HSCF Hunter's Horn 2021 Convention Issue by Houston Safari Club Foundation

T H E O F F I C I A L PU BLIC ATION OF HOUS T ON S AFARI CLUB F OUND AT I ON â&#x20AC;¢ CONVENT I O N 2021

Look no further than the

Texas Hill Country for a World-Class Wingshooting Adventure! Extraordinary outdoor sporting experiences year-round at Joshua

AWA R D - W I N N I N G W I N G S H O OT I N G

Creek Ranch.

GOURMET DINING

Celebrating 30 years

T WO S C E N I C S P O RT I N G C L AY S C O U R S E S

Y E A R - RO U N D F LY - F I S H I N G

Renowned for its wingshooting since 1990, Joshua Creek Ranch is located just 45 minutes northwest of San Antonio along the pristine banks of the Guadalupe River. With plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures during wingshooting season, hunters enjoy spending most of their time outdoors when visiting this Texas Hill Country paradise. Open daily to the public, with Memberships available, JCR offers custom itineraries and exceptional outdoor sporting experiences complemented by luxury resort amenities and warm Texas hospitality. Enjoy... • Migratory Dove Hunting • Upland Bird Hunting for Quail, Pheasant & Chukar • European-Style Driven Pheasant Shoots • Decoyed Mallard Duck Hunting • Trophy Axis Deer Hunting • Fly-Fishing for Rainbow Trout, Bluegill & Bass • Whitetail Deer & Turkey Hunting • Sporting Clays (20 Stations) • Simulated Driven Pheasant & Grouse Clays Shooting • Handgun & Long Range Rifle Shooting

J oshua Creek Ranch 132 Cravey Road , Boerne, TX 78006 | (830) 537-5090 | joshuacreek.com ii HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

PREMIER CONFERENCE & E V E N T FAC I L I T I E S

LU X U RY LO D G I N G & R E S O RT A M E N I T I E S

T RO P H Y A X I S DEER HUNTING

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 3

TABLE of

CONTENTS

FEATURES 9

2 021 H SC F C ON V E N T ION

REMEMBERING RALPH S. CUNNINGHAM SR.

22 CONVENTION

35 2021 GAZELLES

CHAIR MESSAGE

16 HSCF SPORTING CLAYS

LUNCHEON & AUCTION

By Trey White

TOURNAMENT

By Jody Simpson

24 CONVENTION

66 GREAT AMERICAN

37 CONVENTION CHAIRS

SPONSORS

OUTDOORS ACT AND AMERICA’S CONSERVATION ENHANCEMENT ACT CREATE TWO MORE HISTORIC WINS DURING 116TH CONGRESS

25 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS 26 THE 2021 HSCF

50 EXHIBITORS

30 BLASER R8 SELOUS:

COMMUNICATION

56 2020 SCHOLARSHIP

THE 2021 HSCF PRESIDENT’S RIFLE

By Global Rescue

AUCTION ITEMS

By Eric Toribio Photos By Ben Bertiggen

By Earle Freeman

70 BACKCOUNTRY EMERGENCY

38 FEATURED

44 DEUTSCH DRAHTHAAR

PIN: SCIMITARHORNED ORYX

By Jeff Crane

RECIPIENTS

76 THE SPORTING CHEF: STUFF IT By Scott Leysath

82 INTERVIEW WITH J. ALAIN SMITH

By Gayne C. Young

86 LUCKY NUMBER 13 By Tim Herald

96 HUNTING FOR SOLUTIONS By Chester Moore

102 PLAN YOUR 2021 ADVENTURE

NOW WITH ESPLANADE TRAVEL

110 HSCF MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: 5 MINUTES WITH HSCF MEMBER BRYAN RAY

111 HSCF PH SPOTLIGHT:

MEET FRANCISCO ROSICH OF HUNT SPAIN TRIP

COVER ARTWORK:

Photo by Eric Toribio, uberhuttedrahts@gmail.com, 22772 FM 365 Beaumont, Texas

112 LOOKING BACK 112 BY TOMMY MORRISON 114 U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE

SERVICE ANNOUNCES INNOVATIVE ELECTRONIC PERMIT APPLICATION SYSTEM

By Aurelia Skipwith

116 OF THE LAND, FOR THE LAND By Tyler Sharp

122 KEEPING THE FAMILY TRADITION

By M. Arnold

CONVENTION 2021

122

86 30

102

116

16 44

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About Houston Safari Club Foundation: Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 600 scholarships totaling $2.7 million. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences for hundreds of students each year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants for hunter-funded wildlife, habitat, and various conservation initiatives. HSCF is an independent organization, is not affiliated with Safari Club International (SCI) or its affiliates and is not a chapter or affiliate of any other organization. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information.

HSCF. We Hunt. We Give. 6 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

2020-2021 HOUSTON SAFARI CLUB FOUNDATION OFFICERS Matt Pyle –President Jeff Birmingham –President-Elect JD Burrows –Immediate Past President Will Perry–Vice President Jamison Smith –Vice President Mark King–Treasurer Monica Mills–Secretary HOUSTON SAFARI CLUB FOUNDATION DIRECTORS 2019-2021 Jeff Birmingham Hunter Comiskey Bryan Ray Travis Simpson Kevin Ormston 2020-2022 Ross Melinchuk Trey White Jody Simpson James Lofton

2020 Gold MarCom Award for Nonprofit Print Magazine

2020 Folio Ozzie Honorable Mention for Association Magazine Design

2020 & 2019 American Graphic Design Award for Publication Design

HISTORIAN Jerry Henderson HEADQUARTERS STAFF Joe Betar, Executive Director Angi McCarthy, Director of Administrative Services Carla Nielsen, Marketing & Publications Manager Nancy Oka, Director, Events & Membership

2020 & 2018 Communicator Award for Print Distinction

Nate Silva, Design Consultant Alliance Printing and Graphics Hunter’s Horn™ is published quarterly byHouston Safari Club Foundation 14811 St. Mary’s Lane, Suite 265 Houston, Texas 77079 713.623.8844 (p) 713.623.8866 (f) info@wehuntwegive.org wehuntwegive.org © Copyright 2020 Houston Safari Club Foundation Houston Safari Club Foundation welcomes contributing articles, photos and research. Houston Safari Club Foundation reserves the right to edit submissions for spelling, grammar, clarity, organization and punctuation and to abridge length. Houston Safari Club Foundation reserves the right not to publish submissions. Content may not be repurposed without the express written consent of the author and publisher. Please submit materials with a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you wish materials to be returned. Houston Safari Club Foundation is not responsible for lost or unsolicited submissions. Digital submissions are preferred. The views expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of, and should not be attributed to Houston Safari Club Foundation, its members, employees or affiliates. Houston Safari Club Foundation reserves the right to refuse any advertisement believed to be incompatible with our mission or deemed competitive or contrary to the best interests of Houston Safari Club Foundation.

U PCOMING EV EN TS JANUARY 23, 2021

Pheasant Shoot with WGO

FEBRUARY 26-28, 2021

HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention

APRIL 14, 2021

Trophy Room Reception at the home of Stephanie & Will Perry *dates may change based on social gathering restrictions

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 7

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE MATT PYLE, HSCF PRESIDENT

he 2020 hunting season is here, bringing with it, robust planning for the 2021 Annual Convention and Expo. As most of you are aware, this is HSCF’s largest and most important event every year. It is the time we as hunters, conservationists and outdoorsmen gather together to celebrate the past years’ accomplishments. We all know this year has brought tremendous challenge and change, and because of this, I feel it is more important than ever to press forward with our existing plans and stand united in our efforts. Currently, HSCF has 1200 members, has awarded over $2.7 million in scholarships to 600 students and has donated well over $4 million in wildlife conservation grants! After this unprecedented election, it will be crucial for us as hunters and conservationists to come together. We will see further attempts to put more restrictions on our ability to hunt, to import our trophies and concentrated efforts to restrict our 2nd Amendment rights. We must continue to work with our elected officials on the importance of conservation through hunting. It has been proven over and over how well it works, so we must remain steadfast in our efforts. On October 10th, we held our 2020 Sporting Clays Tournament. With our regular date in May having been rescheduled several times due to COVID-19, we were able to hold the event at Greater Houston Sports Club successfully. We fielded 152 shooters, had a great shoot off with some fantastic shooting displayed and were honored to have four veteran teams shooting with us. Thanks again to Life Member & President-Elect Jeff Birmingham for another fantastic job putting the shoot together and a huge “Thank you” to our sponsors! Our newly formed young professionals organization the “Stag & Dove Society” has launched and to date, has held two events. They are slowly gaining traction, and we are excited to see them grow and help them reach the next generation of hunters and conservationists. This is our truest organic growth. I would like to thank Chase Schaefer for heading up this YPO group. I am confident, that with his enthusiasm and the team he has assembled, we will continue to see this group grow. The 2021 Worldwide Hunting and Convention titled “Connections” is coming together nicely. A huge “Thank you” goes to our 2nd year Chairman Trey White! As you can imagine, Trey and his team of chairmen have been working through significant obstacles. We have changed dates, moved events and then, moved some more. We are happy to report we have our dates set and all events and activities are scheduled! We are diligently working to make

8 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

this year’s convention a successful one, despite the challenges ahead. We felt “Connections” was a perfect theme for 2021 as we all try to reconnect after what has been a long year apart from one another. I hope you will make plans to join us February 26-28, as we raise a glass and raise money for HSCF. As I close, I would like to thank our amazing office staff. They have again outdone themselves with the quarterly publication, Hunters HornTM. They were named a Gold Winner in the 2020 Marcom Awards, 2020 Communicator Award winner, and 2020 American Graphic Design Awards Winner. Congratulations to Joe, Carla and the entire production team...job well done! We are blessed to have such a fantastic magazine representing HSCF. As we continue to grow our organization, it is important for us to remember our members are our strength. I take great pride in my role at HSCF and it is an honor to serve as your president. Sincerely,

Matt Pyle HSCF President

REMEMBERING

RALPH S. CUNNINGHAM SR. OCTOBER 16, 1940 – NOVEMBER 7, 2020 Ralph S. Cunningham, Sr., 80, died on Saturday, the 7th of November 2020, at his home in Houston, Texas. Ralph, an Ohio native, graduated from high school in Birmingham, Ala., and attended Auburn University where he studied chemical engineering. He later earned his masters and doctorate degrees in chemical engineering from Ohio State University. No words or stories about him will ever feel adequate. Ralph was extraordinary--but he would never have told you that. He had a brilliant mind and a compassionate heart, and was deeply devoted to Deb, his beloved wife of 43 years. Ralph was an avid hunter, and shared his love of the outdoors and traveling the world with Deb, their children, and their grandchildren. He is remembered for his deep faith, his generosity and kindness, and his devilish sense of humor. He was humble, caring more about his family and his time with them than any accolades and accomplishments that were bestowed upon him during his rich life. Driven, intelligent, kind, gentle, and fiercely loyal… That was Ralph. Those who knew him, loved him. And many will deeply, deeply miss him. Ralph had a long and distinguished career in the energy industry, beginning at Humble Oil and Refining, now Exxon, as a technical engineer, and later holding various executive and C-level positions at Tenneco Oil, Clark Oil and Refining, Texaco Chemical, Huntsman Corporation, Citgo Petroleum

and Enterprise Products. He served on the boards of various energy companies, including Agrium, EnCana, Enterprise Products, TEPPCO Partners, Cenovus, and TETRA Technologies. Ralph gave his time and energy to numerous organizations, including many years serving in leadership roles at the Houston Safari Club, Safari Club International, Shikar Safari Club, the Weatherby Foundation, and Second Baptist Church. Ralph was preceded in death by his brother, Ted Cunningham. He is survived by his best friend and wife Deb; their children, Sandy and Linda Cunningham, Steve Cunningham, Susan Cunningham, and Jennifer and Greg Desautels; their grandchildren, Krissy and Josh Rachner, Brooke Cunningham, Ford Cunningham, Kaci Cunningham, Ryan Cunningham, Marissa Cunningham, Elliot Desautels, and Charlie Desautels; great granddaughter, Ember Rachner; sister Janice (Charles) Phillips; and countless friends and family around the world, all who he loved unconditionally. “All I can say is that you would have to look long and hard to find a better man than Ralph Cunningham. He is someone I looked up to and admired.” -Darrell Kainer “So very smart, accomplished and experienced, yet grounded by his faith and family, Ralph was the ultimate gentleman. I and all who had the privilege of spending any time with him are better for it.” —RUDY NIX

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 9

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR‘S

MESSAGE

JOE BETAR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

aturday morning, November 7th. Early that morning, my mobile phone began to buzz. I received numerous text messages and calls notifying me that a pillar of our organization, Ralph Cunningham, had passed away. The sad news immediately cast a shadow on the day. Later that morning, I set out to pick up supplies for a few home projects. On the way, I spoke with Rudy Nix, an HSCF Life Member and former colleague of Ralph’s. We spoke of Ralph’s passing and of his many fine qualities. My emotions got the better of me and my grief over Ralph’s departure made it difficult to finish the conversation. Sitting alone in my truck, in the parking lot of a Home Depot, I fondly remembered the times I was fortunate enough to spend a few minutes with him. He was one of the first people that my wife, Charlotte, and I met when I interviewed for the HSCF Executive Director position. I was immediately impressed by him-gracious, professional, brilliant, welcoming. We all remember the easy smile, his unique sense of humor and the twinkle in his eyes when he was about to impart a bit of knowledge or share a joke. Once, when I let my beard grow too long, he greeted me during a meeting, ‘Hey! Ulysses S. Grant is here!’. We both shared a good laugh. I always treasured Ralph’s insight, wisdom, advice and counsel. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Deb, and the entire Cunningham family. I will miss him. Our organization will miss him. The world of hunting and conservation will miss him. Ralph Cunningham was an extraordinary gentleman. We are so much less without him yet so much more for having known him. Yes! We are still planning on conducting the 2021 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention February 24-26, 2021! Nancy, Angi, Carla, 2021 Convention Chair, Trey White, and our squadron of Committee Chairs have been hard at work planning a great event-our largest fundraising event of the year! Barring an extreme change in current conditions, or a forced cancellation by county and/or city officials, we are still moving forward! I usually preface any conversation around convention with the precursor, ‘At this time…’ because the situation changes almost daily. We have developed HSCF health and safety protocols and our host facilities have implemented entry requirements. Updates will be provided as requirements change. We greatly look forward to joining together with all of our friends, in a safe manner, to celebrate hunting and the outdoors! We strongly encourage you to purchase advance Expo & banquet tickets online at wehuntwegive.org or by calling the HSCF office at 713.623.8844. Trey will provide more convention updates, in his article, within this issue. VOLUNTEERS! WHERE ARE YOU? Volunteers are what make the annual HSCF convention happen! WE NEED YOU! Sign up today online at hscfdn.org/giving-back/volunteer or call the office and we will take care of the rest! Giving Back To Make a Difference! Your support of our fundraising efforts and your membership make it possible for HSCF to effect positive change around the world! As part of its efforts to 10 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

support the future of hunting, shooting sports, conservation and youth education, HSCF recently awarded $78,000 in grants to various organizations and efforts-Outdoors Tomorrow Foundation, Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation, Conservation Force, Isibaya Leopard Conservation Project, HSCF’s Veterans Outreach Program, Texas Wildlife Association, Spring Branch FFA Clay Crushers shooting team and Wild Sheep Foundation. HSCF also provided $1,500 in funding to support the outdoor education programs at Hargrave High School and Crosby High School. HSCF’s Hunter’s Horn™ magazine has garnered more awards! A Gold Winner in the 2020 Marcom Awards (nonprofit print magazine category) and was awarded an honorable mention for design excellence in Folio’s annual 2020 awards, in the Design Category for Single Magazine Issue/Association/Nonprofit/ Charity. Congratulations to all of our contributors, Carla Nielsen, who manages all aspects of our magazine, Jeff Birmingham and Alliance Printing & Graphics (our printer), and Madavor Media (layout & design). Check out our updated website at wehuntwegive.org where the navigation menus have been updated to provide easier access to HSCF information. Also, we have launched a robust information source in our membership portal at hscf.memberclicks.net. You may also access the area when you click on the ‘Members Only’ dropdown on our website. This is a MEMBERS ONLY area. Now you can find event information, HSCF Member discounts, the HSCF Member Directory, Hunter’s Horn™ archives, ‘How To’ videos, recipes, weather, solunar tables, tide predictions, and an Outfitter Directory. Check out the ‘Knowledge Hub’ today. Create a user account if you have not done so and call the office if you need any assistance. On the legislative front, the Trump Administration has returned management and protection of Gray Wolves to states and tribes following successful recovery efforts. Gray wolves were first listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) 45 years ago. State and tribal wildlife management agency professionals will resume responsibility for sustainable management and protection of delisted gray wolves in states with gray wolf populations, while the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will monitor the species for five years to ensure the continued success of the species. The Service based its final determination solely on scientific data, a thorough analysis of threats and how they have been alleviated. This was a milestone decision which exemplifies the success of the North American Model of Conservation. President Trump signed S. 3051, America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Act into law recently. The law will commission a study by the National Academy of Sciences regarding the pathways and mechanisms of the transmission of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in the United States, establish a CWD task force to develop an interstate action plan for state and federal cooperation relating to the disease, and much more. This is another landmark piece of legislation for hunting! In support of hunting and conservation,

Joe Betar Executive Director, Houston Safari Club Foundation

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 11

HSCF LIFE MEMBERS Bob Abernathy John Abraham Charlotte Alexander Richard Alexander Crystal Allison Shannon Alston Michael Ambrose Anne Avara Jacob Avara Skip Avara Paul Babaz Camp Bailey Cope Bailey Freddie Bailey Kenneth Bailey Frank Baird Jo Baird Mike Baird Jack Barksdale L. Irvin Barnhart * Wendy Barnhart-Lamplough James Bell Lyndel Berry Tony Bessette Charlotte Betar Joe Betar James Biggerstaff Jeff Birmingham Craig Boddington Werner Boeer Jay Bonano E. Bond Greg Bond Pete Bonora Jeri Booth Frederick (Tony) Box Luanne Bozeman W. Steven Bozeman James Braus John Bridgwater Jack Brittingham Elizabeth Brueggeman Mark Brueggeman Joe Bruno Aaron Bulkley Matt Burke Robert Burke Byron Burris Grady Burris Quint Burris Prentiss Burt Daniel Butler Turner Butts Don Byrne C. Cagle Dennis Cain Thomas Cain Rick Callison Alex Campbell Bill Carter * Ivan Carter Paul Carter Ben Case Barbara Cavender-Lewis Preston Cavner 12 HUNTER'S HORN™ SPRING CONVENTION 2019 2021

Chris Caywood Tracey Cearley Alan Cegielski Doug Centilli Christopher Clark James Clark Steve Clark Craig Clendenin Michael S. Clifford Stephen Coale Keith Coleman Randall Coleman * Russell Coleman Joe Collett Dwayne Collier Frank Comiskey Hunter Comiskey Kevin Comiskey Alan “Bink” Cooke Dian Cooper Rocky Cooper George Councill Steve Crawford Steve Crawford Kenneth Crockett Gary Crouch Deb Cunningham Ford Cunningham Linda Cunningham Ralph Cunningham * Ralph Daigle Joe Davis Laurent Delagrange Armando DeLeon Armando DeLeon Charlie Desautels Elliot Desautels Jen Desautels Perry Dillon Randy Donato Barry Donoho Tim Doucet Megan Doyel James (Red) Duke * Dannine Duncan Jan Duncan Scott Duncan Bruce Edwards Robert Elkins Walton Eller Susan Ellerbeck * Gary Ellison Will Ellison Shaun Essery Travis Findley Charlene Floyd Tommy Fogle Randy Fowler Nathan Foyil * Michael Franklin Bobby Frederick Aaron Freeman Nichol Freeman Donald French Warren Gallant

Randal Garrett Scott Garrett Tanya Garrett Zachary Garrett Paul Geiger Frank Giacalone Salvatore Giannetti Gary Glesby Carl Godfrey Russell Gordy Jeff Gorski William Gouldin Sandra Green Kevin Gregory Edward Guinn Dodd Hackman Clayton Hagerman Cory Hall James Halley Greg Harvey Vickie Hayes Charles Head Jerry Henderson Mark Herfort Heinert Hertling Robert Hibbert Greg Hill Loren Hill Steven Hill Nicholas Hinze Edward Hoffman William Holder Bill Honza Toby Huerta Gene Human Tanya Hurlburt Terry Hurlburt Harold Inman * Justin Itzel Keith Itzel John Jackson Jack Jensen W.A. “Bill” Jentsch Clay Johnson Todd Johnson Robert Jones Harris Junell Darrell Kainer David Kalich Susan Kalich Kirk Kanady Michelle Kangas Gaye Kelsey John Kelsey Julianne King Mark King Rick Kirk Jim Klentzman Robert Kneppler Philip Koehne George Kollitides Tommy Kolwes Phil Koonce George Kopecky Keith Lake

HSCF LIFE MEMBERS Fred Lamas Wayne LaPierre Joel Latham Kyle Lehne Richard Leibman John Lindholm Tom Lipar Bryant Littlefield Mark Livesay Ricardo Longoria Cody Loverin Doug Luger David Mafrige Shane Mahoney Paige Manard D Martin John Martin James Masten Chad Matherne Wyatt McBride Mitzy McCorvey Tony McCorvey Ed McCrory Travis McWilliams Gerald Meinecke Lewis Metzger Greg Mills Brook Minx Howard Monsour Forrest Montealegre Paul Montealegre G.L. Moore Reed Morian Tommy Morrison Ron Mostyn Dustin Mykyte Shannon Nash Bob Neese Rob Neilson Scott Nelson Shaun Nelson William B. Newlin Rudy Nix K. Nunnally Carol O’Day Kerry O’Day Charles Onstead Kevin Ormston Neal Overstreet John Painter Michael Park Michael Parr Steve Pate Trevor Penny John Pepper Melanie Pepper Stephanie Perry Will Perry Timothy Peter Bryce Phillips Carson Phillips Dusty Phillips Wilson (Woody) Phillips Thomas Powell Kevin Poynter

Andrew Pratt Kymberly Pratt Charles Prince Sharon Propes Matt Pyle Carlos Ramirez Bryan Ray Christina Ray Lawrence Rearick William Reed Gayle Rettig Keith Riggs Theresa Riggs John Robberson Eric Robinson Larry Robinson Mike Robinson * Chuck Rod Robert Rod * Stephen Rogers William Rohrbach William Roosevelt Gary Rose Mark Rose Jerry Rubenstein Chris Ruhman John Rulon Gerald Russell Byron Sadler Sandra Sadler Michael Sample William Sample Michael Sandeen Joseph Sayers Corey Schaefer Scott Scheinin Robert Scherer Wade Schindewolf Adam Schindler George Severence Wayne Sheets John Shelby Richard Shepherd Jason Shrieve William Simmons Austin Simpson Autumn Simpson Barret Simpson Becky Simpson Dawn Simpson Jacob Simpson Jody Simpson Michael Simpson Mike Simpson Travis Simpson Tristan Simpson Weston Simpson Sam Skipper Aurelia Skipwith Carter Smith Jason Smith Mandy Smith Steve Smith * Tom Snyder Norman Speer

James Stacy Kaylee Stacy Mary Edith Stacy Larry Stifflemire Mark Stouse Randy Strickland H. Stuart Greg Stube David Swan Dr. Lloyd Swiedom Sally Swiedom Leah Symens Tyler Symens Peter Tam Stephen Tam Larry Tatom Terry Taylor Mark Terpstra Robert Thomas Heidi Thomas-Kersh J.B. Tinney John Tobin Pete Trammell Ted Trout * Hal Tryon Don Turner Aart Van Den Brink Phillip Veale Thom Venus Amanda Vick William Vick Juan Villaveces Glenn Vincent Jeffery Vinson Pierre Vorster Joshua Walker Greg Walla Rob Walsh John Waltz Dana Weber Rick Weber Larry Weishuhn Brian Welker Denise Welker Robert Wells Brian Welsh Lawrence West Matt West Bruce Whitmire Bill Wilkinson * Ron Willenborg Steve Willenborg Gregory Williamson Alan Winslette Robby Winstead Kurt Wiseman John Wood Bill Woodall J.D. Woods Patricia Woods Debi Young Preston Young Brian Zaitz * Deceased CONVENTION SPRING 2019 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 13

HOUS T ON S A FA R I C L U B F OU N DAT ION

COR POR ATE MEMBER S TH A NK YOU F OR SU PPORTING HSCF

Brush Country Studios / Prairie Mountain Wildlife Studios brushcountrystudios.com

Capital Farm Credit capitalfarmcredit.com

Champion Ranch huntchampionranch.com

Clay Time claytimebaycity.com

Gsell’s Whitetails gsellswhitetails.com

Hawkeye Hunting Club hawkeyehunting.com

HomeLand Properties homelandprop.com

HuntersInc.com LLC

miltonlakelodge.com

Republic Boot Co. republicbootcompany.com

Royal Outfitters royaloutfittersuk.com

Ruple Properties southtexasranches.com

SilencerCo silencerco.com

Soele Texas Best Ranches texasbestranches.com

TEMPER A S E M P E R A T U R E C O N TA T U RO E XW . T E X A S T L. C

R EO M

Alaska Skookum Guides alaskaskookumguides.com

Tech-Mark Sales tech-marksales.com

14 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

L SERVICES

, I

Texas Temperature Control texastemperaturecontrol.com

WildLife Partners wildlifepartners.com

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Zachary Banks

Sawyer Pyle

Trish Cox

Walden Shelton

Henri de Kock

Vinodhavelan Suriamoorthy

Josh Dietz

Russell Walker

Ryan Fitzpatrick

Farid Zaghloul

Tyler Hart

Eric Zahradka

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 15

SCT CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE JEFF BIRMINGHAM, SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT CHAIRMAN

o steal a frequently used quote from my good friend Brian Gilroy of Wildlife Partners, “Thank you, Sir, may I have another”. That was my exact feeling as I left the 2020 HSCF Sporting Clays Tournament on October 10th. We had an unbelievable turnout for this event and the feeling was clear, people wanted to be outside and Mother Nature blessed us with some beautiful weather! For me, all the craziness of 2020 went away for a little while and life seemed normal, we were a large gathering having fun, talking hunting and enjoying one another’s company. The ultimate goal of raising funds for programs benefiting habitat and species preservation, youth education programs, veterans hunting programs, and more was accomplished. If you didn’t make it out this year, please do yourself a favor and be there in 2021. We will return to the Greater Houston Sports Club in the Spring for another great HSCF Sporting Clays Tournament on Friday, May 21, save the date! Sincerely, Jeff Birmingham 2020 Sporting Clays Tournament Chairman

16 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

HOUSTON SAFARI CLUB FOUNDATION

SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT

1: Shoot Off! 2: Team Flurry Winners- Spring Branch Clay Crushers Team 1 3: Solid! Huffman High School FFA Shooting Team 4: Volunteers extraordinaire! Monica Mills and Rebekah Boone Photos by Meagan McElya www.BarMcMedia.com

4 CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 17

5: Tough Competition 6: Smokin’ 7: Rebekah Boone 8: HSCF Life Member, Bryan Ray 9: Member and volunteer, Monica Mills and HSCF Sporting Clays Chairman, Jeff Birmingham 10: US Veteran 11: Leo Rowe, Winner of the Winchester SX3 with HSCF Sporting Clays Chairman, Jeff Birmingham and HSCF Executive Director, Joe Betar

7 18 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

CLAY SHOOT SPONSORS Corporate Sponsors Wildlife Partners Capital Farm Credit

Awards Sponsor Beck & Masten

Cap Sponsor COKINOS

Lunch Sponsor Red River BBQ

Team Photo Sponsor Sam Skipper Companies Beer Sponsor-In Kind Donation Silver Eagle

Score Card Sponsor Alliance Graphics & Printing Individual Stations Strategic Construction Leo Rowe Inducon, Inc.

Jerry Henderson Rummell Creek Builders Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s Outdoor Fund MidwayUSA Foundaton John Bowers State Farm CBRE

Veterans Team Sponsor Everest.com

Youth Team Sponsor Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s Outdoor Fund MidwayUSA Foundaton Masterson Advisors LLC

Thank You! CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 19

20 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ CONVENTION 2021

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 21

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Convention Chair Message By Trey White, 2021 HSCF Convention Chairman

ello all! Given the recent series of cancellations from some other organizations, I am sure that you are wondering if we are still planning on having the 2021 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo and Convention? Yes!! The staff and volunteer team are moving ahead on plans for the 2021 convention. There is a great deal of uncertainty in the country and the world due to the Covid-19 pandemic and we are keeping abreast of this changing environment both at home and abroad. Convention will look a little different this year with masks on the expo floor as well as other social distancing protocols designed to keep all of you as safe as possible. Your convention team is working hard to accommodate our foreign outfitters and friends, while at the same time attempting to bring in new exhibitors that have not been to our show in the past. Some details of the convention have changed or been clarified since my last message to you. As it stands today, while many aspects of convention will be different, many will also be the same. Our banquets will kick off on Friday night with a casual dinner and live auction

22 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

followed by a musical performance from an exciting band. The situation for Gazelles has changed and this has allowed us to move the Gazelles luncheon back to Saturday, in its traditional time slot. The Gazelles lunch is always one of the true highlights of convention so be sure to join us for lunch and a live auction as well as the always exciting silent auction. Our banquets will conclude with our Saturday night formal dinner. Changes in the schedule at the Hilton of the Americas will allow us to once again host this event at the Hilton! I want to assure you that your convention team is working tirelessly to ensure that we have yet another great expo and convention, despite the circumstances. Your attendance and participation are vital to this success. You can register for convention at the Houston Safari Club Foundation website wehuntwegive.org. There are many opportunities for you to volunteer and get involved. Volunteering is a great way to meet members, have fun, and help the HSCF. If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions or concerns feel free to call Nancy Oka, Director of Events & Membership at 832804-8959 or nancy@wehuntwegive.org. Hope to see all of you in February!!! ★

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Convention Sponsors COR P OR AT E SP ONS OR S

PL AT IN UM SP ONS OR

BRONZE SP ONS OR

SUZANNE HIXSON In Memory of Steve Smith

U N DERW R I T ING SP ONS OR S

24 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Schedule of Events THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Exhibitor Registration & Move In

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Exhibitor Registration & Move In Continues

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Open - featuring raffles, guides, outfitters, artists, craftsmen, gear & more from around the world!

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3

5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Cocktail Hour

6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Annual HSCF Banquet, live entertainment, & live auction

Hilton Americas - Houston Ballroom of the Americas Lobby Hilton Americas - Houston Ballroom of the Americas

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Open - featuring raffles, guides, outfitters, artists, craftsmen, gear & more from around the world!

10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Gazelles Luncheon featuring entertainment, live & silent auctions

5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Cocktail Hour

6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Annual HSCF Formal Gala featuring live entertainment & a grand live auction.

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3

Hilton Americas - Houston Ballroom of the Americas Hilton Americas - Houston Ballroom of the Americas Lobby

Hilton Americas - Houston Ballroom of the Americas

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Open

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3

2:00 p.m.

Convention Raffle Drawing

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3

3:00 p.m.

Worldwide Hunting Expo Ends

George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A3 CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 25

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

The 2021 HSCF Pin:

Scimitar-Horned Oryx By Earle Freeman

t’s getting to be that time again! The 2021 HSCF Convention is quickly approaching and volunteers are needed more than ever. Please give a little of your time to make this convention a success. Give the office a call at 713.623.8844 or email Joe Betar at joe@wehuntwegive.org to sign up to help and earn your scimitar-horned oryx volunteer pin. The 2021 pin will feature the scimitar-horned oryx whose scientific name is Oryx dammah. This normally heavy-bodied animal may become thin, gaunt and in very poor physical condition as a result of shortages of water and vegetation during the dry season. It inhabits an extremely barren area, which it shares with the addax and the dama and sometimes the dorcas. Its diet is very elementary it is surprising that it is able to survive. When it can find them, it was a fondness for acacia shoots and wild berries, such as those of the jujube bush. The scimitar-horned oryx is not rare. In some isolated areas, herds of as many as 10, 20, or even 60 head may be seen. During the migratory season, hundreds of them assemble before moving off towards moisture plateaus. These enormous herds are led by an old male. The violent combats are frequently witnessed during such annual gatherings. The winner takes over the leadership. The scimitar-horned oryx is very agile but also unless the hunter makes too much noise, docile, and trusting. It is active only by day. It is a fairly easy animal to hunt but in the open country in which it lives, it often makes it necessary to fire from a

26 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

distance. Its thick skin particularly from the scruff of the neck is used to make sandals, shields or knee pads for camels. The world record was collected by F.C. Hibben in March 1959 in the country of Chad. Its horns measured 15 ⅛”, not a bad oryx! It lives in the desert regions of Northern Africa, Nubia, Sudan, Southern Egypt, Chad, Eastern Rio de Oro, eastern Niger, Southern Libya, Western Sudan, Mali, and Southern Mauritania. This animal’s average weight is 440-470 pounds. It lives well in captivity, better than in its own habitat of sand and rock. The average life span is 16-18 years and it is partially protected. If you don’t have a scimitar-horned oryx in your collection, come on down and volunteer as Tina and I will have your pin at the membership booth. Come see us! ★

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2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

BLASER R8 SELOUS The 2021 HSCF President’s Rifle

30 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

he R8 Selous in .416 Rem and 6.5 Creedmoor with custom Houston Safari Club Foundation gold engraving is ready for the 2021 convention. Blaser Group is proud to partner with HSCF for the 2021 President’s Rifle. Production in Isny Germany is in the final stages and will be presented at the 2021 Convention for all to enjoy. With a full custom order and the design oversight of HSCF President Matt Pyle, we have created an exclusive package to support the mission of HSCF. The High-performance big-game rifle—R8 Selous features simple elegance and every technical advantage possible to aid in a successful African Safari. The Frederick Courteney Selous HSCF President’s rifle package includes: • R8 Selous safari rifle • Case Hardened Steel receiver with Custom HSCF gold inlay • Gold trigger, and Gold bolt inlay. • Grade 7 Walnut with Ebony fore-end tip • 416 Rem and 6.5 Creedmoor barrels • Blaser 1-7 x 28mm and 2.8-20 x 50mm scopes with IC control • Presentation case • Leather sling Perfection from one source—optimally designed to align with the R8 Selous—the result is unparalleled elegance and performance. 1-7x28mm and 2.8-20x50mm. All contained in a presentation travel case. The power of the .416 rem and the long range precision of the 6.5 Creedmoor will accompany the R8, the quick change system will allow one rifle to serve all the needs of the safari. Founded in 1957 by Horst Blaser the company has established itself as a technology leader developing innovations like the switch-barrel, Straight Pull, Modular R8 rifle and its predecessor the R93. Its modularity is endless, if you combine all of the different standard options on

FREDERICK COURTENEY SELOUS

an R8 you can build over 47 million unique rifles not including custom shop options. The Blaser Group is best known for its flagship brand, Blaser, but that is far from all they import. The company’s North American headquarters is located in San Antonio, TX, and they are an importer of European made goods for the brands Blaser, Sauer, Mauser, Minox and Rigby. As a wholly owned subsidiary of the L&O Group, Blaser-Group worldwide, headquartered in Isny Germany, manages all aspects of those brands from stock making facilities to brand management. Frederick Courteney Selous, born in 1851, he led the life of an officer, professional hunter, and conservationist. As an honor to his accomplishments in conservation The Selous Game Reserve in southeast Tanzania was named in his honor. Blaser continues to honor his accomplishments by naming our finest safari rifle after him. ★

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 31

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2021 HSCF

2021

Gazelles Luncheon & Auction By Jody Simpson HOWDY LADIES! IT’S BEEN A WHILE SINCE we’ve been able to see one another in person, so this year’s HSCF Gazelles Ladies Luncheon is a special event for us all. I know “ya’ll are ready and rarin’ to go”, so slip on your boots and Texas Chic Attire and shuffle on over to the 2021 Gazelles Luncheon and Auction held at the Hilton Americas Hotel on February 27th, 2021 from 10:30 am – 1:30 pm. Together we will celebrate our “Texas Traditions” and family values that support conservation and protect our hunting heritage. Female artist, Kenna Danielle, will open cocktail hour with down-home country music. Enjoy music and mimosas as you grab a bottle of wine from the “Wine and Fifth Pull” and shop using mobile bidding. Gazelles Silent Auction Chairman, Laurie-Leigh White, has again accumulated an array of items from vendors and members including beautiful jewelry and accessory items donated by Arlette and Fred Lamas, Safari International Macedonia, Max Lang Belts & Buckles, White Wing Media, Alaska Fur Gallery, Norton and Hodges, and Fedha Nyuki. Men and women alike will want to bid for the 7-person two-day getaway to the Guadalupe River donated by Cedar Eaters of Texas and the two-night stay at the 4B Ranch located in Bandera. Other items include a Family Membership to Global Rescue, a HSCF Membership, a South Texas Tripod and Feeder, a custom Safari Photobook by Sunrise Images and much, much more. Before you sit down at your table for lunch, be sure to say “hey” to Mackenzie Nix as she roams the floor with showcase jewelry for the 50/50 game. Following lunch, the silent auction will end and the live auction will begin immediately! Don’t be afraid to “holler” out your bidding number as President Matt Pyle and the board have lined up some amazing live auction items. Mitzy McCorvey is again graciously donating her ever popular weekend at their ranch, Rancho de Suenos for 12-14 people. Matt and Susie Pyle have donated a weekend stay at their home in Fredericksburg for 8 people and Jamison Smith donated a special designed ladies’ handgun. Many more surprise items await. We would like to thank our exhibitors for donating auction items, as most are 100% donations. ★

CONVENTION

GAZELLES SPONSORS Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsors Carolyn & William Newlin Angie & J.D. Burrows Leah & Tyler Symens Hal Watson Air Conditioning Co. Laurie-Leigh and Trey White

Silver Sponsors Suzanne Hixson, In Memory of Steve Smith MaryAnn & Gerald Russell Nancy & Gary Ellison Pug & Ron Mostyn

Bronze Sponsors Rebecca Booth Pro Cargo - Cindi and John Rulon Rebekah Shandiz Akbari Boone Monica & Greg Mills

PROUD SPONSOR of ‘This is Africa’

‘The hottest Hunting show on the Pursuit Channel’

www.buchananhunts.com michelle@buchananhunts.com

36 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Convention Chairs DAN L. DUNCAN SCHOLARSHIP SELECTION

Gary Rose

SCHOLARSHIP SPONSOR

Deb Cunningham MEMBERSHIP

Rebekah Boone

2020 CONVENTION CO-CHAIRS

CONVENTION RAFFLE

Kevin Ormston FINANCE

Mark King GAZELLES

Dawn Simpson Jody Simpson Leah Symens

Trey White Bryan Ray

CONVENTION ACTIVITIES

YWCE

BANQUET & DECORATIONS

Renee Bevirt GRANTS

James Lofton FIREARMS

Jamison Smith VOLUNTEERS

Rebekah Boone Bryan Ray

LIVE AUCTIONS

Darrell Kainer Mark King

MERCHANDISE

Christina Ray

YOUTH EDUCATION-HUNTING & FIELD ACTIVITIES

Susan & David Kalich

Barret Simpson Julianne King

HUNTRESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

Denise Welker

YOUTH HUNTER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Deb Cunningham

OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL HUNTER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Matt Pyle Jeff Birmingham Travis Simpson

ANNUAL HUNTING AWARDS/ OUTSTANDING HUNTER OF THE YEAR

Travis Simpson

2021 SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT

Jeff Birmingham

STAG & DOVES SOCIETY (YOUNG PROFESSIONALS)

Chase Schaefer

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Incredible Auction Items! Just a sampling of the items up for bid! NORTH ALBERTA OUTFITTERS 6-Day Black Bear Hunt for Two Bears in Beautiful Canada!

HSCF references: Craig Boddington, Steve Travis, John Herrera, Clay Padgett, and Dr. Mark van Ness. HSCF thanks Game Trackers Africa for this donation. WEBSITE: www.gametrackersafrica.com

VALUE: $5,500.00 OUTFITTER: North Alberta Outfitters DESCRIPTION: This hunt is for 1 hunter and will take place in

Alberta, Canada where you will hunt (2) Black Bear from 6-7 ft. tall! Included are trophy fees and trophy prep for (2) black bear and accommodations in a lodge or wall tent camp. Not included are meals, hotel stay before hunt ($150), and license ($500). Hunt may be taken with rifle or bow. Additional hunters are welcome at $5500.00/hunter and nonhunters at $1800/person. This hunt can be in May or June of 2021 or 2022. HSCF thanks North Alberta Outfitters for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.northalberta.com

GAME TRACKERS AFRICA 7-Day Cape Buffalo Safari in the Famous Selous Game Reserve VALUE: $16,850.00 OUTFITTER: Game Trackers Africa DESCRIPTION: 2020 SCI International Professional Hunter Jaco

& Magdel Oosthuizen of Game Trackers Africa, are pleased to donate a 7-day 1x1 Cape buffalo rifle safari for one hunter in Tanzania’s famed Selous Game Reserve, promising to deliver yet another awesome hunting experience in Africa’s most magical and largest game reserve - includes 1x Cape Buffalo Trophy fee. Game Trackers Africa organizes freerange safaris all over Tanzania to accommodate clients hunting this prime wild African frontier. This free-range hunt is available in 2021 or 2022 and may be upgraded to include additional species at current price list. Additional hunters are welcome at $1,350/day; non-hunters are welcome at $350/ day. Transportation during the hunt is mostly by vehicle and foot with hunting done by spot & stalk. This package includes 1x1 guiding, field prep, transportation to shipper, traditional East African tented accommodations, all meals, drinks and daily laundry service. Not included are dip & pack service, trophy export documents, license/conservation/ community fees, rifle permit application ($4800), gratuities, road transfers & air charters between Dar es Salaam and hunt camp ($2,900-$5,500) and accommodations before/after the hunt in Dar es Salaam at approx. $320/night. NOTE: $5,000 deposit will be required at booking to secure hunt dates.

38 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

TROPIC STAR LODGE PANAMA Big Game Fishing Trip for 2 Anglers at Pinas Bay Panama VALUE: $11,150.00 OUTFITTER: Tropic Star Lodge DESCRIPTION: World-famous Tropic Star Lodge of Panama

invites you to experience a fishing adventure of a lifetime! Tropic Star has more IGFA fishing world records than any other resort. This offshore/ inshore fishing safari is for 2 guests to fish for 3-days with 4-nights lodging at the luxurious resort. Our Pacific waters are famed for holding a vast variety of treasured species including black marlin, blue marlin and sailfish along with monster tuna, dorado, roosterfish and cubera snapper. The fishing attracts anglers from all over the world. We fish with high quality and custom tackle. This trip for two (2) includes three days and four nights lodging. 3 full days of fishing on one of their famous 31’ Bertrams, all meals and non-alcoholic beverages while at the lodge and round-trip transfer (charter flight and ground) between the lodge and Panama City. This is a trip of a lifetime and must be used between March 2021 and September 2021. Included in this trip: 3 days fishing, 4 nights lodging (call for availability), all meals and nonalcoholic beverages included while at the Lodge. Transfers (charter flight and ground) between Panama City (Rep. of Panama) and Tropic Star Lodge. Royal Saloon Meet and Greet Service and Royal Saloon Lounge. Not included: Airline Transportation, tip for the Captain and Mate and staff at the Hotel in Panama City. HSCF Reference: Gary Rose. HSCF thanks Tropic Star Lodge for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.tropicstar.com

GIUSEPPE CARRIZOSA - SPAIN Incredible 4-Day Iberian Red Deer Hunt for 1 Hunter in Beautiful Spain VALUE: $8,600.00 OUTFITTER: Giuseppe Carrizosa- SPAIN DESCRIPTION: Giuseppe Carrizosa - SPAIN (SCI’s 2009 Int’l

Professional Hunter of the Year) is donating a 4-day hunt

in Spain for Iberian Red Deer. Included in this donation: Reception at Madrid’s Int’l Airport, assistance at gun clearance and gun permit fees, all land transportation, full board top class accommodations for one hunter up to 4 days, English speaking professional hunter, scouting of the area before hunter gets there and trophy fee for one Iberian Red Deer. Hunter may upgrade to include hunting days ($790/day per hunter & $390/day per observer) as well as additional game. Species available are Gredos Ibex $8,900, Beceite, Southeastern & Ronda Ibex - $7,900/each, Mouflon Sheep, Fallow Deer & Balearean Boc - $4,900/each, Pyrenean & Cantabrian Chamois - $5,500/each, Aoudad - $6,900 and Roe Deer - $3,700. Hunter is responsible for the hunting insurance ($95), hunting license ($295/State) and 21% V.A.T. on total hunt value. Accommodations will be at El Castañar, our XVth century hunting lodge, while hunting in the Toledo Mts. This property has been owned by the same family since the XVth century, and has hosted the Spanish Royal family hunts for generations. Besides topclass accommodations and spectacular cuisine, you will enjoy breathtaking sceneries, see how fighting bulls are raised and managed, maybe a bull fight at the private bull ring in the property, tourism, golf, wonderful shopping and sightseeing. Giuseppe encourages you to bring your spouse, as this unforgettable experience is as enjoyable for the hunter as it is for the companion. This hunt is good for 2021 and 2022. HSCF references: Riecke Baumann, Dennis Cain, Tom Cain, John Colglazier, Frank Comiskey, Hector and Edmundo Gonzalez, Kem Donaho, Tom Ellis, Jack Lester, Ron Mostyn, Chuck Rod, Byron and Sandra Sadler, Barret Simpson, John Webb, Tom Lipar, Charlie Patterson, Jim Hardy, Kem and Linda Donaho, John and Francine Webb, Tom and Dolores Harper, Robbie Fayle, Becky Simpson, Tracey Cearley, Brook Minx, Jerry Rubenstein, Luis Martinez, Eloy Anaya, Skip Avara II and sons Jacob and Anne, Mike Barham, Ricardo Longoria, Ralph and Debbie Cunningham, Gary Adams, Mike Axelrad, Gary Ingersoll, Don Byrne, Richard & Charlotte Alexander and many others. HSCF thanks Giuseppe Carrizosa for this donation. WEBSITE: www.giuseppecarrizosa.com

XFACTOR WHITETAILS 3-Day Whitetail Deer Hunt for 1 Hunter and 1 Non-Hunter VALUE: $5,500.00 OUTFITTER: XFactor Whitetails of Indiana DESCRIPTION: Come see Xfactor Whitetails of Indiana’s vast

hunting property with diverse cover and drastic elevation changes! This 1x1 hunt is for 1 hunter and 1 non-hunter in Peru, Indiana for whitetail deer. Hunt includes five-star accommodations with all the comforts of home! Up to a 200’ antler score with a non-hunting guest, all-inclusive! Hunt may be taken with rifle, shotgun or bow and must be taken between September-December 2021 or 2022. Additional hunters are welcome at $5500/hunter. HSCF Reference: Bo Taylor. HSCF thanks Xfactor Whitetails for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.Xfactorwhitetails.com

AFRICA MAXIMUM SAFARIS-8Day Safari for 2 Hunters for Cape Buffalo and Sable in the North West Province of South Africa VALUE: $24,000.00 OUTFITTER: Africa Maximum Safaris DESCRIPTION: Come and experience some of the best Cape

Buffalo hunting South Africa has to offer on our large concessions in the North West province. 2 Hunters and 2 observers will be hosted by Africa Maximum safaris at our

main lodge on a Cape Buffalo and Sable hunt (trophies to be shared by the 2 hunters). The bush veld area we hunt ensure for a close-up hunt in thick bush where hunters will get to experience Cape Buffalo hunting at close range. Hunters will be guided by experienced Professional hunters for a trophy Cape Buffalo and Sable of a lifetime. The hunt may be taken February to November, 2021 or same season in 2022. All 8-days will be spent on the concessions of Africa Maximum Safaris’ 300,000 acres in the North West Province of South Africa. Additional hunters are welcome at $420/person and non-hunters at $220/person. Clients may upgrade to take any available species to hunt on our extended concessions. We are fortunate as the area where we hunt offers our clients most of the species that are available throughout South Africa as it is a combination of bushveld, highveld and middelveld habitat systems. Not included are arrival and departure days ($200/day/pp), gun clearance ($160/hunter) and 15% VAT tax on value of hunt. At Africa Maximum Safaris we are dedicated to make your African trophy hunting safari a memory of a lifetime. HSCF references: Amado Hernandez. HSCF thanks Africa Maximum Safaris for this 100% donation. WEBSITE: www.africamaximum.co.za

WANGANUI SAFARIS 5-Day hunt for 2 Hunters to Pursue 1 Red Stag Each Up To 320 SCI with 2 Observers in New Zealand VALUE: $9,000.00 OUTFITTER: Wanganui Safaris LTD DESCRIPTION: 2 Hunters Pursue 1 Red Stag Each Up To 320 SCI

with 2 Observers in New Zealand. Surrounded by 250,000 acres of lush forest and breathtaking views of the Ruapehu volcano, Wanganui Safaris provides the hunt of a lifetime. 2 hunters will have the opportunity to each harvest a red stag scoring up to 320 SCI while 2 guests enjoy our first class lodge. This donation includes accommodations in our lodge, en suite bathrooms, internet access, gourmet meals, and transportation. The lodge offers visitors the highest quality conditions in relaxed peaceful surroundings. Outstanding views over the New Zealand bush with the real privacy that only isolation can bring. While you rest between hunts you can enjoy the finest of New Zealand’s wine and food on our new party deck. License/permit fees for one red stag scoring up to 320 SCI for each hunter is included and additional animals may be added per the current price list. Additional hunters may be added for $7,500 and additional guests for $1,000. This 1x1 hunt may be taken with a rifle, a black powder rifle, or a bow from March-July 2021 or can be delayed until the 2022 season. Join us today for a hunt like no other. HSCF References: Mike Simpson, Barret Simpson, Travis Simpson, John & Melanie Pepper, Rudy & McKenzie Nix, Charlotte & Joe Betar, Derek Potts Michael and Jody Simpson and Chris and Katherine Gillman. HSCF thanks Wanganui Safaris for this donation.

WEBSITE: www.wsafaris.com

LLOYD-SAFARIS 7-Day South African Safari for 1 Hunters and 1 Non-Hunters for Springbuck, Blesbuck, Black Wildebeest, Common Reedbuck, and Grey Duiker VALUE: $6,500.00 OUTFITTER: Lloyd Safaris DESCRIPTION: Lloyd-Safaris welcomes 1 hunter and 1 non-

hunter to Ermelo, Mpumalanga. The hunt will take place in Ermelo on one of their private concessions, which allows free range style hunting for a 7-day 1x1 plains game safari in South Africa - includes trophy fees for one of each of the

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 39

following per hunter: trophy blesbuck, springbuck, black wildebeest, common reedbuck, grey duiker and steenbok Method of take is rifle. This hunt is available 2021 or 2022 and must be taken between February and November of 2020 or 2021. Hunt may also be upgraded to include additional species at current price list. Additional guests are welcome at $300/day for hunters and $180/day for nonhunters. Transportation during the hunt is mostly by vehicle. Included: Field prep, 4-star lodge accommodations with spacious bedrooms and fully equipped bathrooms, excellent cuisine, hearty breakfasts, meals and all beverages including alcohol (in moderation). RT transfers between O.R. Tambo Johannesburg International Airport and hunt concession. Not included: Dip & pack service, and gratuities. HSCF Thanks Lloyd-Safaris for this 100% donation. WEBSITE: www.lloyd-safaris.co.za

JOSHUA CREEK RANCH 3-Day/2-Night Axis Hunt for 1 Hunter in the Heart of Texas VALUE: $3,750.00 OUTFITTER: Joshua Creek Ranch DESCRIPTION: This hunt 1x1 hunt includes 1-Axis Buck (up to

32”) and 1-Axis Doe, lodging with spectacular Hill Country views, gourmet meals and Guide & Blind fees. Joshua Creek Ranch offers the “best free-range Axis deer hunting in the world” including multiple exotic record book entries with Safari Club International and The Exotic Wildlife Association Trophy Game Record. Trophy Axis buck hunts may be scheduled year-round, but the greatest number of hard-horn bucks mature during the months of April through August. This hunt can be upgraded per our current price list and must be take during 2021. Additional hunters are welcome at $3750 and non-hunters at $500. Excluded: Texas hunting license, transportation to and from airport, gun rental and ammo, gratuities and alcoholic beverages. HSCF thanks Joshua Creek Ranch for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.joshuacreek.com

MG HUNTING 5-Day Red Stag Hunt for 1 Hunter in Province of La Pampa VALUE: $7,000.00 OUTFITTER: MG Hunting DESCRIPTION: A 5-day hunt in the Province of La Pampa, 600

Km distance from Buenos Aires, and a one-hour flight from Buenos Aires City. Marcelo Gil, owner of MG Hunting, will be handling your program and will be present from the moment of your arrival until your departure. His wealth of experience will assure that your hunt be not only successful, but also unforgettable. This hunt may be taken in 2021 or 2022, with either a rifle or bow. You will have the opportunity to harvest one of the most important trophies in South America. Our private hunting area of 25,000 hectares has a high population of red deer, where gold medals are taken yearly. La Pampa is one of the most untamed areas of Argentina, providing shelter within its high bushes. The cover provides the area with a great number of mountain lions, European wild boars, water buffalo, different species of rams, and wild goats. The hunt of these other trophies can be combined per our current price list. Extra hunters may be added for $400.00/day and observers for $250/day. Hunters can also add an extra hunting day for $350.00. This donation includes reception and paperwork assistance in all Argentine airports, transfers among the different hunting spots of the hunting areas in modern all-terrain vehicles, accommodation in a private lodge (located close to the hunting areas in comfortable double-occupancy suites), regional and international meals, beverages of the highest quality (hard drinks included), personalized attention by safari organizers, guides, and skinning & salting preparation

40 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

of trophy. Excludes gun permits ($120 per firearm, 3 guns max. per hunter), hunting license ($400 per hunter), tips (not exceeding $100 for the entire hunt), gun rental (if needed $250 per day per hunter), local flights and layovers in Buenos Aires, and international telephone calls. HSCF thanks MG Hunting for this donation. WEBSITE: www.mghunting.com

WILDMAN LAKE LODGE 7-Day Alaska Peninsula Fishing Adventure! VALUE: $7,050.00 OUTFITTER: Wildman Lake Lodge DESCRIPTION: 7-day/7-night Deluxe Sport Fishing Week for

one fisherman during Reel Smok’n Salmon month of July 2021 or 2022 at Wildman Lake Lodge, home of Master Guide and Outfitters, Butch and Kathy King, Safari Club’s 2000 Professional Hunter of the Year. Donated package includes: 7-days of guided fishing and 7-nights deluxe accommodations at Wildman Lake Lodge where each wellappointed, heated guest cabin features comfortable twin beds, and a bathroom with a piping hot shower. Enjoy both fly out and local jet boat fishing days with our experienced bush pilots and sport fishing guides in pursuit of Pacific salmon, Rainbow trout, Dolly Varden and Arctic char on Alaska’s only crystal-clear artesian sport fishing river. Guests may also choose to spend an afternoon beach combing along the volcanic black sand beaches of the Bering Sea or visit a nearby Walrus haul-out where you can view and photograph anywhere from 50 to 5000 huge Pacific Walrus in their native habitat. Wildman’s executive chef and professional kitchen staff prepare hearty breakfasts, fantastic shore lunches, and exceptionally fine dinners served in the lodge’s spacious dining room. This trip is scheduled for July of 2021 or 2022. Enjoy world-class sport fishing, incredible wilderness accommodations and the genuine Alaskan hospitality of Butch, Kathy and their professional staff. This donation is for one fisherman. It includes flights between Wildman Lake Lodge and our fishing destinations and specifically excludes the round-trip flight from Anchorage which the outfitter will arrange, cost is approximately $1,600.00 per person value. Additional persons may join the successful bidder at the published price of $8650.00, which does include the round-trip airfare from Anchorage to the lodge. HSCF References: Byron and Sandra Sadler Tony and Mitzy McCorvey, Tommy and Anna Morrison, and John and Melanie Pepper. HSCF thanks Wildman Lake Lodge for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.wildmanlodge.com or

www.wildalaskahunting.com

QUAGGA SAFARIS 7-Day Spiral Horn Grand Slam Safari for 2 Hunters and 2 Observers in South Africa VALUE: $25,000.00 OUTFITTER: Quagga Safaris DESCRIPTION: Join Quagga Safaris in celebrating 30-years as a

leading outfitter in Africa! The 2 hunters can share 1-Kudu, 1-Eland, 1-Nyala, and 1-Bushbuck and have the option for both to complete the Spiral Horn Slam. The hunt will take place in the Mecca of South Africa’s Limpopo Province and clients will enjoy true African hospitality in an all-inclusive 5-star Safari Lodge. Opportunities to golfing, busa spa, elephant back safaris and visiting a local village school are also available. Included in the hunt are trophy fees for 1 each of each animal listed to be shared by hunters. Not included is a $250/person airport transfer fee (each way) and 15% government tax of $420/hunter. Additional hunters are welcome at $400/hunter and observers at $200/person. This hunt may be upgraded to include additional species from the current price list but must be taken between March

and October 2021 or 2022. Hunt may be taken by rifle or box. HSCF References: Bill Alexander, Craig Ellington, Tom Peden, Floyd Parr. HSCF thanks Quagga Safaris for this 100% donation. WEBSITE: www.quagga.co.za

HERITAGE SAFARIS 9-Day Buffalo Hunting Safari for 1-Hunter in The Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania for 2 x Buffalo, Hartebeest, Impala, Warthog, Wildebeest and Zebra VALUE: $20,000.00 OUTFITTER: Heritage Safaris DESCRIPTION: This hunt will take place in the Selous Game

Reserve of pristine African wilderness specifically set aside for world-class hunting safaris without equal. Included in this incredible Tanzanian hunt are: traditional tented camp accommodation with exclusive use, all meals, snacks, soft drinks, wine, beer & hard alcohol, daily laundry service, PH + trackers & hunting vehicles, hunting permit fees, concession fee, wildlife conservation fees, trophy export fees, field prep and skinning of all trophies, dip & pack, and arrival & departure airport assistance in Dar es Salaam. Not included are trophy fees, observer fees ($400pp), air charter ($2600 each way) or car transfer ($1200 each way) to and from the Selous, temporary firearm import permits ($300/firearm) or gratuities. This hunt can be upgraded from the current price list, but the hunt must take place between July 1 - November 30, 2021 or 2022. HSCF thanks Heritage Safaris for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.heritage-safaris.com

SPIRAL HORN SAFARIS 5-Day Sable Bull Hunt for 1 Hunter and 1 Non-Hunter VALUE: $8,600.00 OUTFITTER: Spiral Horn Safaris DESCRIPTION: 5-day safari for 1 hunter and 1 observer in

pursuit of 1-Sable Bull (40”-43”) in Limpopo, South Africa. The hunt will take place on our private ranch, which allows free range style hunting. Included in the hunt are trophy fees for the Sable Bull, accommodations at an exclusive hunting lodge with spacious thatch roofed chalets and fully equipped bathrooms, excellent cuisine and drinks, hearty breakfasts, 4X4 hunting vehicles, highly trained trackers, skinners, professional hunters and transportation to/from Johannesburg Airport. Additional hunters are welcome at $400/hunter and observers for $200/person per day. This hunt may be upgraded to include additional species from the current price list but must be taken between March 2021 and October 2022. Hunt may be taken with a rifle, crossbow or bow. HSCF References: Jeff Birmingham, Gib Surles, Prentiss Burt, Kevin Ormston, Rob Chandler. HSCF thanks Spiral Horn Safaris for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.spiralhorn.co.za

TAM SAFARIS 7-Day Trip for 1 Hunter and 1 Non-Hunter for the Chance to Dart a White Rhino in South Africa VALUE: $11,000.00 OUTFITTER: Tam Safaris DESCRIPTION: Long time exhibitor and donor, Tam Safaris has

generously donated this special opportunity for 1 hunter and 1 non-hunter to vita-dart one white rhino in beautiful

Cradock, South Africa. Additional hunters may be added for $350/day and non-hunters for $250/day. Upgrades are available per current price list. Donation includes fivestar luxury accommodations, meals, and drinks. There are well appointed, comfortable en-suite rooms, individually decorated to experience top quality service. Lodge accommodation is serviced, with a state of the art fully equipped kitchen and stocked bar. From the moment you first arrive every possible effort is made to ensure that the comfort of your stay is as special and spectacular as only Tam Safaris affords their valued clients. Tam Safaris is one of the very few outfitters approved by the Department of Economic Affairs, Environment and Tourism for rhino darting as part of the Tam Safaris management plan for white and black rhino. Transportation to and from lodge to Port Elizabeth ($500) and hunt insurance ($2800) not included. Like all big game hunting, the rhino is becoming so few that this hunt may well disappear. Hunt can be taken in 2021 or 2022. HSCF References: Tony & Mitzy McCorvey, Tommy & Anna Morrison, Mark & Julianne King, Ralph & Deb Cunningham, John & Melanie Pepper, and Barret Simpson. HSCF thanks Tam Safaris for this 100% donation. WEBSITE: www.tamsafaris.com

SAFARI INTERNATIONAL MACEDONIA 5-Day Hybrid Kri Kri Ibex Hunt for 1 Hunter in Your Choice of Macedonia, Greece or Croatia! VALUE: $13,500.00 OUTFITTER: Safari International Macedonia DESCRIPTION: This is an incredible opportunity to hunt Hybrid

Kri Kri Ibex in your choice of either coastal Croatia, biblical Macedonia or ancient Greece. Included are trophy fees for (1) Kri Kri Ibex, accommodations at a Luxurious lodge with individual rooms & bathrooms, chef, staff, kitchen, meals and beverages, swimming pool, and jacuzzi. Additional hunters are welcome at $750/hunter and observers for $350/person per day. This trip may be upgraded to include additional species from the current price list and it can be taken between during 2021 or 2022. Hunt may be taken with a rifle, shotgun or bow. Not included in this hunt are hotel and meals before and after the hunt, trophy packing and shipping ($500/box), skinning $100/animal, airfare, phone calls and gratuity, and VAT 18% on donation value. HSCF References: Dr. Joseph Agris, Kenneth Schwarz, John and Melanie Pepper. HSCF thanks Safari International Macedonia for this 100% donation.

WEBSITE: www.interhunts.com

TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE Texas Bighorn Photo Safari for Up to 4 People on Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area VALUE: $2,500.00 OUTFITTER: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department DESCRIPTION: Join our friends at Texas Parks and Wildlife

for a first-class photo safari on Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area located just outside of Alpine, TX for up to 4 people. On-site transportation and guiding provided by one of the knowledgeable wildlife biologists that work on the area every day. You will be led on an unparalleled opportunity to photograph and observe Texas bighorn sheep in their natural state, and to learn firsthand about their ongoing management and restoration efforts. Access to this portion of the management area is extremely limited, so this truly is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Includes overnight stay in bunkhouse with spectacular views! Trip must be taken within (1) year of purchase. Not included are meals, airfare,

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 41

travel or lodging before or after photo safari. HSCF thanks Texas Parks and Wildlife for this 100% donation. WEBSITE: www.tpwd.texas.gov

JANNIE OTTO 7-Day Spiral Horn Hunt for 2 Hunters in the Limpopo and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa VALUE: $24,300.00 OUTFITTER: Jannie Otto Safaris DESCRIPTION: Incredible hunt for 6-different spiral horn

antelope species, 7-days, 1x1 guided safari for 2 hunters. Schedule this safari with outfitter for open dates in 2021/22. Each Hunter can hunt maximum of 3 of the donated animals: 1x Greater Kudu, 1x East Cape Kudu - 1x Nyala, 1x Eland - 1x Cape Bushbuck, 1x Limpopo Bushbuck. Included is accommodation, full safari staff, meals, trophy fees for donated species, airport pick-up and drop-off at Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo Airport. One hunting license/ hunter and field prep of trophies. Allow for extra travelling days between provinces. Method of take is hunters choice. Hunt can be upgraded and extended per outfitter’s price list. Additional hunters are welcome at $600/person/day and non-hunters at $250/person/day. Not included are before and after hunt expenses, firearm clearance, alcoholic beverages, airport transfer, packing and shipping of trophies and gratuities, 15% Government Tax on trophy fees of any wounded and lost game at package rates, additional hunting licenses in certain situations depending on groups composition at $60 each. HSCF thanks Jannie Otto for this donation.

WEBSITE: www.jannieotto.com

TREASURE INVESTMENTS Bronze Sculpture “Stand Your Ground” VALUE: $30,000.00 OUTFITTER: Treasure Investments Corp DESCRIPTION: Beautiful bronze sculpture, “Stand Your Ground”

by Laran Ghiglieri. It is such a powerful moment showing two males trying to assert dominance over the other. HSCF thanks Treasure Investments for this donation.

WEBSITE: www.fineart1.com

V.D. UBERHUTTE DEUTSCH DRAHTHAAR Deutsch Drahthaar Puppy VALUE: $5,000.00 OUTFITTER: Y.D. Uberhutte Deutsch Drahthaar DESCRIPTION: V.D. Uberhutte Deutsch Drahthaar has

generously donated a Deutsch Drahthaar Puppy (gender to be chosen by winner). This donation includes: Introduction training, intro to game (live), intro to gun tolerance, intro to testing (VJP), intro to testing (HZP, VGP), intro to force fetch, intro to blood tracking, intro to pointing and intro to water retrieves. HSCF thanks V.D. Uberhutte Deutsch Drahthaar for this 100% donation.

BARANOF JEWELERS Natural Tanzanite and Diamond Ring Set in 14k Yellow Gold VALUE: $26,800.00 OUTFITTER: Baranof Jewelers DESCRIPTION: Gorgeous 8.00 carat Natural Violet Blue

Tanzanite and diamond ring set in 14 karat yellow gold is surrounded by 1.30 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds, as well as, Princess cut diamonds. All diamonds are Vs2 in clarity and are G in color. HSCF thanks Baranof Jewelers for this donation.

WEBSITE: www.baranofjewelers.com

BARANOF JEWELERS Natural Fancy Yellow Diamond ring set in 18 karat white gold VALUE: $32,000.00 OUTFITTER: Baranof Jewelers DESCRIPTION: An incredible 5.00 carat Fancy yellow diamond

ring set in 18 karat white gold surrounded by 0.50 carats of white brilliant round cut diamonds. All diamonds are Vs2-Vs1 in clarity. HSCF thanks Baranof Jewelers for this donation.

WEBSITE: www.baranofjewelers.com

BARANOF JEWELERS Natural Colombian Emerald Ring Set in 18 Karat White Gold VALUE: $18,000.00 OUTFITTER: Baranof Jewelers DESCRIPTION: Stunning 2.07 carat Natural Colombian emerald

ring set in 18 karat white gold surrounded by 1.00 carat of brilliant cut round diamonds, All diamonds are Vs2 in clarity and have a color of G. HSCF thanks Baranof Jewelers for this donation.

WEBSITE: www.baranofjewelers.com

Presenting the 2020-2021 Houston Safari Club Foundation President’s Rifle—The R8 Selous HSCF Custom Rifle VALUE: $23,500.00 OUTFITTER: HSCF Executive Director DESCRIPTION: Presenting the 2020-2021 Houston Safari Club

Foundation President’s Rifle - The R8 Selous HSCF Custom Rifle: The big game rifle in classy traditional style. Two calibers in one rifle-416 Selous AND 6.5 Creedmor! This firearm is made for big gamer hunting on any continent. High grade walnut custom receiver with HSCF script engraved, custom pistol grip cap with the HSCF Elephant Logo. A 416 Selous barrel and a 6.5 Creedmoor barrel. This complete package includes a Blaser 2.8 -20 x 50mm scope AND a 1-7x28mm scope, both with detachable saddle mounts. The rifle is paired with a Blaser leather sling and a Blaser 2-barrel case. You can own this one of a kind firearm if you are the winning bidder!

WEBSITE: www.wehuntwegive.org

42 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

DREAM HUNT ALASKA

WIN BIG

Alaska is a premier hunting destination, known for their abundance of wild game.The lucky winner will receive a $25,000 credit to be used on the dream hunt(s) of their choice with any participating APHA Member. Drawing will be held at the APHA Annual Banquet December 2020. Need not be present to win Permit holder: Alaska Professional Hunters Association #103040 Multiple hunts can be combined to total the $25,000 credit. May also be used for fishing trips. Transportation, license and tag fees are not included. The winner will have until 3/15/2021 to select the outfitter/guide. Tickets are $50/each Hunt must be conducted by 12/31/2023 • This prize has NO CASH VALUE Enter online or call 907-929-0619 http://alaskaprohunter.org/raffle.html

A special “THANK YOU” to Jack Atcheson & Sons, Inc.

for their efforts in spreading the word of our rafﬂe

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 43

2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Deutsch Drahthaar Bred for the Love of the Hunt

By Eric Toribio | Photos by Ben Bertiggen

magine your perfect day hunting. Really…stop reading this article and think about what you would do? Maybe a trip to the duck blind or watching a mesquite thicket, waiting for a giant Whitetail to waltz across your shooting lane. Perhaps it’s heading out west to meander in the rolling hills of the Dakotas in search of the native sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chicken. Whatever pursuit you’re visualizing there is something that fits into almost every hunting adventure. The Deutsch Drahthaar. It’s a common occurrence for me to head into the marshes of southeast Texas watching the sunrise, with my bearded companion by my side, eager to retrieve a downed duck. This is only the start of the fun, as I’ll head over to quail country and watch the same dog eloquently quarter across the landscape only to abruptly slam into a staunch point. Maybe the same evening or the next, she’ll be methodically blood tracking a trophy buck or a gnarly boar. All with the same dog and it’s why I have fallen head over heels for this versatile breed. The Deutsch Drahthaar, commonly referred to as a Drahthaar, DD, or bearded beast, is a versatile breed with its foundation firmly rooted in Germany. Back in the late 1800’s, the breed was created out of necessity, as many people couldn’t support a kennel of different specialty dogs.

44 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

What was needed is one dog, serviceable in all aspects of hunting, whether it be in field, forest or water. By breeding the Stichelhaar, Pudelpointer, Griffon, and the DeutschKurzhaar, the Drathaar breed was born. In 1902, a group of breeders gathered and founded the breed group VDD or Verein Deutsch-Drahthaar. It was determined the driving factor of the breed would be its versatile performance ability. To this day the guiding principle is “through performance to standard.” Many hunters are familiar with the German Wirehair Pointer, which often times can look like a Drahthaar. However, due to relatively unrestricted breeding for nearly 70 years, and a significant difference in breed and performance standards, the Drahthaar has evolved into a distinctly different breed. The versatility of the dog is what initially drew me in over 12-years ago. However, what hooked me is the breeding system. With other breeds, you’re relying on the ethics of the breeder, where the Drahthaar you can trust the system. The crux of the breed rests on a stringent testing system in which dogs are evaluated against a standard. Not only is hunting ability tested and critiqued, but the mental temperament, genetics, and physical attributes play a large part in having a dog deemed eligible for breeding. The testing system starts with the VJP, known as the

puppy test. The goal of the first evaluation is to determine the natural ability of the dogs, which range from 6 months to 18 months in age, by testing for performance attributes such as use of nose, tracking, search, pointing, desire, cooperation, and temperament. In addition, the dog is examined for physical faults which would disqualify it from the breeding system. The following fall, the dog progresses to the HZP, or the fall natural ability test. This evaluation asks more out of the dog than the previous test. The pup is evaluated on its ability to be a reliable retriever, utilizing both fur and feathered game. It’s also where the dog is first tested in the water, and required to complete a series of retrieves, proving it can find game, and deliver to hand. The use of nose is also tested further by having a judge drag a dead duck and rabbit through the field over several hundred meters for the dog to track and retrieve. Search behind the live duck is one testing subject which really starts to separate high performing dogs from the rest of the pack. A live duck is liberated in a marsh with ample cover for the duck to hide. The dog is then sent into the swamp to “produce” the duck, resulting

in either the duck being shot or the dog catching it. The waters we use for testing, are thick and nasty, really showing off the desire of the dog. I’ve seen dogs trudge through gumbo mud over their back, climbing over fallen logs, with a fire in their soul, trying to do what they were put on this earth to do. It’s truly something special to watch a great water dog complete this subject of the test. When the dog passes the HZP, it is still not quite ready to be deemed eligible to breed. It has to be evaluated by a special set of judges which critique its physical attributes. Before entering a breed show, a specific set of X-rays need to be sent to Germany, making certain there is little to no probability of hip, elbow, or shoulder problems. While at the breed show, the dog isn’t evaluated for being “pretty.” Everything stems back to performance. The coat is scrutinized for its density and hardness, attributes which will keep the dog warm as it retrieves ducks in sub-freezing temps or allow the dogs to hunt day after day in the thick prairie grasses of the Midwest. The confirmation of the dog is also evaluated to determine if the dog is built like an NFL CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 45

46 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ CONVENTION 2021

linebacker, with the attributes allowing it to put on endless miles over its life. A dog that’s bred and built right can hunt effortlessly and can give you more time afield. They are bred specifically for functionality for hunting on field, forest, water and everything in-between. After the dog passes the breed show it is eligible to breed as a Deutsch Drahthaar! Now this is where the fun only begins. More and more breeders are searching out dogs who have passed the VGP, or the utility test. This is the ultimate evaluation, spanning 2 days and critiquing the dog across 26 different subjects in the forest, field, and water. From retrieving vermin, and blood tracking to extreme obedience, this test is what separates the men from the boys. It’s a grueling accomplishment for dog and handler alike. If a dog has passed the VGP, it’s in the top 1% of hunting dogs, and really proves the mental fortitude of the animal. All of this for a hunting dog! My goal from the beginning was not only to have the best breed, but to breed the best of the best. My start came far from the US, or Germany, and definitely way outside the realm of hunting dogs. I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to the great city of Texarkana, Texas when I was 25-years old. I was lucky enough to work with somebody who was an avid hunter and was able to tag along into a pecan grove hunting waterfowl and whitetails. That was the beginning of the end and since that time, my life revolved around hunting any critter I was able to pursue. Ultimately, it’s what led me to the Drahthaar. In 2015, I founded Deutsch Drahthaar kennel v.d. Überhütte, and my guiding light was to simply produce and train the best dogs possible for the dedicated sportsman. Germany is the source of some of the world’s finest dogs, and I wanted nothing but the best. The Hegewald is the Drahthaar’s equivalent of the Olympics, with the best of the best gathering and testing together. The foundation of my breeding program came from a dog with the highest performance score in the 2015 Hegewald. Since then, I’ve imported multiple winners of the event. It’s what separates me from a lot of breeders, I don’t buy mediocre dogs - I buy the best dogs in the world. Starting with a high-quality stock of dogs is just the beginning of the equation. It is important to create breed dogs that complement each other and continue to push toward the goal of having truly exceptional versatile dogs. If I have a dog who is an absolute machine in the water but falls a little short of my expectations in another facet, such as blood tracking, then I will pair dogs to breed to address the shortfalls. Unfortunately, it isn’t always a cut and dry 1+1=2 scenario. With so many factors at play

it looks more like \-x+sqrt1−x2\-=sqrt2(2x2−1) with there never being the perfect answer, just something closer to it. Because the breeding and testing aspect of the Drahthaar is so important to me and to the future of my kennel, I personally train and test a lot of the dogs while also stressing to my puppy buyers the importance of testing their dogs. Hours and hours are spent building and molding a young dog to become a true versatile dog, and it’s a challenge I absolutely relish. There’s certainly no way I could do it alone and have been blessed to have many fantastic mentors. It’s because of so many people who helped me early on, that I now strive to be very involved with owners of the dogs I sell. I want them to be successful training their dogs, not only for their sake, but so I can see the potential of the dogs being produced. With 5-6 litters a year, I’m thrilled to say 80-90% of my puppy owners test their dogs, which is astounding! Most of the people, myself included, enjoy the Drahthaar so much, because we love to hunt. At the end of the day, everything comes back to that point. All of the testing and training is to create a companion that is going to help you be more successful in the areas of field, forest and water. I strive to be one of the biggest and best breeders in the world, and that requirement is what led me to start Wingchase & Co. I initially wanted a place to train dogs, but the dream grew from there. I don’t do many things in life half-hearted and hunting certainly isn’t one of them. Creating one of the best upland hunting destinations in the Houston area was my goal. The best flying quail, pheasants and chukar are brought in so your hunting experience is as close to wild birds as possible. The camp and grounds are a perfect place for you to enjoy a trip into the field and then settle in with good friends watching the sunset over the southeast Texas horizon. I was able to bring everything full circle with Überhütte Drahthaars and Wingchase & Co. One of the greatest aspects of the Drahthaar community is the camaraderie you forge with countless people across the country. I am thankful to have many of these friends and their dogs guide for the operation. Every dog you’ll hunt over at Wingchase & Co. is one of the finest bred Deutsch Drahthaars in the world. From generation to generation our dogs at v.d. Überhütte are bred for the love of the hunt that never ends. If this is the year that you are looking for a new hunting companion, v.d. Überhütte can help and guide you through the process. ★ uberhuttedrahts@gmail.com 22772 FM 365 Beaumont, Texas CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 47

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2021 HSCF

CONVENTION

Exhibitors 2 Continents Hunting

Alaska’s Boardwalk Lodge

Boesmanskraal Safaris

Capital Farm Credit

www.2continentshunting.com Booking Agent

www.boardwalklodge.com Outfitter- North America

www.boesmanskraalsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

www.capitalfarmcredit.com Real Estate/Credit/Property Lending

BOOTH: 442

AAA Africa Serapa Safaris BOOTH: 429

www.serapasafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Acacia Hunting Safaris Namibia BOOTH: 305

www.acaciahunting.com Outfitter- Africa

Acute Angling BOOTH: 927

www.acuteangling.com Outfitter- South America

Africa Maximum Safaris BOOTH: 408

www.africamaximum.co.za Outfitter- Africa

African Arrow Safaris BOOTH: 949

www.africanarrowsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

African Elephant Hair Bracelets BOOTH: 907

safarijewelry.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

Ala Blanca Jewelry BOOTH: 237

www.alablancajewelry.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

Alaska Coastal Outfitters BOOTH: 743

alaskahunting.com Outfitter- North America

Alaska Expedition Lodge BOOTH: 543

www.alaskaexpedition.com Outfitter- North America

Alaska Fur Gallery BOOTH: 327

www.alaskafurgallery.com Furs

Alaska Skookum Guides BOOTH: 434

www.alaskaskookum guides.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 641

All Out Ranch Improvements, LLC BOOTH: 1009

alloutranchimprovements.com Miscellaneous

Ambassadors of Conservation BOOTH: 313

ambassadorsof conservation.com Association-Non-Profit

Argentina Puelo Expeditions BOOTH: 645

www.pueloexpeditions.com Outfitter- South America

Art by L. Mower BOOTH: 404

Artwork

Atascosa Wildlife Supply/Bushlan BOOTH: 921

Awsblinds.com Wildlife Supply

ATP HUNT

BOOTH: 643

atphunt.com Outfitter- Europe

Avanti by Avanti LLC BOOTH: 441

www.AvantiByAvanti.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

B&B Taxidermy BOOTH: 526

www.bbtaxidermy.com Taxidermy

Baranof Jewelers BOOTH: 827

baranofjewelers.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

Big Easy Ranch BOOTH: 223

www.bigeasyranch.com Outfitter- North America

Billiard Factory BOOTH: 312

www.billiardfactory.com Furniture

50 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

BOOTH: 342

BoschNel Safaris BOOTH: 432

www.boschnelsafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

BOOTH: 609

Capitol Ranch Real Estate, LLC AND BOOTH: 945

Boss Safaris and Outfitters LLC

www.RanchRealEstate.com Real Estate/Credit/Property Lending

www.bosssafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Cazatur Spain & Europe

BOOTH: 1040

Braeside Safaris BOOTH: 843

BOOTH: 733

www.cazatur.com Outfitter- Europe

www.braesidesafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Cedar Eaters of Texas

Brush Country Studios/Prairie Mountain Wildlife Studio

cedareater.com Miscellaneous

BOOTH: 413

www.brushcountrystudios.com Taxidermy

Buchanan Hunts BOOTH: 233

buchananhunts.com Outfitter- Africa

Buckbrush Outfitters BOOTH: 805

www.huntbuckbrush.com Outfitter- North America

Buffalo Creek Ranch, Inc BOOTH: 1006

www.buffalocreekranch.com Outfitter- North America

Buffalo Kloof Wildlife Safaris BOOTH: 141

www.buffaloklofsafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Bush Africa Safaris BOOTH: 608

www.bushafricasafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

BOOTH: 407

Chaku Peru

BOOTH: 321

www.chakuperu.com Outfitter- South America

Chapungu-Kambako Safaris BOOTH: 933

www.chapungu-kambako.com Outfitter- South America

Conroe Taxidermy BOOTH: 723

www.conroetaxidermy.com Taxidermy

Coppersmith Global Logistics BOOTH: 402

huntingtrophy.com Trophy Shipper

Cotton Mesa Trophy Whitetail BOOTH: 616

www.cottonmesawhitetail.com Outfitter- North America

Dave Freeburn Safaris BOOTH: 1033

Cabassa Safaris

www.davefreeburn.com Outfitter- Africa

www.cabassasafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Deshka Landing Charters & Lodge

BOOTH: 341

Cape to Cairo Safari BOOTH: 427

www.capetocairosafari.com Outfitter- Africa

BOOTH: 552

www.Deshka.com Outfitter- North America

Detail Company Adventures BOOTH: 626

detailcompany.com Booking Agent

Divide Gun Company

FTW/SAAM

HEYMUSA Double Gun Imports

www.dividegun.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

www.ftwsaam.com Shooting Instruction

www.HEYMUSA.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

BOOTH: 440

Dove Island Lodge BOOTH: 755

doveislandlodge.com Outfitter- North America

Eastcape & Karoo Safaris BOOTH: 535

www.hunteasterncape.com Outfitter- Africa

Elizabeth Sass Fine Jewelry BOOTH: 941

www.elizabethsassfine jewelry.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

Epic Hunting Safaris South Africa BOOTH: 648

huntingsafarisouthafrica.co.za Outfitter- Africa

EVENTUS HUNT BOOTH: 636

www.eventus-hunt.com Outfitter- Asia

Exciting Outdoors BOOTH: 604

www.excitingoutdoors.com Outfitter- South America

Fausti USA

BOOTH: 403

www.faustiusa.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

Fedha Nyuki BOOTH: 705

www.fedhanyuki.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

Field Optics Research BOOTH: 241

fieldopticsresearch.com Optics

Fishtail Ranch Outfitters BOOTH: 412

www.fishtailranch.com Outfitter- North America

FORLOH

BOOTH: 349

forloh.com Hunting Gear

Frontera Wingshooting BOOTH: 905

www.fronterawing shooting.com Outfitter- South America

Frosch

BOOTH: 909

www.frosch.com Miscellaneous

BOOTH: 906

Game Trackers Africa BOOTH: 317

www.gametrackersafrica.com Outfitter- Africa

Garry Kelly Safaris BOOTH: 508

garrykellysafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Giuseppe Carrizosa- SPAIN

BOOTH: 1043

GoWithBo Booking and Guide Service BOOTH: 653

gowithbo-online.com Booking Agent

GPO USA - German Precision Optics

BOOTH: 348

www.kuche.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Higher Calling Wildlife

Kwalata Safaris

BOOTH: 405

www.highercallingwildlife.com Association-Non-Profit

Global Rescue www.globalrescue.com/hscf Medical

Kuche Safaris

www.highveldsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

www.horseshoecreek outfitters.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 807

KLSheltonKentuckyRifles.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

BOOTH: 304

Horseshoe Creek Outfitters

www.giuseppecarrizosa.com Outfitter- Europe

BOOTH: 248

High Veld Safaris

BOOTH: 632

KL Shelton Custom Kentucky Rifles LLC

BOOTH: 749

www.kwalatasafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Lategan Safaris

BOOTH: 318

BOOTH: 1025

www.lategansafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Hunt Trip Spain

Limcroma Safaris

www.hunttripspain.com Outfitter- Europe

www.limcroma.com Outfitter- Africa

BOOTH: 709

BOOTH: 605

Intrepid Safaris

Link’s Wild Safaris

www.intrepidsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

www.linkswildsafaris.com Booking Agent

BOOTH: 1008

BOOTH: 354

iScope Optics LLC

Lloyd Safaris

www.gpo-usa.com Optics

www.iscope.com Optics

www.lloyd-safaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Great European Hunts

Ivy Safaris

Lonesome Coyote Ranch

www.greateuropeanhunts.com Outfitter- Europe

www.ivysafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Great White Holdings Ltd.

J.B. Hill Boot Company

www.lonesomecoyote ranch.com Outfitter- North America

greatwhiteholdings.com Outfitter- North America

www.jbhilltexas.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

Greystone Castle Sporting Club

Johan Hermann Safaris

greystonecastle.com Outfitter- North America

www.johanhermannsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Gsell’s Whitetails

Joshua Creek Ranch BOOTH: 804

www.gsellswhitetails.com Outfitter- North America

www.joshuacreek.com Outfitter- North America

Mashambanzou Safaris

Hawkeye Hunting Club

JWK Safaris

www.mashambanzou safaris.com Outfitter- Africa

www.hawkeyehunting.com Outfitter- North America

www.jwksafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Hayden Outdoors

Keeper Ranch

www.haydenoutdoors.com Real Estate/Credit/Property Lending

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BOOTH: 753

BOOTH: 932

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Hearthstone, Inc BOOTH: 845

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Lusco Outdoors LLC

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King Ranch, Inc. BOOTH: 841

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Kiowa Hunting Service

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luscoutdoors.com Outfitter- North America

Mabula Pro Safaris BOOTH: 323

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Max Lang Belts & Buckles BOOTH: 506

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Maxine Bone LLC BOOTH: 1035

www.MaxineBone.com Artwork

McDonald Safaris BOOTH: 541

www.mcdonaldsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

BOOTH: 606

www.kiowahunting.com Outfitter- North America

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 51

MG Arms Inc. BOOTH: 732

www.mgarmsinc.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

Michel Mantheakis Safaris Ltd BOOTH: 449

www.mm-safaris.com Outfitter- Africa

MidwayUSA Foundation BOOTH: 435

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Midwest Custom Hunts BOOTH: 302

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Milton Lake Lodge BOOTH: 307

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Moore Security

Outlaw Land Clearing and Fencing BOOTH: 306

outlawlandclearingand fencing.com Miscellaneous

Parker Guide Service BOOTH: 533

www.alaskaboathunts.com Outfitter- North America

Phillip Bronkhorst Safaris BOOTH: 954

www.pbsafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Pointer Outfitters BOOTH: 333

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Powder Ridge Outfitters BOOTH: 942

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BOOTH: 649

Prairies Edge Outfitting

Motsomi Safaris

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mooresecuritysafes.com Gun Safes

BOOTH: 244

www.motsomi.com Outfitter- Africa

Mwatisi Safaris Ltd BOOTH: 742

mwatisi-safaris Outfitter- Africa

Ndloti Safari

BOOTH: 1039

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New Mexico LOH Outfitters

BOOTH: 640

PRO CARGO USA BOOTH: 836

www.procargo.com Trophy Shipper

Purina Mills

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purinamills.com Wildlife Supply

Quagga Safaris BOOTH: 917

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BOOTH: 655

Ranchland Real Estate

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Northern Giants Trophy Ranch

BOOTH: 320

RecordBuck Ranch BOOTH: 920

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BOOTH: 833

Red Desert Rifles

Norton and Hodges

reddesertrifles.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

northerngiantsranch.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 445

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Outback Outfitters BOOTH: 1027

outbackoutfittersnm.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 537

Riton Optics

BOOTH: 130

Rod & Gun Resources BOOTH: 300

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Royal Outfitters UK BOOTH: 436

www.royaloutfittersuk.com Outfitter- Europe

Ruple Properties BOOTH: 918

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sctrophyhunting.com Outfitter- New Zealand

Spiral Horn Safaris BOOTH: 706

www.spiralhorn.co.za Outfitter- Africa

SportEar, LLC BOOTH: 523

sportear.com | goaxil.com Hunting Gear

Sporting International Inc.

www.russellmoccasin.com Clothing/Jewelry/Footwear

www.sportinginternational.com Booking Agent

BOOTH: 904

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Russell Selle Custom Hunts

Star S Ranch

www.rscustomhunts.com Booking Agent

www.star-s-ranch.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 740

BOOTH: 1012

Sadaka Safaris

Stukel’s Upland Adventures

www.sadakasafaris.co.za Outfitter- Africa

stukels.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 832

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Safari International Macedonia

Suppressed Weapon Systems

www.interhunts.com Outfitter- Europe

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BOOTH: 633

Safari Specialists Group BOOTH: 245

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Sierra Brava Lodge LLC BOOTH: 309

www.sierrabrava.com Outfitter- South America

Silencer Central BOOTH: 1045

silencercentral.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

SilencerCo

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BOOTH: 420

Swamp Nasty Outfitters BOOTH: 308

www.swampnastyoutfitters.com Outfitter- North America

Tam Safaris

BOOTH: 727

www.tamsafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

Tarpon Caye Lodge Belize BOOTH: 1044

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Taxidermy America BOOTH: 1041

www.taxidermyamerica.com Taxidermy

Somerby Safaris

Terry Wilson Antler Designs

www.somerbysafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

www.wilsonantlers.com Furniture

BOOTH: 536

South Texas Tripods and Feeders Inc BOOTH: 1005

ritonoptics.com Optics

River Plate Wingshooting

Spanish Ibex and Chamois

www.riverplateoutfitters.com Outfitter- South America

www.spanishibexand chamois.com Booking Agent

52 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

BOOTH: 826

Russell Moccasin Company

southtexastripodsand feeders.com Wildlife Supply

BOOTH: 844

Spey Creek Trophy Hunting/ John W McBride

BOOTH: 943

BOOTH: 421

Texan Knives

BOOTH: 1023

Texanknives.com Knives

Texas Ag Realty, LLC BOOTH: 433

www.texasagrealty.com Real Estate/Credit/Property Lending

Texas Hunt Lodge

Trophy Ear

Vanden Berg Custom

Wildlife Partners, LLC

www.texashuntlodge.com Outfitter- North America

www.trophyear.com Hunting Gear

www.vandenbergcustom.com Firearms and Firearms Accessories

www.wildlifepartners.com Miscellaneous

BOOTH: 704

BOOTH: 350

The Global Sportsman

Trophy Shippers

www.theglobalsportsman.com Booking Agent

www.trophyshippers.com Trophy Shipper

BOOTH: 444

BOOTH: 744

Thormahlen & Cochran Safaris

Tropic Star Lodge

africatrophyhunting.com Outfitter- Africa

www.tropicstar.com Outfitter- Central America

BOOTH: 823

BOOTH: 808

Tom Dreyer Safaris

Tsala Hunting Safaris

www.tomdreyersafaris.com Outfitter- Africa

www.tsalasafari.co.za Outfitter- Africa

BOOTH: 505

TRACT Optics BOOTH: 637

tractoptics.com Optics

Travel with Guns BOOTH: 707

twg.travel Miscellaneous

Tri-State Taxidermy BOOTH: 301

www.tri-statetaxidermy.com Taxidermy

Trompettersfontein Safaris & Hunting Lodge BOOTH: 914

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BOOTH: 303

Udell’s Guiding and Outfitting / Kelly Udell BOOTH: 232

BOOTH: 842

BOOTH: 715

Wildman Lake Lodge

Wade Lemon Hunting

BOOTH: 612

BOOTH: 741

www.wildmanlodge.com Outfitter- North America

twg.travel Outfitter- North America

Wingchase & Co.

Wanganui Safaris LTD

BOOTH: 937

BOOTH: 809

Outfitter- North America

wsafaris.com Outfitter- New Zealand

Woodbury Taxidermy and Wild Game Processing

Wesley Silcox Outfitters

BOOTH: 227

BOOTH: 343

woodburytaxidermy.com Taxidermy

wesleysilcoxoutfitters.com Outfitter- North America

Woods & Water Taxidermy

White Peaks Outfitters

BOOTH: 734

BOOTH: 540

www.whitepeaksranch.com Outfitter- North America

www.woodsandwater taxidermy.com Taxidermy

Upfront Outfitters

Whitetail Properties, LLC

Xfactorwhitetails

www.upfrontoutfitters.com Outfitter- North America

www.whitetailproperties.com Real Estate/Credit/Property Lending

xfactorwhitetails.com Outfitter- North America

www.udellshunting.com Outfitter- North America

BOOTH: 652

V.D. Uberhutte Deutsch Drahthaar AND BOOTH: 1036

uberhuttedrahts Miscellaneous

BOOTH: 806

BOOTH: 345

Wilderness Quest New Zealand BOOTH: 414

wildernessquestnz.com Outfitter- New Zealand

Wildlife Habitat Federation BOOTH: 642

whf-texas.org Association-Non-Profit

Y.O. Ranch

BOOTH: 509

yoranchheadquarters.com Outfitter- North America

Zander Osmers Safaris BOOTH: 735

www.osmers.co.za Outfitter- Africa

Thank you! See you February 26-28, 2021

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 53

changing the future of youth shooting sports

Supporting

join us

MidwayUSA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity working to sustain and grow the shooting sports industry by providing long-term funding to youth shooting teams. Every donation made is tax-deductible and allows the Foundation to assist in expanding and enhancing the leadership skills, confidence, and discipline of today’s youth through shooting sports activities.

877.375.4570 midwayusafoundation.org 54 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

Your Passion,

Backed by Our Research and Innovation.

DAN L. DUNCAN

2020 Scholarship Recipients

56 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ CONVENTION 2021

Rachel Bittner

Jamie Cooper

Graduate Research Assistant/Master’s of Science/ Department of Natural Resources Management

Graduate Research Assistant for Borderlands Research Institute; Major: Range & Wildlife Management

Sul Ross State University

Assessing Eyeworm and Cecal Worm Infestations in Quail Throughout the Trans-Pecos Region of Texas

Estimating Density of Black Bear and Mountain Lion Using Remote Cameras in the Davis Mountains, Texas

My name is Rachel Bittner, and I am from the small town of Lockhart, Texas. My introduction to the wildlife field began as a child camping, hiking, and fishing at state parks around Texas with my family. I grew to respect and admire the natural world and decided upon applying to college that I wanted to major in wildlife biology so that I could develop my skills to not only help protect and conserve the wild places but the wildlife of Texas. I received my B.S. in Natural Resources Management with a concentration in Wildlife Biology from Texas Tech University in May of 2018 and started my Master’s in August of 2018. There is concern for the effects of parasites and diseases on wildlife but also their possible transmission and impact on human and livestock health. While many upland game bird studies have focused on habitat, nest/chick survival, etc., due to the decline of several upland game bird species, such as quail, research on parasites and diseases affecting these species is also rising. Upland game birds, such as quail, are an important economic resource in Texas and around the United States due to hunting and associated expenses generating revenue into the economy annually. The effects of parasites on quail survival, reproduction, and overall health has not been well studied throughout their ranges, much less in the Trans-Pecos. The most common parasites known to affect quail in the Trans-Pecos are helminths. The helminths of concern to quail are eyeworm (Oxyspirura petrowi) and the cecal worm (Aulonocephalus pennula). The parasite loads in Trans-Pecos quail species, scaled quail (Callipepla squamata), Gambel’s quail (Callipepla gambelii), and Montezuma quail (Cyrtonyx montezumae), has not been as intensely researched as in other areas of these quail’s ranges. My Master’s research focuses on determining the overall prevalence of eyeworm and cecal worm concentrations throughout the Trans-Pecos, evaluate the effects of the precipitation gradient on eyeworm and cecal worm prevalence, and assess the impacts of supplemental feeding on host concentration and parasite loads in scaled quail for scaled, Gambel’s, and Montezuma quail.

My enthusiasm for nature was born through wandering the thornscrub of hunting leases and backcountry pastures near Jourdanton, Texas. I attained my B.S. from Texas A&M University, majoring in Wildlife Ecology & Conservation and minoring in Psychology. Following college, I was privileged to serve as the Conservation Educator Intern at Welder Wildlife Foundation. That position transitioned into a Welder Fellowship to pursue my M.S. studying Range & Wildlife Management. Through Borderlands Research Institute, I am estimating the density of black bears and mountain lions using remote cameras and recently developed spatial capture-recapture (SCR) methods. Low densities and elusive behavior complicate population estimation for large carnivores. These SCR methods incorporate spatial information with components accounting for observational (e.g., detection probability, effective sampling area) and ecological processes (e.g., home range size, animal movements). My focal species lack such easily visible natural marks, and identifying individuals by artificial or natural marks remains imperative to properly populate SCR models. Partial identity matrices integrated with the detection history probabilistically determine which observed detections are likely unique individuals, ultimately producing a more accurate estimate. Results will be used to make recommendations for future monitoring programs regarding density estimation for the large carnivores of the Davis Mountains.

Also a 2020 scholarship recipient:

John Palarski Tarelton State University

SCHOLARSHIP SPONSORS Ellen & Hank Bachmann Legacy

Cokinos Young - Craig Power Patron Sponsor

Edwin E. Smith Legacy

Stephen and Connie Coale Patron Sponsor

Mackenzie & Rudy Nix Patron Sponsor

Denise & Brian Welker Patron Sponsor

Ron & Pug Mostyn In Memory of Ralph Cunningham

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 57

Joshua Coward

Alexandria DiMaggio

Jacob Dykes

Master of Science in Range and Wildlife Management

Graduate Research Assistant/ PhD. / Wildlife Sciences

Sul Ross State University

Texas A&M University-Kingsville

Effects of Feral Pig Rooting Behavior on Soil Components, Rates of Erosion, and Plant Community Composition on the Kerr Wildlife Management Area, Texas.

Response of Tanglehead to Prescribed Fire and Cattle Grazing

Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute, Texas A&M University - Kingsville

My name is Joshua Coward, and I was born and raised near Kerrville, Texas. I was fortunate enough to grow up on a small ranch in the hill country. I was raised by conservation-minded parents who instilled a passion for the outdoors and wildlife in me. This passion led me to pursue a career in wildlife. I graduated with a degree in Natural Resources Management with an emphasis on Wildlife Biology in the fall of 2015 from Texas Tech University. I am currently working on a thesis project with the Borderlands Research Institute and Sul Ross State University. My thesis project primarily examines how feral swine rooting behavior affects a variety of soil components, rates of soil erosion/deposition, and plant communities on the Kerr Wildlife Management Area. It is my hope that this research will provide landowners with insight into how feral pigs affect the landscape.

58 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

Born and raised in the small South Texas town of Pettus, I spent most of my childhood either in a hunting blind, on a fishing boat, or in a Brahman cow pasture. My love for wildlife and livestock has always been a large part of my life and there was no surprise from my family when I decided my career path should follow. After graduating from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor’s in Rangeland Ecology and Management I was honored to have an opportunity to pursue my Master’s in Range and Wildlife Management back in South Texas with the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. South Texas is known for its diverse vegetation and abundant wildlife, however, several counties in the area are experiencing a phenomenon that puzzles many range professionals. Tanglehead is a native, perennial bunchgrass that has become invasive over the past 20 years due to several anthropogenic changes. Thought of as a beneficial component of the landscape in the past, it has now become a nuisance to many landowners by creating monotypic stands of dense coarse forage that is unpalatable to cattle, unusable to quail, and chokes out other native plant species important to wildlife. My study uses the combination of prescribed fire and cattle grazing to reduce tanglehead cover and increase the species’ richness of the plant community to improve habitat for Bobwhite quail and whitetail deer. I applied prescribed fire to patches of dense tanglehead and allowed cattle to move freely throughout the pasture. Cattle selectively graze the patches because of the increased protein value of the lush regrowth. This repetitive, intensified grazing of the tanglehead eventually kills and/or greatly decreases the size of the plant and allows for other native species to grow and compete once again. I hope to provide landowners and range professionals with an efficient method of using the tanglehead as a forage for cattle through prescribed fire and repeatedselective grazing, while restoring the pristine wildlife habitat that this part of the country once expressed.

Behavioral Responses of Whitetailed Deer to Heat Stress I am originally from Amory, MS and completed both my Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in Wildlife Sciences at Mississippi State University. My current research involves evaluating behavioral responses of white-tailed deer to heat stress and assessing competition with cattle for thermal refuge. Because animals are commonly at risk of heat stress during hotter times of the year, changes in behavior such as seeking shade, wind, or altering activity patterns are important in alleviating heat stress and are often less costly than relying solely on the animal’s physiological responses. However, changes in behavior can lead to competition with other species. Using black-globe thermometers that consider radiant heat from the sun, air temperature, and wind, provide a more accurate measure of the temperature experienced by the animal, known as operative temperature. Using these black-globe thermometers while monitoring animal location with GPS collars will give insight in how these animals respond when temperatures start to rise.

Kirby Evelo

Bethany Friesenhahn

Dustin Golembiewski

Bachelor of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries Science, Department of Rangeland Wildlife and Fish Management, Program of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation.

Research Specialist I / M.S. in Range and Wildlife Management

Graduate Research Assistant, M.S. Student, Range & Wildlife Management

Texas A&M University Undergraduate Research Technician in the Texas Carnivore Ecology Lab on the Project of Wild Pig Trapping and Exclusion Efficacy. Growing up an avid hunter, fisher, and outdoorsman, I always knew I was destined for a career in wildlife management and conservation. In addition to completing my Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries at Texas A&M, I am currently working in the field conducting research on hog trapping and exclusion efficacy. My role as an undergraduate research technician is to construct and test various trap types, as well as set up and test several fencing trials to test their ability to keep hogs out. I am also responsible for checking game cameras and recording data. The research we do is crucial in understanding how to control and manage the damage and populations of feral hogs in Texas.

Texas A&M University Kingsville

Texas A&M University - Kingsville Monitoring Spatial Use, Resource Selection, and Crop Damage of Wild Pigs throughout an Agricultural Landscape I am a wildlife researcher for CKWRI, and I am pursuing my Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Range and Wildlife Management. I grew up in Poth, Texas around farming and ranching where wild pigs are a nuisance and can be very costly to landowners. I decided to pursue research with wild pigs because it was an opportunity to combine my passion for the outdoors, hunting, and agriculture. The focus of my research project is to better understand the ecology of wild pigs and how they negatively affect agriculture. The objective is to monitor wild pig movements with the use of GPS collars to determine home ranges and resource selection throughout an agricultural landscape. I am also monitoring cornfields through the use of drone and ground truthing to quantify pig damage and set up game cameras to estimate pig densities at different growth stages of corn. The drone flights allow us to monitor and quantify pig damage to corn at a larger scale. I am now wrapping up my second year of field work, so there is much analyzing yet to be done. I hope with my findings we will better understand wild pig movements to be more efficient in eliminating the wild pig problem and help landowners protect their resources.

Ecological Restoration of Frac Ponds with Topsoil Management and Native Plants Natural resource extraction is a vast and growing industry in the state of Texas. While economically beneficial to many residents and responsible for many jobs, oil and natural gas extraction processes can be extremely damaging to plant and wildlife populations. Prior to beginning oil and gas extraction, it is commonly recommended that topsoil stockpiles be created to aid in the re-establishment of plant communities at a site. Topsoil is collected using heavy machinery, piled in a nearby location, and re-applied when the extraction process is completed, often years later. Stockpiles can be large, depending on site surface area, reaching several meters in depth. Our study area, a retired fracking pond in Dimmit County, was restored in 2017 with stockpiled topsoil collected prior to construction. We segregated the existing stockpile into 3 layers that were 4.5 feet in thickness and distributed these layers (along with a fresh topsoil surface and a non-amended surface) in separate strips over the pond. Each of the 5 surfaces was seeded with a mixture of (1) 13 native grasses, (2) 13 native grasses plus an annual warm-season grass cover crop, or (3) non-seeded. Our assessment of restoration success began with plant density and species composition. We will collect topsoil samples for seed bank trials and analysis of soil chemistry and microbial community structure. These assessments will be compared to similar data collected from the stockpile between 2012 and 2015. Our goal is to quantitatively assess the common recommendation of stockpiling topsoil following soil disturbance in semiarid regions and explore the efficacy of current methods. This information can help us make more informed recommendations about how to reestablish viable habitat for plants and animals post-disturbance.

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;˘ 59

Megan Granger

Jake Hill

Ashley Hodge

M.S. Student/ Range and Wildlife Management/ Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute

Bachelor of Science in ForestWildlife Management

Graduate Research Assistant, Master of Science in Range and Wildlife Management

Stephen F. Austin State University

Texas A&M University- Kingsville

Texas A&M University-Kingsville Population Demographics of Nilgai in South Texas I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Range and Wildlife Management at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. My research project is focused on the demographics of nilgai in Southern Texas. Nilgai are endemic to India and portions of Pakistan and Nepal. They were introduced into South Texas in the 1930’s and have since established a free-roaming population of approximately 33,000 individuals. Nilgai are known vectors of the Cattle Fever Tick who transmit deadly Babesia organisms to cattle. Thus, knowledge of nilgai demographics is important to understand the role that this species plays within the southern Texas ecosystem. Our main objectives are to determine tooth wear and eruption patterns relative to approximate ages in nilgai, determine preference or avoidance of habitat types, and determine the population structure, density, sex ratios, and reproductive capabilities of nilgai.

60 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

My name is Jake Hill, and I am currently a junior Forest-Wildlife Management Major at Stephen F. Austin State University. Growing up in the rural countryside of deep East Texas, I have always been an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman. The excitement of the hunt and the mystic, grandeur, and vastness of nature drew me close to the land and its natural resources, specifically to the wildlife. It was this early connection that fueled my desire to make a career as a wildlife biologist. I currently am employed as a wildlife/forestry technician for a private consulting/mitigation company but have worked for state wildlife departments, hunting NGO’s, as well as private ranches. My work also extends into the administrative, organizational, and political side of the wildlife field as well. Within The Wildlife Society, I serve as the chair of several committees designed for the advancement of wildlife policy such as Recovering America’s Wildlife Act (H.R. 3742), both at the state and national levels in addition to serving as the President of the SFASU Student Chapter of The Wildlife Society. Within my college department, I am also an active officer in other organizations focused on wildlife and forestry, namely Ducks Unlimited and the Association of Southern Forestry Clubs. In addition to these, I have been heavily involved in the Texas Youth Hunting Program and the Texas Brigades. After completing my degree at SFA, I intend to pursue a Master’s in Big Game Management and Restoration at Sul Ross State University. After which I intend to pursue a wildlife law degree at the University of Montana. Funds from this scholarship will greatly support me in my pursuit of higher education as well as fulfilling my mission of conserving wildlife across the globe through sustainable use and management.

Population Reduction of WhiteTailed Deer for the Management of Cattle Fever Ticks in South Texas I’m originally from NY and graduated with my bachelor’s in biology from Paul Smith’s College. During my undergrad, I assisted in some preliminary research looking into the use of domestic dogs as sentinels for Lyme Disease. Currently, my project is looking at the effects of reducing the white-tailed deer population in an area of southwest Texas to see if the cattle fever tick population also declines. Cattle fever ticks are a large concern for cattle ranchers, as they can carry a Babesia parasite that can be deadly in cattle. Deer can be an alternative host for the tick, creating concerns as tick burdened deer can disperse to new areas inside and outside the permanent quarantine zone. We will also be analyzing deer movements, vegetation, and other factors that may contribute to tick loads. Along with some genetic analysis that will give us an idea of relatedness between deer on a temporal scale.

Trey Johnson

Jacob Locke

Meghan Mahurin

Graduate Research Assistant/ Master of Science in Range and Wildlife Management

Master of Science in Range and Wildlife Management

Graduate Research Assistant/ M.S. in Wildlife, Aquatic and Wildlands Science and Management

Sul Ross State University

Sul Ross State University Parasite Occurrence of Quails in Trans-Pecos, Texas In May of 2017, I graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences. After graduation, I worked various research technician jobs across the country. I began pursuing a Master of Science in Range and Wildlife Management at Sul Ross State University in January of 2019. I am currently employed by Borderlands Research Institute as a Graduate Research Assistant. The focus of my project is to determine the occurrence of parasites in quails of the Trans-Pecos ecoregion of Texas. To do this, I am harvesting quail from ranches across the region and conducting necropsies in the lab to collect baseline data. I am currently working to identify factors that may influence parasite abundance in these samples. In the future, we aim to build off of this data in an effort to determine the effects that parasites have on quail survival.

A Carrying Capacity Estimate and Grazing Regime Analysis Based on Pronghorn Preferred Forage in Trans-Pecos, Texas My name is Jacob Locke and I was raised in Center, Texas, deep in the pineywoods of east Texas. I spent a lot of time hunting and fishing growing up in a small town surrounded by national forests and many lakes. This upbringing in the outdoors led me to study wildlife in college. I graduated from Texas A&M University in May 2018 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences with an emphasis in Wildlife Ecology. I now have the privilege to continue my education in the wildlife ecology field by pursuing a Master of Science degree in Range and Wildlife Management studying pronghorn restoration in Far West Texas. My thesis project is part of the Trans-Pecos Pronghorn Restoration Project. More specifically, I am developing a carrying capacity estimate for pronghorn in the two main restoration areas, as well as conducting an analysis on how different cattle grazing regimes affect pronghorn forage production.

Texas Tech University Influence of Wind Energy on Burrowing Owl Habitat Use in the Texas Panhandle Like most students in wildlife-related fields, my passion for hunting brought me here but my love for research kept me here. I received my B.S. from Texas Tech University in Natural Resources Management in 2018. After graduation, I worked as a field technician in New Mexico before starting graduate school at Texas Tech University in August 2019. I have accepted a position as the laboratory coordinator for NRM 1401 (Introduction to Natural Resources Management) for the 2020-2021 school year, and I am looking forward to sharing our field with new students at Texas Tech University. My current research project focuses on burrowing owl habitat use in relation to wind energy. Burrowing owls have been in decline for many years due to anthropogenic factors. I am using satellite transmitters on the Argos network to monitor migration patterns and dispersal from natal burrows as well as how they use habitats surrounding wind turbines. This data could influence wind energy mitigation efforts in the future.

CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;˘ 61

Michael Page

Zachary Pearson

Seth Rankins

Graduate Research Assistant/ Masters of Science in Range and Wildlife Management/ Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute

Graduate Research Assistant/ PhD. / Wildlife Sciences

Graduate Research Assistant / Masters of Science in Range and Wildlife Management / Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute

Texas A&M University-Kingsville Developing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Approaches for Range and Wildlife Habitat Studies Ever since I can remember, I have always had a passion for the outdoors. I am an avid outdoorsman and can rarely be found without a fishing rod in hand. From countless hunting and fishing trips with my family, I grew a love for nature and the sport of hunting and fishing and their role in conservation. I grew up in Kennedale, TX. I chose to pursue a degree in Range and Wildlife Management from Texas A&M University-Kingsville for my Bachelor’s degree and my Masters degree. I am a certified UAV Pilot and have trained numerous students on obtaining their own licenses for flying UAVs for range and wildlife management studies. The aim of my project is to develop approaches and applications useful for the assessment of rangelands woody cover encroachment and forage production. The specific objectives of my research are (1) to integrate UAV and satellite imagery to quantify the amount and spatial distribution of honey mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa) in rangelands and, (2) to develop broad scale approaches to quantify forage mass in rangelands. This type of information can be used for wildlife studies to quantify woody cover properties not captured by traditional satellite imagery, along with allowing the collection of large number of samples using a non-destructive and inexpensive method to estimate available forage for grazing animals.

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Texas A&M University - Kingsville Transitioning to State of the Art Technology for Estimating Northern Bobwhite Quail Density I am from La Vernia, Texas and completed both my Bachelors and Masters of Science in Range and Wildlife Management at Texas A&M University – Kingsville. Currently, I am working toward a PhD. in wildlife science. Having accurate wildlife population estimates is vital in developing harvest quotas and guiding future management. To do this, I focused my research on estimating Northern Bobwhite quail density across large acreages of South Texas using helicopter surveys. I am working to refine the protocol for conducting aerial distance sampling surveys for bobwhite quail. Additionally, I am testing the feasibility of thermal imagery mounted on drones to conduct surveys for roosting bobwhite quail. These are topics which are important to me as we begin to rely on more technological systems to conduct wildlife surveys.

Texas A&M University-Kingsville The influence of microhabitat on the phenotypic quality of whitetailed deer in South Texas I am originally from Cusseta, Alabama and received my B.S. in Wildlife Ecology and Management from Auburn University in 2017. Before moving to Texas, I worked as a seasonal technician with a diversity of animals. Currently, I reside in Kingsville, Texas where I am working on a M.S. degree under Dr. Randy DeYoung at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute. For my Master’s research, I am studying how localized nutrition drives size differences in white-tailed deer. In the future, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. enabling myself to become a research scientist capable of addressing applied wildlife management issues. I stay busy with my research project and I routinely am found in the field collecting forage samples or in the laboratory running nutritional analysis. When not working on my own research, or learning new skills with colleague’s research, I enjoy trying my luck hunting whatever happens to be in season on public hunting lands scattered throughout South Texas.

Kathryn Sliwa

Willis Sontheimer

Sam Stroupe

Masters of Science in Range and Wildlife Management / Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute

M.Sc. Student in Wildlife Ecology

PhD Student, Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine Biomedical Sciences PhD Program

Texas A&M University-Kingsville Nilgai Movement Ecology: Implications for Management of Cattle Fever Ticks in South Texas My name is Kathryn Sliwa and I am originally from Tuckerton, New Jersey. I received my B.S. in Conservation and Wildlife Management from Delaware Valley University in 2015. After graduation, I worked as a technician on many different research projects throughout the country that promoted hunting and wildlife conservation. I have had the opportunity to work with numerous species including sea turtles, pheasants, whitetailed deer, and black bear. In 2018, I began my Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree with the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. My research focuses on nilgai movement ecology and how nilgai impact cattle fever tick eradication efforts. As an exotic species in South Texas, nilgai are poorly understood. With the risk of a cattle fever tick outbreak in the region, the presence of nilgai has become increasingly important. For my study, we deployed 30 GPS-satellite collars on nilgai in Cameron County, TX. The collars provide us with 1-hr locations, so we can closely monitor nilgai movements. From this research, we will gain a better understanding of nilgai space use with the hopes of providing insight on how to target nilgai for cattle fever tick treatment.

Texas State University Antler Allometry in White-Tailed Deer I grew up in Norman, Oklahoma and obtained a Bachelors of Science in Biology from the University of Oklahoma. I am in my first year as a M.Sc. student in the Wildlife Ecology program at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. My thesis will explore the allometric relationship between body size and antler development in white-tailed deer. My work will examine the following questions: Is antler development within a species similar to what has been reported across species? Are relationships between the development of body and antler sizes consistent across individuals or do they vary among individuals. Do relationships between body mass and antler mass differ with the energy content of the diet? The results from this research will be useful to deer managers to determine how nutritional conditions affect antler size of mature males.

Texas A&M University North American Bison Conservation Genetics/Genomics The North American bison population crash of the late 1800s and the increase in recovery of this species over the last 100 years is truly a remarkable story in wildlife conservation. My dissertation research involves the development of new genetic and genomic tools to help understand, manage, and ensure their continued success for the next 100 years. I am developing a new parentage test for North American bison utilizing genomicbased technology called Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). This technology provides very powerful and in-depth genetic tools for bison parentage, ancestry, genetic diversity and to identify problems with inbreeding in closed populations. Using SNP based technology, we can look at hundreds or thousands of markers across the genome compared to previously used microsatellites which evaluated less than 50 genetic markers. Using this genomic technology, we are working with the National Parks Service and private herd owners to get a broad view on population-specific breeding structure and sire success among herds with various effective population sizes, management strategies, age structures and herd history. With a more in-depth look into these aspects of bison population genetics this knowledge can be used to help determine the best long-term management practices for the conservation of this important North American species. In addition, information from these genomic-based approaches allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of the overall genetic health of this species. These studies are being conducted with bison from Yellowstone NP, Teddy Roosevelt NP, Wind Cave NP, Badlands NP and large US-based private bison herds.

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Daniel Wilcox

Kelley Wood

Hailey Wright

Graduate Research Assistant for Borderlands Research Institute; Major: Range & Wildlife Management

Major/Concentration: Natural Resource Management, Wildlife Biology

Sul Ross State University

Habitat Selection and Survival of Aoudad, Desert Bighorn Sheep, and Mule Deer

Estimating Economics of Agriculture, Hunting, And Tourism Industries in the Trans-Pecos

My name is Daniel Wilcox. I have been hunting and fishing with my father for so long that my first experiences predate my earliest memories. I have always been able to rely on the outdoors for not only recreation but for therapy and guidance as well. Hunting is an incredibly important conservation tool and has several beneficial influences to our state’s wildlife – both directly and indirectly. I want to spend my career analyzing these contributions to our ecosystems as to promote a long-term assurance that this pastime will persist through generations. With this sentiment, I pursued an undergraduate degree in wildlife, sustainability, and ecosystem science from Tarleton State University and became heavily involved with The Wildlife Society. I am fortunate to have found myself under the impression of these two institutions as they offered many opportunities to refine my interests and skillsets in the wildlife ecology domain. I developed an interest in the ecology of large mammals, particularly questions regarding the “how, when, and why” they select habitat. I graduated from Tarleton in June 2019 and accepted a graduate research assistantship with Borderlands Research Institute at Sul Ross State University the following August. Here, I am investigating similarities in habitat associations between aoudad, desert bighorn sheep, and mule deer in Texas. Encroaching aoudad populations across Texas threaten a deleterious impact to desert bighorn and mule deer populations. Niche overlap between the three species and available niche space of recipient communities will influence the intensity of such impacts. These processes are difficult to quantify, however, investigating habitat use and survival between aoudad, desert bighorn, and mule deer in a co-occupied community will shed light on native species’ response to this invader.

I am from Victoria, Texas which is where I began my passion for wildlife conservation. My parents encouraged me to spend time outdoors, and I participated in the Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program through 4-H starting in elementary school. I learned techniques on improving habitat and different preferences of each species from a young age. This is also where my passion for wildlife photography began. As a first-generation college student, I attained by B.S. in 2019 from Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) majoring in Range and Wildlife Management. While attending TAMUK, I held positions in the TAMUK Chapter of TWS as Media and Social Chair as well as President when we received the national student chapter of the year. I also became a member of the Soil Judging Team where we participated at the national competition and placed ninth in the team division. After graduating, I assisted with some research at Sul Ross State University in the summer of 2019 before beginning my graduate studies in the Fall of 2019. My graduate project is estimating the economics of agriculture, hunting, and tourism in the Trans-Pecos region. I am also serving as the Range Vice President of our Sul Ross Range and Wildlife Club. Outside my research, I enjoy spending time in the outdoors, wildlife photography, and assisting with education and outreach opportunities.

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Texas Tech University I grew up in Paducah, Texas, on the Triangle Ranch. I love living in the country and feel blessed to have grown up on a ranch, riding horses, hunting, fishing, taking pictures, and exploring the ranch. This is the reason I am pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Natural Resources Management at Texas Tech University, so that I can help protect and manage native rangelands so that future generations can enjoy hunting, fishing and watching wildlife. I have had the opportunity to work as a summer intern at Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Wildlife Management Areas near Paducah and Brownwood. This gave me the opportunity to get hands-on experience studying wildlife and managing the habitat. I tracked turkeys and horned lizards using radio telemetry, monitoring their movement, habitat preferences and survival. I also trapped and banded different birds, conducted wildlife surveys, sprayed invasive brush and many other things. This past summer I worked at an intern at the Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch. I had the opportunity to track and monitor northern bobwhite and blue quail, small mammal trapping, and even conduct my own independent study. I plan to pursue a career as a Natural Resources Specialist with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and hope to work with landowners and hunters helping them to improve their properties to benefit wildlife and conservation of our natural resources.

Include HSCF or HSC in Your Estate Plans Supporting the future of conservation and Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) or Houston Safari Club (HSC) as part of your legacy is a thoughtful and meaningful way to preserve the future of sport hunting. There are several giving options available to you!

Your commitment helps ensure your legacy to protect the future of hunting. hscfdn.org/legacy-program-hscfdn Contact Joe Betar at 832.841.0022 or joe@wehuntwegive.org to learn more!

Enactment of the Great American Outdoors Act and America’s Conservation Enhancement Act Create Two More Historic Wins during 116th Congress

BY JEFF CRANE, PRESIDENT OF THE CONGRESSIONAL SPORTSMEN’S FOUNDATION

the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at $900 million annually. LWCF is a half-century old program that reinvests revenue from offshore oil and gas revenues to fund on-the-ground conservation projects and public access to the outdoors. espite today’s hyper-polarized politics, The Great American Outdoors Act also fully funds the sporting-conservation community has a Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation initiative brought both sides of the aisle together over known as the Making Public Lands Public initiative, the last two years during the 116th Congress. The which will help enhance access to an estimated 10 116th Congress has produced historic wins for the million acres of inaccessible public lands. outdoor sporting-conservation community, fish, and Just a few months following the enactment of wildlife with enthusiastic support from both ends of the Great American Outdoors Act, the American the spectrum. Most recently, on October 30, President Conservation Enhancement Act (ACE) made its way Trump signed America’s Conservation Enhancement to the President’s desk. Championed by Congressional (ACE) Act (S. 3051) into law, adding to the remarkSportsmen’s Caucus (CSC) Members Senators John able achievement of passing the Barrasso and Tom Carper and coGreat American Outdoors Act in sponsored by CSC Leaders Senators The 116th Congress August 2020. The enactment of these Martin Heinrich and John Boozman, has demonstrated two pieces of legislation, especially the ACE Act builds upon the their commitment during acrimonious political times, already impressive list of conservato America’s 53.4 demonstrates an increasingly bipartition accomplishments during the million sportsmen san recognition that the outdoors are 116th Congress. truly one of our nation’s most valuThe ACE Act will benefit fish and and women by able assets and the 116th Congress wildlife habitat and enhance hunting investing in the future has invested accordingly. and fishing access and opportunities of conservation in The Great American Outdoors throughout the nation by reauthothis country and Act is arguably the most monurizing and establishing conservation seeking to enhance mental victory for sportsmen and programs for the future of our fish, access for hunters, women of our lifetime. It is the sinwildlife, and natural resources. anglers, trappers, and gle greatest financial commitment Particularly, the primary provisions recreational shooters. to increasing public land access and comprised in the ACE Act that are providing new opportunities for curof special interest to sportsmen and rent and future generations of sportsmen and women. women include: The Great American Outdoors Act will provide a total • Reauthorization of the North American Wetlands of $9.5 billion over 5 years to address the crumbling Conservation Act at $60 million annually for a peinfrastructure on America’s public lands and waters. Of riod of 5 years that, $3 billion will be allocated to repair and maintain • Prohibition of the EPA from regulating the use of public land infrastructure overseen by the Bureau of lead fishing tackle for a period of 5 years Land Management (BLM), U.S. Fish and Wildlife • Establishment of a task force within the U.S. Fish Service (USFWS), and U.S. Forest Service (USFS). and Wildlife Service to combat Chronic Wasting Collectively, BLM, USFWS, and USFS annually supDisease port more than 25 million hunting days and nearly • Authorization of the National Fish Habitat 45 million fishing days, highlighting the importance Partnership at $7.2 million annually for a period of access to these lands for America’s sportsmen and of 5 years women, as well as the outdoor economy. • Reauthorization of the Chesapeake Bay Program Additionally, the Great American Outdoors starting at $90 million and increasing to $92 million Act also provides full and permanent funding for over a 5-year period

66 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

The 116th Congress has demonstrated their commitment to America’s 53.4 million sportsmen and women by investing in the future of conservation in this country and seeking to enhance access for hunters, anglers, trappers, and recreational shooters. The Great American Outdoors Act and the ACE Act build off of momentum generated earlier this Congress with the passage and enactment of the John D. Dingell Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act, the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Support Act, and the Modernizing the PittmanRobertson Fund for Tomorrow’s Needs Act. Particularly, the accomplishments the sporting community has seen within the recent months as our

country continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic is a clear indication of the value of our time-honored sporting traditions. As we near the end of the 116th Congress and approach the 117th Congress, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, with the Houston Safari Club, will continue to work diligently to ensure the implementation of these pieces of legislation are in accordance with their original intent. The ACE Act, in addition to the Great American Outdoors Act and other policy successes during this Congress, will ensure the health and well-being of our fish and wildlife, natural resources and outdoor sporting heritage are a priority now, and into the future. ★ CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 67

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Global Rescue Operations team using a satellite phone.

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Backcountry

EMERGENCY Communication Contributed by www.globalrescue.com/hscf

TRAVELING NEAR OR FAR? GOING WITH FRIENDS, family or solo? Heading into the backcountry? Regardless of your trip destination, duration or travel companions, you should always have the ability to stay in touch, especially in case of an emergency.

ONE-WAY VS. TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION

Before mobile phones, WiFi and satellite phones, staying safe in the wilderness or even on a short hike in the state park meant letting someone know where you were going, who you were going with, when you would return and what to do if you didn’t return at the expected time. Today, the most reliable way to get help after becoming ill or suffering an injury in the backcountry, or any other remote locations, is through two-way communication. Ensuring this capability requires planning. Ask yourself the following questions before any trip: • Is there reliable cell service where I am going? • What emergency resources are available and how will I contact them? • What would a rescue entail if I became injured where I plan to go?

NO CELL SERVICE

What should you do if you have an emergency and do not have a working two-way communication device? What will you do if you have phone service, but your battery died because you were busy snapping selfies, live-streaming your hike on social media and running a GPS navigational-based trail map application, instead of using a real map?

Maybe you brought an extra power pack and you have the right cables – but perhaps not. What if your phone fell out of your pocket and you heard a splash when you were filling your water bottle at the stream? When you do not have two-way communication capability or your devices have failed, you must resort to more primitive, but often effective, emergency and one-way communication methods. These emergency signals can include: • Yelling for help • Sending someone in your group or a passerby for help • Blowing a whistle • Firing off an emergency flare • Safely building a signal fire • Using a signal mirror There are alternatives. If cell service is not available, there are various satellite communications devices available that don’t rely on cell tech. These include satellite tracking and messaging devices where you can send a 160-character text messages or emails to anyone. You can also activate an SOS feature notifying an emergency coordination center of your location and emergency. There are also several personal locator beacons (PLB) for personal use available. A PLB is a one-way emergency signaling device that only sends a distress signal, like a whistle or a flare. With two-way satellite communication devices, you can provide additional important information for rescue services. Two-way satellite communication allows the rescue service to ask you specific questions to help them assemble the right resources to get to you. CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 71

SMARTPHONES IN THE BACKCOUNTRY

Ensure your phone works where you are going. Make sure you have an extra power pack, batteries or charging capability. Keep it as fully charged as possible. If you choose to use navigation, fitness, weather or communication apps, be aware of your battery life. A navigation app does not replace the need to know how to use a map and compass. Protect your phone and all other electronics from moisture and impact.

SATELLITE MESSAGING AND TRACKING DEVICES

When you need two-way communication capability and your cell phone will not work, a satellite messaging device is your next best choice. These devices use communication satellites to send an email, SMS or SOS message. They also usually have a tracking feature, where the recipient back home – or rescue service – can track your trip progress on the interfacing device web page.

SATELLITE COMMUNICATION DEVICES

There are several available devices. The Garmin InReach and the SPOT X devices have been around the longest, followed by the Bivy Stick and Zoleo devices. These devices are easier to use, manage and carry than a satellite phone. They are also significantly less expensive, between $300 and $500 versus $1,500 and up for a satellite phone.

STANDALONE OR PAIRED

Some satellite messaging devices have internal keyboards or messaging capability and some devices must pair with a smart Global Rescue Operations team using a solar-powered charger.

72 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

phone to maintain two-way communications. For the more extreme adventures, the devices with standalone messaging capability are best because you won’t have your messaging device and your smartphone running simultaneously. The Garmin InReach Explorer and SE have standalone messaging capability, as does the SPOT X device. The Bivy Stick and Zoleo devices must be paired through Bluetooth with a smartphone for two-way satellite communications capability. The smartphone does not require cell service for this – it is working via the satellites through the messaging device. It is important to understand that you cannot communicate with your phone when paired with these devices. The phone is just the keyboard and information screen – the device is doing the communicating.

SMS AND EMAIL

When you send a message, SMS or email, the recipient receives a text or email and a link. When opened, a map graphic shows your location on the map, coordinates and a message of up to 160 characters. The recipient can answer directly to the text message or respond through the linked website. Harding Bush, Global Rescue security operations manager, prefers messages from these devices rather than voice communication on a satellite phone since much of the potential for human error is eliminated. “If somebody calls with a satellite phone and cannot provide coordinates, it’s difficult to get an accurate location. There could also be voice quality issues. We often have to share the information with various rescue services and when it’s in an email

message, the original content is guaranteed to remain consistent,” he said.

TRACKING FEATURE

These devices also have a tracking feature where you can send a message and the recipient will receive a link that can track the progress of your trip. Many corporate users of these devices use this feature to track the location of remote workers. Everywhere Communications is a company that has taken this to the next level. They provide corporations and organizations with specially adapted Garmin InReach devices that can be tracked and communicated to through an organizational web-based hub. The devices and the hub maintain sophisticated encryption and users can jump between mobile and satellite coverage as available or required.

SOS

The satellite communication devices also Man lighting a signal fire in the wilderness. have SOS activation buttons. When the SOS button is activated on the InReach, Zoleo and SPOT X devices, an emergency service coordination center receives the message. The coordination “An emergency is not the time to learn how to use a satellite center will notify the appropriate emergency resources. Global phone,” Bush said. Rescue members often reconfigure their devices to contact Global If you are using a satellite phone in an emergency, there is a Rescue directly. good chance you may be scared or injured. This may affect the It is important to remember that Global Rescue must have quality of your message. two-way communication with members to active rescue services. It is always a good idea to think about what you need to say When the SOS button is activated on a Bivy Stick device, before you make the call and write down the most important Global Rescue receives the emergency notification directly. information. Also, always be prepared to write down any inforJust as you store essential contact information in your smartmation you receive from the recipient. phone, the same information should be stored in the satellite Several companies rent satellite phones. If you have a trip where messaging devices – especially for the models with standalone you may have requirements to make voice communications, rentmessaging capability. ing a satellite phone may be a less costly answer. In addition to the cost of the device, there are various service subscription plans. Plans are usually monthly and vary in price WHERE ARE SATELLITE PHONES ILLEGAL? according to expected message and tracking feature use. In some countries, satellite communication devices and phones are illegal because satellite communications circumvent the naSATELLITE PHONES tional communications system and they cannot be monitored. Satellite phones are the next level up in communication capaIf you are found having a satellite phone or messaging device bilities. Just like the messaging devices, satellite phones require in these countries, you may be arrested and put in jail. These a clear view of the sky. countries include India, China, Iran, Cuba, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Satellite phones are more practical for a user who needs voice Myanmar, Chad, Sudan and North Korea. communications in remote areas. There are other countries where permitting is required. Some Tour operators and guides, remote workers, non-government countries only ban foreigners from having satellite communicaorganizations, scientists or other researchers may have a comtions. Be sure to check before you travel. munications requirement beyond just a 160-character text or “We always recommend that if you’re traveling, especially to email. A larger group of travelers may have one or two satellite remote locations where cellular service is not absolutely guarphones and several messaging devices. anteed, to pack a satellite phone or messaging device and extra Many satellite phones also have SMS, email and SOS cabatteries,” Bush said. “If you’re concerned enough about your pability. They don’t, however, always provide recipient location travel communications to buy one of these devices, then you also coordinates during voice communications. need a Global Rescue membership.” The most important aspect of using a satellite phone (or even Houston Safari Club Foundation highly recommends purchasthe devices) is understanding the dialing instructions. There are ing a Global Rescue membership prior to your next trip. Single specific steps: trip, annual and family options are available. For more informa• Extend and rotate the antenna tion, visit info.globalrescue.com/hscf1 or call (617) 459-4200 and • Wait for the connection and dial mention you’re a Houston Safari Club Foundation member. ★ CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 73

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CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ 75

Stuff It BY SCOTT LEYSATH

PRACTICALLY ANY GAME MEAT CAN BE STUFFED WITH something that will enhance the flavor and create an attractive dish on the dinner plate. Consider the advantages of serving a duck breast fillet that has been stuffed with fresh herbs, grilled peppers and your favorite cheese. When compared to serving a whole duck that your guests fight to keep from sliding off the plate as they try and dismember it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a better proposition. Many a duck has ended up in someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lap while trying to separate the perfectly cooked breast from the sinewy legs.

STUFFED VENISON LOIN

1: First Cut

3: Stuffed

2: Butterflied

4: Roasted

People who complain about how wild turkey or pheasant is dry often resort to a slow-cooker and a can of creamed soup to make them moister. While that all-too-common practice will result in juicier meat, it also makes it taste like salty canned cream soup. Stuffing a wild turkey or pheasant breast with blue cheese, bacon and blue cheese will add both moisture and flavor, but the delicious natural flavor of the bird hasn’t been compromised. It adds another flavor element without disguising how a wild bird should taste. Stuffing a mild-tasting fish like trout not only improves the flavor, but the cooked fish also looks great on a plate. The stuffing can range from sliced lemons and limes to assorted sliced vegetables or wild rice. If you want to amp up the flavor, try it with spicy peppers, fresh cilantro and lime-infused butter. Stuffing a pocket on any fish fillet creates a tasty surprise for your guests. Sautéed grouper is great, but grouper stuffed with fresh pesto is even better.

STUFFED VENISON LOIN

I’ll start with a personal pet peeve. It bothers me when processors and home cooks hack perfectly good backstraps (loins) into butterflied medallions. Once thawed, they are only good for a couple of uses. They can be pan-cooked or grilled or somehow speared onto a skewer. Why not leave the muscle intact, or at least in chunks? That allows the cook much more flexibility when it comes to making dinner. Thawed portions can still be cut into butterflied steaks. They can also be used for kabobs, stir-fries, skewers and just about any other recipe that calls for venison.

5: Sliced

Stuffing a loin from any antlered animal is relatively easy. Lay the loin on a flat work surface. Using a sharp thin-bladed knife, make a cut lengthwise from end to end, but not all the way through. When done, you will have created a “hinge” so that the loin can be opened up like a book. Press down on the opened loin or lightly pound so that is of about the same relative thickness throughout. Don’t worry if you happen to cut through the meat, leaving an opening. It can be easily patched with a strip of bacon, prosciutto, spinach or roasted peppers. What you stuff into your loin is a personal choice. Some prefer to keep it simple with a couple strips of bacon and a favorite cheese. When stuffing with cheese, it’s best to mix in a light CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 77

MAC AND CHEESE SURPRISE

portion of breadcrumbs with the cheese. One of the problems with stuffing with softer cheeses is that, you know when the meat is done because all of the cheese melted out of the stuffing. The breadcrumbs will help keep the cheese where it belongs – on the inside of the loin. Once you have butterflied the loin, season both sides with salt and pepper. Lay it, cut sides up, on a work surface and add the stuffing ingredients. Most first-timers tend to overstuff. More is better, right? Wrong. Trying to cram too much into the cavity makes it much harder to bind together when cooked. After stuffing, it’s best to wrap and bind it together tightly. The technique that butchers and chefs use to tie a roast together is relatively simple, but not so easy to explain. How it looks when tied together is not nearly as important as how it stays together after cooking. If butcher string isn’t on hand, the opening can also be secured with toothpicks or skewers. My preferred way of cooking stuffed loins is to first place it in a hot, lightly oiled oven-safe skillet, cut side down. That helps to bind the opening and keep the stuffing intact. Rotate the loin until all sides are evenly browned. Then place the skillet into a preheated 375 degree oven until the internal temperature of the loin is 130 to 135 degrees for medium-rare. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into medallions and arranging on plates or a platter. The stuffing process is the same for any boneless hunk of game meat. Butterfly, flatten to keep the thickness even, stuff, secure, cook, let it rest and then slice into medallions or serve whole. When stuffing duck or goose breasts, it’s best to brine in a mild saltwater solution first. After brining, pat dry and proceed with the stuffing and cooking part.

STUFFED MEATY MAC AND CHEESE

Mac and Cheese belongs on the list of Favorite American Comfort Foods. From the three-minute microwave version we 78 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

ate as kids to the ones we make from scratch with real cheese, it’s also one of my personal guilty pleasures. The variations on the basic recipe are limitless. Smoked salmon, shrimp, chili, bacon and even lobster all work well when paired with creamy mac and cheese. This recipe stuffs bell peppers with three cheeses, pasta, cream and a meaty surprise at the bottom. If ground game meat is in short supply, try it with pulled feral hog, chopped wild turkey breast or ground game sausage. The size of your bell peppers will determine how full they will be when stuffed. Any leftover stuffing can be enjoyed in a bowl like traditional mac and cheese. The type of cheese used for the sauce is entirely up to the cook. Serves 4

• • • • • • • • • •

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups ground venison Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic cloves 1/2 cup onion, finely diced 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups chicken broth 1 1/2 cups half and half 1 cup each shredded Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese (or any choice of cheese) • 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni • 4 large bell peppers, any color 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season venison with Kosher salt and pepper. Add seasoned venison, garlic and onion to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until meat is evenly browned. Remove from heat and set aside. 2. Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, stirring often, until it is beige in color. Slowly stir in chicken broth while stirring until mixture is smooth. Then

MARINATED STUFFED TROUT

stir in half and half and cheeses. Once the sauce is smooth, stir in cooked macaroni. 3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove the stem end of each bell pepper, creating a “lid,” and remove the ribs and seeds. To stuff each pepper, spoon the ground venison mixture into the bottom third and spoon mac and cheese mixture on top of the ground venison. Place peppers on an oven-safe pan and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

STUFFED MARINATED TROUT WITH COMPOUND BUTTER

This recipe works well with both freshwater and saltwater trout. The marinade adds a mild sweet citrus flavor, the stuffing adds texture and the butter melts on the fish as it is served. Serves 4

• • • • • •

4 1-pound trout, dressed salt and pepper 4 green onions fresh basil leaves lime slices lemon slices

Marinade • 1 cup orange juice • 3 teaspoons honey • 1/3 cup white wine vinegar • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1/4 cup red onion, minced • 1/3 cup olive oil • pinch salt

Garlic and Chive Compound Butter • 1/2-pound salted butter, softened • 1/4 cup fresh chives, minced (or substitute green onions) • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice • Wax paper, foil or plastic wrap 1. Prepare marinade. In a medium bowl, combine orange juice with next 4 ingredients. Add olive oil in a thin stream while whisking vigorously to emulsify. Add salt. Place trout in a plastic or glass container and pour half of the mixture over. Reserve remaining half to baste fish and vegetables during grilling. Cover fish and refrigerate for 2 hours, turning every 30 minutes. 2. Prepare compound butter. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and blend well with a spatula or fork. Transfer butter mixture to the center of a sheet of wax paper and form into a log, about 4 to 5-inches long and 2-inches wide. Roll wax paper over butter, forming a cylinder. Twist paper at both ends and refrigerate butter until firm. 3. Remove fish from marinade. Season inside and out with salt and pepper. Stuff each with green onion, fresh basil leaves and lemon and lime slices. 4. On a hot, well-lubricated grill, brown fish on one side, about 5 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. Baste fish with reserved marinade while cooking, saving a few tablespoons of the marinade to drizzle over cooked fish when served. 5. Once cooked, top with a few slices of the compound butter and serve immediately. ★

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MEM

INTERVIEW WITH

J. Alain Smith By Gayne C. Young

J. Alain Smith is a hunter, conservationist, avid outdoorsman, and host of Rugged Expeditions. He is also a best-selling author, accomplished musician, and philanthropist. I talked to Mr. Smith about all this and more. 82 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ CONVENTION 2021

J. Alain Smith and his band during the filming of the video of their hit song “How Do You Know When You’re Done” available on YouTube, Spotify or i-Tunes.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO HUNTING?

My dad and mum didn’t hunt, but they took our family into the outdoors regularly to camp and we fished a lot together. A neighbor got my brother Norm and I into duck and pheasant hunting. He took us out when we were around 12 years old and I got the hunting bug, bad. Once I got a driver’s license, I would go bird hunting every weekend I could.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FIRST TIME AFIELD.

My first big game animal was a sitka blacktail deer in Kodiak, Alaska when I was 24 years old. It was a forked horn that I shot on the side of a steep hillside about three miles from the truck. It was a long trip back in the dark dragging the deer. I learned to hunt in Alaska with several friends and business associates. I was an Alaska resident so the opportunities to hunt were endless and I took full advantage of them.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO WRITING?

I always kept a handwritten journal of my trips. Friends always told me I had quite a few tall tales of adventure. [Or maybe they said I was full of BS?] One day a friend of mine showed me an article he had published in a magazine and I thought, “I have tons of stories, I should send one in and see what happens?”

My first story was published in Big Game Adventures magazine where I went on to have an article in every issue until they went out of business. I was in several other magazines through the years. That, of course, led into writing my first book which was a collection of short hunting stories called Close Calls and Hunting Adventures. It sold over 5,000 copies and I was pleased with the demand. The best compliment I ever received on my writing style was when a fan told me my books were a lot like reading a Playboy magazine…He said, “Just like Playboy, the photos are better than the writing.”

WHEN AND WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GET INTO FICTION?

I was in the Central African Republic on a threeweek remote safari when a series of odd, scary and exciting events occurred, and it gave me the idea that these events would make a great story. I wrote the outline for the first novel, It’s Not a game Anymore, while in camp and on the way home on the plane ride. [I do a lot of my writing on airplanes since I fly many trips per year]. Fiction is fun for me as I know so many characters in my life and basically just change their names and plug them into the stories as needed. So, many of you reading this may say, “Is that me in the novel?” [Yes, it could be…unless of course you don’t CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 83

like the person you are in the book in which case it’s not you.] In each of the novels I have had the chance to raise huge amounts of money for conservation at a variety of fundraisers by auctioning off the chance for the high bidder to be a character in an upcoming novel. I even had one guy pay as high bidder to NOT be in the novel as he was concerned how he might be depicted.

HOW DID YOUR TV SHOW COME ABOUT?

Rugged Expeditions came about when a bunch of buddies and I were sitting around a campfire in Montana and we were all complaining about outdoor shows and how they were all basically the same and

why weren’t there more big game shows etc. One of the guys chimed in and said, “If you don’t like the shows, why don’t you do your own show?” Having perhaps had one beer too many I said, “Well I just might do my own show, I’ll show you guys.” I got together with Tom Miranda and he produced my first few seasons on Sportsman Channel. As viewers watching habits changed, I made the move to the internet and streaming and today the show can be watched on Amazon, YouTube and Facebook by searching for J. Alain Smith. Our audience expanded tremendously versus cable TV and today we get approximately six million unique views per year to the shows.

WHAT TURNED OUT TO BE YOUR MOST RUGGED EXPEDITION?

Polar bear hunt back in early 90’s. Very little food, no heat in the tent except a Coleman stove, uncontrollable dogs, guides that chain smoked in the small

J. Alain Smith’s latest book and a tremendous lion he collected in Tanzania in 2020 with Adam Clements Safaris.

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tent all night, -35 degrees. I did get a bear Thank God on the eighth day.

HOW ABOUT YOUR FUNNIEST?

My best friend Mack Padgett and I have had so many it’s hard to narrow it down but the hunt when we did the “hashtags” and filmed it for Rugged Expeditions was hysterical. We couldn’t stop laughing long enough to get our lines correct, so we just ad-libbed and that’s what you see on the show “Hash Tags in Uganda?” That is also when we filmed the Safari Rap video, which I would like to apologize for right now. But you have to admit that video gag was funny?

YOU GIVE 100% OF YOUR PROFITS TO CONSERVATION CHARITIES. WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO DO SUCH?

It is an honor to be able to give back to charities that I believe in and sustainable use conservation is one of the top priorities. I made the decision to give back 100% of the profits from the sale of the books to a variety of organizations as a way to promote the books as well as give purchasers a simple way to donate at the same time. To date we have given over $265,000.00 to conservation through the sale of books.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR MUSIC.

I grew up in a musical family, my dad is a great piano player and singer, both my brothers are musicians. I played in a variety of bands in school and college because there were some super fringe benefits to being in a band. We play mostly rock and roll but my passion has always been the Blues. But people want to hear hits and lively music, so I played what I needed to, to get the desired results that being a musician brings… I have a brother Monty Smith who has a recording studio, and he has played all over the country with lots of famous musicians, so I am lucky in that we get to do all the music for my shows in his studio. In the past few years we have had several very popular songs on the internet, Spotify, I-Tunes and Amazon and it’s always fun to do the videos that accompany the songs. I have been blessed to play and/or hang with Ted Nugent, Jimmy Page, Joe Walsh and a host of others. Music is my way of escaping and one of my most favorite things to do is sit around a campfire and have a good old-fashioned sing along to tunes that everybody knows the words to.

LET ME PREFACE THIS BY SAYING THAT I KNOW THAT YOUR ANSWER WILL BE PREACHING TO THE CHOIR AND THAT IT’S ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO CHANGE SOMEBODY’S OPINION IN REGARD TO HUNTING BUT HOW WOULD YOU EXPLAIN TO A NONHUNTER YOU’RE TAKING 350 ANIMALS IN YOUR LIFETIME?

It’s not the taking of over 365 different species lives that I dwell on as much as that I am proud to have

J. Alain Smith in camo, brown bear hunting in Alaska.

contributed money to local remote economies and helped conserve many endangered species by going to all these places around the globe as a sport hunter. The example I use is the markhors of Pakistan and Tajikistan. NO ONE is going there to do a photographic safari at 15,000 foot elevation, in the snow and miserable conditions required to see these amazing animals. Period. So if hunters don’t go there and pay the locals to protect them as a revenue source they will just eat them. “One man’s endangered species, is another man’s lunch”. Same thing applies in Africa and around the world.

WHAT’S NEXT?

I still have a lot of goals; I want to play lead guitar with Eric Clapton, be taller than Jim Shockey, go to the moon, shoot a free-range whitetail over 200 inches, play soccer in a World Cup final for the USA and make my wife Shelley glad that she married me. Going to the moon will be the easiest of these goals to achieve... ★ Visit J. Alain Smith at jalainsmith.com. CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 85

13 3 MEM

LUCKY NUMBER

BY TIM HERALD

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Savoring the moment on a gorgeous New Mexico evening.

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Above & right: The moment of truth, when all the hard work comes together. Below: Full moon over atypical elk country.

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LK IS MY FAVORITE SPECIES TO HUNT in North America. I love the rugged western country they inhabit. The cool temperatures and changing of the seasons are a welcome respite from the hot humid summers of Kentucky where I live. If elk are bugling, there is just nothing like the cat and mouse game of calling and stalking these majestic creatures, and last but certainly not least, I think elk meat in incredibly delicious. Not living in typical elk country, and also because of my busy travel schedule, I don’t get to pursue elk every fall, but I have been pretty lucky over the years and had taken twelve nice solid bulls, most in the 300”-330” class. I have always felt that once a bull grows enough antler to break the 350” mark, he is truly a REALLY BIG bull, but I personally had never been able to take one of that size. Though I have killed quite a few bulls larger over the years, the one elk on my wall is a very nice 318” bull I took on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation nearly twenty years ago with a muzzleloader, and I have always said, I wouldn’t mount another one unless it hit 350”. It’s really not about the score to me though I have mentioned a lot of numbers. I have never entered any animal into any record book. I use numbers just as a reference, and as said before, any bull that is big enough to break 350”, no matter his configuration, you know is a really big bull. He has to have a big frame, and that is what is most impressive to me. When 2020 rolled around, my schedule looked like I could get in an elk hunt in late September or early October, so I started planning. At Worldwide Trophy Adventures, we literally book hundreds of elk hunts every year, and one of our best outfitters has over 500,000 private acres to hunt in western New Mexico that produces some monster elk. Over the years they have taken numerous bulls over 400” including a 419”, 427” and a 443”. One thing special about this unit is that the rifle season on private land begins on October 1st (and runs through December 31st) while elk are CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 89

Elk Gear for Success Temperatures on this hunt fluctuated greatly from 30 degrees in the morning to 80 degrees in the afternoon. We were putting on some serious miles, so layering and versatile gear was a must. I wore KUIU head to toe, and Talus Hybrid Pants with zip-off Merino 145 base layer was the ticket for bottoms. On top, I wore a Strongfleece Hybrid 260 Zip Hoodie topped with an Axis vest over an ultralight Tiburon shirt. That way I was plenty warm in the cold mornings, but when the temps hit 80 in the afternoon, I could stay cool and dry. What I didn’t wear went on my pack, and all Kuiu gear is so light, I never noticed it being there. kuiu.com

Author sighting in on his bull through the Trijicon AccuPoint.

I chose a .338 Win. for this trip shooting Cutting Edge Bullets’ 225-grain Lazer bullets. These ultra-accurate, solid copper bullets do not mushroom, but instead, fracture. After 1-2” of penetration, 3 large petals will break off and radiate outward in a star pattern while the base continues through for even deeper penetration. The pedals cause massive trauma, while the base keeps penetrating, in this case diagonally completely through the big bull elk with an exit. cuttingedgebullets.com My .338 is topped with a Trijicon 5x20x50 AccuPoint scope. I have set up a yardage turret on it that goes

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from 100-650 yards, and I have supreme confidence in it. The rifle/scope/bullet combo shoots way better than I ever could. The AccuPoint’s clarity is incredible, even in low light, and I have come to be almost dependent on the small green aiming point in the middle of my crosshairs. It seems to settle in so well on whatever I am shooting at and gives me that precise point that I need to make an accurate shot, especially at distance. The aiming point is powered by both fiber optics and tritium, so there is no need for batteries, and you never have to worry about it not being illuminated. trijicon.com

Above: The author glassing Moose Head from 1.5 miles away. Below: Herald and Hunter Dane with the regal bull.

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Above: The author and Hunter Dane glassing miles of broken elk country Below: Hunter Dane and the author making the move on the herd through fairly open elk country

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typically still rutting. In most areas, rifle seasons come in after the bugle season has passed. I love hunting the rut, so I set up a hunt to begin on the opener. On this trip, I had the odds stacked against me, but you can’t be successful if you don’t try. First, I was only going to have three days to hunt because of a business issue that came up and required me to be in the office on a Monday morning October 5th. Secondly, my hunt started on the day of the full (harvest) moon, and lastly the afternoon temperatures were still 75-80 degrees though mornings were cool. When I got to New Mexico a couple of days before season, my guide and long-time friend hunter Dane picked me up and told me that he and Hadley Miller had been seeing some good bulls, but they weren’t really bugling, and they weren’t on their feet much during daylight hours. That afternoon we met up with Hadley and scouted the next day and a half. Hunter and I saw a 350-360” bull that evening with a big harem of cows that would have been ridiculously easy to kill, but he was about a half mile off our property. Hadley went a different direction and came back with some video footage of a big 7x7 that he had been seeing for a few days that was on our ranch. We decided to concentrate on that bull, who Hunter and Hadley had nicknamed “Moose Head” because he had a big body, but his head and neck were just absolutely massive. The day before season, we all went to scout him, and we saw him both morning and evening, but from over a mile away. He was the herd bull, and though there were satellite bulls around, we heard or saw no bugling at all. We watched through our Swarovski spotting scopes and tried to figure out a pattern. There were two water holes about 500 yards apart in one area, and the elk drank at one of the two each night, but they seemed to bed in different places during the day. With no bugling, it would be really tough to get in on them in the broken pinion and juniper brush country where they lived. On opening morning, we saw the bull early, but there was a completely open area of over 1000 yards that we had to cross or work 3 miles around to get close. That afternoon, we tried to make a move on the elk, but when we were within about 500 yards with a small hill between us, the wind shifted, and we backed out. We were being cautious and did not want to blow this bull out of the area. We put in 12 miles on foot that day and I slept like the dead that night. Day two we again found the elk early from a distance and watched them go into a thick area to bed only an hour after dawn. We had no play in the morning, so that afternoon we hiked in early, crossed the huge open area, and stationed ourselves close to one of the water holes. We were 4.5 miles from the truck. Hadley was on a hill two miles away, with a spotting scope and radio (that is legal in NM), and the plan was for him try to give us some direction if possible once the elk got up in the late afternoon. About 5PM Hadley told us the elk were out of their beds, but they were not moving our way. They were just feeding

contently, and he did not think they would make it to water before dark. We were still over a mile from the elk, so we decided to make a move. We hated to be too aggressive, but my hunt was half over, and we had to try to make something happen. We closed the distance with the wind in our face, and twenty minutes later as we slipped from juniper tree to juniper tree, Hunter suddenly hit the ground. I did the same and crawled up to see a couple cows on the horizon some 300 yards away. When it was safe, I got into a prone shooting position and waited. All the cows in the herd seemed to go by, and I knew any second the bull would appear. Every cow went left and out of sight toward the boundary of our property, but for some reason, they did a 180 degree about face, and filtered back to the right. I had been watching the same gap in the trees for 10 minutes when I saw the tops of the bull’s long antlers appear. I flipped the safety. Hunter had already ranged the area at about 320 yards, and I had adjusted the turret on my Trijicon 5x20x50 AccuPoint scope. When the bull took two more steps, I could only see his head, neck, and onside shoulder. He was quartering hard toward me, and I knew I the shot needed to be between neck and shoulder, so I was good. I had been waiting a long time for the shot, so I settled in. I put the small green aiming point of my Trijicon just where the dark neck hair met the front of the shoulder knowing the Cutting Edge Bullets’ Lazer would go through to the offside shoulder and take out both lungs. I took a deep breath and gently squeezed the trigger sending the 225-grain CEB to its mark. The bull’s front end went straight down, and his nose hit the ground. He got to his feet thrashing his antlers back and forth, but quickly went back down for good behind some trees. When we walked up on him, I was pretty emotional. After watching this bull for three days, I knew he was the type animal I had always hoped to put a tag on one day. Having to glass him from long distances, and with all the odds stacked against us, I really didn’t know if we would ever get an opportunity. He didn’t shrink at all as we approached, and he was the bull of my dreams. The fallen monarch had a huge frame that was 44.5” wide and had 54.5” beams plus 7 points on each side. I gave thanks to the Lord for blessing me with such a majestic animal, and we hurriedly took some photos as the sun went down to honor the bull for years to come. It was a late night getting him back to camp, but no one seemed to mind at all. We ended up doing about 10 miles on foot that day, and again, I slept like a rock, but a very grateful and contented rock. The next day I cut up meat and packed for my departure, and I even got an earlier flight home and was ready for work on Monday. All I can say is that this was one of those “meant to be” hunts, and I greatly appreciate all the hard work from Hunter and Hadley. In a few months, I will have a new elk on the wall, and I will fondly remember the hunt for Moose Head for the rest of my days. ★

“THE FALLEN MONARCH HAD A HUGE FRAME THAT WAS 44.5” WIDE AND HAD 54.5” BEAMS PLUS 7 POINTS ON EACH SIDE.”

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MEM

HUNTING FOR SOLUTIONS CAN HUNTING BASED CONSERVATION SAVE THESE SPECIES? BY CHESTER MOORE

The greatest wildlife slaughter in the last 100 years is beginning in South America with a huge increase in jaguar poaching to satisfy Asian demand for big cat parts. Whereas in lion hunting, for example, hunters mainly target males, poachers kill males, females, and young for their parts. The slaughter of female jaguars will go a long way toward destroying hope for the species future in some territories. (Photo by Chester Moore)

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A photo of a young but dead Javan Rhino in 1895. The hunter is Charles te Mechelen. Before the modern era of hunting, indiscriminate killing of wildlife in Asia did incredible damage and contributed to laws that no longer allow hunting to this day. The author believes many of these laws are a detriment to conservation.

ildlife populations across much of the world are plummeting. While there are shining examples of the abundant game in North America and parts of Africa, many nations and territories are experiencing epic declines as human populations grow and demand for wildlife habitat and the illegal wildlife trade skyrockets. In my research, the one factor that seems to be the key difference maker is the type of science-based sport hunting that has gone on in North America for the last 100 years. Where this kind of hunting presence exists, wildlife has a better chance of survival due to economic incentives. And while we do not hunt all of these animals, of course, habitat work done for game and money put into game law enforcement benefits all species. A key example would be the 2020 removal of the red-cockaded woodpecker from the endangered species list. Habitat work, including prescribed burning done for wild turkeys, has dramatically benefited this little woodpecker to the point of a remarkable recovery. Having lived in their native range my whole life, the only place I have seen these birds and their colonies were on tracts of national forest land managed for wild turkeys. There are many more examples, but there are also tragic cases of species decline where there is no sport hunting to speak of and limited help from other realms of the conservation world. The following five species fall into this category.

ASIATIC ELEPHANTS

A research project operated by Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and Clemson University scientists shows shocking and increasing poaching of Asian elephants in one of their last strongholds. Myanmar is one of the most forested countries in Asia and has the second largest population with around 5,000 animals. Poachers in that country are not killing them chiefly for ivory but their skin. And that means they are killing males, females, and babies. One of the quickest ways to deplete a population of anything is to kill breeding-aged females, which makes this skin trade particularly deadly. There is no sport hunting in this nation to speak of, which means no access for outfitters to lease concessions of land, work with locals to give wildlife protection incentives, and pay for game patrols. African elephants have been at the forefront of international wildlife conservation efforts for the last 30 years. When media brought ivory to the public’s consciousness in the mid-1980s, the world was rightly appalled, and millions of dollars have gone toward their cause, much of that from the hunting community. Currently, there are an estimated 400,000 African elephants throughout the continent. That’s a massive drop from at least two million in the 1940s. Still, their population is large compared to the Asian elephant, with a best estimate standing at around 35,000 animals scattered throughout Asia. Think about that. CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 97

There are less than 1/10 Asian elephants in comparison to Africans. Why is little said about Asian elephants? In the “green” community, big conservation is big bureaucracy, and the public’s fascination with the African elephant helps generate funding—lots of it. The largest threat to Asia’s elephant has been habitat loss, with poaching also a factor but showing elephant carcasses stripped of tusks raises funds. Showing palm oil plantations and villages taking up space for Asian elephants, not so much. I am all for helping African elephants but shouldn’t a more prominent focus be on Asian elephant populations, which stand at 1/10 of that in Africa? According to the Great Elephant Census, Botswana alone has nearly four times the elephants than all of Asia does with more than 130,000. A hunting ban in 2014 due to animal rightists pressure caused many problems with elephant populations burgeoning to the point of danger in some communities. Government officials lifted the ban in 2019 due to seeing biological and economic issues. If ivory-stripped bull elephants images raise funds, then cows and their babies stripped of their skin should do the same thing. I can’t understand why the major animal television networks and programs are not sending film crews to document this slaughter. Asian elephants in Myanmar need help. Quickly. While hunting Asian elephants will probably never happen here or in most of the continent, it is clear to see how they could benefit from organized, science-based hunting of other species in their range. The boots on the ground, incentive rich system of hunting could revitalize the wildscapes of many of these areas that currently have little no more foreign sport hunting access.

JAGUARS

According to the latest scientific research, only three jaguars lived within the United States as of 2018. A poacher killed one of those three-a male jaguar named Yo’oko. According to an article at LiveScience.com, the rosette patterns on a jaguar’s pelt are unique to each individual. This trait allowed officials with the Arizona Game and Fish Department to identify Yo’oko’s hide in a photo sent to them from the Tucson-based Northern Jaguar Project. “A local rancher, Carlos Robles Elias, told the Arizona Daily Star that he heard from a friend that the jaguar was trapped and killed six months ago somewhere in Sonora, Mexico, near the U.S. border.” And while this jaguar and two others moved in and out of the United States, no one knows where the other two are and how much time they spend north of Mexico. This could mean the last jaguar in America is dead. And there is ample incentive to kill many more of them throughout their range. The Asian black market for tiger parts, such as claws for traditional medicines, has depleted most of Asia’s tiger populations. Due to having direct links because of thousands of workers in South and Central American countries, they are targeting jaguarsin particular for their claws and heads. According to a study published in Conservation Biology, jaguar poaching, as noted by seizures of jaguar parts by wildlife officials and customs agents, increased 200-fold in South America in five years. That’s right-200 fold! For a species that has lost 40 percent of its range and lives in some of the most dangerous places for humans to visit (think 98 HUNTER'S HORN™ CONVENTION 2021

Honduras and Nicaragua), we could be seeing the next great wildlife slaughter taking place. Hunting of jaguars is illegal in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, French Guiana, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Suriname, the United States, and Venezuela. Ecotourism has proven a valuable asset to wildlife in areas where it is feasible but only in Brazil’s Pantanal region is the jaguar a factor. It’s the only place on Earth where ecotourists see them regularly. Otherwise, they are one of the planet’s most elusive animals. Impoverished people with very little governmental oversight will have a hard time passing up the opportunity to kill these cats if it means money. And without any hunting-based incentive, these cats will have to rely on other kinds of conservation measures, and so far, it’s just not working. There have been a few attempts at “green hunting” for jaguars to dart them for GPS collaring and research. I, for one, would love to see that expand to bring the hunter’s influence into more of this great cat’s range.

