Podcast Summary: The MeatEater Podcast — Ep. 670: The Secrets of Blacktail Deer

Release Date: March 3, 2025

Introduction to the Episode and Guests

In Episode 670 of The MeatEater Podcast, host Steven Rinella delves into the intricate world of Blacktail Deer, exploring their biology, conservation status, and the challenges they face in the wild. Joining Rinella are conservationist Jim Bates and wildlife biologist Jim Heffelfinger, both of whom bring a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the discussion.

Understanding Blacktail Deer: Biology and Genetics

Jim Bates begins by clarifying the taxonomy of Blacktail Deer, distinguishing them from their cousins, the Mule Deer. He explains, “They’re mule deer cousins” ([28:02]), emphasizing the genetic divergence that occurred during the last ice age, which led to the differentiation between Blacktail and Mule Deer populations. Bates references research by Emily Latch and Jim Heffelfinger, highlighting that Blacktail Deer in coastal refugia evolved separately due to geographical isolation caused by glacial movements.

Notably, Bates mentions a study by Charlotte Lindquist and her team at Buffalo, which utilized paleogenetics to confirm that ancient deer bones found in Southeast Alaska caves are indeed Blacktail Deer, containing a mix of Sitka Blacktail and Mule Deer mitochondrial DNA ([17:03]).

Habitat and Conservation Challenges

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the impact of timber management on Blacktail Deer populations. Bates outlines how past timber practices, specifically clear-cutting and subsequent commercial thinning, have led to habitat degradation. He states, “On Prince of Wales Island, I believe the population of Sitka Blacktail is half of what it was when I got there in 1990” ([50:07]). This decline is attributed to the loss of forage due to stem exclusion, where overgrown forests limit access to food sources during harsh winters.

Bates underscores the importance of habitat restoration, advocating for a shift from old-growth logging to a young-growth management system that supports both timber production and deer conservation. He explains, “If we do the work we have right now… to make a meaningful impact on 360,000 acres of young growth…” ([86:35]).

Hunting Techniques and Experiences

The episode also offers insights into effective hunting strategies for Blacktail Deer. Bates shares his personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of understanding deer behavior and movement patterns. He recounts, “Every day I go to the woods, I try to go out and learn something... [he] kills blacktail with a muzzleloader” ([114:22]).

Bates discusses the use of traditional muzzleloaders and flintlocks, highlighting their challenges in wet Alaskan climates and the necessity of maintaining equipment to prevent moisture intrusion. He shares a memorable hunting story: “...I called for an entire hour... And when I shoot a flintlock, I try to imagine that round ball going clear through the target before I come out of my hold” ([136:00]).

Impact of Predation and Population Dynamics

Predation, particularly by black bears and wolves, is another critical topic explored in the episode. Bates presents data indicating that nearly 50% of Blacktail fawns are predated within the first two weeks of life by black bears ([116:07]). He observes that predator presence can alter deer movement patterns, causing them to avoid certain areas and thereby impacting hunting success and population distribution.

Heffelfinger adds to the conversation by questioning the focus on predation, to which Bates responds, “There’s a balance between those two [habitat and predation]” ([97:17]). The hosts discuss how habitat quality can influence deer resilience against predation pressures, asserting that improved habitats can help maintain stable deer populations despite consistent predation rates.

Conservation Efforts and the Blacktail Deer Foundation

The latter part of the episode is dedicated to conservation initiatives spearheaded by Jim Bates. He introduces the Blacktail Deer Foundation, an organization aimed at advocating for Blacktail Deer conservation through habitat restoration and research. Bates explains, “We actually have four projects in Southeast Alaska that will impact close to 2,000 acres of wildlife habitat improvements” ([94:08]).

He emphasizes the importance of targeted habitat work, stating, “We need to change to a young growth management industry... [to] improve deer habitat” ([86:33]). The Foundation seeks to collaborate with local communities, governmental agencies, and other stakeholders to implement effective conservation strategies that benefit both the deer and the broader ecosystem.

Hunting Strategies and Tactics

Throughout the conversation, Bates shares various hunting tactics tailored to the challenging Alaskan terrain. He highlights the significance of patience and understanding deer rut cycles, advising hunters to be present during critical periods when bucks are most active. For instance, Bates notes, “These bucks that you have never seen… they are actively on a doe” ([82:37]).

He also discusses the use of calls and lures, sharing anecdotes about successful hunts and the techniques that lead to them. Bates underscores the importance of situational awareness and adaptability in the field, encouraging hunters to learn from each experience to improve their skills.

Conclusion

Ep. 670 of The MeatEater Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of Blacktail Deer, blending scientific research with practical hunting insights. Through engaging discussions with experts like Jim Bates and Jim Heffelfinger, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the species’ biology, the conservation challenges they face, and the strategies necessary to ensure their survival. The episode serves as both an educational resource and a call to action for deer enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Jim Bates: “They’re mule deer cousins.” ([28:02])

• Jim Heffelfinger: “If it was specific to just birds. But one of the...” ([06:25])

• Jim Bates: “If you have great habitat and your habitat is functioning really well, it can take the pressure of predation.” ([61:24])

• Jim Heffelfinger: “They’re super focused on that fawn distress call.” ([120:28])

• Jim Bates: “We need to change to a young growth management industry.” ([86:33])

Get Involved:

Listeners interested in supporting Blacktail Deer conservation can join the Blacktail Deer Foundation by visiting blacktaildeer.org. The Foundation offers opportunities to start or join local chapters, participate in habitat restoration projects, and contribute to ongoing research efforts.

For more episodes and information, visit The MeatEater Podcast Network.