Jan 28, 2026
In this episode of Gamebird
University, hosts James Callicutt and Mark McConnell sit down with
Dr. Frank Rohwer, President and Chief Scientist of Delta Waterfowl,
for a wide-ranging conversation about waterfowl research,
management, and conservation. The trio reflects on Frank’s long
career—from his early academic days at LSU to leading Delta’s
scientific programs—and explores the questions and challenges in
understanding duck behavior and habitat use.
They talk about how weather and temperature shape ducks’
movements and foraging habits, sharing surprising insights about
when ducks feed, move, and seek refuge across varying temperatures.
The conversation delves into advances in GPS and transmitter
technology that have opened new windows into waterfowl movements,
as well as long-running studies of ring-necked ducks that reveal
unexpected connections between southern wintering areas and western
boreal breeding grounds.
Throughout the episode, the group explores new methods for
assessing duck production, including the use of drones and thermal
imaging to locate nests, track brood survival, and measure
reproductive success. They also discuss the role of predator
management in boosting duck production and the growing focus across
wildlife disciplines on making conservation more cost effective.
The puzzling range expansion of black-bellied whistling ducks
emerges as a point of discussion, along with questions about the
species’ ecology and its future impacts across southern
landscapes.
The conversation also touches on the role ducks, quail, and
pheasants play as vital ecosystem services that benefit rural
economies and wildlife heritage. At its heart, this episode
captures the deep connections between hunters, researchers, and
their dogs, reminding listeners why waterfowl conservation
matters—not just for its ecological benefits, but for the
traditions, stories, and shared passions that accompany it.