The Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, with its host Michael Cravens, brings you the stories of wildlife, wild places, and those people who value them the most. From hunting and angling to birding and gardening, we‘ll keep you informed of issues, events, and activities from around the beautiful and diverse state of Arizona. Since 1923, Arizona Wildlife Federation has united Arizonans and decision makers around science-based solutions to conserve our state’s wildlife, wildlife habitat, and public lands for generations to come.
Listen in with Russell Kuhlman, of the Nevada Wildlife Federation, and I as we talk about the recent fight to keep the sale of our public lands out of the reconciliation bill and what you can expect going forward. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.ndow.org/
Listen in as we sit down with Wren House Brewing to learn all about this exciting project that incentivizes public land owners to engage with their representatives in the best way possible! https://www.wrenhousebrewing.com/ https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona
Join Trica as she chats with Annita Lucchesi, Program Manager for Artemis, the National Wildlife Federation's outdoor women's program. You'll hear all about resources, opportunities, access, and support for women in the outdoors. You'll also learn about "Storytelling for a Purpose" and "Grumpy Grandpas!" So tune in! Find out more about Artemis: https://artemis.nwf.org/ Connect with Annita: LucchesiA@nwf.org Connect with Artemis on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtemisSportswomen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artemis_sportswomen YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@artemissportswomen
Our public lands are facing greater threats than ever before. Listen in as we dig into the wild world of public lands policy with MeatEater's Ryan Callaghan and learn all about why these lands are worth fighting for, current threats to them, and how you can help keep public lands in public hands. https://azwildlife.org/2025-Arizona-Bill-Tracker https://www.themeateater.com/listen/cals-week-in-review
Join host, Trica as she chats with Woniya Thibeault about Woniya's time on the Alone show, her book Never Alone: A Solo Arctic Survival Journey, connecting with nature and "seeing with wild, more capable eyes," survival skills, the ethics and value of hunting, and about her upcoming online skills gathering. For a special discount code to Woniya's current online skills gathering, listen to the podcast! Connect with Woniya at: woniyathibeault.com or at buckskinrevolution.com You can purchase Woniya's book Never Alone: A Solo Arctic Survival Journey by clicking here or listen to it via Audible.com!
Credited with bringing many iconic North American species back from the brink of extinction and maintaining healthy and robust wildlife populations throughout our country, the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation has proven to be an astounding success. Still, there are politics and policies at play that threaten to dismantle this critical science based model of conservation in Arizona and beyond. Listen in while our guest, Chuck Podolak, tells us all about Conserve and Protect Arizona and the work that they do to fight against threats to our North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://conserveandprotectaz.org/
In this episode, Trica chats with Chay Venrick, an outdoor ambassador who is totally fit to inspire. Chay shares how she found inspiration and health in nature, changed her life, and began helping others find fitness and happiness through inclusive outdoor activities. Follow Chay on Instagram - @easydoesithiking Outdoor Afro - www.outdoorafro.org Girl Trek - www.girltrek.org Getting Closer Everyday - www.gettingclosereveryday.com Start Today article: How 1 woman learned to control her anxious thoughts — and lost 100 inches - https://www.today.com/health/diet-fitness/woman-body-dysmorphia-anxiety-loses-100-inches-rcna166593 Email questions to Chay - easydoesithiking@gmail.com Arizona Wildlife Federation - www.azwildlife.org Colorado Wildlife Federation - www.coloradowildlife.org
Listen in as we explore conservation on private land and learn all about Arizona's Babbitt Ranches with our special guest Billy Cordasco. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.babbittranches.com/ https://www.babbittranches.com/podcast
Join us on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast as we discuss all things fly fishing, kids, and a dynamic program that brings them together: The Mayfly Project. https://themayflyproject.com/ https://www.azwildlife.org/
Listen in as your host, Trica, chats with wildlife biologist, Cheryl Mollohan, to learn all about Bobcats in Tucson. Be amazed with the results from this study of bobcats living along the urban/wildlands interface! Learn more about Bobcats in Tucson here: https://bobcatsintucson.net/ Reach out to Cheryl or submit bobcats photos and sightings at bobcatsintucson@gmail.com Remember to support AWF! Visit www.azwildlife.org/donate
Join Trica for her first episode of the AWF podcast as she and her guests discuss the Desert Fence Busters, a collaborative group of conservation organizations and agencies who share the common mission of removing outdated barbed wire fencing from the landscape to enhance wildlife movement and safety. Sign up for a Desert Fence Busters event: https://volunteer.azgfd.gov/agency/detail/?agency_id=154137 Learn about the Friends of Ironwood Forest: https://ironwoodforest.org/ Here's more on the Desert Fence Busters: https://www.sonorandesert.org/learning-more/remote-camera-wildlife-monitoring-project/desertfencebusters/ Here's the Desert Fence Busters training video: https://www.sonorandesert.org/fencebusters/#/ Additional questions? You can reach Scott at: ssprague@azgfd.gov or Dave at dave@ironwoodforest.org
Arizona is a hotspot for reptile diversity in our nation. Like the iconic western diamond-backed rattlesnake, some species are well known, but others, like the little New Mexico ridged rattlesnake, are much more obscure. Listen in as we explore conservation and recovery efforts underway for one of Arizona's most seldom encountered rattlesnakes!
