antique shops and yard sales. Though he started waterfowl hunting years later, it wasn’t until he attended his first Minnesota Decoy Collectors Show that his love for decoy collecting truly t...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 2 min
Common eiders are the largest duck in the Northern Hemisphere, with some tipping the scales at nearly 6 pounds. They are also the most widely distributed and heavily harvested sea duck in the world. In North America alone, there are 4 subspecies of the common eider. On this episode, Dr. Sarah Gutowsky and Kate Martin join Dr. Mike Brasher for Part One of our in depth discussion about this highly prized bird. This episode covers all the basics, including how to identify them, where they breed and...
Jan 30, 2025•1 hr 15 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Matt Harrison is joined by Chad Ledford, the Director of Development in Georgia, as they discuss the Dallas Safari Club (DSC) Convention taking place in Atlanta, Georgia. With DSC's annual event moving to the Southeast for the next four years, the collaboration between Ducks Unlimited and DSC is highlighted. Chad elaborates on the unique opportunity this presents for Ducks Unlimited to connect with other conservation partners and emphasize the...
Jan 28, 2025•32 min
We’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP66 How Fast Can They Fly and Other Insights From GPS Telemetry . If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now’s your chance! Mike Casazza rejoins the show to continue our discussion about cutting edge radio telemetry and its importance to waterfowl science. Specific topics on this episode include new estimates of waterfowl flight speed and why this is important, unexpected movements and behaviors of waterfowl, and what a hunter s...
Jan 25, 2025•33 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Dr. Jerad Henson and co-host Dr. Mike Brasher discuss the concluding days of duck season in the Southern states, highlighting the impact of recent cold weather on duck migration patterns. Joining the conversation is special guest, Jim Ronquest, a seasoned river hunter, who shares his insights and experiences from the field. They delve into the challenges and adventures of hunting along rivers, emphasizing the unique hazards such as fluctuating...
Jan 23, 2025•50 min
The DU Podcast finally connects with our friends in the West, as Dr. Mike Brasher speaks with Dr. Fritz Reid, Dr. Dan Smith, Kelly Warren, and Kyle Spragens to hear about waterfowl migration, habitat conditions, and hunting stories from the Pacific Flyway. From California to Washington, reports suggest an overall “hit or miss” season, with sporadic success influenced by weather systems that altered habitat conditions and redistributed birds. Our guests also share stories of memorable hunts that ...
Jan 21, 2025•44 min
We’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP65 Radio Telemetry In Waterfowl Research . If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now’s your chance! Since its introduction to wildlife research in the mid-20th century, radio telemetry has enabled scientists and conservationists to understand waterfowl behaviors and ecology at levels previously not imagined. In this episode, co-hosts Chris Jennings and Dr. Mike Brasher are joined by Research Biologist Mike Casazza to learn abo...
Jan 18, 2025•37 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, host Katie Burke welcomes back master decoy carver Marty Hanson and introduces Jody Marler from Fishcamp Creative. They discuss the art of decoy carving and share insights about their collaborative documentary, "The Craft." Tune in to hear about the creative process behind decoy carving, the significance of craftsmanship in the waterfowl community, and the unique experiences they had while working together. Don't miss this engaging conversation tha...
Jan 16, 2025•59 min
Sydnie Wells, Jack Orlandi, and Luke Corniea from Barstool Outdoors join host Matt Harrison to share their exciting waterfowl hunts on the Great Salt Lake. From airboat rides to coffin blinds and black silhouettes, they dive into the unique experience of this incredible region. Midway through the episode, biologist Coryna Hebert and Dr. Mike Brasher provide expert conservation insights, including discussions about declining water levels of the Great Salt Lake and how DU is mobilizing millions of...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 2 min
Tune in as Dr. Mike Brasher teams up with top meteorologists to analyze the 2025 New Year weather patterns that could make all the difference on your next duck hunt! Whether you're an experienced hunter or just starting out, this live stream will arm you with crucial weather intel to help you plan your best days in the field. Don’t miss out on expert insights that could shape your success this season! Our Special Guests: 🌤️ Chance Gotsch – Meteorologist for ABC17, Columbia, MO 👉 IG: [@chanceab...
Jan 08, 2025•1 hr 4 min
A new year brings new questions and more insights to the topic of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by leading experts in the field of avian influenza, Dr. Dave Stallknecht, Dr. Richard Webby, and Dr. Jennifer Ballard to discuss the current status of avian influenza, what we’ve learned since 2022, and what we still don’t understand. Recent changes have been noted in the genetic code of the circulating virus, but what does this mean for the risk it poses to birds, mamm...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 6 min
We’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP347 Father Son Dynamic Discussion With Eddie And Jack Nickens . If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now’s your chance! Eddie Nickens, contributing editor of Ducks Unlimited magazine, and his son Jack join host Chris Jennings in studio to discuss their travels over the years. The two were visiting National Headquarters in Memphis, Tennessee, on their way to an Arkansas duck hunt. Eddie and Jack explained how they built bonds ...
