Live From the Fire: Thermal Drone Research with Derrick Dixon of Whitetail Research

Walter Lee and Parker McDonald interview Derrick Dixon, a whitetail guru who has taken a unique approach to deer hunting through the use of drone technology. Derrick shares his journey from a tech job to pursuing his passion for wildlife photography and research. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of documenting deer behavior, the importance of environmental factors, and the insights he has gained about deer movement patterns. The conversation highlights the intersection of technology and traditional hunting practices, offering valuable tips for both seasoned hunters and newcomers alike. In this conversation, Derrick Dixon shares his extensive research on deer behavior, particularly focusing on the impact of moon phases, the effects of bumping bucks, and the significance of terrain features in deer movement. He discusses the late-season behavior of mature bucks, strategies for hunting on public land, and the importance of water sources. The conversation also touches on future research directions in diverse habitats, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of deer behavior in various environments. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Whitetail Guru 04:37 The Genesis of a Dream: From Tech to Wildlife Research 13:59 The Journey of Wildlife Photography and Research 20:32 Data-Driven Insights: The Science of Deer Behavior 27:08 New Insights on Deer Behavior 35:27 Understanding Morning Movements of Mature Bucks 39:41 The Impact of Human Interaction on Deer Behavior 53:59 Challenging Common Hunting Beliefs 55:50 Exploring LIDAR Technology in Hunting 58:37 Understanding Deer Movement and Terrain Features 01:01:01 The Home Range of Mature Bucks 01:02:12 Behavioral Patterns of Bucks in Different Habitats 01:05:49 The Importance of Landmarks in Deer Travel 01:10:02 Water Sources and Deer Behavior 01:13:09 Researching Diverse Habitats for Deer Movement 01:16:08 Ethics in Modern Hunting Practices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices