Bat Exclusion Lake Worth Bat Exclusion Lake Worth, FL, from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides a humane and effective solution for bats living inside homes and businesses. Lake Worth’s warm climate, mature trees, waterways, and abundant flying insects create favorable conditions for bat activity. Bats may enter attics and…Bat Exclusion Lake Worth Bat Exclusion Lake Worth, FL, from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides a humane and effective solution for bats living inside homes and businesses. Lake Worth’s warm climate, mature trees, waterways, and abundant flying insects create favorable conditions for bat activity. Bats may enter attics and roof spaces through narrow gaps around soffits, vents, fascia boards, flashing, chimneys, and roof edges. Common signs of bats include squeaking or fluttering noises, droppings beneath roof openings, dark stains around entry points, unpleasant attic odors, and evening activity near the roofline. Because bats can enter through small gaps, every active and potential opening must be carefully identified. The property must also be inspected for dependent young before exclusion work begins. AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches uses humane bat exclusion methods based on the structure and location of the colony. One-way devices may be installed over active entry points, allowing bats to leave while preventing them from getting back inside. After confirming that the bats have exited, our team can seal secondary gaps and complete durable repairs to reduce the risk of future entry. Bat droppings and debris can contaminate insulation and create persistent odors inside an attic. Cleanup, sanitation, and damaged insulation removal may be recommended after the exclusion process is complete. Contact AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches today to schedule professional bat exclusion for your Lake Worth, Florida, property. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTyyRkHvQ1g On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches offers professional bat removal services in Lake Worth, Florida. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches 4440 PGA Blvd Suite 600 Palm Beach Gardens , FL , 33410 561-515-0201 Website: https://palm-beaches.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: palmbeaches@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aaacwildliferemovalofthepa5785 Facebook: Twitter: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Bat Removal Lake Worth Bat Removal Lake Worth, FL provides professional solutions for homeowners and businesses experiencing unwanted bat activity. This SoundCloud playlist from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches shares helpful information about bat behavior, common infestation signs, humane removal methods, and long-term prevention. Lake Worth’s warm climate, waterways, mature…Bat Removal Lake Worth Bat Removal Lake Worth, FL provides professional solutions for homeowners and businesses experiencing unwanted bat activity. This SoundCloud playlist from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches shares helpful information about bat behavior, common infestation signs, humane removal methods, and long-term prevention. Lake Worth’s warm climate, waterways, mature trees, and active insect populations create suitable conditions for bats. These animals may enter attics, roof spaces, and wall voids through small gaps around soffits, fascia boards, vents, flashing, chimneys, and roof edges. Bats inside a building may create scratching or fluttering sounds, unpleasant odors, and accumulations of droppings. Effective bat removal requires a careful inspection, identification of every entry point, and a check for dependent young before exclusion work begins. Explore this playlist to discover how AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches uses humane exclusion methods, one-way devices, durable repairs, attic cleanup, and customized prevention strategies. If you notice bats entering or leaving your Lake Worth property, contact the team for dependable bat removal assistance. More on Sound Cloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal/sets/squirrel-removal-lake-worth On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdn0ERVYXhnk AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches offers professional bat removal services in Lake Worth, Florida. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches 4440 PGA Blvd Suite 600 Palm Beach Gardens , FL , 33410 561-515-0201 Website: https://palm-beaches.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: palmbeaches@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aaacwildliferemovalofthepa5785 Facebook: Twitter: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
