“Intimate relationships with non-human animals change your perspective on the world.”
Welcome Doug Smith:
We’re joined on the Starline by a biologist who studied wildlife in Yellowstone for nearly thirty years. Though he studied everything from beavers to birds, he headed up the Yellowstone Wolf Project which reintroduced the wolf in 1995. Out on tour as a National Geographic Explorer, we welcome Doug Smith.
Doug, let’s go Beyond the Mic. How did your high school senior project change your life?
Your team collared 41 wolves, got them used to their new territory and then released them in Yellowstone. How did reintroducing the wolves bring balance to Yellowstone?
You had been Yellowstone National Parks lead wolf biologist for 28 years. Why was it time to retire and continue sharing the story of wolves?
How many letters have you written back to 15 year olds who like you want to be involved with the wilderness?
The Rockin’ 8:
It’s time for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, answer with the first thing that comes to your mind. There is no Pressure.
1. What’s the longest distance you’ve cross country skied in a day?
2. Best thing about a dog?
3. Favorite bird?
4. Best place in Yellowstone to just sit and think?
5. Sunrise or Sunset ?
6. What was your 1st canoe and do you still have it?
7. Do you fish and if you do, what’s the biggest fish you’ve caught?
8. One thing you love about your kids?
The Back Half:
Was there a specific wolf from the initial bunch that you hoped would make it?
Why was it important for the Yellowstone Wolf project to be a success?
You love wolves…
… but what’s the animal that isn’t on the top of your list?
Research:
What’s the one thing that your wildlife advisor Dr. James Peek taught you that made you a better scientist?
Has anyone recently asked you a question on your dissertation of “Dispersal Strategies and Cooperative Breeding in Beavers”?
So, do you think of your thesis stands up today?
When someone comes to see you speak, what do you want them to take away from the experience?
Who makes each day better for you?
One Big Question:
How has this experience changed your life and the way you want people to see animals?
The Wrap:
He still has his 1985 Old Town Tripper canoe, loves the hope of sunrise and wants you to see him talking on Wolves. National Geographic Explorer Doug Smith thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.
And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.
Listen to other Beyond the Mic conversations with authors here.
Find out more about Doug Smith here.
