Manage the Wild

In this episode, the host discusses the findings from a mule deer meeting where research professors and PhD candidates shared their research on mule deer management. The conversation covers topics such as the impact of precipitation on mule deer population, mortality factors for mule deer, cougars as predators of mule deer, and the effect of buck-to-doe ratios on mule deer population. The host also emphasizes the importance of understanding the impact of buck-to-doe ratios and discusses the optimal ratio for population growth. The episode concludes with a mention of upcoming research presentations. Takeaways Precipitation plays a crucial role in the health and population of mule deer. Mortality factors for mule deer include heat susceptibility in fawns and cougar predation. Cougars can target mule deer of all ages, leading to population decline. The optimal buck-to-doe ratio for population growth is around 12 to 13 bucks for every 100 does. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares the story of a mature buck that died in a highly trafficked area. The initial suspicion was that the deer had consumed the toxic California Ewe plant, but further examination revealed multiple health issues. Ultimately, the cause of death was determined to be salmonella septicemia, possibly contracted from a nearby dairy farm. The deer also had sarcocytosis, a parasite infection. Madsen discusses the concerns and ongoing monitoring efforts to ensure the health of the local deer population. Takeaways The California Ewe plant is highly toxic to mule deer and can cause rapid death. The deer in question had multiple health issues, including colitis, hepatitis, sarcocytosis, ticks, and nasal pharyngeal bot worms. Salmonella septicemia was determined to be the primary cause of death, possibly contracted from a nearby dairy farm. Sarcocytosis is an incidental parasite infection that can be transmitted through contaminated feces. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, the host recounts his attempts to capture a turkey on a college campus. The turkey had been causing problems and the host and a biologist were called in to solve the issue. Despite some initial failures, the host eventually manages to capture the turkey and release it safely. The episode also discusses the challenges faced by turkeys due to predators like golden eagles. Takeaways Capturing and relocating wildlife can be a challenging task Proper equipment and preparation are crucial for success Predators like golden eagles can pose a threat to turkey populations Wildlife management requires careful consideration of various factors Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode of Manage the Wild, host Nick Madsen shares his experience using a net gun to capture a turkey. He introduces the net gun and discusses the challenges and precautions associated with its use. Nick recounts his attempt to capture the turkey and the unexpected outcome. He emphasizes the importance of accepting failure and learning from it. Nick also explores the benefits and applications of the net gun, including wildlife rescue scenarios. He concludes by discussing the possibility of testing the net gun on deer in the future. Takeaways Using a net gun for wildlife capture can be challenging and requires careful consideration of safety precautions. Accepting failure is an important part of learning and improving in new endeavors. The net gun has various applications, including capturing turkeys, rescuing wildlife entangled in fishing lines, and managing injured birds. Testing the net gun on deer poses potential challenges and risks that need to be carefully evaluated. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares his experience using the drug BAM to chemically immobilize animals. He recounts a situation where they had to immobilize a moose trapped in a facility. Despite their efforts, the moose did not cooperate and ran away. Nick discusses the challenges they faced, including the weather conditions and the possibility of issues with the drug mixture. He also explains the process of darting animals and the importance of air pressure. The episode ends with plans to continue the operation and a reminder to be cautious when working with immobilization drugs. Takeaways BAM (Butyrophanol Azaperon Metatomidine) is a drug used for immobilizing animals. Weather conditions, such as cold temperatures and snow, can affect the effectiveness of immobilization drugs. Darting animals requires careful consideration of air pressure and range finding. Nighttime darting is not recommended due to the uncertainty of dart placement. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares his experience dealing with aggressive turkeys on a school campus. He discusses the prevalence of nuisance turkeys in the area and the challenges they pose. Nick recounts his attempt to capture the aggressive turkey and the unexpected agility and intelligence of the bird. Despite the turkey's escape, Nick reflects on the lessons learned and plans for future strategies. Takeaways Nuisance turkeys can be a significant problem in certain areas, causing fear and inconvenience for people. Turkeys are intelligent and agile creatures, capable of evading capture and surprising humans with their quick reflexes. Dealing with aggressive turkeys requires careful planning and the use of specialized equipment, such as net guns. It is important to learn from failed attempts and adapt strategies to effectively manage nuisance turkeys. