Beau Martonik sits down with Derrick Dixon, the creator of the Whitetail Research YouTube channel, to dive into how thermal drones are changing the way we understand deer behavior. Derrick shares his bold decision to leave a secure job and dedicate an entire season to tracking whitetails with advanced technology.
From morning movement patterns to the individuality of mature bucks, Derrick reveals fascinating discoveries about how deer respond to wind, weather, and human pressure. He also breaks down the myths surrounding technology in hunting—showing how traditional woodsmanship and modern tools can work hand in hand.
Whether you’re a hunter looking to sharpen your skills or simply curious about the science of whitetails, this episode will inspire you to see the woods in a whole new way.
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:04:37 – Derek's Journey into Deer Research
00:13:39 – The Passion To Observe
00:18:48 – Terrain and Deer Movement
00:28:51 – Morning Movement Patterns
00:48:17 – Individuality of Mature Bucks
00:55:40 – Thermal Switch Insights
01:12:59 – Scrapes and Signposts
01:18:34 – The Impact of Human Pressure
01:32:11 – Technology vs. Woodsmanship
01:40:48 – Applying Research to Hunting
01:49:40 – Future Plans and ResourcesWhitetail Research Links:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/whitetailresearch/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WhitetailResearch
@eastmeetswesthunt
@beau.martonik
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