Conservation and Science

Is the resumption of commercial whaling inevitable? What hidden geopolitical forces are shaping international whale conservation efforts? Let's dive (pun not intended) into the complex world of whale conservation with marine scientist Dr Peter Corkeron. In our conversation, Peter uncovers the surprising connections between military bases, national security, and the fate of the world's largest mammals.

From the history of industrial whaling to the current state of whale populations, our guest provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges facing whale conservation today. He explains how some whale species are making an impressive comeback while others teeter on the brink of extinction. But the real story goes beyond biology! Learn how US military interests in Japan may be influencing whaling policies, and why anti-whaling efforts that seemed successful for decades may now be faltering.

As commercial whaling threatens to resume, we argue for a new approach to whale protection. We discuss the limitations of current conservation strategies, the complex motivations behind pro-whaling interests and why simply allowing whaling to "fizzle out" is no longer a viable option. Finally, Peter offers his perspective on potential solutions, addressing underlying geopolitical factors and advocating for policy changes to protect whale populations more effectively.

Further reading:

• Losing the Whales: How the Anti-Whaling Narrative Has Failed
• The Return of Whaling
• What US Militarism Has to Do With Japan's Quest to Slaughter More Whales

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The sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus) is the largest of the Hexanchiformes order of sharks, the most primitive living sharks, sometimes called “fossil sharks”. The sixgill, sometimes known as the blunt nose sixgill or cow shark, can grow to over 6 metres (20 feet) in length and weigh over a tonne. What’s interesting is that in Ireland one can catch one of these beasts with rod and line, most famously with the help of master skipper Luke Aston, who is not only a great friend of the podcast but was also our guest in episode 41.

There is very little known about these sharks and what they are doing in (relatively) shallow waters off the coast of Ireland. To explore this subject I was pleased to welcome back to the show Dr Patrick Collins, a marine biologist at Queen’s University Belfast, who was previously our guest in episode 81. During our conversation, we discussed our knowledge and understanding of these species of sharks.

In the second part of the show, we switched to Patrick’s main subject of research: the common skate complex. It was great to hear an update on the progress of research and conservation action since the last time we spoke in late 2020. You are going to hear about some of the findings for the first time here. Unfortunately, the news turns out not to be good.

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Alaska is considered by many to be the last frontier. One of the few remaining places where true pristine wilderness still exists. Without a doubt, this largest state in the United States is a fantastic place for outdoorsmen or anyone who wants to live close to nature and away from the crowds. This is because, although Alaska is huge, it has a tiny population located in just a few urban areas.

As you can imagine, hunting and fishing are in the blood of most Alaskans and ready access to the abundant and well managed natural resources makes it a perfect place for subsistence living. I’m using this term as defined in Alaska state law as the non-commercial, customary and traditional uses of fish and wildlife.

To discuss this topic I’m joined today by Zephyr Sincerny who is an outdoor guide, instructor and educator with long years of experience gained while working for Outward Bound USA and NatureBridge. He spends a lot of time growing food in his garden as well as hunting and fishing.

During our conversation, we discussed how Zephyr provides food for his family, year-round without the aid of a grocery store! We also got into discussing the effects of climate change, techniques of food preparation and the ethical and spiritual aspects of bowhunting. This is one special episode and I’m sure you’ll love every minute of it!

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How to Get Started in Deer Hunting in Ireland

The Hunter Conservationist Podcast brings you nuanced content about conservation, science and responsible hunting in Canada, so you can stay topped up on issues concerning your outdoor, hunting and fishing lifestyle, stay current on the latest in wildlife conservation, science and responsible hunting and be entertained by conversations with intellectual thinkers.

The Hunter Conservationist Podcast

I have been waiting for Tom Opre’s new film “The Last Keeper” since I learned in July 2022 that he and his team are working on it. Well, the wait was over for me at the beginning of February 2024, as I was the only person in Ireland to screen the film. The wait will soon be over for you as well since the film premieres in mid-April in Edinburgh. While you are still waiting, you can listen to my conversation with Tom about the film and wider aspects of Tom’s mission of talking about conservation and indigenous communities.

The Last Keeper is a documentary film that takes on the difficult subject of conflict surrounding land use in Scotland. It does a great job of presenting the views from all sides of the struggle. From estate owners, keepers and members of local communities to environmental NGOs, politicians and proponents of rewilding. On top of that, the conversations presented are not just dry statements of opinion. Tom is not shying away from asking difficult questions and pushing his interviewees outside their comfort zone. All that is complemented by brilliant cinematography showcasing stunning views of Scottish landscapes.

As this episode drops before the premiere of the film, we are careful to not spill the beans too much during our conversation. Instead, Tom gives you an insight into what drives him to do all his work and how it connects to the topic of his latest film. I fully expect a full range of opinions about the film and the views it presents. It will likely justify a follow-up episode with reactions to the film from those who are facing the issues presented or are just interested in them. For now, enjoy our conversation and don’t forget to subscribe to The Last Keeper newsletter to see the film’s trailer and stay updated about the film’s screening dates and the latest news about it.

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Some things are so tiny yet so central that they matter more than giant things elsewhere. This is a paraphrased message I got from Phil Sturgeon, an ex-techie and founder of Protect Earth charity, who dedicated his life to woodland creation and restoration. As it turns out, Phil is running a fundraiser to buy five acres of mature woodland in Crew's Hole, Bristol, for the long-term benefit of the community, wildlife and, of course, the climate. I have been following Phil’s work for some time now and he strikes me as a cool dude who does a lot of good work. So, without hesitation from either side, we decided to sit down and have a chat about the fundraiser and Phil’s work in a broader context.

While listening to our conversation, you will learn why Phil decided to start his charity, how he goes about identifying suitable sites for woodland creation, and what work he and his volunteers conduct while restoring or creating woodland. We also discuss common misconceptions about woodland creation or, as some call it, “planting trees”. There are a few things that can be done incorrectly, so it is interesting to hear what exactly those things are, as well as discuss what Phil and his crew do to avoid those mistakes.

I’m sure, that in the end, you’ll be convinced of the value of his work and you’ll break out a few quid to save the Blackswarth Road Wood. To find out more about the fundraiser, click here.

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