Is non-lead ammunition effective for hunting? How does lead affect humans, birds of prey, and other wildlife? Why aren't we all shooting non-lead ammo? Listen in and learn the answers to these questions and more with our guest, President and CEO of the Peregrine Fund, Chris Parish. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://peregrinefund.org/ https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona_events
September 1st is a highly anticipated date here in Arizona as well as across our nation. Hunters young and old look forward to fast action wing shooting and dove poppers sizzling on the grill! From scouting, to gear, to processing and cooking, learn all about this fun method of grocery shopping on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona_events
Are monarch butterflies imperiled? Where do monarchs overwinter? Can you grow milkweeds in your garden? Where can you buy milkweeds? Learn the answers to these questions and so much more on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast! https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://in.nau.edu/greenhouse/projects-and-activities/milkweeds-for-monarchs
From the natural history of bighorn sheep in Arizona to the efforts to keep them on the landscape today, learn all about these amazing animals, hunting for them, and their conservation on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://adbss.org/
The upper Verde River isn't only a valuable resource to those that enjoy recreating on Arizona's public lands and waters, it's also the home and habitat to countless species of wildlife including several that are threatened and endangered. In this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, learn all about this amazing river and the effort to designate it as Wild and Scenic. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.americanrivers.org/the-upper-verde-river-a-wild-and-scenic-river/
Mearns, or Montezuma, quail are a little bird with a big game reputation in the sporting community. Listen in as one of Arizona's premier upland guides gives his perspectives on Mearns quail management and conservation. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.davebrownoutfitters.com/
Listen in while we deep dive on the Gould's wild turkey! From their natural history, to hunting, to their successful reintroduction to Arizona, we cover it all with our guest John Millican on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast! https://azwildlife.org/
On this special episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, we're excited to introduce you to your new cohost of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast! While Trica Oshant Hawkins' official role is Conservation Programs Director for the Arizona Wildlife Federation, her passion for conservation, and all things wild, along with her natural ability to communicate those passions to others makes her a natural fit for the show. Listen in and learn all about Trica and her plans for the podcast! https://www.azwildlife.org/
Lion hunting brings about strong emotions in a lot of folks. Regardless of your feelings about the hunting of lions, or other predators, it's important to have an understanding of the pursuit and those who love it. Listen in to this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast where we sit down with Doug Boykin of Boyken Guides and Outfitters and explore the fascinating world of lion hunting. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://azhuntingguide.com/about/
What do you do when you come across a hive of Africanized bees? How do pollinating insects relate to hunting? Are insects disappearing? Learn these answers and more on this fascinating episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast with UA Research Scientist in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Stephen Buchmann and Author, Photographer, Teacher, retired Game and Fish Biologist, Bruce Taubert. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.azwildlife.org/Advocacy-Coordinator https://www.azwildlife.org/garden-for-wildlife https://monarchwatch.org/waystations/ Stephen Buchmann buchmann.stephen@gmail.com Bruce Taubert abtaubert@q.com
Join us as we dive into the complex and sometimes controversial topic of hunting bans with our guest John Stallone of Howl for Wildlife. https://www.howlforwildlife.org/ https://azwildlife.org/ https://aztrail.org/
Why would anyone want to limit themselves by turning their backs on modern technology in hunting equipment? Find out on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast with traditional bowhunter and conservationist, Greg Munther. https://azwildlife.org/
It's wintertime in Arizona and for many that means one thing, quail hunting! In this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, I get to sit down with Brian Lathrop from Valley of the Sun Quail Forever and Jim Littlejohn from Southern Arizona Quail Forever and talk all about quail hunting and quail conservation. Listen in and learn all about chasing these amazing little birds and the great conservation work that these valuable organizations do. https://azwildlife.org/ https://www.votsqf.com/ https://www.saquailforever.com/