Jan 04, 2025•33 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Katie Burke sits down with decoy carver George Strunk in his workshop in Glendora, New Jersey. George shares his journey into the outdoors, revealing his passion for hunting predates his love for crafting decoys. Growing up in a family that embraced the outdoors, George recounts childhood memories spent at a hunting and fishing cabin built by his parents in the early 1950s, near the Dennisville Wildlife Refuge. As the oldest sibling, he and hi...
Jan 02, 2025•58 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Katie Burke welcomes Michael Tarquini, the acting executive director and president of the board for the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum. Michael shares his background, detailing his connection to Havre de Grace, Maryland, where he grew up near the Chesapeake Bay. The conversation delves into the significance of hunting and fishing in the local culture, highlighting the region's rich heritage related to waterfowl and decoy craftsmanship. Join us fo...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 16 min
In this science-heavy episode, Dr. Heath Hagy and Mike Brasher take a deep dive into duck foraging ecology, how we study it, and why it’s important for effective habitat management and conservation planning. Using entertaining analogies of crowded buffet tables and Thanksgiving feasts, we learn about complexities of foraging decisions and why feeding behavior doesn’t always indicate food in the water. Listen now : www.ducks.org/DUPodcast Send feedback : DUPodcast@ducks.org...
Dec 28, 2024•54 min
'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with some festive cocktails? For our Christmas episode, we'll be joined by special guests from Old Dominick's, a craft distillery in Memphis known for its delicious spirits and commitment to sustainability, who share some of their favorite holiday cocktail recipes to pair with wild game. So grab your shaker and join us as we raise a glass to wetlands conservation and the holiday season. Cheers! https://olddomini...
Dec 26, 2024•40 min
Welcome to a festive Christmas special of the Ducks Unlimited podcast! Join hosts Dr. Mike Brasher, Katie Burke, and Dr. Jared Henson as they celebrate the holiday season with special guest Malcom Reed from " How to BBQ Right ." Malcom brings his expertise in barbecue and shares his experiences and favorite recipes, perfect for hunting camp and duck camp. Listen in for a delightful conversation filled with holiday cheer, barbecue tips, and memorable Christmas stories. Listen now : www.ducks.org/...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 7 min
We’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP335 Grassroots Journey to Becoming a Better Cook of Wild Game . If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now’s your chance! Dr. Jean Michel DeVink joins the DU Podcast to share bits of scientific expertise and culinary insights from his journey to becoming a better cook of wild game. We discuss an introductory fajita recipe, slow-cooking goose legs, wild game during the holiday season, and other elements that even the most season...
Dec 21, 2024•39 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited podcast, host Dr. Jerad Henson welcomes guests from the Five Oaks Ag Research and Education Center in Stuttgart, Arkansas. Dr. Ryan Askren, the center's director, shares insights about the facility and its mission. Students Emily Van Der Veer, Tyler Wick, and Brendan Hood join in to discuss their experiences in the certificate program. The conversation provides an overview of the research initiatives at Five Oaks and highlights the importance of agricultura...
Dec 19, 2024•46 min
In this episode, host Matt Harrison welcomes special guests Will Primos and Anthony Matarese, both renowned figures in the shooting and hunting community. The discussion kicks off with Will sharing his background, starting with his early love for hunting and fishing. He recounts his journey of learning to shoot, beginning at the age of six, and his experience as a marksmanship instructor. The episode promises to delve into various aspects of shooting, personal anecdotes, and insights on a collab...
Dec 17, 2024•59 min
We’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes: EP289: Species Profile Green-Winged Teal . If you missed it the first time or want to enjoy it again, now’s your chance! Green-winged teal are the smallest of our North American dabbling ducks with a short neck and small bill. Dr. Mike Brasher and Chris Jennings go into the details about this fascinating species. The pair discuss the species’ breeding habits, migrating, and wintering distribution. Prized by hunters for their abundance and as table f...
Dec 14, 2024•54 min
In this episode of the Ducks Unlimited Podcast, host Katie Burke and co-host Dr. Mike Brasher are joined by decoy expert Colin McNair of Copley Fine Art Auctions, marking his fifth appearance on the show. Together, they dive into the captivating world of decoy art, focusing on the groundbreaking practice of x-raying decoys to uncover hidden details of craftsmanship. Discover how visual aids and cutting-edge techniques bring new insights to this timeless art form, and hear Colin’s expert take on ...
Dec 12, 2024•1 hr 18 min
