If Blackbirds Were Ducks

Ep. 16: Missin’ Swans and Elk with Alex ” Lenny” Elias

In this episode, Danny talks with long time friend and OG member of the Abandon Outdoors crew, Alex "Lenny" Elias. Alex is a biologist working for South Dakota Game Fish and Parks and has a passion for wildlife and people. The two talk about stories from the past and some of the more memorable moments and misses.

Ep. 15: A Five Turkey Day ,Tales from a Prairie Turkey Camp

On this episode, Danny Morrison, Tom Novak, Carey Egeland, Josh VandenBosch, Austin Irvine and Korey Johnston all sit down at turkey camp and discuss the past few days of hunting. This is after a five bird day in the prairies and if you are a "purist" this podcast and our tactics will probably trigger you!

Ep. 14: Canoeing for Turkeys, a Multi Day Float Trip on a Western River

In this episode of If Blackbirds for Ducks, Carey Egeland, Danny Morrison and Tom Novak recap a 48 mile multi day canoe float on a remote western river for turkeys. It was an experience unlike any other and they touch on the highs and lows and what went into planning for the trip.

Ep. 13: Bear Camp Chronicles: The Story of the White Bear

In this episode Danny Morrison, Garrett Houle, Shawn Nield and Jacob Locke are recounting their bear hunt from camp in which they came across a white bear. The bear itself is believed to be a leucistic black bear. During this hunt both Shawn and Jacob were able to each shoot their first black bears on the same day less than 200 yards from each other.  This was hands down one of the craziest hunts these guys had ever experienced.

Ep. 12: Duck Research and How Delta Waterfowl Plans to Make a Million Ducks with Carey Egeland

Welcome to Episode 12 of the podcast, where we dive into the fascinating world of duck research and conservation with Carey Egeland, Director of Regional Operations at Delta Waterfowl. Carey and Danny both worked as field technicians for Delta Waterfowl in their college years and have had hands on experience with the research that Delta has been conducting for many years.
Delta Waterfowl is a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America's waterfowl and their habitats. In this episode, we learn about the latest research in duck biology and ecology, including factors that influence breeding success, migration patterns, and habitat needs.
We also discuss Delta Waterfowl's innovative strategies for increasing duck populations, such as predator management and hen houses which is how they plan to make a MILLION DUCKS! Carey shares insights into the challenges of balancing conservation goals with the needs of hunters and the broader community.
Whether you're a hunter, a conservationist, or just curious about the world of waterfowl, you won't want to miss this informative and engaging conversation. So grab your headphones and join us for Episode 12 of If Blackbirds Were Ducks, "Duck Research and How Delta Waterfowl Plans to Make a Million Ducks with Carey Egeland."

Ep. 11: Bear Camp Chronicles: Bear Down! A Hunting Tale from Opening Weekend

In this episode Danny Morrison, Matt Cleary and Garrett Houle recap a bear hunt where they stalked a bear in the cliffs of Idaho. Join us for some insights on what we learned from this hunt.

Ep. 10: Bear Camp Chronicles: BEARS ARE OUT!!! Lessons from Early Season Bear Hunting

Join Danny Morrison, Matt Cleary and Garrett Houle as they discuss  experiences and lessons learned from early season bear hunting. They share tips they have learned so far as well as insights on bear behavior and habitat. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this episode is sure to be both informative and entertaining. So grab a seat and join us at Bear Camp!

Ep. 9: Archery Hunting Turkeys, Sika Deer and an Addiction to Feathers with Luke Winge

In this episode Danny talks with long time friend, accomplished hunter and wildlife biologist Luke Winge. Luke is a biologist for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and absolutely loves hunting birds of all types as well as big game. Topics discussed include: hunting turkeys in Colorado, a good bird dog, archery hunting turkeys, shooting hens, kids and hunting, hunting sika deer, Idaho upland hunting and much more.

Ep. 8: How To Start Hunting with Andrew McGuinn

In this episode Danny sits down and talks with Andrew McGuinn. Andrew is a new hunter and Danny met him on an afternoon duck hunt, which was Andrew's first ever. Topics discussed include: A good attitude can go a long way, unethical hunters, just do it, needs vs. wants, being blindfolded, social media, toxic waterfowlers, the good and bad side of the hunting community and much more.

Ep. 7: Trapping Deer and Tracking Wolves with Drew Howing

In this episode Danny talks with long time friend and fellow biologist Drew Howing. Drew is a Professor in wildlife biology and also a wildlife researcher as well as an avid hunter, trapper and fisherman. Topics discussed include: Trapping deer, passing on green winged teal because there's not enough meat, collaring fawns, wolf research in Washington, ground hunting deer, getting beat up b y a deer, trapping turkeys and much more.