EP. 71: Duck DNA & The Science Behind Waterfowl Conservation With Dr. Mike Brasher

On this episode of The Migration Waterfowl Podcast, your host Brian Halbleib talks with Dr. Mike Brasher from Ducks Unlimited. They discuss how Dr. Brasher became interested in waterfowl. They talk about his journey in waterfowl science and the importance of conservation efforts. Dr. Brasher goes into detail about the Duck DNA project, the purpose and goals of the program and the very large genetic database it is creating. They also talk about the unexpected and surprising They discuss the role of hunters in scientific research, the impact of game farm mallards on wild populations, and the future of waterfowl conservation. They also talk about the importance of working together with landowners, ranchers and farmers. Dr. Brasher emphasizes the need for community engagement and collaboration in addressing habitat loss and ensuring the sustainability of waterfowl populations. You can learn more about Dr. Brasher and the Duck DNA project here: https://www.duckdna.com Feel free to reach out to us: [e-mail] Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & TikTok: @migrationwaterfowl Migration Waterfowl Store https://migrationwaterfowl.com Migration Waterfowl is presented by: Blue Bird Waterfowl https://bluebirdwaterfowl.com And also brought to you by these fine partners: The Duck Hole & Company https://m.facebook.com/duckholecompany Rig’Em Right Outdoors https://rigemright.com Flight Day Ammunition https://www.flightdayammo.com 10% off with code MW10 Aves Hunting https://aveshunting.com Northern Duck Calls https://www.northernduckcalls.com 15% off with code MW15 Keywords waterfowl hunting, duck hunting, hunting culture, waterfowl, migration patterns, hunting ethics, summer preparation, gear, waterfowl habitat, hunting strategies, hunting experiences, migration waterfowl, ducks, goose hunt, hunting trips, goose hunting, hunting techniques, veteran support, community, scouting, geese, decoys, product innovation, customer feedback, hunting tips, innovations, podcast, outdoor, hunting strategies, product launch, hunting techniques, customer education, innovative, hunting gear, hunting stories, Pennsylvania, conservation, duck calls, duck dna, ducks unlimited, waterfowl research Takeaways Dr. Mike Brasher has over 20 years of experience with Ducks Unlimited. The Duck DNA project engages hunters in scientific research. Game farm mallards are hybridizing with wild populations, raising concerns. The Duck DNA program has detected game farm genes in 45 of 48 states. Collaboration with hunters is crucial for data collection in conservation. Future conservation efforts will leverage new technologies and community involvement. Ducks have unique mating systems that differ from other bird species. Conservation efforts must address habitat loss as a primary concern. The hunting community plays a vital role in waterfowl conservation. Ducks Unlimited emphasizes partnerships and community engagement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices