Duck Science at Scale: AI, Satellites & the Future of Conservation (Ep 776)

Waterfowl science is entering a new era — and Ducks Unlimited is right in the middle of it.In this episode, host Dr. Mike Brasher is joined by co‑host Dr. Jerad Henson and guest Dr. Patrick Donnelly, Research Scientist with Ducks Unlimited’s Western Region, for a deep dive into how emerging technologies are transforming the way we understand ducks, wetlands, and flyways.Patrick brings decades of experience from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, joint ventures, and academia, and now applies cutting‑edge tools like AI, cloud computing, GPS telemetry, remote sensing, and environmental DNA to answer some of the most important conservation questions at continental scales.In this episode, listeners will hear about:Patrick Donnelly’s journey from the Fish & Wildlife Service to Ducks UnlimitedMovement ecology and why scale matters for migratory birdsHow GPS transmitters revolutionized waterfowl researchUsing satellite imagery to map wetlands across 40+ years“Functional wetland loss” and why water matters as much as land protectionThe role of snowpack, hydrology, and climate in western wetlandsDisease risk, botulism, and crowding during molting periodsLinking bird movements, habitat conditions, and timeThe Western Mallard Project and tracking 800 birds across the Pacific FlywaySentinel and Landsat satellites explained in plain languageCloud computing and why conservation can now run at scaleUsing citizen‑science data (eBird) alongside satellite dataNew applications of environmental DNA (yes — duck poop)How AI helps identify patterns humans can’t seeTraining the next generation of conservation scientistsWhy this moment feels like a “second revolution” in waterfowl scienceThis episode pulls back the curtain on how Ducks Unlimited is using modern science to maximize conservation return on investment, ensuring that every dollar delivers the greatest benefit for waterfowl now and into the future.Listen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcastSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.orgSPONSORS:Purina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks UnlimitedWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.Bird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:Whether you’re winding down with your best friend, or celebrating with your favorite crew, Bird Dog brings award-winning flavor to every moment. Enjoy responsibly.