The MeatEater Podcast Ep. 801: Extinct Elk, Meat Processing, and the Latest News | MeatEater Radio Live!
Dec 5, 2025
Jim Heffelfinger, a wildlife science coordinator, shares insights on Merriam's elk, including their elusive history and genetic studies. He discusses the ecological implications of elk reintroductions and geographic connectivity. Anna Borgman, co-owner of Chaos Farms, dives into meat processing practices, emphasizing common field mistakes and the importance of proper planning. She highlights the benefits of preserving specific cuts for unique flavors. The hosts also tackle safety in hunting and recent news affecting the outdoor community.
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Lumpers Versus Splitters In Taxonomy
- Lumpers emphasize similarities and merge populations while splitters emphasize differences and subdivide taxa.
- Taxonomy choices affect management but must rest on rigorous evidence, not casual observations.
Genetics Rewrites Elk Subspecies
- Roosevelt and Tule elk show consistent genetic and physical separation, while Rocky Mountain, Manitoban, and eastern elk likely do not.
- Modern genetic sampling can overturn century-old subspecies maps and assumptions.
Why Merriam's Elk Genetics Matter
- Determining whether historic Merriam's elk persist genetically in modern Arizona elk addresses stakeholder concerns about introduced Yellowstone elk.
- Genetic results will inform ecological and management debates about reintroductions.