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares his experience of hazing deer to prevent damage to a wheat field. He discusses the various methods of hazing, including using bird shot, cracker shells, and a rifle. Nick also highlights the challenges of hazing in a large area and the potential risks involved. He recounts a nerve-wracking moment when he had to prevent a group of deer from crossing a freeway. Despite the efforts, hazing may not always be effective in deterring deer from returning to the area. The episode concludes with Nick reflecting on the temporary nature of hazing as a solution. Takeaways Hazing is a method used to deter wildlife, such as deer, from causing damage to crops or property. Different hazing methods, such as using bird shot, cracker shells, or a rifle, can be employed depending on the situation. Hazing in a large area can be challenging due to limited visibility and the spread-out nature of the deer group. While hazing can be effective in some cases, it may not always prevent deer from returning to the area. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen shares his experiences with depredation and the challenges faced in managing wildlife. He discusses the issues of deer trampling and eating crops, and the efforts taken to haze the deer away from the property. Nick also highlights the difficulties in assessing damage caused by trampling. He then shares two unusual encounters he had during depredation work, including an unexpected visit from a yellow lab and a close call with a rancher's dog. These stories showcase the unpredictable nature of wildlife management. Takeaways Depredation can be a significant challenge for landowners, especially when deer trample crops and eat vegetation. Hazing techniques, such as yelling, and using cracker shells, and shotgun shells, can be effective in keeping deer away from the property. Assessing damage caused by trampling is a complex task that requires further research and collaboration with colleges and experts. Wildlife management work can lead to unexpected and sometimes humorous encounters with animals, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the job. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen recounts his experience responding to a cougar sighting near a cemetery. He describes the challenges of locating the cougar and the efforts to keep the neighborhood safe. The episode highlights the chaotic scene after darting the cougar and the importance of securing the area. Madsen also discusses the health assessment of the cougar and the increase in cougar calls following such incidents. Takeaways Responding to cougar sightings requires coordination between wildlife officers, biologists, and law enforcement to ensure public safety. Darting a cougar can be a chaotic and hectic situation, with various stakeholders wanting to be involved and document the process. Reversing the drugs used to sedate the cougar requires careful timing to ensure the animal fully recovers. Following a cougar sighting, there is often an increase in reported cougar sightings, which may include misidentifications of other animals. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses the time crunch faced by wildlife biologists and managers when making hunt recommendations. The hunt recommendation numbers are released in April, but the data collection process is challenging due to the hunting season starting in August and ending in January. The biologists rely on various data sources, including population estimates, GPS collar data, hunter harvest data, habitat and environmental conditions, and disease data. They use this information to determine buck-to-doe ratios, assess population objectives, and make recommendations for permits. The episode highlights the importance of accurate and up-to-date data in the decision-making process. Takeaways Hunt recommendation numbers are released in April, but the data collection process is challenging due to the hunting season starting in August and ending in January. Wildlife biologists and managers rely on various data sources, including population estimates, GPS collar data, hunter harvest data, habitat and environmental conditions, and disease data. Buck-to-doe ratios are used to assess population objectives and determine the number of permits to be issued. Accurate and up-to-date data is crucial for making informed hunt recommendations Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses various wildlife management plans and the importance of public input. He starts with a personal update and introduces the topics of the grizzly bear management plan in Montana and the wolf conservation management plan in Colorado. He highlights the extensive movement of collared wolves in Colorado and the need to update the grizzly bear management plan due to population growth and dispersal. Nick emphasizes the opportunity for public input and encourages listeners to voice their opinions on wildlife management. He also discusses the differing opinions and involvement of hunters in wildlife management and the changing approaches to wildlife management in different states. The episode concludes with a reminder of the importance of civic engagement in wildlife management. Takeaways Public input is crucial in wildlife management plans. The movement of collared wolves in Colorado highlights the need for updated management plans. Hunters should actively participate in wildlife management discussions. Wildlife management approaches are changing in different states. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

