Prairie Habitat Update & Spring Migration Timing with Dr. Scott Stephens (Ep 760) — Ducks Unlimited Podcast

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Ducks are heading north, and we’re getting the first hints of what breeding habitat may look like this spring.

DU's senior waterfowl scientist, Dr. Mike Brasher, sits down with Dr. Scott Stephens, DU's senior director of conservation strategy, for a timely update on prairie conditions, recent snowfall, runoff potential, and what these early signs may mean for breeding ducks in 2026. They also break down the migration chronology of different duck species — who arrives first, who lingers longest, and why evolutionary history shapes these patterns.

In this episode:

A flyover view of recent prairie snowfall and soil moisture
Where runoff potential looks promising — and where it doesn’t
How dry wetland basins from last fall influence spring habitat recovery
Why “some water” doesn’t equal “full recovery”
The importance of seasonal vs. semi‑permanent wetlands for brood success
How multiple years of improved conditions are needed for strong fall flights
Migration timing: early (mallards, pintails), mid (shovelers, teal, divers), and late (gadwall, scaup)
Why ducks “follow the ice line” and how late storms disrupt timing
Boreal nesters vs. prairie nesters — who waits for the thaw
Canada geese and snow geese movement patterns during March–April
Long‑term conservation reminders: habitat base matters more than any one wet year

Join us for a concise, informative episode for anyone tracking habitat conditions and dreaming about next fall’s duck season.

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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