In this episode, James and Brian talk with Dr. Mike Schummer (waterfowl professor at the State University of New York and host of the Fowl Weather podcast) to discuss the intricate relationship between weather patterns and duck migration, particularly focusing on mallards. The discussion covers key weather variables that influence migration, the adaptability of ducks to changing climates, and the impact of food resources on their movement. The conversation also touches on the implications of gam...
Nov 08, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 357
Armadillos are a relative newcomer to much of the Great Plains, and can be an aggravating species because of the damage that they frequently cause to lawns and landscaping. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss the history of armadillos in the Great Plains, the recent discovery of new species of armadillos, biology and management of damage caused by this mammal. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Progra...
Nov 05, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 356
You asked and we listened. In this episode, we are joined by Luke Garver, Wild Turkey Project Manager for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, to discuss the current state of the wild turkey in Illinois. We dive into long-term population trends, environmental factors impacting reproduction, predator-prey dynamics, habitat challenges posed by invasive species, on-going research initiatives, and more. Resources: IL DNR Wild Turkey Survey IDNR Turkey Survey App huntillinois.org/turkey Park...
Nov 04, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 1Ep. 355
This month we are joined by Mr. Bob Bettger, a fifth-generation Nebraska landowner and producer, to tell his story – both the benefits and challenges – of integrating conservation practices into his operation. Resources: Federal Conservation Programs (Farm Service Agency) Dr. Andrew Little [ academic profile , @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [ website ] AWESM Lab [ website , @awesmlab ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [ website , @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne ] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you en...
Nov 04, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 354
In this episode, we dive into the available literature on wildlife preferences for acorns. We review the dietary composition of turkeys, factors influencing acorn consumption, how various wildlife species select for specific acorns, and highlight the complex interconnectedness of these ecological processes. Resources: Barras, S. C., et al. (1996). Acorn selection by female wood ducks. The Journal of wildlife management, 592-602. Boggess, C. M., et al. (2022). Exposure to fire affects acorn remov...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 353
Fishing has become a game of technology. Some of it is finding fish, like with GPS and sonar, and some of it is catching fish, like electronic lures and synthetic scents. But there’s tool in the bass fishing word that is engineered to help you decide when and how to fish. The application is called BassForecast and it is the #1 bass fishing app in the world, boasting about 1 million subscribers. Research on BassForecast suggests that its fishing predictions can significantly increase the likeliho...
Oct 23, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 352
Is your pond too muddy? Do you really want clear water in your pond? Water clarity is an important component of maintaining a healthy pond ecosystem. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss water clarity, factors that increase or decrease water clarity, and what you can do to maintain healthy turbidity levels in your pond. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out mor...
Oct 22, 2024•29 min•Season 1Ep. 351
Will leads us on a detailed dive into the intricacies of herbicide management. Join as we delve into the uses and applications of selective herbicides for habitat management and forest stand improvement, associated risks with herbicide use, specific chemicals for invasive species, proper application techniques, mitigating nutsedge, and more. Resources: Managing hardwoods for turkeys (Part 1/2) | #52 Managing hardwoods for turkeys (Part 2/2) | #53 Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donatio...
Oct 21, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 350
In this episode we circle back to carbon markets with a very special guest Dr. Gregory Latta, Associate Research Professor of Forest Economics and Director of Policy Analysis Group at the University of Idaho. Dr. Latta brings several decades of experience in research and practical experience in designing and evaluating carbon programs. He discusses some of the challenges currently facing carbon markets and provides some much-needed perspective on new markets. For questions or comments, email us ...
Oct 16, 2024•51 min•Season 1Ep. 349
We are joined by Dr. Adam Pellegrini, Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences at the University of Cambridge, to better understand how ecosystems respond to global change. Dr. Pellegrini breaks down how fire maintains and affects carbon cycling and how these key processes shape ecosystems worldwide. Dr. Adam Pellegrini @eco_pelle , Website , Academic Profile Dr. Carolina Baruzzi @wildlandmgmt , Academic Profile Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Academic Profile Have suggestions...
