Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

Ep. #226 - Mineral Site Placement and Predator Activity Special Memories of Fathers on Father's Day

Episode Summary

In this episode, Don and Terry discuss a new product they will be offering on the Real World website: trail camera batteries. Don explains the challenges he faced in finding affordable batteries and how he found a brand that is as good as the popular Energizer batteries but at a lower price. They also discuss the impact of the delayed hay harvest on fawn mortality and the benefits of planting potted trees in the fall. Don addresses the question of planting cedars and explains that while they can be invasive in some regions, they make great cover in others. They also touch on the possibility of a trail camera manufacturing partnership and the placement of mineral sites and predator activity. In this part of the conversation, Terry and Don discuss the adaptability of predators and the regret of shooting a particular buck. They also talk about the impact of Babe's story and how hunting goes beyond just hunting. They answer a question about when to put up trail cameras and discuss the challenges of land consulting. They end the conversation by sharing special memories of their fathers on Father's Day. trail camera batteries, hay harvest, fawn mortality, potted trees, cedars, predator activity, predators, adaptability, regret, shooting, buck, Babe's story, hunting, trail cameras, land consulting, fathers, Father's Day

Episode Notes

Takeaways

• Real World will be offering affordable trail camera batteries on their website, providing a cost-effective alternative to the expensive Energizer batteries.
• The delayed hay harvest has led to increased fawn mortality as the fawns are in the fields when the hay is being cut. This is a reminder of the cause and effect relationship in the ecosystem.
• Planting potted trees in the fall can be beneficial as they are more likely to survive and establish compared to bare root trees planted in the spring.
• While cedars can be invasive in some regions, they make great cover and are drought-tolerant. Their growth and impact vary depending on the region.
• The placement of mineral sites in the same spots year after year is unlikely to significantly attract predators, as deer will become hyper-alert in those areas. Predators are highly adaptable and will find ways to hunt and survive regardless of human interference.
• Regretting shooting a particular buck is unnecessary because it opened doors for other bucks with more potential to thrive.
• Hunting goes beyond just hunting and can have a positive impact on the lives of others.
• Waiting until July to put up trail cameras allows for a better understanding of a buck's antler growth.
• The main culprits for land management challenges are poor property layout and too many hunters.
• Being a disciple and sharing the word of Jesus is not limited to preachers and pastors.
• The impact of a father's love and support can be profound and lasting.
• Weddings are emotional and special moments that highlight the growth and values instilled in children.
• The joy and blessings of Father's Day are celebrated and shared.