In this episode of Gamebird University, hosts James Callicutt and Mark McConnell sit down with Dr. Ben Jones, CEO of the Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society, for a grounded, field-tested conversation about young-forest conservation in the South—and what it really takes to sustain ruffed grouse, American woodcock, and the people who care about them across the range. The crew explores how disturbance and interspersion drive habitat value, why woodcock routinely show up in unexpected cover, and how modern tools—GPS tracking, remote sensing, and on-the-ground monitoring—are reshaping our understanding of migration, wintering needs, and day-to-day behavior. They dig into practical management levers (from timber harvest to patch size and structure) and the realities of working forests where wildlife, landowners, and economics intersect. They also confront the messaging gap: how public perception can stall necessary habitat work, and why conservationists must reclaim the narrative from preservation-only mindsets with clear, science-forward communication. Along the way, they spotlight the rise of bird-dog culture, why trusting your dog is often the best lesson in ecology, and how woodcock hunting can be an inviting on-ramp for new hunters and future advocates. Listeners will come away with a crisp picture of what “young forest” actually means on the ground, how technology is sharpening management decisions, and why collaborative, working-lands conservation remains essential for upland birds—across seasons, ownerships, and communities.
In this episode of Gamebird University, hosts James Callicutt and Brian Davis sit down with Dr. Scott Stephens, Senior Director of Prairie and Boreal Conservation Strategy with Ducks Unlimited, for a timely and thought-provoking conversation on duck breeding, population trends, and the future of waterfowl conservation. The trio explores the sharp declines in duck populations since 2015 and unpacks the critical role that prairie breeding grounds—especially small wetlands and intact grasslands—play in sustaining duck numbers. Scott shares insights from decades of research and conservation strategy, highlighting how environmental conditions, habitat loss, and climate variability are reshaping the waterfowl landscape. The discussion covers the complex interplay between habitat availability, agricultural practices, and conservation economics, emphasizing the importance of working with private landowners and leveraging programs that support voluntary conservation. They also examine harvest management in the context of declining populations, underscoring the need for adaptive approaches that reflect habitat conditions on the ground. Throughout the episode, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving duck population dynamics and the urgent need for collaborative, landscape-scale conservation. From duck stamp funding to community engagement, this conversation reinforces why safeguarding waterfowl habitats across the Prairie and Boreal regions is more important than ever—for hunters, landowners, and future generations alike.
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 ducks feed, move, and seek refuge across varying temperatures. The conversation delves into advances in GPS and transmitter technology that have opened new windows into waterfowl movements, as well as long-running studies of ring-necked ducks that reveal unexpected connections between southern wintering areas and western boreal breeding grounds. Throughout the episode, the group explores new methods for assessing duck production, including the use of drones and thermal imaging to locate nests, track brood survival, and measure reproductive success. They also discuss the role of predator management in boosting duck production and the growing focus across wildlife disciplines on making conservation more cost effective. The puzzling range expansion of black-bellied whistling ducks emerges as a point of discussion, along with questions about the species’ ecology and its future impacts across southern landscapes. The conversation also touches on the role ducks, quail, and pheasants play as vital ecosystem services that benefit rural economies and wildlife heritage. At its heart, this episode captures the deep connections between hunters, researchers, and their dogs, reminding listeners why waterfowl conservation matters—not just for its ecological benefits, but for the traditions, stories, and shared passions that accompany it.
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 dives into the psychology of duck hunters, public perceptions of population trends, and the data-driven science behind conservation decisions. From habitat loss to hunter memories, this episode unpacks the complex relationships among agriculture, wetlands, waterfowl populations, and hunting success—highlighting why sustaining prairie ecosystems is essential for the future of waterfowl conservation.
James and Mark are joined by Dr. Dwayne Elmore, Gamebird Program Director at Tall Timbers, for a deep dive into the vital role of thermal ecology in gamebird management—particularly for quail. Dr. Elmore explains how temperature shapes bird behavior, habitat selection, and the critical value of shrub cover in providing thermal refuge. The conversation highlights the need for more research on thermal conditions and their implications for wildlife management, especially in the Southeast. Key insights include the variability of operative temperatures across different cover types and how this influences quail management strategies. The episode also explores nest site selection and how environmental factors like temperature and airflow affect reproductive success. Dr. Elmore discusses the role of vegetation in predator avoidance and the interaction between hunting pressure and bird behavior. The conversation concludes with discussions of ongoing quail restoration efforts and the increasing interest in wildlife management among hunters.
