Dr. Luke Kelly, Associate Professor in Quantitative Ecology at the University of Melbourne, joins us to discuss his research on fire and biodiversity in Australia, focusing on the diverse ecosystems, the challenges posed by changing fire regimes, and the role of grazing and invasive species. We explore the importance of understanding plant traits in relation to fire resilience and the ongoing biodiversity crisis, and how Australian fire science is working to address these issues. Resources: Kell...
Jan 31, 2025•44 min•Season 1Ep. 387
Moles are mysterious mammals that spend most of their lives underground where they feed on insects and other arthropods. Moles provide a beneficial role in nature, but their digging activity can damage turfgrass in lawns, golf courses, parks, and other manicured outdoor spaces. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss mole distribution in North America, diet, reproduction, and identification and management of mole damage. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty member...
Jan 29, 2025•35 min•Season 1Ep. 386
In this episode, we discuss the importance of turkey advocacy and conservation efforts within the hunting community. Join as we explore the various actions that you can take to support wild turkey populations, resources for hands-on training and workshops, and the importance of engaging with the next generation to ensure the future of the wild turkey. Resources: Ducks Unlimited I lease land…what about me? | #12 National Deer Association National Wild Turkey Federation NWTF Gator Gobblers Quail F...
Jan 27, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 385
In today's episode, we go back to basics and map out for listeners the biological, operational, and economic considerations of thinning pine stands. For most in the southeast, markets are tough for pine thinning material, but we explore why it's so important to thin nonetheless. Remember if you don't thin your forest, mother nature will. Next episode: we'll touch on some alternatives you can explore in light of the depressed markets. For questions or comments, email us at timberuniversity@gmail....
Jan 22, 2025•56 min•Season 1Ep. 384
John Gruchy re-joins the podcast to break down the steps and requirements you need to get fire on your property. We discuss the essential equipment needed, legal liability considerations, resources and financial support available, tips for success, and why burning is imperative for the wild turkey. Resources: Martin, J. A., et al. (2012). Wild turkey habitat use in frequently-burned pine savanna. Forest Ecology and Management, 285, 179-186. MDWFP Private Lands Programs National Deer Association ...
Jan 20, 2025•49 min•Season 1Ep. 383
Wild animals have a variety of life history strategies to adapt and thrive in colder weather. However, the arrival of colder winter temperatures and snowy conditions can affect fish and wildlife in many ways. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss the effects of snow on aquatic ecosystems, the detriments and benefits of winter fish kills, and the importance of snowmelt on fish and wildlife populations. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife ...
Jan 16, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 382
Wild pigs. Feral swine. Wild hogs. Whatever you call them, invasive wild pigs are rapidly spreading across the US and Canada – destroying crops and spreading disease along the way. Experts are calling them one of the greatest threats to biodiversity in the country. What can we do about it? To find out, we’re talking with the show’s own Dr. Jared Beaver to find out the dirty details (and solutions!) regarding wild pigs. Please take our listener survey: https://montana.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7...
Jan 15, 2025•21 min•Season 1Ep. 381
In this episode, we answer your questions. Join as we discuss the ecological impacts of hurricanes on turkeys survival rates and nesting success, ideal fire return intervals for nesting cover, the impacts of deer on vegetation and how this affects turkey populations, the importance of fire timing in habitat dynamics, and the challenges of recruiting young hunters into the turkey hunting culture. Resources: Byrne, M. E. (2013). Nesting ecology of wild turkeys in a bottomland hardwood forest. The ...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 380
In this episode, Dr. Heath Hagy rejoins James and Brian for an insightful discussion on the complexities of managing duck habitat, with a particular focus on the role of sanctuaries. Together, they delve into what defines a sanctuary, its historical development, and the challenges of measuring its effectiveness. The conversation explores the critical role private lands play in supporting ducks, how duck behavior and movements influence management strategies, and the ongoing need for research to ...
Jan 11, 2025•46 min•Season 1Ep. 379
In this episode, we reflect upon our experiences and insights from 2024. We share our top episodes, theme highlights, the emergence of new research in turkey science, and our ambitious wild turkey goals for 2025. We’re calling on audience engagement to help shape future content! Let us know what you want to hear and how you want to engage with us by emailing wildturkeyscience@gmail.com . Resources: Has turkey habitat changed? | Ep 21 Habitat vs. predator control | Ep 63 Snoods, feathers, and the...
