43. Mullenix, Garner, & Millsap on falconry in the context of the NAM & WVR (Part I)

In this multi-episode series, I am joined by Matt Mullenix, Heath Garner, and Brian Millsap to discuss their views of falconry in the context of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation (NAM; see Episode 33) and the Wildlife Values Report (WVR; see Episode 34).

The episode begins with each guest reporting on progress of the molt for each of their birds (as of late August). I then take advantage of having Brian Millsap present to get an update on normalization of take of peregrine falcons, Heath gives us a sense of NAFA's activities in this regard, and Matt offers his insights too. 

We talk also of the affect of the recent Supreme Court ruling to strike down Chevron Deference, a decision that will affect the way that agencies such as the USFWS will be able to conduct business.  

We then turn our attention to discussing the manner in which falconry is affected by the first of the seven principles of the NAM, the idea that science is the proper tool to discharge wildlife policy.

Matt, Heath, and Brian then engage in a wide ranging discussion (gatekeeping as it relates to permitting, falconry schools, the value of the internet) on aspects of falconry as it relates to the NAM principle that every citizen has the opportunity, under the law, to hunt and fish in the United States and Canada (i.e., Democracy of hunting).  

Thanks for listening to the Fat Bird, Ugly Dog Podcast. I hope you enjoy this episode with three prominent U.S. falconers.