A man in Northern Utah had a terrifying encounter with a cougar while backcountry snowboarding. This incident highlights the importance of safety precautions and being prepared when engaging in outdoor activities. The conversation also introduces the Wild Aware Utah website as a resource for information on wildlife encounters. Tips on how to react when encountering a cougar are discussed, emphasizing the need to stay calm, make oneself look big, and back away slowly. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and avoiding distractions like headphones. Anderson, M. (2024) Cache Valley man fends off Cougar Attack with snowboard, KSLTV.com. Available at: https://ksltv.com/620892/cache-valley-man-fends-off-cougar-attack-with-his-snowboard/ (Accessed: 07 February 2024). Be aware ’ Cougars (no date) Wild Aware Utah. Available at: https://www.wildawareutah.org/wildlife/cougars/ (Accessed: 07 February 2024). Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode of Manage the Wild, host Nick Madsen discusses ongoing fights in court related to wildlife issues. He highlights the case of Montana taking the US Fish and Wildlife Services to court over the listing of Wolverines as threatened. Madsen explains the implications of listing a species as threatened or endangered and the potential impact on wildlife management. He also shares a recent case in Nevada where three men were convicted of illegally harvesting a mule deer using a drone. Madsen expresses concerns about the increasing use of drones in wildlife hunting and the ethical implications it raises. Takeaways Wildlife issues often lead to legal battles in court. Listing a species as threatened or endangered has implications for wildlife management and funding. Illegal harvesting of wildlife using drones is a growing concern. The use of drones in wildlife hunting raises ethical questions. Three Men Convicted of Illegally Harvesting Mule Deer - NDOW Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, host Nick Madsen discusses the challenges posed by chronic wasting disease (CWD) in wildlife populations. CWD is a fatal infectious neurological disease detected in multiple states and provinces. The spread of CWD is difficult to contain, as it can be transmitted through infected animals and remains viable in the environment for a long time. Biologists are implementing strategies to reduce populations and buck to doe ratios in infected areas. However, the persistence of CWD and its impact on various wildlife species is a growing concern. Takeaways Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a fatal infectious neurological disease that affects wildlife populations. CWD has been detected in multiple states and provinces, making it a widespread concern. Efforts to reduce populations and buck-to-doe ratios are being implemented to contain the spread of CWD. CWD remains viable in the environment for a long time, posing challenges for control and eradication. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

The conversation discusses the outbreak of pneumonia in the Hells Canyon area of Idaho among bighorn sheep. The host shares his personal experience with a similar outbreak in the past and highlights the severity of the disease. The challenges of managing and translocating infected sheep are also discussed. The conversation emphasizes the inability to slow the spread of the disease and the potential catastrophic impact on the bighorn sheep population. The tri-state area and the response of each state are mentioned, and the hope for a better outcome is expressed. Takeaways Pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (MOV) is a serious threat to bighorn sheep populations. Translocating infected sheep can lead to the spread of the disease and compromise the entire herd. There is currently no effective way to slow the spread of the disease or reduce death among infected sheep. The outbreak in the Hells Canyon area of Idaho could have a catastrophic impact on the bighorn sheep population. The response of each state in the tri-state area will be crucial in monitoring and managing the outbreak. Pneumonia hits Hells Canyon bighorn sheep, F&G and neighboring states monitoring the effects | Idaho Fish and Game Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, Nick Madsen discusses the recent elk trapping and disease testing conducted by the Utah Division of Wildlife. He highlights the use of collar data by hunters to track elk and the debates surrounding the use of equipment and technology in hunting. Madsen raises ethical concerns about accessing telemetry frequencies and expresses worries about the potential misuse of such data. He concludes by