Are fire ants causing the turkey decline? | Wild Turkey Science #519
Release Date: 01/12/2026
Duck Behavior, New Tech, and the Challenges of Conservation | Gamebird University #527
Natural Resources University
In this episode of Gamebird University, hosts James Callicutt and Mark McConnell sit down with Dr. Frank Rohwer, President and Chief Scientist of Delta Waterfowl, for a wide-ranging conversation about waterfowl research, management, and conservation. The trio reflects on Frank’s long career—from his early academic days at LSU to leading Delta’s scientific programs—and explores the questions and challenges in understanding duck behavior and habitat use. They talk about how weather and temperature shape ducks’ movements and foraging habits, sharing surprising insights about when...
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Freshwater Mussels | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #526
Natural Resources University
Freshwater mussels are important animals in a healthy aquatic ecosystem but they are facing widespread declines in Kansas and throughout their native ranges. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss freshwater mussel life history characteristics, how humans have used them in the past, and steps you can take to help ensure they persist for future generations. 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 Watch the podcast on Youtube at...
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Raking Pine Straw for Non-Timber Income | Timber University #525
Natural Resources University
On this episode, Brady and Shaun are joined by Dr. David Clabo from the University of Georgia to discuss pine straw raking as an alternative income source for forest landowners. Dr. Clabo is an Associate Professor of Silviculture Outreach, who did his degree training at the University of Tennessee. To contact Dr. Clabo with questions or clarifications please see his information at the following link. For more on pine straw, follow this link
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Prairie Pressures: Weather, Farming & the Future of Ducks | Gamebird University #524
Natural Resources University
In this episode, James and Mark are joined by Matt Chouinard, Waterfowl Programs Director for Delta Waterfowl, for an in-depth discussion on current prairie wetland and grassland conditions. They explore how recent weather patterns and agricultural pressures are shaping duck nesting success across the Prairie Pothole Region. Matt shares insights on the critical role of habitat for both nesting and brood-rearing, the value of conservation programs like CRP, and the importance of additional management strategies—including Delta’s innovative Hen House program. The conversation also...
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Debunking the Drowning Poults | Wild Turkey Science #523
Natural Resources University
Sometimes, the best stories are embellished but grounded in a little bit of truth… Join as we peel back the myth that poults drown when they look up at rainfall. Resources: Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: We’ve launched our second online wild turkey course ! Enroll in to learn about the principal biology, mating, behavior, food selection, human dimensions, hunter interactions, and historical context of wild turkeys. This course is...
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How often you burn matters more than when | Wild Turkey Science #522
Natural Resources University
We discuss how repeated fire disturbance influences plant structure, fuel loads, and wildlife use, and why focusing on timing alone often misses the point. Resources: Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: Coming Soon: Wild Turkey Manager: Biology, History, & Heritage! Our newest online wild turkey training is launching soon! Be the first to know when our new course launches by signing up ! Be sure to check out our comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple...
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Green tree reservoir | Timber University #521
Natural Resources University
In this episode of Timber University, Shaun and Brady welcome James Callicutt, Extension Instructor - Waterfowl, Upland Gamebirds, and Invasive Species at Mississippi State University, to discuss the intricacies of Green Tree Reservoirs (GTRs). James shares insights into the management and ecological significance of GTRs, particularly in the context of waterfowl habitat. For more info you can reach James at Or contact Brady or Shaun at
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Rabies | Fins, Fur, & Feathers | #520
Natural Resources University
Rabies is an ancient, frightening, and deadly disease that humans are exposed to by wildlife. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss recent incidents involving rabies that have made news headlines, wildlife reservoirs for rabies in the US, how to limit our exposure to wildlife that might carry rabies, and what to do if you may have been exposed to a potentially rabid animal. 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 Watch the...
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Are fire ants causing the turkey decline? | Wild Turkey Science #519
Natural Resources University
We explore the myths surrounding fire ants and their negative impacts on nests, hens, and poults. Resources: t Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: Coming Soon: Wild Turkey Manager: Biology, History, & Heritage! Our newest online wild turkey training is launching soon! Be the first to know when our new course launches by signing up ! Be sure to check out our comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions...
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Forest Certification | Timber University #518
Natural Resources University
In this episode, Dr. Tanger and Dr. Self are joined by Dr. Kevin Boston. They discuss the different US forest certification standards and the benefits of self regulation of the industry as a way to show good stewardship to potential and existing markets and to the general public. Dr. Boston is an Associate Professor of Forest Operations at the University of Arkansas at Monticello and has written several books on various forest subjects. For questions or comments, please email us at
info_outlineWe explore the myths surrounding fire ants and their negative impacts on nests, hens, and poults.
Resources:
Wojcik, D. P., et al. (2001). Red imported fire ants: impact on biodiversity.
Our lab is primarily funded by donations. If you would like to help support our work, please donate here: http://UFgive.to/UFGameLab
Coming Soon: Wild Turkey Manager: Biology, History, & Heritage! Our newest online wild turkey training is launching soon! Be the first to know when our new course launches by signing up here!
Be sure to check out our comprehensive online wild turkey course featuring experts across multiple institutions that specialize in habitat management and population management for wild turkeys. Earn up to 20.5 CFE hours! Enroll Now!
Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance, Publications
Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby, Publications
Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow
UF Game Lab @ufgamelab, YouTube
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Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak