Fins, Fur, and Feathers

Fins, Fur, and Feathers provides science-based solutions to real-world problems faced by producers, land managers, recreational landowners, and others who are dealing with wildlife or water-related problems or for those wanting to produce more fish and wildlife from their land.

Voles 09/16/2025

Voles Voles are common herbivorous rodents that can become very abundant when their food and cover are plentiful. They typically go unnoticed , but sometimes cause damage to turf grass, plants in vegetable gardens and flower beds, as well as trees in orchards and grape vines. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss vole biology, natural history, the property damage that they sometimes cause, and control options for preventing or dealing with vole damage. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/38231630

Aquatic Vegetation Management 08/26/2025

Aquatic Vegetation Management Aquatic plants play a vital role in maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems but they can also cause problems when they become overabundant. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss common aquatic plant species, share tips on identifying plants in your pond or waterbody, and discuss the most effective techniques for managing and controlling aquatic vegetation. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/37952910

Managing Woodlands for Wildlife 08/12/2025

Managing Woodlands for Wildlife Forests and woodlands are terms commonly used interchangeably, but did you know they are different ecosystems? Join Joe and Drew as they discuss the differences in wooded areas and how to best manage them for native wildlife. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/37766115

Floods 07/29/2025

Floods Flooding is often associated with negative consequences for humans, but did you know that floods can provide many benefits for wildlife? Join Joe and Drew as they discuss what a flood is, some reasons why flooding occurs, and give insight on how animals respond to flooding. 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://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/37550105

Snakes 07/15/2025

Snakes Snakes are a group of species that many people dislike or have a strong fear of. Join Drew and Joe in this episode as they discuss snake natural history, management, and how to stay safe around snakes - including venomous species. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/37403460

Aquatic Parasites 07/01/2025

Aquatic Parasites Parasites are commonly found in aquatic environments. Join Joe and Drew in this episode as they discuss common parasites found in fish and aquatic wildlife, some factors that influence parasite rates, and what you can do to reduce parasite loadings in your ponds or streams. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/37188800

Groundhogs 06/17/2025

Groundhogs Whether you call them groundhogs, woodchucks, or whistlepigs, these large squirrels - yes, they’re squirrels - are very interesting, but can also be a challenging critter to deal with when they cause property damage. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss groundhog biology, natural history, the property damage that they sometimes cause, and control options for preventing or dealing with groundhog damage. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/37030210

Stratification 06/03/2025

Stratification Ponds can naturally separate with warm oxygenated water near the surface and a cooler, unoxygenated layer in deeper areas. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss pond stratification, summer fish kills, and how aeration may help maintain a thriving pond ecosystem. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/36758535

Dire Wolves 05/20/2025

Dire Wolves Recent claims about “de-extinction” of dire wolves have resulted in an abundance of headlines, memes, and discussion about the biology and ethics of what was happening. To contribute to the discussion, Drew and Joe invited their video production specialist, Danny, into the studio to ask questions and discuss genetics, ethics, and the current state of wolf populations. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/36629100

Bobwhite Quail 04/22/2025

Bobwhite Quail Northern bobwhite quail are a popular game bird in Kansas and across the United States, but they have experienced widespread population decline throughout their range. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss some northern bobwhite basics including: population trends, mortality factors, diet, and management practices 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 about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/36254285

Walleye, Darters, and other Percids 04/08/2025

Walleye, Darters, and other Percids Many people are familiar with Walleye, Sauger, and Yellow Perch but did you know that there are a lot of small related fish called Darters? Join Drew and Joe as they discuss the fish in the family Percidae including feeding strategies, reproductive trends, and the best time of year to catch big saugeye in Kansas. 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://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/36010395

Squirrels 03/25/2025

Squirrels Tree squirrels are common in cities and rural areas alike. These native rodents can be a source of entertainment and provide a connection to nature for some people, and they can simultaneously be a source of frustration and property damage for others. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss tree squirrel biology, damage caused by the 3 species that occur in the eastern Great Plains, and practical solutions for preventing property damage caused by squirrels. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/35817335

Bluegill Sunfish 03/11/2025

Bluegill Sunfish Bluegill sunfish serve many important functions in ponds and reservoirs. Their ability to thrive in multiple environments, grow quickly, and reproduce multiple times per year make them a great addition to any pond. Join Joe and Drew as they discuss Bluegill sunfish, the important functions they serve in your pond, and a tip or two on their favorite way to cook the ones you catch. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/35609045