mentioning House Bill 404 in Idaho, which aims to restrict public access to telemetry data. Takeaways Elk trapping is conducted for disease testing purposes, with a focus on collaring calves for movement ecology studies. Hunters have started using collar data to track elk by obtaining telemetry frequencies from states. Debates exist regarding the use of equipment and technology in hunting, with differing opinions on scopes, trail cams, and radios. There are ethical concerns about accessing telemetry frequencies and the potential impact on fair chase principles. Misuse of telemetry data, such as for gaining an unfair advantage in hunting, is a growing concern. House Bill 404 in Idaho aims to restrict public access to telemetry data, reflecting ongoing discussions about data privacy and hunting ethics. (No date) MSN. Available at: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/cheat-codes-for-hunters-idaho-bill-would-help-prevent-pinpoint-of-wildlife-locations/ar-BB1hCWet (Accessed: 01 February 2024). Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

This episode discusses the challenges of achieving desired antler growth in an area of Northern Utah that is mostly private land. The host explores the theory of increasing elk population to improve antler growth and argues that it is counterproductive. Overpopulation leads to increased competition, stress, and decreased forage quality. The episode emphasizes the importance of reducing the age structure of the elk population to enhance antler growth. It also highlights the impact of human disturbance and habitat loss on elk and suggests reducing disturbance to promote better antler growth. Takeaways Increasing elk population does not necessarily lead to improved antler growth. Overpopulation results in increased competition, stress, and decreased forage quality. Reducing the age structure of the elk population can enhance antler growth. Human disturbance and habitat loss negatively impact elk and their antler growth. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

The conversation discusses the phenomenon of animals moving from public land to private land. It explores the reasons behind this movement and the impact of factors such as outdoor recreation and baiting. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the role of pressure and reduction in pressure on animal behavior. Ultimately, it suggests that animals are becoming smarter and more inclined to move to private areas that offer less disturbance and pressure from human activities. Takeaways Animals, including geese, are increasingly moving from public land to private land due to factors such as outdoor recreation and the availability of tools that allow people to access remote areas. The debate around baiting animals on private property highlights the issue of animals being pulled off public land during hunts. The lack of pressure on private land compared to public land is a significant factor in animals' preference for private areas. Reduced pressure allows animals to have a quieter and more peaceful habitat, which positively impacts their health and ability to find food. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, the host discusses his discovery of new coveys of Chuckers and the importance of conserving these upland game species. He shares a story about the consequences of over-hunting and the impact it can have on the population. The host emphasizes the need to educate new hunters on conservation practices and the reasons for limiting hunting in certain areas. He also highlights the trend of upland game species moving to private property due to hunting pressure. Lastly, he discusses the challenges of sharing fishing honey holes and the importance of understanding the impact of overfishing. Takeaways Conservation practices are crucial for preserving upland game species. Educating new hunters on the importance of limiting hunting pressure is essential. Upland game species are increasingly moving to private property to avoid hunting pressure. Sharing fishing honey holes can lead to overfishing and the depletion of secret locations. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter

In this episode, the host shares his experience of discovering new hunting spots while waiting for a biologist. He also discusses the current status of the mule deer population and the increasing fawn mortality. The mystery of a missing collar is explored, and the concept of additive mortality in relation to prairie dog colonies is explained. Takeaways Exploring new areas and spending time quietly can lead to the discovery of new hunting spots. Mule deer populations can be affected by fawn mortality, which can be influenced by weather and predators. The disappearance of a collar without a carcass raises questions about the fate of the animal. Additive mortality can occur in isolated populations, such as prairie dog colonies when hunting activities put additional pressure on the animals. Mills, L.S. (2013) Conservation of wildlife populations demography, genetics, and Management. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/your-adrenaline License code: QWS1TG5BYTFK2 #bigbuck #biggamehunting #wildlife #bowhunter #archeryhunting #outdoors #huntingthings #muledeer #deerhunter