Oct 15, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 348
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 affects wildlife feeding behavior. Current Zoology, zoae026. Tree plantings for turkeys | #95 Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Aubu...
Oct 14, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 347
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 DEER Lab @ufdeerlab , YouTube Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us...
Oct 11, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 346
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 the Great Plains. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Managem...
Oct 08, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 345
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 agriculture, in influencing deer size. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of managing forage availability on individual properties, including i...
Oct 08, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 344
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 Little [ academic profile , @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [ website ] AWESM Lab [ website , @awesmlab ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [ website , @pheas...
Oct 07, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 343
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 death games, and more. Resources: Bogdziewicz, M., et al. (2023). Maximizing the Moran effect: summer solstice orchestrates the subcontinental-scale sync...
Oct 07, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 1Ep. 342
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 requirement. This highlights the importance of providing a diverse range of forage options for deer. Mark also emphasizes the need to consider both the...
Oct 05, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 341
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 conservation. The episode also touches on the social side of duck hunting and highlights the importance of keeping water on the landscape post-season...
Oct 04, 2024•59 min•Season 1Ep. 340
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 expert advice. As interest in quail hunting shifts, more landowners are seeing the value of conserving Bobwhites on their properties. Tune in for a hopef...
Oct 04, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 339
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 management, from preparing natural grasses to creating water sources. The episode also highlights the need for more research into dove diet and manag...
Oct 04, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 338
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 habitat loss in the Prairie Pothole Region. The episode tackles the tension between agriculture and habitat preservation, with discussions on precision an...
Oct 04, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 337
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 glimpse into the fascinating world of gamebird conservation, with insights and knowledge that every enthusiast will appreciate.
Oct 04, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 336
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 chainsaw maintenance, operation, and use. Give us some feedback or potential topics you would like to here by filling out our listener survey: https://pur...
Oct 01, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 335
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 Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDistur...
Sep 30, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 1Ep. 334
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 Equipment Manager for Region 3 in the upper Midwest, Clint DeMenge. Clint shares his knowledge from a career operating and training others to safely ope...
Sep 24, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 333
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 your way to catching bigger fish from your pond. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife an...
Sep 24, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 332
Matt McDonough, PhD student at Auburn University, walks us through his master’s project assessing how wild pig densities impact turkeys and their poults. Join as he breaks down his study’s experimental design and results, and learn of Matt’s key takeaways for landowners curious about the efficacy of pig removal on turkey populations across their property. Resources: McDonough, M. T. (2023). Population response of eastern wild turkeys and white-tailed deer to removal of wild pigs (Master's thesis...
Sep 23, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 331
Herbicides can be a critical tool for habitat management, especially when it comes to invasive species. But their use does not come without risk to the applicator or the environment. In this episode, Adam visits with Dr. Fred Whitford, clinical engagement professor and director of the pesticide programs at Purdue University. Fred talks through the critical steps of making sure you’re using the right tool at the right time to confront the right challenge and then how to do it safely for you and t...
Sep 17, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 330
Dr. Kendall Calhoun of UCLA and UC Davis joins us to discuss the impact of megafires on wildlife communities. We delve into what defines a megafire, explore his research on wildlife and habitat responses to megafires, and discuss both the positive and negative effects of these events. Resources: Calhoun, K. L., et al. (2024). Movement behavior in a dominant ungulate underlies successful adjustment to a rapidly changing landscape following megafire. Movement Ecology, 12(1), 53. Calhoun, K. L. et ...
Sep 16, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 329
In this episode, we dive deep into the literature on coyotes and explore the impacts of their interactions with turkeys. Join as we delve into the science of coyote predator-prey dynamics, the expansion of coyote populations across North America, their diets and impacts on turkey populations, research conducted on the efficacy of trapping, and more. Resources: Cherry, M. J., et al. (2016). Coyote diets in a longleaf pine ecosystem. Wildlife Biology, 22(2), 64-70. Conner, L. M., et al. (2016). Pr...
Sep 16, 2024•1 hr 43 min•Season 1Ep. 328