Arizona's waters are vital to our wildlife and our quality of life. Listen in and learn what's in store for our state's waters and water policy following the Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court case with Chuck Podolak, Director of the Arizona Water Infrastructure Finance Authority. https://azwildlife.org/
While fall in Arizona is great for a multitude of outdoor activities, fishing should have a prominent place near the top of the list. Listen in and learn all about Arizona's ample fishing opportunities. From bluegill in your local community lake, to giant flathead catfish, to trophy bass and trout, we cover them all in this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast. https://azwildlife.org/ https://azwildlife.org/BOW https://volunteer.azgfd.gov/agency/detail/?agency_id=127589
We are blessed in Arizona to have ample public lands to support wildlife and wildlife habitat. Still, challenges persist in regards to habitat fragmentation from roadways and energy transmission. Listen in with Arizona Game and Fish Department's Statewide Connectivity Biologist, Jeff Gagnon, and discover some of the science behind wildlife migrations and how we are working to mitigate the impacts of a growing and changing state. https://azwildlife.org/
Even for those the furthest removed from our amazing wild places and wildlife, bears stir up deep and powerful emotions in us all. This couldn't be truer for those that enjoy pursuing these magnificent animals to bring home to the dinner table. If you're one of these hunters, or even if you're just curious about bear hunting, this podcast is for you. Josh Kirchner, aka the Dialed in Hunter, is one of the best bear hunters that I know and his thoughtful way of relaying his experience and expertise in all of his media is sure to make you a better bear hunter. Listen in for tips to help you in the upcoming season or just to simply just get a glimpse into the exciting world of bear hunting! https://azwildlife.org/ https://dialedinhunter.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ItIjVnltPYvPWohOPk0dQ https://www.facebook.com/dialedinhunter/ https://www.instagram.com/dialedinhunter/?hl=en https://www.saquailforever.com/ https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona
Listen in and learn all about the National Wildlife Federation's Garden for Wildlife Program. From an apartment balcony, to a suburban yard, all the way to an entire community, improving and creating habitat around our space not only benefits wildlife but also enriches the quality of our lives. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.nwf.org/home/garden-for-wildlife https://www.backcountryhunters.org/4th_annual_dove_hunt_with_arizona_bha https://www.backcountryhunters.org/4th_annual_dove https://www.backcountryhunters.org/7th_annual_family_squirrel_camp_hosted_by_az_bha_and_az_wildlife_federation
Trapping for food and fur is an ancient pastime that is still practiced today by many. Despite this, the general public and even some in the sporting community, know little about it. Listen in on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation and learn all about trapping in Arizona and maybe even clear up a few misconceptions. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://arizonatrappersassociation.com/index.html https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona_events https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/wild-in-the-city
The Arizona Wildlife Federation serves as the state affiliate for the National Wildlife Federation, the largest conservation organization in our Country. Listen in with my Guests Lew Carpenter and Aaron Kindle and learn all about this relationship and how it benefits our wildlife, habitat, and public lands in Arizona and across our Nation. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.nwf.org/ https://www.nwf.org/outdoors https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/national-wildlife-federation-outdoors/id1403554700 https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona_events https://www.votsqf.com/calendar.html https://aztrail.org/
Listen in as we discover the complex and rich world of Falconry with Arizona's own Nathan Danforth from Sky Island Falconry Experience. https://azwildlife.org/ https://skyislandfalconry.org/ https://azwildlife.org/BOW https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/elk-clinic Hunter Education Volunteer Contact: DANIELLE KLAAS | HUNTING & SHOOTING SPORTS PROGRAM MANAGER ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT PHONE: 480-318-9430 EMAIL: dklaas@azgfd.gov
Listen in with Scott Garlid of the Arizona Wildlife Federation and Nate Reese of Trout Unlimited as we discuss the proposed Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni Grand Canyon National Monument, what this means for the sporting community, and the work being done to ensure access for hunting and angling.