ASIA’S RHINOS

Issues with Africa’s white and black rhinos have been well-documented on these pages. The Houston Safari Club Foundation has been one of several hunter-based organizations to put funding and expertise into helping save some of the planet’s most iconic animals. Unfortunately, in two Asian nations, there isn’t this kind of access and cooperation with hunting-based conservationists. Sumatran rhinos are even more critically endangered than their African cousins, with fewer than 80 left in the wild, according to Save The Rhino International (STI). These rhinos are the smallest of all, but they are incredibly agile. “Sumatran rhinos can run fast and are very agile. They climb mountains easily and can negotiate very steep slopes and riverbanks. With the protection provided by the horns and rims of hard skin and cartilage on nose and head, they can easily break through the densest vegetation, leaving round tunnels,” according to S.T.I The Javan rhino is in even worse shape, with only 72 animals believed to exist in the wild. These animals, which currently live in dense forests, once had an incredible distribution according to STI. “Javan rhinos used to live in a variety of tropical landscapes, both lowland, and highland, from the mangroves of the Sunderbans in India and Bangladesh, the mountains of southern China, to the sub-montane shrubs on the highest volcanoes of Java. The Javan rhino probably had a wider ecological range than either its larger relative, the greater one-horned rhino, or its compatriot, the Sumatran rhino.” Unregulated killing during colonial times began the decline of these two rhino species. In recent years poaching for their horns to satisfy the same demand as white and black rhino horns for the Asian market is the greatest threat. For whatever reason, they get almost no attention from the global wildlife media.

ORANGUTANS

No one, especially me, would suggest we should start hunting orangutans or any of the great apes for sport or conservation. I believe they would greatly benefit from sport hunting for other species like Sambar in their native range. In 2016, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) declared orangutans in Borneo as “critically endangered.” There has been a massive die-off of orangutans in Borneo over the last decade. A significant portion of that is subsistence hunters entering the forest looking for deer or hogs and killing orangutans

The red-cockaded woodpecker was delisted in 2020. The only place the author has ever seen these tiny birds or their colonies is in a national forest managed primarily for turkeys as in this location in East Texas. (Photo by Chester Moore)

they encounter for food or killing the females to steal the babies to put into the illegal pet trade. A study published in Current Biology shows Borneo has lost 100,000 orangutans between 1999 and 2015. Like many Asian countries without well-organized sport hunting organizations and outfitters like those in North America and parts of Africa, incentives to stop this kind of poaching are problematic.

SUN BEAR

The world’s smallest bear is the sun bear, which lives in Bangladesh, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam and Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. These bears are listed as “vulnerable” by the IUCN. And there is great concern about their future due to an increased market for their bile. Traditional medicine adherents use the bile, and while most come from bear bile farms where bears are kept in tiny cages and have their bile harvested from them in shocking ways, wild-caught bears replenish those that die (and they do so frequently). Poachers also kill them for their claws and other parts, and they catch babies to sell as pets. Hunting them is illegal in most of their range, and the nations where they range have little foreign sport hunting, which is the running theme of the species we are addressing here today.

CONCLUSION

I must address a few key points with this complicated situation. First, hunting is not the only means of conservation success. I have heard that said several times over the years, but it’s not true. While the model we have in North America is the best globally, governments have other success when they get serious about habitat loss and poaching. In fact, in India, there has been quite a turnaround in the population of Indian or one-horned rhinos. There were only around 200 of these majestic animals at the turn of the 20th century, and there are around 3,500 today. Tigers in India have seven seen an

increase over the last five years. Other systems can have success, with ecotourism being an example of helping to provide conservation funding. But hunting has proven by far to be the most successful poaching deterrent and incentive for wildlife on the planet. India has a well-organized government and a strong connection to nature. Many of these other nations do not, and in some of them, ecotourism is not an option. Travel to Myanmar to see elephants, for example, isn’t exactly safe, with the U.S. State Department advising Americans to reconsider travel there. This is the same status as many of the nations mentioned here. Hunters will go into areas standard camera-toting tourists won’t go and have a powerful impact because of the proven incentives offered to locals to end poaching and keep habitat intact. The impact of COVID-19 on travel and the continuing economic damage done by closures will only compound the issue of poaching in these areas. I am not suggesting we try to open hunting for sun bears in Malaysia, for example, but I wanted to show in areas where sport hunting is banned or has not yet been feasible, wildlife suffers. We can quickly point to the decline of wildlife in Kenya since they banned hunting versus the abundance of game in South Africa, where wildlife is hunted and monetized, as a contrasting point. It could do the hunting world some tremendous and much needed public relations boost to lend expertise and funding to projects to help jaguars with their growing problem or even support orangutan protection in Borneo. Like most hunters, I do not have to hunt a species to appreciate it and find it heartbreaking, many great animals are on the decline. The global media’s constant attacks on hunting are causing significant problems for the hunting industry and wildlife. This article is my way of showing that where science-based, regulated hunting exists, nature thrives. And where it doesn’t, significant problems for wildlife are on the rise. ★ CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 99

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PLAN YOUR 2021

ADVEN NOW with Esplanade Travel

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TURE

JACKY KEITH, PRESIDENT

JKEITH@ESPLANADETRAVEL.COM

o one could have predicted the extent to which the travel industry would change over 2020. From borders worldwide closing to strict regulations on air travel, planning a getaway is now a complex endeavor. The benefit and necessity of booking with a travel consultant is more important than ever. While it may seem that travel is still on pause – it’s not! Many are planning trips for 2021, whether it’s rebooking a cancelled adventure or heading off somewhere new. Some of the more remote, exclusive destinations are even fully booking up already for 2021’s high seasons.

ISHAN @SEEFROMTHESKY, UNSPLASH

A huge benefit to booking with a travel company such as Esplanade is our complete flexibility with cancellations and rebooking. If you are unable to travel in 2021 for Covid-related reasons, such as borders closing or other travel restrictions being imposed, we will happily and without fuss use your deposit paid toward any other destination in the world that we sell, less any supplier fees. Your deposit is safe with us, and never expires. Below we feature some countries that are ahead of the game in opening to U.S. tourists. Included are the current travel requirements and restrictions, which are accurate at the time of submitting this article. Please make sure to double check the rules before booking— although if you work with us, we’ll do that for you! So – where to go? Let us entice you! CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 103

As of November 1st, Costa Rica welcomes all travelers from the United States. All travelers must fill out an electronic epidemiological health pass and have purchased travel insurance that covers Covid-19 expenses. A negative PCR test is no longer mandatory. These requirements are quite achievable, especially with the help of a dedicated travel consultant. Diverse biospheres, warm beaches, friendly people, and a short plane ride all add to Costa Rica’s appeal, making it an ideal getaway this cold winter season. It’s the ideal destination for the active traveler who wants to hike, bike, climb, kayak, zipline, horseback ride, or surf. In between activities, there are plenty of opportunities to relax with vast beaches and hot springs. The Northern Plains region is known for the active Arenal Volcano, which has two distinct landscapes: lush vegetation that houses wildlife next to a rugged area of lava flow and sand. This region is also known for its hot springs which provide a relaxing environment surrounded by nature. Due to the sinuous rivers in this area, travelers have the option to go rafting, kayaking, tubing, and fishing. If you prefer to stay dry, venture onto the nature trails, step foot on a suspension bridge, or take a canopy tour. The Guanacaste resort region comprises of tropical dry forests and lowland mountains, perfect for activities such as hiking, biking, and ziplining between days of relaxing ocean-side. Along the coast you’ll find vast stretches of white sand beaches with calm blue waters. If you are looking for something more off the beaten path, head south to Puntarenas. This region is home to islands, inlets, beaches, and natural treasures. The primary attractions here – other than outstanding beaches like Manuel Antonio – are the Monteverde Biological Reserve and the Cloud Forest. The Cloud Forest is considered a “natural jewel” of Costa Rica with its continuous presence of low-hanging fog-like clouds. The Caribbean region on the eastern coast hosts Tortuguero

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National Park, where you’ll find turtles hatching along the beach. Make sure to book with a knowledgeable Costa Rica travel specialist, such as Esplanade, to ensure you travel to the right place at the right time to see the sea turtles. The Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge is also located in this region which is spectacular for fauna and bird observation. The sublime beaches here are known for their unique sand colors of black, yellow, and grey as well as coral reefs.

TANZANIA AND KENYA

As the various safari destinations in Africa plan to reopen, Tanzania and Kenya stand out as countries that avoided the worst of the pandemic and established plans early on for safe reopening. Tanzania requires all travelers to provide a negative PCR test result and fill out a Health Surveillance Form on the plane. For Kenya, travelers must provide a negative PCR test taken no more than 96 hours prior to arrival, have no symptoms, and a body temperature below 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit. It has always been important to use a travel consultant for East Africa to ensure that you travel to the right place at the right time of year, but with our “new normal” it’s more crucial than ever. While each country has many regions worth visiting, there are certain areas that combine well for first timers in terms of wildlife seen, international flights, and easy transit. While we recommend a customized trip from start to finish, flying into Nairobi and out of Arusha, or vice versa, works well for many. The Masai Mara in Kenya is an absolute must for anyone headed to East Africa. This is perhaps one of the more iconic and well-known safari destinations, thanks in part to Out of Africa by Karen Blixen. Going on safari here allows for comfort and luxury mixed with local culture and outstanding wildlife. It pairs nicely with other wildlife destinations in the region, such as the Serengeti in Tanzania, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, or Kenya’s Tsavo National Parks and Mount Kenya.

TESS HOLMAN

COSTA RICA

JULIANA MALTA, UNSPLASH

DUBAI DESERT DUNES, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

From the Masai Mara, take a light aircraft to the Seregenti in Tanzania. The Serengeti is uniquely indescribable. The vast plains and dramatic skyscapes outpace even the American Midwest, and the massive area makes every animal sighting feel special and intimate. The big cat sightings are especially epic, with cheetah and lion regularly seen. The wind and dust can be quite severe, so travel prepared with layers to ensure comfort. It’s essential to include the Ngorongoro Crater in your itinerary. Plan for two nights at a lodge on the Crater rim with a full, long day on the Crater floor. It’s too hard to do it all with just one overnight at the Crater, so give yourself time there to enjoy both the wildlife and lodge experience. The Ngorongoro Crater is a massive volcanic caldera, a big depression in the earth, with wildlife roaming freely about. Tanzania doesn’t stop there with all it has to offer – there’s still a host of other National Parks: Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and Arusha. And that’s not even extending into other regions of the large country. Tanzania is a destination you’ll want to visit time and again to see all it has to offer. If a vacation solely of game drives seems a bit tiresome, then work with us to include a mountain climb on your trip. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an impressive option and feat of personal achievement. This trek doesn’t have to be as rustic as you may imagine – Esplanade will connect you with experienced guides and porters who bring the creature comforts with you up the mountain!

DUBAI

The dazzling and bustling city of Dubai is allowing US travelers to visit with a negative PCR test taken within 96 hours of departure. Start your trip with a night or two in a spectacular room at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, enjoying days of sun and fun. The ocean

is so warm you can stay in the water all day – a great selling point for adults and children alike. The beautiful Burj al Arab continues to dominate the waterfront but is now dwarfed by the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, which stands at almost 3,000 feet. Guests can visit the Observation Deck or have a meal at the top, and it goes without saying that the views are unmatched anywhere else in the world! Next, head out to the desert for a stay at Al Maha Resort & Spa, a fabulous collection of luxury suites with private pools. You’ll need two nights to fully appreciate the property and its surroundings. You’ll come across oryx and small gazelle wandering the property as you head off to one of the many exciting excursion options. Watch daily displays of falconry including an owl and eagle, camel rides, rides on world-class Arabian horses, and dune rides. After each desert adventure, return to the oasis of Al Maha, where the food is fantastic and the service second-to-none.

TAHITI

The French Polynesian islands are currently open to US citizens who show proof of a negative RT-PCR test taken within three days before international air. Travelers must also show completion of health registration on their electronic travel information system. All travelers will be required to self-test four days after arrival. The Society Islands are the most popular to visit, and the most well-known are Moorea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora. Moorea is magical with lush green mountain peaks and blue lagoons. It gives the best glimpse into local Polynesian life. Enjoy activities such as 4WD tours, visits to pineapple plantations, archaeological sites, and temples. It’s a great little overview of Polynesian culture with stunning scenery. Taha’a is known as the vanilla island as 80% of all vanilla in CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 105

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KIT SCHULTZE

French Polynesia grows there. Taha’a is beautiful, romantic, and has the feel of Bora Bora before it exploded and commercialized. While on the island enjoy their stunning beach bungalows, snorkeling, great food, and plenty of opportunity for romance! Bora Bora and its crystal-clear turquoise lagoon is the main attraction of the Society Islands. Stay in one of the 5-star resorts on the motus (reef islets) to enjoy views of the majestic Mount Otemanu towering over the blue lagoon. While in Bora Bora enjoy activities such as snorkeling, relaxing on the beach, Polynesian spa treatments, and amazing gourmet meals. If you’re an avid diver, we recommend a visit to the Tuamotu Islands. Rangiroa, sometimes called the world’s best natural aquarium, is the world’s second-largest atoll and is home to unparalleled marine life. Other attractions include BORA BORA, FRENCH POLYNESIA the Dominique Auroy Winery which produces the world’s only wine made from grapes grown in a coral atoll. In addition to Rangiroa, unplug further on Tikehau, called the Pink Sand Island due to its stunSolar Boat of Cheops. A shop and studio making papyrus art, ning pink sand beaches. carpets and wonderful crafts make this the perfect place to end For those looking to stray further off the beaten path, visit your trip. Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands. They are one of the most remote island groups in the world and are mysteriMALDIVES ous, rugged, mythical, and volcanic. Enjoy hiking and horseback The Maldives is currently open to travelers with a negative riding opportunities, waterfalls, and unique culture far different PCR test result for Covid-19 within 96 hours, a completed from the rest of French Polynesia. These islands are where Paul health declaration form that has been submitted 24 hours prior Gauguin spent the last years of his life and arguably did some to departure, and a confirmed booking in a tourist establishment of his best work. registered with the Ministry of Tourism. The Maldives is a nation of islands (1,192 to be exact!) loEGYPT cated in the Indian Ocean and is known for its mesmerizing Egypt has been welcoming travelers since July with a negabeaches with crystal clear blue water and pure white sand. With tive PCR paper test result, taken no later than 96 hours prior a consistent climate of warm and tropical weather, this is a yearto flight departure. round destination. However, the best time to visit is between In 10 or 12 days you can get a wonderful first look at this November and April as these are the driest months with little amazing country. Start in Cairo with a stay at the Marriott on an to no rain or humidity. island in the Nile. Once a Sultan’s palace, it is a wonderful oasis Only 200 of the islands are inhabited and this is where you among beautiful gardens, away from the craziness of Cairo traffic. will find luxurious resorts with charming overwater bungalows Visit the fabulous Egyptian Museum and the major sites of and the finest amenities – from underwater restaurants to deluxe Cairo before heading to Upper Egypt. A 3- or 4-night cruise spas. The marine life is superb with some of the best snorkelbetween Aswan and Luxor will show you gardens and the beauing and diving in the world. Colorful reefs, intricate caves, and tiful temple of Philae, devoted to the cult of Isis. Cruise the Nile schools of tropical fish can be found in the translucent waters. For by felucca to Elephantine Island, once occupied by the Nubians those interested in a deeper dive, you’ll find manta rays, turtles, as a military camp and one of the earliest settlements before the sharks, and whale sharks (the world’s largest fish!). The water is banks of the Nile were populated. Elephants were once seen consistently warm all year round so there is never the need for a near this area, hence the name. wetsuit. This is the perfect place for a tropical getaway that will Journey down river to Kom Ombo to visit the temple dedicated leave you relaxed and rejuvenated. to Horus, the falcon god, and on to Edfu with the best preserved If island life is calling your name but you hope to see as much of all large Egyptian temples. Luxor is next, positioned on the as possible, reach out to Esplanade about booking a private yacht east bank of the Nile, and is now a vibrant town with a small for your family or group of friends. It’s a fun, intimate way to see museum. In the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt, you walk more of The Maldives. deep into the earth to find tombs of ancient Egyptian royalty. Attend a performance of Son et Lumiere at Karnak and Luxor CROATIA Temples before heading to the West Bank sites at the Valley of Although US travelers are unable to venture to most of Europe, the Kings and Queens. Visit some of the tombs with painted Croatia is open with proof of a negative PCR test within 48 hours. walls, Seti I, Ramesses VI and Tut-Anhkamun. Croatia is a coastal Mediterranean country with beautiful scenFly back to Cairo and spend a couple days at the Mena House ery and beaches, a fascinating history, and unexpected cuisine. A in a room with a pyramid view! In addition to the pyramids of recently discovered hidden gem, its tourism has only skyrocketed Cheops and Chephren, you will see the famous Sphinx and the within the last 20 years and thus serves as a great alternative to

CONOR REES, UNSPLASH

CAVTAT, CROATIA

oft-crowded Italy. Shoulder months May or September are the optimal times to go. In Croatia you would be remiss not to visit at least one beach, and with the plethora of options you’d have to try hard not to spend at least one day gazing out onto the water. Even in the bigger cities such as Dubrovnik and Split there are accessible beaches, from pebbles to sand, and all have crystal clear waters. If you prefer a bit more coastal excitement, plan adventure activities such as diving and snorkeling into underwater caves, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. If atop the water is more your style, you can island-hop via sailboat between any of Croatia’s 1,000+ islands, of which only 48 are inhabited. Croatia is considered the ecologically best-preserved part of Europe with 10% of the country protected. There are 8 national parks and 11 nature parks, the most popular being Plitvice Lakes National Park. Plitvice Lake is stunning with 16 terraced lakes and 90 waterfalls. It is even possible to walk along the lakes using the boardwalk, which stretches over a mile long. While exploring some of Croatia’s exemplary parks you may stumble upon over 3,000 different species of plants. Every step you take in Croatia is accompanied by the immense history and culture ingrained throughout the country. The country has 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Dubrovnik Old Town (which Game of Thrones fans will recognize as King’s Landing). Croatia has many cultural traditions including lacemaking, Ojkanje singing, and traditional manufacturing of children’s wooden toys in Hrvatsko Zagorje. Croatia is also a culinary paradise. Due to its coastal location, seafood is widely served. Delicacies include black risotto, which

is made with squid, and octopus salad. There are also beautiful vineyards along the shores of the Dalmatian coast and wine tastings should be on any oenophile’s itinerary.

TIME TO PLAN!

Travel in our current times is no longer easy nor straightforward. Booking with a knowledgeable travel consultant is more important than ever – someone who can advise on current governmental regulations, ensure you have proper arrangements in place, and take care of any last-minute changes or cancellations due to forces beyond your control. If you’re like the Esplanade team and just can’t wait any longer to explore, contact us today to discuss options currently open and start planning for 2021. Esplanade Travel focuses on international luxury travel, and unique custom-designed trips have been our trademark for 60 years. Our staff has collectively traveled to over 150 countries around the world, and we sell the destinations we know the best and love the most! Our primary destinations are Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Southeast Asia, Italy, France, South America, India, United Arab Emirates and the islands of the South Pacific. ★

ESPLANADE TRAVEL 800-628-4893 | esplanadetravel.com info@esplanadetravel.com Instagram: @esplanadetravel CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 107

108 HUNTER'S HORNâ&#x201E;¢ CONVENTION 2021

www.wildlifepartners.com info@wildlifepartners.com

866.377.3000 Lowland Nyala The Nyala was first imported to the United States in 1927. There were 11 original founders. In zoos, there have been 2250 births from this group. Based on historical records, Nyala arrived in Texas between 1967-1976. In Texas the estimated population as of 2019 is 2000-3000 animals.

A breeder of Nyala in Texas could expect the following: Retail Price per Animal Herd Size

Male

Female

$7,500

$12,000

Total Capital Investment $135,000

$15,000

$120,000

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6

Average Wholesale Price per Animal - $7000

$56,000

Annual Income

$336,000

Tax Savings

$54,000

Original Herd Wholesale Value

$100,000

Total Return Before Supplemental Feed

$490,000

Cost of Initial Investment

$135,000

Annual Offspring to Sell

$355,000 Return - 262% Annual Income 41%

Still wondering if we can produce results? Text

NYALA

you a2021 brochure. 210.373.4611 and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll send CONVENTION HUNTER'S HORN

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109

HSCFMEMBERSPOTLIGHT

Get To Know Me!

LIFE MEM

MEM

5 Minutes With HSCF Member Bryan Ray

WHAT IS THE ONE ITEM YOU WOULD HAVE IF YOU WERE SHIPWRECKED ON AN ISLAND?

From a survival standpoint, I would have to say a good camp knife. From a personal standpoint, it would be my bible.

7. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MEMBER OF HSCF?

Almost 4 years.

WHY DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN HSCF?

Hunting and conservation are my passions, so I have long been involved in hunting organizations. My mother is from Houston, and I still have family in the city, so HSCF was a natural fit.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING AN HSCF MEMBER?

The people. I have met some of my closest friends since joining the club, many of whom have become like family.

WHAT IS OR WAS YOUR CAREER FIELD?

I am a land specialist with Whitetail Properties Real Estate. We specialize in assisting clients throughout Texas, and more than 30 other states, with buying or selling hunting, ranch and farm land.

PREFERRED HUNTING WEAPON — RIFLE, SHOTGUN OR BOW?

I’ll hunt with whatever I can get my hands on, but I am an avid and lifelong bowhunter.

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WHAT WAS YOUR MOST CHALLENGING HUNTING EXPERIENCE?

My archery elk hunt in New Mexico would probably rate towards the top. I was recovering from pneumonia in both lungs and was advised by the doctor that a mountain hunt shouldn’t even be considered. It was tough, but we got it done.

OF ALL THE SPECIES YOU HAVE HUNTED, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE AND WHY?

Growing up in NE Texas, duck hunting was a sacred thing that will always have a special place in my heart, but it’s hard to top being on the side of a mountain between two screaming bulls or on a buffalo track in Africa. I would have to give the tiebreaker to buffalo. There’s something about following a buffalo track, skirting elephants and trailing lions, that is unmatched in the primal feelings it evokes. It’s why we hunt.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?

My favorite type of food would probably be Cajun cuisine. My favorite individual meal would be fried backstrap with mashed potatoes and pan gravy.

10.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK IN TIME, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL YOUR 18-YEAR-OLD SELF? Don’t wait 16 years to marry Christina. My wife and I were high-school sweethearts, but I was an idiot and didn’t make my move until my 30s. It was the greatest decision of my life.

FM E

E M EMBER

HSCFPHSPOTLIGHT

Meet Francisco Rosich of Hunt Spain Trip L

I FM E EM MEBME BR E R

WHAT IS THE PRIMARY AREA AND GAME FOR WHICH YOU GUIDE?

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HUNTING WEAPON AND/OR CALIBER?

The Ibex in Beceite area is my primary game and at the same level I would put the partridge hunt close to Barcelona.

Shotgun Purdey side by side 12 gauge.

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE A CAREER AS A PROFESSIONAL HUNTER?

I love the outdoors so when I’m not hunting I enjoy spending time with my family, farming my lands, chopping wood, improving my hunting areas, walking with my dogs, to resume outdoor activities that are productive.

My passion for hunting came from family tradition. When I was 6 years old, I started to hunt with my father, and he taught me to respect nature. As a youth I was surrounded by guns and dogs; since then I always wanted to become a professional hunter.

3. 4.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST DANGEROUS HUNT? With no doubt a buffalo hunt in Tanzania. WHAT DO YOU WANT A FIRSTTIME CLIENT TO KNOW BEFORE HUNTING WITH YOU?

I would like them to know that for me and my team the hunt is important, it doesn’t matter if they come for one trophy or several. I want to give the best experience and unforgettable memory. We will also give special attention to the non-hunter by organizing sightseeing.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FACING HUNTING AND HUNTERS TODAY?

Regarding hunting nowadays, it is a constant struggle to defend hunting and make others understand the necessity of hunting. When it comes to the hunter, the biggest challenge is making them understand that hunting is unpredictable.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU ARE NOT HUNTING?

8. 9. 10.

FAVORITE MEAL? I love chicken!

WHY DO YOU HUNT? Hunting keeps me active and also provides meat for home and for my dogs. WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU COULD NOT DO YOUR JOB WITHOUT?

I would not be able to do my job without the support of my wife, it’s essential to have the support at home because as a PH, we spend a lot of time away from home.

Francisco Rosich HUNT SPAIN TRIP

hunttripspain.com +34 93 116 2201

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Above left: Dan Duncan & Ron Willenborg Above right: Charles Williams, Susie Fredkin, Tommy Fredkin, Joan Williams, Harry Selby, Mark Jane Green, Frank Green and guests.

LOOKING

BACK By Tommy Morrison

Below left: Melanie & John Pepper | Below right: Dick Teel & Harry Selby

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Above: Tom Cain, Mar Van Ness, Kurt Jones & Ron Mostyn Below: Wendy Barnhart, Sandra Green & Jan Duncan

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces

Innovative Electronic Permit Application System

LIFE MEM

MEM

New electronic system will modernize permit applications, helping the public and wildlife. BY AURELIA SKIPWITH, DIRECTOR OF THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

reallocate it toward permit processing for the public. We will deliver permits more efficiently and provide transparency and accountability through updates and tracking capability when the application is received he U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) by the Service. Furthermore, this technology allows recently launched ePermits – a new electronic applicants to obtain answers to frequently asked quespermitting system that will help simplify, extions through easy-to-use help center content. pedite and improve the permit application process. The Service issues permits under several doCurrently, our agency issues approximately 65,000 permestic and international laws and treaties such as mits each year. Permits are issued for activities such as the Endangered Species Act, the Convention on import and export of live animals, plants, or biomedical International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) samples, rehabilitation of sick or injured migratory of Wild Fauna and Flora, the Marine Mammal birds, scientific research or reintroduction programs for Protection Act, the Wild Bird Conservation Act endangered species, and exchange and the Lacey Act. These laws proof museum specimens between intect species that are threatened by The American alligator stitutions for protected species. overexploitation and other factors. is one of the best From day one, the Trump Permits promote conservation efexamples of a species Administration has been commitforts such as facilitating scientific that has benefited from ted to improving our accountability research, contributing toward the the permitting process. and transparency to the American generation of scientific data on enIn the late 1800s, it people, and our investment in moddangered or threatened species, and became popular to ernizing the Service’s permitting allowing wildlife management and operations is doing just that. This rehabilitation activities to move foruse alligator hides as new tool will leverage the latest ward. Permits enable the public to leather – so popular, in technology to help reduce adminengage in wildlife-related activities fact, that the species istrative burdens on the American that would otherwise be prohibited was nearly driven to public while advancing conservaby law. Through permitted activities, the brink of extinction tion efforts of imperiled species. the public helps conserve and probecause of its skin. Prior to ePermits, the Service tect imperiled species throughout used a system that was developed the world by enhancing the surin the early 1990s. The public applied for a permit by vival of many species and by ensuring that certain submitting an application through the mail with paper uses of wildlife do not negatively impact their overchecks. Other agencies have modernized their systems all populations. more recently than the Service, but I am proud to say The American alligator is one of the best examples we are now using the technology of today and takof a species that has benefited from the permitting ing big steps forward. It’s a win-win that shows how process. In the late 1800s, it became popular to use the Trump Administration is serving the public and alligator hides as leather – so popular, in fact, that the improving the work of our government. species was nearly driven to the brink of extinction The public can now apply and pay online through because of its skin. a secure electronic payment system; we are bringing Fortunately, the public noticed, and states where the Service’s permit process into the 21st century. The alligators live began putting conservation meadeployment of this system brings efficiencies through sures in place to save the species. Their efforts were harnessing technology to allow our employees to focus later bolstered by the Endangered Species Act and on the analysis necessary to process permits. It will CITES. With state and federal protections in place, save our agency thousands of hours of staff time and the public had to apply for specific permits as part of

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sustainable management programs that proved their actions benefited the conservation of American alligators in the wild. Today, the American alligator is fully recovered and thriving. With the new electronic permitting system in place, it will be easier for the public to be a partner in the conservation and recovery of species like the American alligator. That is why I have championed our agency’s effort to create a more transparent, effective and innovative permitting process. While it took over two years for us to plan, develop and launch the new system, we have done so thoughtfully and also engaged some of our partners who are frequent applicants to help us test our interim system and provide us with feedback that guided our thinking on how to make the best system possible.

