Podcast Title: Blood Origins
Episode: 577 - Tarquin Millington-Drake || Fighting For The Moorlands, Part 2
Release Date: July 22, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 577 of Blood Origins, host Mike Axelrod engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Tarquin Millington-Drake from the United Kingdom. The discussion centers around moorland conservation, the intricacies of grouse shooting, and the broader implications for wildlife and rural communities. This episode delves into the challenges facing moorlands, the role of hunting in conservation, and innovative communication strategies aimed at bridging gaps between different stakeholders.

Background on Tarquin Millington-Drake and "Why Moorlands Matter"

Tarquin Millington-Drake is a passionate photographer and conservation communicator who has established a communication hub focusing on wildlife, particularly related to moors and grouse shooting. Alongside previous guests Emily Graham and Ian Coghill, Tarquin has been instrumental in creating platforms that highlight the benefits of shooting beyond mere sport, emphasizing its role in effective conservation.

Notable Quote:
"There's a reason why I started Blood Origins and that reason is simple, is that I wanted to convey the truth about hunting."
— Mike Axelrod [01:52]

Key Issues Discussed

1. Overstocking of Game Birds

One of the primary concerns highlighted is the overstocking of pheasants and partridges in certain areas. This practice can lead to ecological imbalances, where excessive numbers of these birds may deplete food resources and damage the habitat.

Notable Quote:
"Problem number one is we're probably putting too many pheasants and partridges in certain areas, which is not good for the ground because they eat too much stuff, they do damage, et cetera."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [11:48]

2. Lead Ammunition vs. Steel

The discussion delves into the ongoing debate between using lead vs. steel ammunition. Lead, while traditionally favored for its effectiveness, poses significant environmental and health risks, rendering shot birds unsalable on a broader scale. Transitioning to steel is hindered by factors such as availability, cost, and the suitability of existing firearms.

Notable Quote:
"What we've been trying to do with moral matters is to get gauge everybody's opinion because I don't think we've done a lot of listening."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [11:52]

3. Predator Control and Its Impacts

Effective predator control is crucial for maintaining the balance of moorland ecosystems. The cessation of predator management has led to significant problems, including the local extinction of certain species and uncontrolled predator populations.

Notable Quote:
"Two of the seven species just ceased to exist in that area."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [47:06]

Conservation Communication Efforts

Tarquin emphasizes the importance of conservation communication as a tool to educate both hunters and non-hunters about the multifaceted benefits of grouse shooting. By organizing events like "Why Moorlands Matter," Tarquin and his team facilitate dialogues that foster understanding and collaboration among diverse groups, including government officials, landowners, and the general public.

Notable Quote:
"What we're doing with conservation communication is actually talk to people, understand them, make adjustments."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [12:00]

Community and Economic Impacts

Grouse shooting significantly contributes to rural economies by supporting local businesses such as hotels, pubs, and service providers. The discontinuation of shooting activities can have devastating effects on these communities, leading to job losses and economic instability.

Notable Quote:
"For every rich guy on the fell shooting, there's 10 people who are benefiting."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [23:05]

Challenges and Proposed Solutions

1. Lack of a Governing Body for Shooting

Currently, there is no centralized authority overseeing shooting practices, leading to inconsistent standards and enforcement. Tarquin advocates for the establishment of a governing body that can set and enforce best practices, such as transitioning to steel ammunition and regulating game bird populations.

Notable Quote:
"I think a governing body for shooting is going to stop people doing stupid things like raptor persecution."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [52:03]

2. Addressing Negative Perceptions

Negative perceptions of hunters and shooting practices often overshadow the positive contributions to conservation. By openly addressing issues like lead usage and overstocking, and showcasing successful conservation projects, the shooting community can improve its public image and garner broader support.

Notable Quote:
"We are making progress by not being aggressive, by not being defensive and by actually talking and listening to people."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [24:17]

Future Directions and Initiatives

Tarquin and Mike discuss the potential for innovative communication strategies to further conservation goals. This includes leveraging social media, engaging filmmakers and podcasters, and creating informative content that highlights successful conservation efforts tied to grouse shooting. Additionally, they touch upon collaborative projects with organizations like Safari Specialty Importers and Silencer Central to support conservation funding.

Notable Quote:
"We're going to embark on a mission to try and re-engage them with wildlife via any and every social media or whether it be YouTube or anywhere else."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [43:20]

Concluding Remarks

The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the importance of open dialogue, education, and collaborative efforts in ensuring the sustainability of moorland ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. Tarquin and Mike express optimism that through continued communication and strategic initiatives, the challenges facing moorlands can be effectively addressed.

Notable Quote:
"It's about saving shooting because of the good it does to British wildlife. It's not about saving shooting because I love shooting."
— Tarquin Millington-Drake [44:28]

Final Thoughts

Episode 577 of Blood Origins offers a nuanced perspective on the intersection of hunting and conservation. By highlighting both the benefits and the challenges, Tarquin Millington-Drake and Mike Axelrod provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the efforts required to preserve moorlands and support rural communities. The episode underscores the necessity of informed dialogue and proactive measures in fostering a sustainable future for both wildlife and those who depend on it.

For more information on Blood Origins and their initiatives, visit Blood Origins Inc..