{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Ducks Unlimited Podcast","title":"Prairie Habitat Update & Spring Migration Timing with Dr. Scott Stephens (Ep 760)","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":1652,"description":"Ducks are heading north, and we’re getting the first hints of what breeding habitat may look like this spring.\n\nDU's senior waterfowl scientist, Dr. Mike Brasher, sits down with Dr. Scott Stephens, DU's senior director of conservation strategy, for a timely update on prairie conditions, recent snowfall, runoff potential, and what these early signs may mean for breeding ducks in 2026. They also break down the migration chronology of different duck species — who arrives first, who lingers longest, and why evolutionary history shapes these patterns.\n\nIn this episode:\nA flyover view of recent prairie snowfall and soil moisture\nWhere runoff potential looks promising — and where it doesn’t\nHow dry wetland basins from last fall influence spring habitat recovery\nWhy “some water” doesn’t equal “full recovery”\nThe importance of seasonal vs. semi‑permanent wetlands for brood success\nHow multiple years of improved conditions are needed for strong fall flights\nMigration timing: early (mallards, pintails), mid (shovelers, teal, divers), and late (gadwall, scaup)\nWhy ducks “follow the ice line” and how late storms disrupt timing\nBoreal nesters vs. prairie nesters — who waits for the thaw\nCanada geese and snow geese movement patterns during March–April\nLong‑term conservation reminders: habitat base matters more than any one wet year\nJoin us for a concise, informative episode for anyone tracking habitat conditions and dreaming about next fall’s duck season.\n\nListen now: www.ducks.org/DUPodcast\nSend feedback: DUPodcast@ducks.org\nSPONSORS:\nPurina Pro Plan: The official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited\nWhether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the world of waterfowl hunting and conservation.\nBird Dog Whiskey and Cocktails:\nWhether 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.","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/l9P4SkFXvPCREt6eTfTD5odOxdx8hOF2b5qKX09C2oY/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9iNDJi/ODNkMmQ5ZWY5Mjdm/YzdhMDIxNGNiODEx/MmNhZi5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}