Ep. 859: Man-Eating Lions, The Border Wall, and Judas Deer

The MeatEater Podcast Episode 859 dives into a rich tapestry of outdoor conservation, wildlife management, and ethical debates, beginning with a cinematic lion hunt in Utah and a deep dive into the legendary man-eating lions of Africa, inspired by John Banovich’s evocative painting 'Man Eaters of Savo.' The episode explores controversial conservation decisions, including the Catalina Island mule deer eradication program, which sparked criticism for excluding local hunters and relying on a nonprofit sharpshooting team, underscoring the importance of transparency and stakeholder involvement. The hosts scrutinize Michigan’s proposed deer baiting bill, questioning its real impact on population control while weighing concerns over disease spread, fair chase, and road safety. A major critique follows the U.S. Forest Service’s restructuring—moving headquarters to Utah and consolidating research—seen as ideologically driven and potentially damaging to scientific capacity. Meanwhile, Alaska’s limited mountain lion season is praised as a pragmatic response to climate-driven species shifts. The episode also highlights the surprising dispersal of deer and lions into new territories, including remote islands, challenging traditional invasive species classifications. Lighthearted segments spotlight the Big Crappie Challenge, where a 2.37-pound catch won $5,000, and tease the second season of the true crime podcast 'Blood Trails,' set to explore unsolved wilderness mysteries with a focus on truth in silence.