Jan 06, 2025•57 min•Season 1Ep. 378
This month we are joined by Luke Meduna, Big Game Program Manager at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to talk about all things deer-related, from hunting and disease to the inside scoop on management. Resources: Big Game Guide 2024 Big Game Recommendations River Anterless Nebraska Unit Map Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Luke Meduna [ website ] Dr. Andrew Little [ academic profile , @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [ website ] AWESM Lab [ website , @awesmlab ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [ ...
Jan 06, 2025•48 min•Season 1Ep. 377
Beavers are a fascinating species that can transform forests and prairies into wetland ecosystems, but their ingenuity is not always welcome and can lead to devastating property damage in some situations. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss beaver biology and management of this fascinating species in the Great Plains. 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 more...
Dec 31, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 376
We continue the gobbling activity conversation as Will walks us through the available research on the complex dynamics between habitat management, gobbling activity, and the overall health of turkey populations. We explore the significance of early successional cover, the impact of vegetation composition on gobbling rates, the challenges of researching gobbling, and our upcoming research that can help address some of these questions. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of this episode, we recommen...
Dec 30, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 375
Grab a notepad and pen, because today we’re diving into the complex factors influencing gobbling activity. In this Part 1 segment, Will walks us through the available literature on the seasonal patterns of gobbling, the relationship between gobbling activity and reproduction, the influence of weather and environmental conditions, the impact of hunting pressure, and more. Stay tuned for Part 2, releasing next Monday. @davidfolker5850 please email wildturkeyscience@gmail.com to claim your signed p...
Dec 23, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 374
Fisheries managers have a wealth of information available on how to manage small ponds, and there has been substantial research directed at managing large reservoirs that impound substantial rivers. However, there is a scarcity of information on reservoirs that are too big to be ponds and too small to be major reservoirs. These mid-size systems appear to be biologically distinct from their larger and smaller cousins. In this episode, Wes discusses these intermediate systems with biologist Hayden...
Dec 18, 2024•56 min•Season 1Ep. 373
Trout provide unique fishing experiences and are stocked in many states to provide fun fishing opportunities in cooler months. In this episode, Joe and Drew dive into the fascinating world of trout biology, the importance of the ocean in their life history, and how the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks provides trout fishing opportunities in Kansas. Dr. Joe Gerken and Dr. Drew Ricketts are extension specialists and faculty members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program a...
Dec 17, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 372
Dr. Colter Chitwood is back on to break down the unique population dynamics of the wild turkey. Join as we explore which vital rates are significant to turkey population trajectories, impacts of boom bust cycles on reproductive success, the interplay between reproductive parameters and hen survival, why high reproduction rates may not compensate for low hen survival, what this all means for wild turkey management. Resources: Bieber, C., & Ruf, T. (2005). Population dynamics in wild boar Sus ...
Dec 16, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 1Ep. 371
In this episode, we take a shot at listener questions ranging from controlling tree of heaven to addressing the pros and cons of managing for longleaf as compared to loblolly pine. We also address on-site and off-site characteristics to keep in mind when buying timber property. For questions or comments, email us at timberuniversity@gmail.com .
Dec 11, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 370
In this episode, James and Mark are joined by Houston Havens, Waterfowl Program Coordinator with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and B.C. Rogers, III, a passionate conservationist, avid waterfowl hunter, and owner of Wren & Ivy Sporting and Travel Gear. Together, they tackle the question, “What makes for a good duck season?” The discussion delves into what defines a successful season from both ecological and hunting perspectives, examining the critical roles of ...
Dec 10, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 369
By popular demand, we sit down to explore the significance and functional role of the passenger pigeon. Join as we dive into the available literature on the history and ecological importance of passenger pigeons, learning how they shaped ecosystems and oak forest dynamics, how these historical disturbances can give insight into our management practices today, what this means for turkeys, and more. Resources: Blockstein, D. E., and H. B. Tordoff. 1985. Gone forever: a contempo-rary look at the ex...
