The Science Behind Hunting

Have you ever wondered how something works or how something was made? In the monthly Science Behind series, we partner with a guest presenter to explore a large variety of interesting topics. The Science Behind series offers opportunities for adults to apply new knowledge and skills to everyday life, while having fun! 

** This Science Behind event took place in September, 2016 **

The Science Behind The Sport of Hunting

The sport, or way of life, of hunting is ancient and tied intricately to reverence for the land. Our ancestors were hunters. To them, animals were as sacred as life itself because a successful hunt assured survival. Back then, hunters and the game they sought were inseparable; human existence and hunting were one.

Today, few of us hunt to survive. The modern hunters’ role now is to ensure the perseverance of wildlife and to abide by established ethical standards to preserve the challenge of the hunt. The license fees and taxes hunters pay contribute to a significant portion of the nation’s conservation funding — from habitat restoration to research. Hunters in Colorado are required to complete an approved hunter education course before applying for a hunting license. These modern measures sustain healthy game populations while providing opportunities for hunters to appreciate their ancient role in our environment.

Join Walking Mountains Science Center and long-time local hunters John Byron and Duke Gerber as we discuss and explore the Science Behind Hunting on Wednesday, September 7 at 6:30 pm. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, this interactive workshop will inspire respect for wildlife and the skills it takes to thrive in the wilderness while hunting.

John Byron, local hunter and long-time guide, will walk us through hunting and land ethics, understanding wildlife behavior and how it relates to licenses issued, and discuss survival skills and topography in a wilderness setting. His years of experience hunting in Eagle County are an invaluable resource to our community, so bring your tough questions.

Duke Gerber, avid hunter and outdoorsmen with over 40 years of experience in the Eagle Valley, will interpret the hunter’s process after an animal has been killed. Having the skills to properly field dress and clean game assures that game is never wasted. Efficiently butchering and processing the meat are additional steps to fully enjoying and respecting the life of the animal. Duke will also walk us though his hide tanning technique to bring the entire operation full circle.

IF YOU GO…
When: Wednesday, September 7, 2016 | 6:30pm-8:30pm
Where: Walking Mountains Science Center
Cost: FREE, $5 donation suggested. Registration required. 

The Science Behind Series is made possible by Vail Honeywagon.