Episode 08: The Science and Philosophy of Trophy Hunting

What is your definition of a "trophy" animal?  Why are some hunters motivated by the size of antlers or horns on the animals that they pursue? In episode 8, I talk with Alan Jubenville, retired Professor of Natural Resource Management and official measurer for the Boone and Crockett Club, about trophy hunting.  Alan has a fascinating background and has hunted extensively in Alaska and around the world, especially for sheep.  Join us to hear many exciting hunting stories and Alan’s view of what constitutes a trophy animal…you might be surprised.

0:30 – Introductions
8:30 – Alan gives us his hunting resume
15:30 – We talk about Alan’s experience as a trophy scoring and what he views as a trophy
18:15 – I ask Alan why he mounts his “trophies”?
20:40 – What is Alan’s favorite hunt?
24:50 – I ask Alan why he hunts, which leads into a story about a hunt for a Marco Polo ram.
31:00 – I ask Alan how you research a trophy hunt, which also leads into several great hunting story.
38:35 – We return to questions about criticism of trophy hunting and hunting in genera
42:00 – Hear what Alan sees for the future of hunting and science?
46:40 – We revisit the story of Alan’s favorite hunt.
52:55 – I ask Alan about his final thoughts especially for young hunters.
55:15 – We finish with concluding statements about trophy hunting.
57:10 – Outro.