wildturkeyDNA: Year One Surprises, Odd Plumage, and Big Plans for 2026 (Ep 752) — Ducks Unlimited Podcast

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The wildturkeyDNA project is back—and year one delivered far more surprises than expected.

Recorded on location at the NWTF Convention, Dr. Mike Brasher, DU's Senior Waterfowl Scientist, is joined by:

Dr. Mike Chamberlain, NWTF Distinguished Professor at the University of Georgia and Wild Turkey Lab

Dr. Phil Lavretsky, Associate Professor and wildlife geneticist at University of Texas at El Paso

Katie Tucker, DU Conservation Science Assistant

Together they break down year one results, insights from odd‑plumage birds and unexpected hybrids, and unveil expansion plans for 2026. This episode offers an inside look at one of the fastest‑growing wildlife genetics projects in North America—powered by turkey hunters.

In this episode:

Why some "odd plumage" birds turned out to be 100% wild.
Heritage breeds, hybrids, and true genetic mutations: what showed up and why it matters.
Why turkey genetics were more complicated than expected.
How expanded sampling will shed light on subspecies ranges across the country.
Concern about inbreeding depression and the quest for answers.
How hunter participation has become the engine behind modern wildlife genetics.
Big plans for 2026, including expansion into Canada and incorporation of Osceola samples.

Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast
Send feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org

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Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.

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