Reflections & Ambitions: Big Ideas For Turkey Science | Wild Turkey Science #378 Natural Resources University podcast

53:38

Strap in for another research review as we dive into scientific studies assessing characteristics of effective nesting sites. We discuss the critical aspects of nesting cover for wild turkeys, the dilemma of habitat preference versus availability, and the implications of these factors on turkey population success. Resources: Crawford, J. C., et al. (2021). Wild turkey nest success in pine‐dominated forests of the southeastern United States. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 85(3), 498-507. Everett Jr., D. D. (1982). Factors limiting populations of wild turkeys on state wildlife management areas in north Alabama. Auburn University. Habitat Management = Predator Management | #66 Johnson, V. M., et al. (2022). Nest site selection and survival of wild turkeys in Tennessee. Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 9, 134-143. Kilburg, Eric L., et al. "Wild turkey nest survival and nest‐site selection in the presence of growing‐season prescribed fire." The Journal of Wildlife Management 78.6 (2014): 1033-1039. Londe, David W., et al. "Review of range‐wide vital rates quantifies eastern wild Turkey population trajectory." Ecology and Evolution 13.2 (2023): e9830. Porter, W. F. (1992). Habitat analysis and assessment. The Wild Turkey: Biology and Management, 187. Porter, W. F., et al. (1983). Effects of winter conditions on reproduction in a northern wild turkey population. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 281-290. Speake, Daniel W. "Predation on wild turkeys in Alabama." 4th National Wild Turkey Symposium. Little Rock, Arkansas (USA). 2-5 Mar 1980.. 1980. Thogmartin, W. E., & Johnson, J. E. (1999). Reproduction in a declining population of wild turkeys in Arkansas. The Journal of wildlife management, 1281-1290. Wild Turkey Management Academy (March 8th) Get your tickets now! Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby , Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab , YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience’ at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
No Lazy Coyotes: Why Messy Habitat is Good | Wild Ag #396 1:01:07

há 3 dias1:01:07

1:01:07

This month we are joined by Chris Helzer, Director of Science and Stewardship at The Nature Conservancy in Nebraska, to talk about the importance of habitat diversity. Whether you have a small urban yard or 10,000 acres with cattle, Chris walks us through why messy, shifting habitat is ideal and how to create it. Resources: The Prairie Ecologist The Nature Conservancy in Nebraska [ @nature_ne ] Ranch Management for Wildlife | The Prairie Ecologist Chris Helzer [ website , @prairieecologist ] Dr. Andrew Little [ academic profile , @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [ website ] AWESM Lab [ website , @awesmlab ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [ website , @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne ] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us! Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin…

Natural Resources University

1
Starlings | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #395 32:40

há 9 dias32:40

32:40

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 http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html…

Natural Resources University

1
Fire timing and turkeys ft. Dr. Craig Harper | Wild Turkey Science #394 1:14:52

há 10 dias1:14:52

1:14:52

Dr. Craig Harper re-joins the podcast to share preliminary results from his on-going research comparing dormant, early-, mid-, and late-growing season fire treatments and assessing their effects on plant communities and wildlife, including turkeys and deer. Resources: Gruchy, J. P. (2007). An evaluation of field management practices to improve bobwhite habitat. Gruchy, J. P., & Harper, C. A. (2014). Effects of field management practices on northern bobwhite habitat. Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 1(1), 133-141. Harper, C. A., et al. (2016). Fire effects on wildlife in the Central Hardwoods and Appalachian regions, USA. Fire Ecology, 12, 127-159. Johnson, V. M., et al. (2022). Nest site selection and survival of wild turkeys in Tennessee. Journal of the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, 9, 134-143. Kilburg, E. L., et al. (2014). Wild turkey nest survival and nest‐site selection in the presence of growing‐season prescribed fire. The Journal of Wildlife Management, 78(6), 1033-1039. Kilburg, E. L., et al. (2015). Wild turkey prenesting-resource selection in a landscape managed with frequent prescribed fire. Southeastern Naturalist, 14(1), 137-146. McCord, J. M., et al. (2014). Brood cover and food resources for wild turkeys following silvicultural treatments in mature upland hardwoods. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 38(2), 265-272. Powell, B. L., et al. (2025). Changes in Plant Composition Following Disturbance in Restored Native Early Successional Communities. Rangeland Ecology & Management, 98, 480-489. Turner, M. A., et al. (2020). Improving coastal plain hardwoods for deer and turkeys with canopy reduction and fire. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 44(4), 705-712. Turner, M. A., et al. (2025). Effect of growing season fire timing on oak regeneration. Fire Ecology, 21(1), 6. Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Dr. Craig Harper Website , Publications Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby , Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF Game Lab @ufgamelab , YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience’ at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
Pine Thinning Part 2 - Alternatives | Timber University #393 50:55

há 15 dias50:55

50:55

Today's episode, we explore what strategies landowners and managers can utilized when standard thinning operations cannot occur due to poor markets. For questions or comments, email us at timberuniversity@gmail.com .