Starlings 02/25/2025

Starlings Starlings were introduced to North America by European settlers who missed wildlife that reminded them of home. Today, European starlings cause more than a $1 Billion in property damage in the US annually, spread zoonotic disease, and create quite a mess in North America and throughout the world. On this episode, Drew and Joe discuss damage caused by European Starlings in North America, and control options available to reduce or mitigate the problems associated with this invasive species. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/35382250

Ethical Harvest of Fish and Wildlife 02/11/2025

Ethical Harvest of Fish and Wildlife Hunting and fishing are enjoyable activities for many people. These activities require interactions with animals and the environment that come with moral and legal thresholds. On this episode, Joe and Drew explore the social side of wildlife management and discuss what Ethical Harvest means in their view. Discussions include the role of harvest for wildlife management, the importance of planning your harvest, and how ethical harvest extends beyond fish and wildlife. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/35197900

Moles in the Great Plains 01/28/2025

Moles in the Great Plains 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 members in the Wildlife and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/35045500

Effects of Snow on Aquatic Ecosystems 01/14/2025

Effects of Snow on Aquatic Ecosystems 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 and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/34848600

Beavers 12/31/2024

Beavers 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 about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/34591585

Trout Biology, Life History, and Winter Trout Fishing 12/17/2024

Trout Biology, Life History, and Winter Trout Fishing 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 at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/34474035

Managing Oaks for Acorn Production 12/03/2024

Managing Oaks for Acorn Production 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/34256465

Waterfowl Ecology at Ponds and Streams 11/19/2024

Waterfowl Ecology at Ponds and Streams 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 https://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/33985222

Armadillos 11/05/2024

Armadillos 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 Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/33783817

Water Clarity 10/22/2024

Water Clarity 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 more about the program at https://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/33559872

Direct Effects of Prescribed Fire On Wildlife 10/08/2024

Direct Effects of Prescribed Fire On Wildlife 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 Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/33364097

Managing Fish Populations 09/24/2024

Managing Fish Populations 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 and Outdoor Enterprise Management Program at Kansas State University. Find out more about the program at /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/33142407

Sunflowers and Opossums 09/10/2024

Sunflowers and Opossums Fall is in the air in the Great Plains, and the signs include shorter days, cooler mornings, brilliant yellow sunflowers and dispersing mammals. In this episode, Drew and Joe discuss sunflowers, the value that they provide to wildlife, why we see these beautiful plants in some places and not others. The conversation then takes a turn to focus on opossum biology and management. Resources discussed in this episode: KDWP 2023 Summer Roadside Survey Report: Virginia Opossum Diet/Ecological Trap Studies: 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/32947527

Aquatic Invertebrates 08/28/2024

Aquatic Invertebrates Aquatic invertebrates can be a great indicator of pond health and fill important roles in aquatic ecosystems. Join Joe and Drew for a discussion about the value of aquatic invertebrates and how these critters find their way into seemingly isolated water bodies. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/32763947

Bats! 08/13/2024

Bats! Bats can be fascinating, frustrating, valuable, and spooky all at the same time. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss bat ecology, conservation concerns, disease risk, and steps to take if bats are entering your home or other buildings. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/32553917

Summer Pond Management 07/30/2024

Summer Pond Management Summer is a great time of year to enjoy your pond but the warmer temperatures and increased sunlight can result in oxygen fluctuations and excessive plant growth. Join Drew and Joe as they discuss how pond ecology changes in warmer months, how animals in the pond react to these changes, and what management strategies you can implement to help ensure your pond stays happy and healthy. 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/32344082

Invasive Plant Management 07/16/2024

Invasive Plant Management Invasive plants outcompete native vegetation, destroying habitat for many species of wildlife, degrading native ecosystems, and reducing agricultural productivity. Join us as we discuss strategies and important considerations for invasive plant management. Resources discussed in this episode: KSRE Chemical Weed Control Guide: Wildlife Food Plots and Early Successional Plants by Dr. Craig Harper: 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 /episode/index/show/976646f9-c750-4824-8301-5ac692a72f34/id/32137612

Fins, Fur, and Feathers

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