Please join us on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast as we sit down with Dave O'Connell of Bearizona. This conversation goes way beyond the walls of this impressive facility and their amazing animals as we explore the roles that zoos and aquariums play in the conservation of our wildlife. https://bearizona.com https://www.azwildlife.org https://azantelope.org/event www.nwtfhuagoulds.org https://www.azwildlife.org/BOW
Inspired by Orvis's commitment to conservation, today we are sitting down with Orvis's own Tom Rosenbauer to chat about fly fishing and conservation. Tom's easy going personality, conservation ethos, and commitment to teaching have made him an iconic and much loved figure in the fly fishing community. For the whole month of May, during the Orvis Give Back Days, you can save ten percent on your purchase at the Phoenix Orvis store with a donation of ten dollars to the Arizona Wildlife Federation! Arizona Wildlife Federation https://www.azwildlife.org/ Orvis Phoenix https://stores.orvis.com/us/arizona/phoenix Arizona Antelope Foundation - Big Lake Grassland Ecosystem Fence Modification Sign up online at https://azantelope.org/event-5254746 or call Dave Cagle at (928) 242-9871 or info@azantelope.org Arizona Elk Society - Dickenson Flat Habitat Project Volunteer online at http://arizonaelksociety.activehosted.com/f/92 or for questions call: 623-444-4147 Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society https://adbss.org/
No matter how you spend your time enjoying Arizona's great outdoors, including a field guide and a pair of binoculars in your pack for pursuing our diverse array of bird species is sure to add to your fun. Whether you're already a seasoned pro or you're just getting into birding, you're bound to learn something new from our expert guests Tice Supplee and Jennie MacFarland about the captivating world of bird watching. https://www.azwildlife.org/ http://www.azantelope.org https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona_events https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/annual-events
Spring is in the air and, to many, this congers up dreams of thundering gobbles ringing across the Arizona landscape. Spring gobblers are one of the most exciting, and challenging, game species to pursue in our state. Listen in as Roy Crane and Jesse Warner of the National Wild Turkey Federation give you all the tips, tricks, and knowledge that you'll need to be successful in the turkey woods this spring. Arizona Wildlife Federation https://www.azwildlife.org/ National Wild Turkey Federation https://www.nwtf.org/ Fish AZ Network https://register-ed.com/programs/arizona/239-fishaz-network AZGFD Spring Gould's Turkey Survey Contact John Millican at j2dbmill@msn.com or Officer Brit Oleson at boleson@azgfd.gov Earth Day Work at SAQF Habitat Project Contact Zack May 520-301-8135 or Jim Littlejohn 520-490-1374 Arizona Predator Callers Contact jerry.d.thorson@gmail.com or call 602-292-6337 The Huachuca Gould's Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation Introductory Event Pre-register or information: www.nwtfhuagoulds.org or contact David Kemnitz at 678-520-4287, or Wayne Kaiser at 520-678-9827 Marvin Robbins Youth Turkey Camp https://register-ed.com/events/view/183117 Arizona Trail Association Administrative Director Position https://aztrail.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/admin-director-employment-opportunity.pdf
Join me as I sit down with AJ Murosky of Valley of the Sun Quail Forever and Nathan Fyffe of the Arizona Game and Fish Department as we dig into the whats and hows of the Arizona Small Game Challenge. You'll not only learn all about this amazing challenge but you'll also be taken along on the race to be the first person to finish it. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.votsqf.com/ https://www.azgfd.com/hunting/species/smallgame/challenge-info/ https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/annual-events https://www.saquailforever.com/ Volunteers for Wildlife, Wilderness Fence Removal Project - Contact: Trica at trica@azwildlife,org https://www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/170-outdoor-skills-network
Our public lands are the foundation of hunting, angling, and all outdoor recreation in Arizona and beyond. Backcountry Hunters and Anglers is on the front lines fighting back against throes that wish to privatize and profit from them. Find out why I, and so many others, love this great conservation organization in this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast with President and CEO, Land Tawney and Arizona Chair, Justin Nelson. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.backcountryhunters.org/arizona https://www.saquailforever.com/ https://www.nwtf.org/ https://www.azflyshop.com/?v=e748b7c8fd06
In this important episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, we sit down with Daniela Zavala and Max Trujillo of HECHO (Hispanics enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors) to talk about the why's and how's of connecting the different demographics in the sporting and outdoor recreation spaces for the betterment of wildlife, habitat, public lands, and people. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.hechoonline.org/
