Episode #1104: Dr. Philip Lavretsky

Jeff Stanfield and Andy Shaver are joined by Dr. Philip Lavretsky, a professor at UTEP and the researcher leading the charge in Duck DNA research and, more recently, Wild Turkey DNA research.

They discuss the incredible breakthroughs that have come from studying duck DNA, much of which has been made possible by waterfowl hunters across the country submitting duck samples for testing. Dr. Lavretsky explains what researchers have learned about North America's duck populations and how this research is changing our understanding of waterfowl.

The conversation then turns to wild turkey genetics, where some of the discoveries have been just as surprising. Dr. Lavretsky shares what researchers are learning about wild turkey populations, the challenges they have faced over the past several decades, and some of the factors that could be contributing to declining turkey numbers in parts of the country.

The research is also expanding. This year, the team plans to begin collecting and studying goose DNA, with the goal of developing a clearer picture of America's goose populations and how they are changing over time.