“Chocolate, avocados, onions, and moldy foods are some of the most poisonous items you can leave out for squirrels. Even small amounts of these everyday ingredients can cause serious health issues—or be fatal—for these sensitive rodents.” Squirrels may look harmless scampering across your fence or chasing each other up a…“Chocolate, avocados, onions, and moldy foods are some of the most poisonous items you can leave out for squirrels. Even small amounts of these everyday ingredients can cause serious health issues—or be fatal—for these sensitive rodents.” Squirrels may look harmless scampering across your fence or chasing each other up a tree, but when they show up in your attic or tear through your garden, that charm disappears fast. In leafy neighborhoods where parks are close by and backyard bird feeders are everywhere, it’s no surprise that squirrels are regular visitors—and sometimes uninvited tenants. While many people enjoy watching them or even tossing out food, what you leave behind can actually be dangerous to squirrels—and a bigger headache for you without proper squirrel control . This article isn’t about harming wildlife. It’s about knowing what food is poisonous to squirrels so you don’t accidentally invite them in or make them sick. If you’ve been leaving out scraps, filling feeders, or composting without thinking twice, there’s a good chance you’re creating a squirrel buffet without even realizing it. Let’s break down what to avoid, what to secure, and how to protect both your home and the squirrels from a bad encounter. What Is The Most Dangerous Foods for Squirrels? Chocolate and Caffeinated Products Chocolate is one of the most toxic substances you can accidentally leave out for squirrels or any rodent. It contains theobromine—a stimulant that these small animals can’t metabolize effectively. Just a small amount from a brownie, chocolate almond bar, or sugar-filled candy can trigger tremors, elevated heart rate, or seizures in squirrels. Since they have such fast metabolisms and tiny bodies, the toxic effects hit hard and fast, often with serious consequences. Caffeinated foods and drinks are equally dangerous. Coffee grounds , soda spills, or chocolate-covered espresso beans tossed into a compost pile can be life-threatening if a squirrel gets into them. Where outdoor parties and backyard BBQs are common, it’s easy for sugary or caffeine-rich snacks to end up where rodents roam. To keep squirrels safe and your property clear of unwelcome visitors, make it a habit to clean up thoroughly and store all sweet or stimulant-laced foods securely. Avocados Avocados contain persin, a fungicidal toxin found in the fruit’s skin, pit, and even its leaves. While persin might not harm humans, it can be toxic to many animals, including squirrels. The risk isn’t just in eating an avocado—squirrels that nibble on a discarded peel, chewed seed, or exposed pit can experience digestive issues or worse. What makes this even more concerning is how easily avocado waste can be overlooked, especially in compost bins. If you’re growing avocado trees or preparing guacamole from scratch, this is something to stay mindful of. As urban farming and composting become more popular, the risk of accidentally exposing squirrels to this toxic fruit increases. Make sure avocado scraps are properly sealed or discarded, and if you have a tree, regularly clear fallen fruit from the yard. It’s better to be safe than to unknowingly poison a local animal. Onions, Garlic, and Spicy Foods While these aromatic kitchen staples may keep your chili full of flavor, they spell serious trouble for squirrels. Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia and other health complications. The danger extends to cooked dishes, too. If a squirrel gets into leftover food seasoned with garlic or onions, even in small amounts, it can suffer lasting effects. In worst cases, repeated exposure can be fatal over time. Spicy foods also pack a punch that squirrels can’t handle. Hot sauce remnants, chili powder, or discarded tacos can cause severe digestive distress. Where spicy dishes are a staple, food waste often ends up in outdoor bins or compost piles. Make sure spicy scraps are stored in critter-proof containers, and avoid tossing seasoned leftovers near your patio or yard. The goal isn’t just to avoid harming squirrels—it’s to stop inviting them altogether. Alcohol and Fermented Fruit Alcohol might seem like an unlikely threat to wildlife, but squirrels are highly sensitive to it. Whether it’s beer spills from a tailgate, wine left out on the porch, or sugary cocktails left on patio tables, these drinks can lead to disorientation, slowed reaction time, and eventually liver failure in squirrels. Their small bodies can’t handle even trace amounts, and it doesn’t take much to put them in serious danger. Another sneaky culprit? Overripe or fermenting fruit, especially in backyards with peach, fig, or persimmon trees. As the fruit falls and begins to break down, it can release natural alcohols that attract squirrels and get them intoxicated. They may stagger, fall from trees, or become easy prey for predators. Regularly clean up fruit from the ground and keep alcoholic beverages secure during outdoor events. Salty Snacks and Chips Salt is another ingredient that can easily disrupt a squirrel’s internal balance. While humans can handle a salty snack during a football game or backyard hangout, squirrels don’t process salt well. Even a few bites of junk food like chips, pretzels, or salted walnut snacks can dehydrate them and overwork their kidneys. These types of treats also contain added sugar and artificial ingredients that offer zero nutritional value for squirrels—making them both harmful and useless from a dietary perspective. Many of these items—especially sugary breakfast cereals or processed snack mixes—are casually dropped or tossed outside without much thought. But to a hungry squirrel, that forgotten bowl of cereal or spilled trail mix is a full meal. Where outdoor events, food trucks, and weekend cookouts are part of the culture, squirrels quickly learn where the good stuff is. Cleaning up sugary crumbs and sealing snack waste