Natural Resources University

1
Citizen science for turkeys | Wild Turkey Science #392 58:53

há 17 dias58:53

58:53

Dr. Corey Callaghan, Assistant Professor of Wild Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida, joins us to discuss the dynamics of citizen science and how data collected by bird watchers and turkey hunters can contribute to wildlife research. Be sure to download the eBird app in the show notes below to help us double the turkey observations this season! Resources: Callaghan, C. T., et al. (2021). Global abundance estimates for 9,700 bird species. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Deer University eBird Florida Wildlife Corridor iNaturalist Merlin Bird ID Natural Resources University Network NWTF Proposal Application Snapshot USA Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Dr. Corey Callaghan Website , Publications Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby , Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF DEER Lab @ufdeerlab , YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience’ at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
Ethical Harvest of Fish and Wildlife | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #391 30:05

há 23 dias30:05

30:05

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 http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html…

Natural Resources University

1
Status of the wild turkey in MD | Wild Turkey Science #390 1:07:32

há 24 dias1:07:32

1:07:32

Bob Long, Wild Turkey and Upland Game Bird Project Manager for the Maryland DNR, joins us to share insights on the state’s turkey populations, historical trends, current challenges, and details on their on-going comprehensive, multi-state wide turkey research project. Resources: Maryland Department of Natural Resources Maryland Turkey Hunting Season and Regulations MD Wild Turkey Information (including Summer Survey) Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Bob Long, Contact Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby , Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF DEER Lab @ufdeerlab , YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience’ at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
The Wild Turkey Today with Dr. Mike Chamberlain | Wild Ag #389 1:01:00

há 4 weeks1:01:00

1:01:00

This month we are joined by Dr. Mike Chamberlain, National Wild Turkey Federation Distinguished Professor at the University of Georgia to talk about the state of the wild turkey across the country and what the future looks like for this iconic bird. Resources: · Wild Turkey Lab · Ongoing research: Wild Turkey Ecology in Western Nebraska Dr. Mike Chamberlain [ website , @wildturkeydoc ] Dr. Andrew Little [ academic profile , @awesmlabdoc] Nathan Pflueger [ website ] AWESM Lab [ website , @awesmlab ] Nebraska Pheasants Forever [ website , @pheasants_quailforever_of_ne ] Watch these podcasts on YouTube If you enjoy this podcast, leave a rating and review so others can find us! Music by Humans Win Produced and edited by Iris McFarlin…

Natural Resources University

1
Status of the wild turkey in GA | Wild Turkey Science #388 1:03:38

há 4 weeks1:03:38

1:03:38

Emily Rushton, Turkey Program Coordinator for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, joins us to discuss the current status of turkey populations in the state, as well as trends in hunting and harvest data. Resources: Avid Hunter/Harvest Card Survey (fill out after each hunt) Interactive Turkey Harvest Dashboard Poult Production Survey (record all turkey observations, with or without poults, in June, July, and August) Poult Survey Dashboard Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Emily Rushton Contact Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby , Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF DEER Lab @ufdeerlab , YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience’ at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
The Impact of Fire on Biodiversity | Fire University #387 43:42

há 5 weeks43:42

43:42

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: Kelly, L. T., et al. (2023). Understanding fire regimes for a better Anthropocene. Annual Review of Environment and Resources, 48(1). Dr. Luke Kelly Email , Publications , Website Dr. Carolina Baruzzi @wildlandmgmt , Publications Have suggestions for future episodes? Send us your feedback! ( here ) Check out our newest podcast, Wild Turkey Science! Enroll now in our free, online fire course. Available to all. This podcast is supported by listener donations - thank you for being a part of this effort. For more information, follow UF DEER Lab on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , YouTube . Music by Dr. David Mason and Artlist.io Produced and edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
Moles in the Great Plains | Fins, Fur, & Feathers #386 34:47

há 5 weeks34:47

34:47

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 http://hnr.k-state.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/wildlife-outdoor-management.html…

Natural Resources University

1
Are you a turkey advocate? | Wild Turkey Science #385 1:01:03

há 5 weeks1:01:03

1:01:03

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 Forever Turkeys for Tomorrow Wild Turkey Cost Share Program Wild Turkey Management Academy (March 8, 2025) Upcoming Learn & Burns: Alabama Georgia Mississippi NC State Workshop Page Donate to wild turkey research: UF Turkey Donation Fund , Auburn Turkey Donation Fund Do you have a topic you’d like us to cover? Leave us a review or send us an email at wildturkeyscience@gmail.com ! Dr. Marcus Lashley @DrDisturbance , Publications Dr. Will Gulsby @dr_will_gulsby , Publications Turkeys for Tomorrow @turkeysfortomorrow UF DEER Lab @ufdeerlab , YouTube Please help us by taking our (QUICK) listener survey - Thank you! Check out the NEW DrDisturbance YouTube channel! DrDisturbance YouTube Watch these podcasts on YouTube Leave a podcast rating for a chance to win free gear! Get a 10% discount at Grounded Brand by using the code ‘TurkeyScience’ at checkout! This podcast is made possible by Turkeys for Tomorrow, a grassroots organization dedicated to the wild turkey. To learn more about TFT, go to turkeysfortomorrow.org . Music by Artlist.io Produced & edited by Charlotte Nowak…

Natural Resources University

1
Pine Thinning | Timber University #384 55:34

há 6 weeks55:34

55:34

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.com .…

Natural Resources University

1
Lighting the spark: Everything you need to know to start burning | Wild Turkey Science #383 49:24

há 6 weeks49:24