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 368
James and Mark are joined by Rick Hamrick, state quail biologist with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, to dive into a trending topic among bobwhite quail enthusiasts: parasites, specifically eye worms. The conversation underscores the importance of habitat as the most critical factor influencing quail populations. They discuss how poor habitat quality or habitat loss can exacerbate the effects of other stressors, such as predators, drought, and parasites. The episode...
Dec 04, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 367
Acorns are a valuable food resource for deer and other wildlife when and where they are available. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss the nutritional content of acorns, variability in acorn production among years and trees, and how to promote acorn production in oak woodlands. 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 more about the program at https://hnr.k-state...
Dec 03, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 366
We are joined by Zak Danks, Wild Turkey & Ruffed Grouse Program Coordinator for the state of Kentucky, to discuss the state’s wild turkey status. Join as he walks us through restoration effort history, harvest rate trends, ongoing research (including unpublished poult-per -hen data), impacts of cicada hatches, habitat challenges, season structures, and more. Resources: Filson, J. (2017). The Discovery, Settlement and Present State of Kentucky (1784) Zak Danks zak.danks@ky.gov Kentucky Depart...
Dec 02, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 1Ep. 365
This month we are joined by Dr. Mitch Stephenson, Range Management Specialist at University of Nebraska, and Kaitlyn Dozler, Virtual Fence Program Manager at University of Missouri, to talk about Kaitlyn’s research with virtual fencing and how it can be safely used for conservation on ranchlands. Resources: Influence of virtual fence on heart rate response in beef cattle Precision Livestock Management on Extensive Rangelands University of Missouri Center for Regenerative Agriculture Dr. Mitchell...
Dec 02, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 364
We have scientifically proven approaches to lake and pond management, but there is always an element of art involved. Every lake is different. There is always something just a little odd that needs to be considered or a unique issue that must be addressed, and some lakes are just simply “problem lakes”. In this episode, we take an in-depth look at a lake that fits this description. This is a lake built in a deep erosion valley of the Mississippi River escarpment that has faced watershed issues, ...
Nov 27, 2024•58 min•Season 1Ep. 363
Today we are joined by Nick Thomas and Weston Thompson from Steward Link, a consultation company focused on helping landowners gain access to USDA conservation programs. Join as they breakdown the application process, eligibility requirements, available financial assistance, regional differences, common barriers to entry, complexities of government contracts, and much more. If you’re a landowner, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Resources: NRCS Programs & Initiatives Steward Link P...
Nov 26, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 362
Ducks and geese are fun to watch and provide exciting hunting opportunities at your pond or stream - but are they okay for your water quality? Join Drew and Joe as they discuss waterfowl ecology, life history patterns, and what to do if you have too many geese waddling around your property. 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 more about the program at http...
Nov 19, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 361
In this episode, we delve into the ecological significance of the American chestnut tree with Sara Fitzsimmons, Chief Conservation Officer for The American Chestnut Foundation. Join as we explore its history, ecological importance, challenges faced due to habitat change and disease, on-going conservation efforts, and how you can get involved in its ecological restoration. Resources: Diamond, S. J., et al. (2000). Hard mast production before and after the chestnut blight. Southern Journal of Appl...
Nov 18, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 360
In this episode we speak with Dr. Kevin Boston from the University of Arkansas at Monticello to discuss a recent landmark Supreme Court decision Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo (2024) that overturned a long-standing precedent for federal agency authority on interpreting intent of Congressional legislation. Dr. Boston received a Ph.D. In Forest Engineering at Oregon State University (1996) and has a JD, from the Northwest School of Law at Lewis and Clark College (2016). Dr. Boston has been w...
Nov 13, 2024•55 min•Season 1Ep. 359
In this episode, we review the available research on wild pig competition for acorns and their impact on competing wildlife species. We discuss the concept of competitive exclusion, the role of acorns in the diets of various species, the implications of pig removal on ecosystem dynamics, and what this means for turkeys. Resources: Anderson, W. M., et al. (2018). Using DNA metabarcoding to examine wild pig (Sus scrofa) diets in a subtropical agro-ecosystem. In Proceedings of the Vertebrate Pest C...
Nov 11, 2024•58 min•Season 1Ep. 358
