Dr. David McKee is a biologist with a deep-rooted history in fishing, hunting, and outdoor activities, primarily in South Texas. Raised by his grandparents and mother, he was taught to fish, hunt, shoot, braid leather, sharpen knives, and train dogs by his grandfather, a long-serving South Texas sheriff. His upbringing was deeply influenced by his family's connection to the outdoors and law enforcement, which included unique experiences such as training bloodhounds to track prisoners for exercise. Dr. McKee's professional accomplishments are primarily in the field of biology, with a focus on marine life. He has authored several books, including Texas Fishers in the Laguna Madre, Fire in the Sea, and a lab book on the fishes of the Gulf of Mexico. His writings extend beyond academic publications to popular magazines, where he has contributed numerous articles.

Scope and Content Note
This interview with Dr. David McKee, conducted by Jen Brown on April 11, 2017, provides a comprehensive insight into Dr. McKee's life, upbringing, and professional accomplishments. The interview begins with a discussion about his early life in Sinton, South Texas, where he was raised by his grandparents and mother. Dr. McKee shares anecdotes about his grandfather, a long-serving South Texas sheriff, and their shared experiences in fishing, hunting, and dog training. The interview also delves into Dr. McKee's professional life as a biologist, with a particular focus on his contributions to the field through his writings. He discusses his books and shares the process of writing these books. He also talks about his approach to writing, which is characterized by a blend of scientific research and personal experiences, often drawing from his extensive knowledge and experiences in South Texas. The interview provides a rich narrative of Dr. McKee's life and work, offering valuable insights into his unique upbringing and his contributions to the field of biology.