The MeatEater Podcast Ep. 847: Neanderthal Love, Mule Deer Eradication, and Mink Eyelashes
Mar 12, 2026
Brian Olin, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wildlife inspector in Anchorage, talks about detecting weird wildlife imports. Conversation jumps from Neanderthal mating research to the Catalina Island mule deer eradication controversy. They also cover Texas rattlesnake roundups and the bizarre seizure of mink fur eyelashes.
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Neanderthal Male Bias In Ancient Interbreeding
- New genetic analysis shows most Neanderthal DNA in modern humans came from male Neanderthals mating with female Homo sapiens.
- Researchers found human DNA enriched on Neanderthal X chromosomes, implying directional interbreeding rather than equal two-way mixing.
Neanderthal Bones Remind A Bull Rider Doctor
- Steve recounts physicians comparing Neanderthal bone injuries to modern bull riders, implying a confrontational hunting style.
- The specific lesion patterns matched trampling and goring injuries seen in rodeo clinicians' experience.
Conservancy Blames Deer For Catalina Habitat Loss
- Catalina Island deer are non-native and heavy browsing is blamed for preventing native vegetation recovery.
- The Catalina Island Conservancy argues hunting hasn't controlled numbers and seeks large-scale culling to restore native plants.