Permit application forms are now available online for the Service’s Office of Law Enforcement, Ecological Services, Migratory Birds and International Affairs programs. This accomplishment demonstrates President Trump’s commitment to reducing regulatory burdens while making the permit application process easier and more efficient for the American people. Please join me in celebrating the launch of ePermits! You can learn more about our new electronic permitting system at www.fws.gov/epermits. By participating in the permit application process, you can help save the world’s most iconic species for future generations. ★ Aurelia Skipwith is the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; she was first nominated to the position by President Trump in 2018 and is the first African American to hold that position. CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 115

OF FOR THE LAND,

THE LAND.

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BY TYLER SHARP

had never visited my father’s ancestral homeland until this past year, only heard rumors of the tradition and history surrounding the Scottish highlands. I imagined lush valleys and jagged mountains glistening with mist that streamed in over the mossy, rolling hills. And through that fog, the ever-more-clear silhouette of an approaching stag would appear, seeming to carry the spirit of an entire brave, rebellious and yet noble Scottish history on its head— not bowed but mostly unbroken, still tightly bound to the heritage of the past despite the constant progress toward the future. I saw sprawling greenswards, tweeds in all manner of earth tones as if woven from the very Scottish soil itself; colors and fabrics so rich with mineral hues that they seem to extend the life of the landscape. Red stag, roebuck, trout and salmon, grouse, fine guns and scotch (but never mixed), and the relentless yet nevertheless delightful downpour of a soft but bone-permeating rain. A place where tales of hunts past and the repetition of a beautiful sporting tradition have carved paths into the very hillsides and hearts of adventurers and writers the world over for nearly 400 years.

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Soon I realized that the tales I’d heard and the days I spent cold as Montana, and yet the foggy, dreary atmosphere was what I in Scotland had blended together seamlessly. And like so many had anticipated, even hoped for. Castle exploration, wing shooting, others who’ve attempted to add their accounts to an already rich and fine scotch aside, my purpose in the land “north of the wall” and intimidatingly long tradition of Scottish literary entries, I was was to gain some understanding of Scottish red deer management, zx unable to discern between what were dreams and how it’s carried out across various private from a distant shore or realities on this one. As estates, despite the growing public sentiment it turns out, it doesn’t really matter, as they are to “return the land to the people.” While I had Winding our way through roads often one and the same. the privilege to visit a few estates (similar to lined with ancient, waist-high But for the purposes of storytelling, and to ranches in the West), as well as draw from the stone walls in Byron’s Land recount things that actually happened versus Pace brothers’ local lexicon, my main source of Rover, we arrived alongside those only imagined, I will focus on relaying study was the Invermark estate—a sprawling a massive lake, or loch, with a what I’ve learned in the past year as I played 55,000 acres situated at the start of the Scottish hovering fog and the seasonal the part of inquisitive guest to my Scottish Highlands in the Cairngorms National Park. murkiness of peat-tinted waters brothers and close collaborators, Byron and Winding our way through roads lined with that shroud the movements of Darryl Pace, who in my estimation are about ancient, waist-high stone walls in Byron’s Land native brown trout and salmon. as fine and upstanding representatives of the Rover, we arrived alongside a massive lake, Scottish sporting traditions that you can find. or loch, with a hovering fog and the seasonal zx So after a five-day stint in Edinburgh (promurkiness of peat-tinted waters that shroud nounced Edin-borough if you want to be proper), which can the movements of native brown trout and salmon. We were met only be described as akin to walking through a 16th-century by our host, a young lad of 23 named Callum Low, who despite Gothic novel, I joined my hosts, and we ventured north toward his age is a highly decorated and respected gamekeeper. Blonde the Highland Fault, and the hallowed hunting grounds. haired and blue eyed, he had a soft-spoken, humble demeanor that Being November, it was mostly rainy and cold, though not so belied his award-winning background and the wealth of ecological

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and management knowledge that he carries. After a quick introduction, and a brief exchange between Byron and Callum thickly laden with Scottish slang, we headed into a small cottage of sorts to meet the other gamekeepers, who collectively are responsible for the well-being, management, and overall ecological health of the estate. All told, there were about seven keepers on the Invermark Estate, each of whom are responsible for a specific area of land, called a “beat.” Give or take, Callum was in charge of a 15,000-acre beat, with the rest of the areas being divided among other keepers based on their experience, specialty, or hard-earned time on the estate. While gamekeepers work independently on their beats, it is still a highly coordinated conservation effort across the entire property, and even across adjoining estates where wildlife corridors exist. As we sat drinking coffee and preventing a puppyin-training from chewing our drying boots, I listened intently to the information being exchanged about the previous day’s happenings, the movements of the deer, the condition of the moorland heather, and what sort of progress had been made by each keeper on their cull quota. The amount of thought and effort that goes into their management strategy is staggering, as it not only entails the evaluation of herd health and breeding dynamics of deer, but relies heavily on ecological assessments that attempt to create a balance between wildlife species, namely red and black grouse, who rely almost solely on the delicate and sparse moorland heather. A fragile and temperamental woody shrub, heather habitat is rarer than rainforest, and over 70% of what is left in the world is found in Scotland, almost all of which is managed and cared for by gamekeepers (a story in its own right). Scottish gamekeepers are far more than hunting guides; rather, they are ecology-minded wildlife managers bordering on biologists, and collectively represent a knowledge treasure trove of Scotland’s rich biodiversity and how to keep it thriving. You see, there are no government agencies conducting habitat assessments or population censuses, and given that there are no hunting licenses or tag systems in the UK, there is no official or centralized exchange of population information. That responsibility lands on the shoulders of gamekeepers, and believe me when I say that it’s a job they do not take lightly. Rarely have I ever seen more pride or commitment to wildlife management than within the collective oaths these Scotsmen have taken, and it was an honor to witness their daily regimen. According to population counts on the estate, the goals for the management cull this year were around 100 stags (male red deer) and 400 hinds (female red deer) in order to prevent overgrazing, habitat destruction, and disease from spreading through overpopulation. Being that the Scottish red stag is a highly coveted, huntable game species, the majority of those 100 are sanctioned for guided hunts with clients. Hunting hinds, despite their lack of iconic antlers, still provides the opportunity to experience a unique day of stalking in the Scottish Highlands, and a good number are booked for that reason. But when the rut ends, and the guest lodge is shuttered for the season, the gamekeepers are

responsible for the remaining management culls, which was the day’s main directive. Coffees consumed and boots dry, everyone set about their prospective duties for a day’s management. Byron and I clambered into Callum’s cruiser, and we made our way up one of only two roads until it gradually faded into broken, moss-covered rocks intersected by a rain-swollen stream, which marked the beginning of more elevated, heavily wooded terrain. We double checked our gear, re-tightened our already-soaked “waterproof ” gaiters, and gathered at the foothills. Callum whispered a plan as he slung a leather rifle scabbard over his shoulder, weather-worn and patinated from years spent enduring the elements. Despite us not being clients, he still took the time to explain the subtleties of thought and tradition that go into guiding a client on the hill. Again proving to be more than just one-dimensional, gamekeepers are all at once cultural hosts, teachers, gatekeepers and guides, handling the rifle throughout the stalk, deciding when CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 119

to crawl, approach, and load, and ultimately deciding when and which deer to take. In terms of animal selection, it is purely based on a management perspective, rather than a “trophy score.” Stags or hinds that are injured, sick or old are to be taken first in hopes of preventing further suffering and improving the breeding dynamics and gene pool. Should there happen to be a wounded stag with massive antlers that walks into view, well that’s the luck you live by, otherwise he’d be left alone, seeking the past-his-prime grandfather stag instead. Callum explained that while most clients who visit understand the dedication to management practices, every once in a while there is someone who expects to shoot the biggest stag out there, even attempting to waive $10,000 in the gamekeeper’s face to get it. “But that isn’t the way things work here,” Callum said sternly. “Most of us keepers have the same values and morals, and that is not the sort of thing we stand for. Our word is final on which animal the client is allowed to harvest, and we’re not out to shoot some perfect-antlered “Monarch of the Glen.” We’re out to have an enjoyable day of hunting on the hill, and to take home the animal that best improves the health of the herd. Our clients are getting the opportunity to participate in our tradition, and there’s a level of respect that needs to come with that.” It’s a refreshing change from the antler score-obsessed culture of many trophy hunters, and an example that more should follow.

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As we set out on foot, slowly ambling up the glen, hillocks gave way to steeper inclines, rocks gave way to massive boulders, and the fog momentarily dispersed enough to see the vast reaches of a pristine landscape, the tallest peaks of which loomed in what seemed a distant valley, but was merely one border of Callum’s beat. As in most Fair Chase hunting, there’s no telling what you’ll find, how many miles you’ll have to walk to find it, or whether you’ll even see what you’re looking for at all. In our case, fortune favored our only day of hunting, and not long after an hour of carefully stalking across the foothills, we spotted a group of hinds. Just as quickly as the fog reappeared, Callum’s demeanor shifted from host with a smile to professional with a purpose, and the hunt was on. Crouching, creeping, and inching our way closer, one rock outcropping at a time, we crawled to what looked like a giant piece of granite, which just so happened to match Callum’s traditional cap, woven from the official estate tweed. Simple, time-tested, and even formal dinner-appropriate camouflage. The rifle was unsheathed, a round silently chambered, and his tweed cap was placed on the rock surface to protect the wood grain of the finely crafted Schultz & Larsen rifle. Had it been a client, this is where they would’ve crawled into position and waited for Callum to call the shot. We watched as the group of deer grazed in front of us, completely unaware of our presence. Timing his shot perfectly between

wafting plumes of fog, the suppressed crack of the rifle rang out, the world, allows clients to contribute to ongoing sustainability, and within a few minutes we had found where our quarry lay, and shows them the virtues and values of a 400-year-old Scottish peacefully resting on a bed of tussocked sphagnum moss. She was gamekeeping tradition. larger than a white-tailed doe but smaller than a cow elk, and To play devil’s advocate, I asked Callum how things might play we set about checking her teeth for age and her amber-tinted out if it was given to the public. “It would go to shit,” he answered fur for health, and then field dressed her. About this time, as if before I even finished the question. “A public with no interest in from the very mists itself, appeared an apprentice leading a stoutthese pursuits isn’t going to pay for the upkeep and management haunched garron, or Scottish hill pony, its coat glistening in the of it. What is someone in Edinburgh with no interest in hunting still-deluging rain. Draping the deer over the retrofitted saddle, or even the countryside in general going to do with acreage of we carefully secured a few straps and prepared for the long walk Scottish upland habitat? There is only so much you can do with back to the trail. “Anybody can throw a deer into the back of a this steep, rugged terrain, and if you put a bunch of sheep on it, Polaris, but we like to keep the old ways, and make sure certain which is what most would do, then there would be overgrazing traditions continue,” Callum proudly remarked. As we descended and habitat destruction that affects not only the deer, but lots of through the glen, the silence was only broken by the muffled clop other small game and bird life. The deer would lose priority to of the pony’s hooves on sodden Earth and the creak of wet leather the sheep, as they compete for grazing, and then you lose sight straining under the weight of a day’s successful management hunt. of the value that our wild deer have. Selfishly, I’d hate to lose my Now descended from the uplands, we took the deer to the job, my house and my way of life, because this is all I know, and “larder,” where she was skinned, washed, weighed, tagged, logged it’s a good life that I enjoy very much. But if gamekeepers went into their books, and made ready for sale. Amazingly, wild game away, Scotland would lose a very valuable source of knowledge: meat in the UK can be sold on the commercial market, often to a how to live in harmony with the land, how to protect it and make butcher, and many locals without the skills or means to hunt can sure that it survives.” procure deer from the estate at a fair price. Apart from doing his Another practical matter is the commerce that these hunts job in ensuring the health of the herd, Callum had also provided generate for the small rural, even remote villages that dot the a local family with their Christmas dinner, a area. There isn’t much tourism in the northern zx full-circle moment that I wish was more easily reaches of Scotland during the colder months, achievable in the US. and these clients bring a much-needed injecHaving seen more of the grandeur of the tion of patronage to the local pubs, inns, shops We as humans have disrupted estate, and learned some principles of their and mechanics. Many depend on it, and work the natural order in many management style, I gained a lot of respect for in other professions is hard to find. What tourparts of the world, and as our what these stewards do, and what they’re up ism there is, often at the Cairngorms National population continues to grow against. It’s no surprise that hunting is sufferPark, also benefits from the scrupulous manand wild lands decrease, conflict ing from a bit of a PR problem, and in the UK agement these gamekeepers instill. “Visitors with wildlife will increase, these estates are under fire from public senticome out here to see or photograph these maand we have to do what we ment that believes the land should be made jestic stags, but they don’t realize how much can to balance the scales. public, despite the already-instated policy of effort we put into the management of the herd, the “right to roam” that exists in Scotland (bamaking sure that the healthy good genes conzx sically you can walk, hike or camp wherever tinue to breed, and that the sick and wounded you like, even on private estates). Large, priare shown quick mercy. Nobody likes to see vately held estates like these are viewed in a negative light, seen a wounded stag walking around after they’ve been fighting each as a “playground for the rich” and snubbed as an elitist pursuit, other,” Callum explained to us, brushing off the thanklessness despite the fact that the majority of successful wildlife managethis job often comes with. ment in Scotland happens on these estates at great cost to the Thanked or not, my hope is that understanding and appreciaowners. “Most estates operate at a loss every year,” Callum told tion for the effort that these gamekeepers contribute to protecting us bluntly. “The owners spend hundreds of thousands of dollars Scotland’s wildlife might increase, whether through this story or each season because they care about the wildlife, they want it to a visit yourself. It’s important to understand the realities of any thrive, and they want this tradition to continue.” given situation and what’s at stake in an already-delicate balance In this day and age, for most wildlife or natural resources to between humans and nature. thrive, or even survive in some cases, they have to be managed. I certainly don’t have the answers, and it remains to be seen We as humans have disrupted the natural order in many parts of how things will play out in the Highlands, but one can only hope the world, and as our population continues to grow and wild lands that as the path ahead is explored, it’s done with common sense decrease, conflict with wildlife will increase, and we have to do and respect for the input of those who know the land best. To what we can to balance the scales. But this takes time, ecological me it seems quite clear that the future of Scotland’s wildlife and expertise, and most of all money, because wildlife management unique ecosystems are in good hands with young gamekeepers is expensive. like Callum Low at the forefront of the conversation, and I truly To offset some of these costs, estates offer these guided hunts hope that it stays that way in some form or another. In a day and as a way to recoup their expenses or reinvest in the upkeep of the age where tribal languages, cultural traditions and meaningful habitat, the rotational burning of heather, survey and monitoring ties to the past are evaporating, it is imperative to seek solutions equipment, or the education, training, housing and well-being that utilize specialized caretakers like these, not just for practiof the gamekeepers who make this whole thing work. But it cal conservation measures, but as a matter of national pride in a isn’t just a hunt, as it provides the gamekeepers an opportunity time-honored tradition and way of life that’s of the land, and for to educate guests about the biodiversity of this unique region of the survival of the land. ★ CONVENTION 2021 HUNTER'S HORN™ 121

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KEEPING THE FAMILY TRADITION

Dan Cabela, The Cabela Family Foundation and the Conservation of Wildlands BY M. ARNOLD

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realize Hank Williams, Jr. was singing about something totally different in his raucous lyrics about ‘The Family Tradition’. Yet, with a very similar degree of passion, Dan Cabela has poured the last decade of his life into furthering the ‘Cabela Family’s Traditions’—specifically, the restoration and conservation of wildlife through utilization. As Executive Director of the Cabela Family Foundation, Dan spearheads the work begun by his Mom and Dad, Dick and Mary. In its formative years—2000-2015—Dick and Mary identified projects near and dear to their hearts, and sent funds to support those projects. Around 2015, the Foundation changed somewhat from a merely grant-giving organization, based on their heart for a project/organization, to one in which they chose ventures that would allow them to also be some of the hands and feet involved in their outreach. I admit that when my wife, Frances and I drove onto Dan and Darlene Cabela’s Asante Ranch situated in the Texas Hill Country near Austin, I was prepared to just fill in a few gaps about Dan’s conservation work in Africa in order to write this article. Instead, like his colleagues in a massive Mozambique conservation project, Ivan Carter (‘Conservation is Not Theoretical’; Hunter’s Horn, Summer 2020) and Mark Haldane (‘Mark Haldane: Professional Hunter and Conservationist’; Hunter’s Horn, Winter Issue 2020), I was to find Dan to be a much more complex individual than expected. Also, like Ivan and Mark, Dan communicated a driving, gut-level urgency to see wild places nurtured, and to see this done by those who have always loved those places well—hunters. I asked Dan point blank, “What is your motivation?” He answered thoughtfully “I cannot remember a day in nature—whether an

animal was harvested or not—I did not enjoy. We need to pass natural, wild spaces on to the next generation.” Dan is putting action to these words in two significant ways, the first of which is through Asante.

KENYAN BONGO, SAHARAN DAMA GAZELLE AND DESERT ADDAX IN…EXOTIC TEXAS?

It was 6:30 am and we were slowly grinding our way through the acreage of Dan and Darlene’s Asante (“Thank you” in Swahili) Ranch. We were looking for anything we could see, but we really wanted to locate, view and photograph representatives of the species that are rarely seen and near extinction in their native African ranges—Eastern, or Mountain, Bongo and the two desert-adapted species, Addax and Dama Gazelle. As we drove, I asked Dan about the genesis of his work with exotic species. His answer revealed his deep love of wildlife, particularly African, and his business acumen. These may seem counterintuitive bedfellows, but not when, like Dan, your paradigm is one of sustainable-use conservation. Let me explain, using one-liners, to illustrate Dan’s answers to my specific question: “How and why did your exotic work begin in Texas?” • “Who wouldn’t want to see these magnificent African animals when they are driving around on their property?” • “By generating more individuals of the critically-endangered forms—Addax, Dama Gazelle and Eastern Bongo—we are helping to prevent extinction of these iconic and beautiful animals.” • “To be able to continue the conservation work on Asante, or elsewhere, we have to generate income.”

A herd of Grant’s gazelles moves through the Plains habitat on Asante.

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• “Texas is a good place to do this because of agricultural exemptions etc., but we help our conservation work by investing in species that are very valuable to other game ranches.” • “Our business plan makes what we do sustainable and therefore leads to conservation of animals.” If the last three one-liners seem pragmatic or ‘cold’, remember that Dan understands what Ivan Carter and Mark Haldane do as well; a wild animal with no value to humans except as a food source, has no conservation value at all. As the morning broke across the Texas Hill Country, Dan stopped the ATV and mused “This is an amazing sight! We almost never see Nyala trooping in a line, in the open like this.” I suggested that these beautiful antelope knew Frances and I were there to write an article about them. Dan’s chuckle was low, but he was right. This cover-loving species is not known for being freely available for viewing and photography. The magic of Dan and Darlene’s Conservation Ranch did not end with this first, unexpected, sighting. As we pushed through the plains and woodland habitats of Asante, we encountered species-after-species of African game animals. Springbok, kudu, Grant’s gazelle, lechwe, southern roan, and even a Congolese forest sitatunga bull, cow and young calf presented themselves for our pleasure. I am not certain that my mouth stayed closed for much of the trip (by the way, a bad idea in dusty Texas). Though each and every one of the species seen were special, when we rounded a grove of live oaks and saw the mature Eastern Bongo bull staring across a distance of no more than 30 yards, we were stunned. His barrel-like, dark chestnut body, with brilliant white stripes running vertically from back to belly line and thick parentheses-shaped horns made him look more like a work of art than an African Spiral-Horned Antelope. But, then again, that is exactly what he was. It took me a few heartbeats before I realized I was staring and not using the camera. Again, Dan was amazed at how long this normally shy animal allowed us to stare, whisper and photograph. As the Bongo bull melted into the dense Hill Country vegetation, we eased towards a more open area of Asante. We were hoping to catch a glimpse of the other two critically-endangered species—the Saharan Desert Addax and Dama Gazelle. Because of their trusting nature, we expected to see the Dama, but the shy Addax was expected to be more difficult. Though indeed very skittish, we found the Addax amenable to moving away from us slowly enough for a good sighting and photography. We had to be careful though, because we were dealing with cows

“Though each and every one of the species seen were special, when we rounded a grove of live oaks and saw the mature Eastern Bongo bull staring across a distance of no more than 30 yards, we were stunned.”

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and young calves—understandably, the protective cows were not averse to charging vehicles they saw as a threat to their young. As before, the animals finally faded into the Texas brush, and we continued our search for our last species. Surprisingly, the Dama Gazelles were absent from the areas through which we had passed. However, as we cleared another stand of Cedars (actually, Junipers, but I’m being a pedantic science-nerd…), we ran right into a beautiful Dama standing in the morning sunlight. These animals really did demonstrate the most placid and trusting behavior of any of the many species on Asante. It is little wonder that they are being easily slaughtered by market hunters in their natural, desert, habitat. The Dama seemed content to stand and pose the entire day. Reluctantly, we moved off slowly, glancing back occasionally to see her enjoying the full-sunlight of the rapidlywarming summer day. Frances and I reveled in our experience of Dan and Darlene Cabela’s conservation work on Asante. It is tragic that the Mountain Bongo, Dama Gazelles and Addax are nearing extinction in their natural habitats. Simply put, this is because of human damage to their habitat, and the lack of any value placed upon them in the regions in which they occur. For example, the small remnant populations of the Mountain Bongo occur in the highlands of Kenya. Without protection from wanton habitat destruction and the bush meat trade—protection provided by hunters’ funds until Kenya closed sport hunting—these magnificent animals have no value other than as a source of protein and market income for local populations. The same is true for the iconic Dama Gazelles and Addax. The hard work, and significant capital investment, by Dan and Darlene will ensure that species that are losing ground in their native habitats have a place to thrive—albeit in the picturesque Hill Country habitats of Texas. Our next Cabela Conservation story takes us over 9,500 miles Southeast to a reconstructed ecosystem in Zambezi Delta—reconstructed solely through Hunters’ passion for wild places.

THE CABELA FAMILY FOUNDATION AND 24-LIONS

When Ivan [Carter] first approached Dan Cabela with the idea of the Cabela Family Foundation funding the reintroduction of lions into an area where they were now extinct, Dan asked, “Where will they go, and who will be in charge of their monitoring He may be young, but this kudu bull is still spectacular.

Dan Cabela stands in front of a massive 18-foot crocodile he took in Lake Chamo, Ethiopia.

and protection?” Ivan’s two-barreled answer was “The Marromeu Complex of Mozambique”, and “Mark Haldane’s Zambeze Delta Safaris group”. “I had hunted with Mark, and I knew the area”, Dan related. “The area is incredibly game rich, and Mark runs a top-notch, conservation-minded enterprise. I knew both the area, and personnel in-charge, were a perfect fit for such an ambitious project.” The Cabela Family Foundation was looking for this type of an opportunity to ‘give back’ wildlands. Dan and others on the board saw this as an opportunity to continue their development of Cabela ‘heritage work’. But, this was not simply one of many projects; it was one that would have incredible meaning for the family matriarch, Mary Cabela. Dan explained, “My mom has a very special connection to the African Lion. Initially, she was terrified of them, but once she had taken her first trophy Lion, she formed a bond with this iconic species that has remained to this day.” Dan was certain that the reintroduction of this apex predator into Mozambique would be an incredibly significant work for the Cabela family, and especially Mary. He was correct on all counts. Thus, began the 24Lions (a.k.a. ‘Mary’s Lions’) initiative. The reintroduction of lions into the Zambezi Delta was not taken lightly. Dan, again looked thoughtful as he stated, “We on the Foundation were choosing to take a calculated, but significant, risk. What if the majority of the lions simply walked away from the area of reintroduction, were killed by poachers, or contracted unexpected diseases? It was a real concern. On the other hand, how could we not take the risk given the chance to increase the African Lion’s habitat by 9000 km2?!” To date, this was the largest ever reintroduction of lions into any area, let alone one that gave such a substantial increase to the African Lion’s range. ‘Mary’s Lions’ has not been without its setbacks. Two lions have indeed been lost to poachers’ snares, one lion died of what

is presumed to have been natural causes, and another lioness had to be euthanized after being badly injured by a Cape Buffalo. In spite of the losses, as of Summer 2020 the population had more than doubled, with 54 confirmed individuals. Scores of cubs have been produced by the introduced males and females, and even rare resident lions that have inserted themselves into the pride structures. With continual surveillance through electronic collaring, the lions’ reproduction and movement are being recorded seven days a week, 24-hours a day. Not only is this monitoring important for the lions, but it also reduces greatly the chance that lions will move undetected into areas near villages. Dan observed that “Our knowing where ‘Mary’s Lions’ are located gives the locals assurance that we care about removing any possibility of human-lion conflicts”.

CONCLUSION

It is easy to see the excitement in Dan Cabela’s eyes when he discusses Hunter-initiated, and -funded, conservation efforts. “My Mom and Dad were determined to give back as a way to show their gratitude for what they had been given by their God and Country.” Dan took a bit longer pause before finishing his thought. “Wild spaces are being reduced at an alarming rate. The Cabela Family Foundation has the opportunity, goal and responsibility to help conserve wild spaces. Our Mom and Dad cherished every day they spent in nature. That is normal for the vast majority of hunters.” Dan and Darlene Cabela, along with the Cabela Family Foundation, are proving that these words are not platitudes. ★ For more information: Cabela Family Foundation: cabelafamilyfoundation.org 24Lions: 24lions.org Zambeze Delta Safaris: zambezedeltasafaris.com

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