44 / 146
can do in the Lowcountry. It makes you appreciate the
raw bestiality of your prey,” he pointed out.
Hunting year-round allows Staples to get his boots
dirty and help maintain the balance of nature.
“Wild hogs have wreaked havoc across the country and
locally. Our indigenous wildlife has suffered as they are a
pest. They are a detriment and difficult to control, but, on
the flip side, they provide good food,” Staples commented.
Mike Leonardi
Palmetto Pediatrics • Pediatrician
Mike Leonardi, originally from Greenville, is a regular
among the wildlife south of Charleston during deer and
turkey season.
He also travels several times a year to international loca-
tions, with his favorite being South Africa.
“There are nine species of spiral horn antelope, and it is
my goal to tag all of them,” said Leonardi. “Hunting feels
like the most natural thing in the world. There are good
conservation reasons to hunt, but I hunt because it was
born into my heart.”
Like many others, Leonardi makes hunting a family af-
www.HugoMagazine.com|
www.BestOfMountPleasant.com|
www.MountPleasantMagazine.com44
Camaraderie of Hunting
fair, often taking his daughters, ages 12 and 14, with him.
“They enjoy it and seemingly appreciate their time with
dad,” he remarked.
In the Leonardi family, venison is the food of choice.
“I love deer on the grill, but the kids love it in tacos,”
he said.
As a pediatrician, Leonardi understands the nutritional
benefits of hunting.
“Wild game is on our table two to three times a week.
The meat is very lean and without the worry of added
antibiotics or steroids. It is a natural way to eat free range,”
he commented.
Photo courtesy of Mike Leonardi.