Ep. 397: Backwoods University - Where Have The Mallards Gone?

Over the last 20 years waterfowl hunters in the lower portion of the Mississippi flyway have been asking the same question. Where have the mallards gone? It's a question worth asking, and getting to the bottom of. In this episode we talk with long-time waterfowl biologist, James Callicutt, a man wh…

Ep. 392: Backwoods University - Exotic Game Birds

This has a real shot at being the most unique wildlife conservation stories that we have in North American history. The ring-necked pheasant, a commonly hunted and celebrated bird, a bird that has it's own conservation organization, and a bird that is not native to the Americas. In most instance, w…

Ep. 387: Backwoods University - Snipe Hunters

How does a prank get carried on for over 100 years? How does a seemingly small piece of the natural world become so embedded in North American culture? That's what we'll be looking into this week when we dive into snipe and snipe hunting. A migratory game bird with an actual small hunting culture b…

Ep. 384: Backwoods University - Menhaden Fishery Representative

Last week we dove into the topic of the menhaden fishing industry or pogie boats along the Louisiana coast, and the growing concerns from recreational fisherman and wildlife biologist. This week we will be hearing from a representative from menhaden industry to share their side of the story. The ti…

Ep. 381: Backwoods University - Pogie Boats

The menhaden commercial fishing industry has been around for over 100 years. Menhaden or "pogies" are a small saltwater fish that are used for a variety of things like fertilizers, animal feed, fish bait, and they are also a huge source of omega3 fatty acid so they are used in making human and anim…

Ep. 376: Backwoods University - Should Grizzlies Exist?

Are Grizzlies Endangered? Should they be delisted? Do they even belong here? Grizzly bears are without a doubt one of the most polarizing species we have in the United States, and since their placement on the endangered species list in 1975 they have been on the forefront of conversations concernin…

Ep. 371: Backwoods University - Life with Grizzlies

Tom Parker has been guiding in the Bob Marshall Wilderness since the 1970s, and local legend within his community- known for his hunting knowledge, expertise in the backcountry, and all around affinity and understanding of bears. Through his decades spent in the wilderness living with and around gr…

Ep. 366: Backwoods University - Eastern Elk

It's September and everyone's mind is on bugling bull elk. Today they are recognized as one of the most sought after western big game species, but have you ever wondered if it has always been that way? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating history and mystery of the Eastern Elk. What were t…

Ep. 361: Backwoods University - America's Amazon

When you hear words like mountain, canyon, or forest, what areas come to your mind first? I would be willing to bet your mind doesn't immediately go to a place below the surface of the water. Well get ready for a wild ride because we are about learn about one of the most commonly brought up, but se…

Ep. 356: Backwoods University - The Humble Pollinator

On this episode, we are taking a look at one the smallest, often overlooked, but essential pieces of our ecosystem: pollinators. With effects ranging from agricultural yields and native plant success, down to something as specific as the hunting quality on your family's property, pollinators play a…