Today's show is all about fire! There is so much to learn in this episode that I don't even know where to start. How do these devastating wildfires get started? More importantly, how can we prevent them from starting in the first place? With that, why on earth is the Forest Service out there lighting some fires on purpose? Ever drive by a logging project and wonder what's going on? What's all that orange or blue paint is about? Get the answers to these questions and many more on this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast with guests Alex Fischer of FiredUp Flagstaff and Matt McGrath, District Ranger, of the Forest Service. https://www.azwildlife.org/ FiredUp Flagstaff: 928-421-2444 https://gcmaz.com/kaff-news/ https://www.fs.usda.gov/coconino https://www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/170-outdoor-skills-network
On this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, I sit down with Ben O'Brien as we chat about and dissect several aspects of hunting and some of the complexities that accompany it like taking children into the field, trophy hunting, predators, and the pros and cons of social media. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/wild-in-the-city https://www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/170-outdoor-skills-network
Trout Unlimited brings together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams, so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon. Join me as I sit down with Jim Walker and Nate Rees of Trout Unlimited as we learn about the good work this organization does across our state and our nation. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://az-tu.org/ https://azflycasters.org/ https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/ http://www.saquailforever.com/
If you've been curious about fly fishing, but just don't know how to get started, then this is the episode for you! Listen in and learn how you can get hands-on and in-person instruction with one of Arizona's premier fly fisherman, Jim Strogen. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/annual-events
Javelina are one of the most interesting, fun, and tasty animals running around Arizona. Listen in while I sit down with DJ Zor as we not only clear up some common misconceptions but also cover a lot of tips and techniques for hunting, processing, and cooking these magnificent animals. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/170-outdoor-skills-network
Waterfowl hunting in Arizona can be a bit of a mystery to many of our state's hunters. In this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, Colin Shepherd, Area Chairman of Scottsdale Ducks Unlimited not only sheds some light on waterfowl hunting in our state but also tells us all about Scottsdale Ducks Unlimited, the good work that they do, and how you can get involved. https://www.facebook.com/ScottsdaleDU/ https://arizonapredatorcallers.com/ https://www.votsqf.com/ https://www.register-ed.com/programs/arizona/170-outdoor-skills-network https://beoutdoorsarizona.org/event/be-outdoors-arizona-open-house/
Most of us eat meat but few of us obtain it for ourselves. Taking to the field to kill and harvest your own meat can be an overwhelming and emotional endeavor for many. On this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Podcast, we sit down with a new hunter who just harvested her first deer to explore the emotions and feelings that accompanied the experience.
Water is an invaluable resource to all Americans and it's a resource that demands protections. Listen in and learn all about water protections in Arizona and the United States, learn what's at stake, and learn about the current threats to this precious resource that we all depend on. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/wild-in-the-city Trout in the Classroom - Contact Jim Walker at James.L.Walker@cox.net
Children harbor a strong natural curiosity about the outdoors and wildlife and they can benefit greatly from time spent in wild spaces. On this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast, we talk with Tim Hepworth, of Tim and Wren on Instagram, about the wonders of getting children into the outdoors and even navigate some of the questions and difficulties that can arise when doing so. https://www.instagram.com/timandwren/ The famous video! https://www.instagram.com/p/CV7zv1lpV2n/ https://www.azwildlife.org/ Arizona Elk Society Youth Event Click here to volunteer: https://arizonaelksociety.activehosted.com/f/33 For more information: https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/wild-in-the-city Houston Draw Fence Removal Southern Arizona Quail Forever Scaled Quail and Turtle Surveys To RSVP or for more information please contact Zack May at soazqf@gmail.com
Feral horses are a growing problem in Arizona and their management is fraught with issues. Find out just how these animals are detrimental to our native wildlife and some of the challenges associated with getting the situation under control in this episode of the Arizona Wildlife Federation Podcast with Bob Vahle and John Koleszar. https://www.azwildlife.org/ https://www.azwildlife.org/BOW https://www.arizonaelksociety.org/ https://beoutdoorsarizona.org/ https://www.votsqf.com/ https://azsfwc.org/