Bringing Back the Wild
In a recent interview with American Outdoor News, author and wildlife biologist Michael shares insights into his latest book, Bring Back the Wild, a powerful narrative exploring the intersection of hunting and global conservation. Influenced by legendary writers like Robert Ruark and Jack O'Connor, Michael describes how his passion for Africa was shaped through both literature and experience. His storytelling blends science with adventure, recounting memorable encounters—like staring down a crocodile and tracking an ostrich—on his latest African hunting expedition. These real-life adventures, infused with cultural significance, aim to educate readers and inspire a broader appreciation for ethical hunting practices.
A key theme in the conversation was the critical role hunting plays in funding conservation efforts worldwide. Michael explains that excise taxes on hunting and fishing gear contribute over $1 billion annually to state conservation programs—without federal oversight. His sixth book expands this dialogue by comparing conservation models in North America, Europe, and Africa, showing how well-regulated hunting positively impacts wildlife management, habitat restoration, and rural economies. For Michael, hunters and anglers are more than sportsmen—they’re the financial backbone of global conservation efforts.
The interview also touches on generational influences and reading preferences. Michael reflects on how classic outdoor writers inspired his lifelong love of the outdoors, while Chris shares how Peter Capstick and Theodore Roosevelt shaped his early interest in hunting literature. With the rise of audio books and digital content, Michael observes that younger generations—his son included—prefer consuming outdoor stories in more accessible, mobile-friendly formats. This shift, he suggests, could make conservation literature more engaging and widespread among new audiences.
Rounding out the interview, Michael dives into his hands-on fieldwork and personal hunting stories, from brocket deer in the Yucatán to conservation success in Mozambique’s Katadata 11 region. He emphasizes that hunting is not just about the pursuit but also about sustainability, culture, and community. Highlighting how crocodile hunting can provide vital protein and economic value to local villages, Michael underscores the importance of using the whole animal—a concept deeply rooted in tradition and ecological responsibility. His mission is clear: to help both hunters and non-hunters see the vital connection between sustainable hunting and protecting the wild for generations to come.