In this engaging episode, James and Mark are joined by Dave Godwin, Landowner Coordinator for the Mississippi Forestry Association and former Wild Turkey Program Coordinator for MDWFP, and Dr. Joshua Stafford, Assistant USGS Cooperative Leader at South Dakota State University. Together, they tackle some of the most common myths and misconceptions surrounding game birds—especially turkeys, quail, and ducks. The conversation explores the origins of these myths, how environmental factors influence bird populations, and the complexities of modern wildlife management. The guests emphasize the importance of scientific understanding in dispelling misinformation and the need for informed, adaptive management as ecosystems change. The discussion also examines the intersection of environmental change, hunting practices, and wildlife management. The participants address how hunters’ perceptions of climate change are evolving, debunk myths about wild turkey and quail populations, and highlight how misinformation can hinder effective management. They further explore turkey mobility and emphasize the critical role of habitat management in sustaining healthy bird populations.
In this episode, James and Mark are joined by Adam Butler, Director of Conservation Development and former Wild Turkey Program Coordinator for the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks. Together, they explore the complexities of turkey population dynamics and the science behind setting hunting regulations in Mississippi. The conversation covers the historical context of turkey populations, the importance of research-driven management, and findings from a recent experiment examining how season timing affects breeding and population trends. They dive into key topics such as hen survival, harvest pressure, breeding strategies, and the challenges of population modeling. This episode underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between MDWFP and Mississippi State University, and the need for both state-level strategy and on-the-ground management. Public support and education emerge as vital components of successful conservation.
In this episode, Mark and James sit down to discuss what landowners and managers should be thinking about as spring arrives. From prescribed fire in upland habitats to wetland management during spring and summer, they cover key seasonal considerations for supporting gamebird populations. The conversation also touches on quail call surveys, the spring migration of waterfowl, and new insights from their ongoing GPS mallard research. Plus, they tease an upcoming episode focused on busting common myths and misconceptions in the gamebird world.
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 address these dynamic relationships. Dr. Hagy and the hosts emphasize the intent of balancing hunting opportunities with sanctuary availability to sustain waterfowl use and benefit their survival. They also highlight the need for collaboration among researchers, agencies, and private landowners to ensure effective conservation efforts. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the science and strategy behind sanctuary management and its impact on waterfowl conservation
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 weather, habitat management, and the expanding knowledge base among duck hunters. They highlight the importance of open communication between hunters and biologists to promote mutual understanding and advance conservation efforts. The conversation also explores the multifaceted nature of hunter satisfaction, blending personal stories, the social aspects of the sport, and reflections on how their experiences have evolved over time. Topics include the significance of time spent in the field, the challenges faced during hunts, and the impact of weather on duck migration patterns. The episode underscores the pivotal role of research in addressing these complexities and shaping the future of duck hunting.
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 also explores the distinction between managing individual animals and focusing on population-level dynamics, emphasizing the need to measure and enhance vital rates to support effective conservation. Key topics include the timeline of the scientific community's understanding of these parasites, the lack of evidence linking eye worms to population-level declines, and how future studies should be designed to address these questions comprehensively. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of quail conservation and the critical role science plays in addressing emerging challenges.
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 game farm mallards on wild populations and the importance of understanding these dynamics for effective wildlife management and hunting success.
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 to benefit waterfowl populations. Join this in-depth discussion on migration challenges and strategies for successful conservation.
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 hopeful conversation about the tools and resources available to support quail populations.
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 management, and how agricultural practices, such as corn harvesting, impact dove populations. A must-listen for hunters looking to enhance their dove season experience!
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 and regenerative farming as potential solutions. Tune in to understand the vital role of habitat conservation in sustaining healthy waterfowl populations.
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.