The National Deer Association and the Southeast Deer Partnership announce the premiere of “WildTail: America’s Wildest Conservation Success Story.” Narrated by country music star Dustin Lynch and featuring Steve Rinella from MeatEater, the documentary takes viewers on the incredible journey of white-tailed deer from near extinction back to an ecological and economic hero of America’s native landscapes.
“The white-tailed deer population is an incredible asset and supports economic development, outdoor recreation, and diverse ecosystems,” said Nick Pinizzotto, president and CEO of the National Deer Association. “The population recovery shown in “WildTail” is a testament to the power of conservation efforts and a call to action to protect our native wildlife for generations to come.”
The film was created in partnership with all Southeastern State Fish and Wildlife Agencies with the goal of educating hunters and non-hunters alike.
“Many Americans instinctively support regulated hunting, yet they may not fully understand the reasons behind it,” said Joe Clements, the film’s producer. “Our goal with this film was to bridge that knowledge gap. We aimed to create a cinematic experience that would resonate with viewers who enjoy dramas like Yellowstone, regardless of whether they personally hunt or fish.”
Kip Adams, that National Deer Association’s Chief Conservation Officer and steering committee member for the Southeast Deer Partnership shared, “WildTail is more than a film; it’s a wake-up call. It’s a compelling narrative that underscores the critical role each of us plays in the future of America’s native wildlife. We hope this film will inspire viewers to join us in our commitment to conservation.”
About “WildTail”
“WildTail: America’s Wildest Conservation Success Story” is a feature-length documentary that guides viewers on the unlikely journey of white-tailed deer from near extinction back to an ecological and economic hero of America’s native landscapes. Featuring interviews with scientists, elected officials, media personalities and diverse thought leaders, WildTail recounts America’s wildest success story.
About Southeast Deer Partnership
The Southeast Deer Partnership is a unique collaboration of state and federal government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private sector entities, all united by a shared interest in the future of deer hunting, wildlife management, and conservation. With a focus on education and advocacy, the partnership promotes science-based deer management and supports initiatives for hunter recruitment, retention, and reactivation. Their inaugural project has successfully compiled the first comprehensive dataset outlining the extensive socio-economic and conservation benefits of deer hunting in the region.