tightly are easy steps that help discourage squirrels from turning your yard into their favorite buffet line. Surprising “Healthy” Foods That Still Poisonous To Squirrels Not all squirrel-dangerous foods are obviously harmful. Some look totally natural or even nutritious—but for squirrels, they can cause more harm than good. These foods often show up in gardens, bird feeders, compost piles, or well-meaning attempts to “feed the wildlife.” Here’s what to watch for. Raw Corn (Especially Moldy Corn) Corn might seem harmless—it’s a common ingredient in bird seed, livestock feed, and even human snacks. But when corn starts to mold, it can develop aflatoxins, which are highly toxic to squirrels and many other animals. Aflatoxins are produced by certain types of fungi and can affect liver function, immune systems, and even lead to cancer in wildlife. A squirrel doesn’t have to eat much moldy corn for it to cause serious internal damage. The risk goes up during warm, humid stretches—especially in summer—when moisture speeds up mold growth. Corn that’s left outside for too long, stored improperly in feeders, or tossed into compost piles can quickly become a hidden hazard. If you’re putting out corn in a feeder, store it in a dry place, change it frequently, and never offer anything that smells off or looks discolored. It’s not just about nutrition—it’s about safety. Bread and Processed Carbs Bread might feel like a safe, throwaway snack for critters—but it’s actually a poor and potentially harmful food choice for squirrels. Bread, crackers, and other refined carbs offer little to no nutrition, and they can expand in a squirrel’s stomach, leading to bloating or discomfort. In some cases, processed bread products contain preservatives and additives that are hard for squirrels to digest, weakening their system over time. Squirrels that eat too much bread often end up malnourished despite feeling full. This is especially common in neighborhoods where residents leave out food “just to be nice.” Unfortunately, the kindness backfires. Instead of helping, you may be attracting squirrels that grow dependent on an unhealthy food source—and more likely to take up permanent residence in your attic. If you want to be squirrel-friendly, stick to natural deterrents and avoid the bread basket. Peanuts (Especially Salted or Moldy) Peanuts are a bit of a wildcard. While they’re often seen in squirrel food blends or used to lure wildlife for photos, they aren’t actually nuts—they’re legumes. And when they’re salted, roasted, or worse, moldy, they become a serious risk. Moldy peanuts, like corn, can carry aflatoxins that attack a squirrel’s liver and immune system. Salted peanuts, on the other hand, can cause dehydration and kidney stress. This matters because many people use peanuts to feed birds or squirrels without realizing the risks. In fact, some birdseed mixes from big-box stores still include them. If you’re trying to keep squirrels away from your yard—or avoid poisoning them by accident—skip the peanuts. And if you must use them, go for raw, unsalted, and fresh, and use a squirrel-proof bird feeder so your effort to help one species doesn’t endanger another. Foods That Attract Squirrels (But Shouldn’t) Some foods might not be poisonous, but they’re basically neon signs saying “Free Snacks Here!” for squirrels. These attractants can lead to more frequent visits, nesting, and eventual infestations. If you’re trying to squirrel-proof your yard or keep them from invading your home, these are the items to manage carefully. Bird Seed and Pet Food Bird feeders are one of the top culprits for squirrel problems. Many blends contain sunflower seeds, millet, corn, and peanuts—aka squirrel candy. Once they find a reliable food source, squirrels will return again and again, sometimes destroying the feeder in the process. The same goes for pet food left outside. Dry kibble and wet food alike are high-protein, calorie-dense meals that squirrels will happily devour. Where backyard birdwatching is popular and outdoor pet bowls are commo
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Amanda M. Herbert , Purdue University Patrick A. Zollner , Purdue University Follow Landon R. Jones , Mississippi State University Follow Marian L. Wahl , Purdue University Grant N. Burcham…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Amanda M. Herbert , Purdue University Patrick A. Zollner , Purdue University Follow Landon R. Jones , Mississippi State University Follow Marian L. Wahl , Purdue University Grant N. Burcham , Purdue University Bryan M. Kluever , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Florida Field Station Follow Lee A. Humberg , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Wildlife Services, West Lafayette, Indiana Brandon M. Quinby , Purdue University ORCID IDs Herbert https://orcid.org/0009-0005-5432-200X Zollner https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8263-7029 Jones https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1814-6115 Wahl https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7933-1632 Burcham https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2443-6461 Kluever https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8417-4339 Humberg https://orcid.org/0009-0003-3840-4393 Quinby https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4090-7497 Document Type Article Date of this Version 2024 Citation Journal of Raptor Research (2024) 58(4): 1-13 doi: 10.3356/jrr2378 Associate editor: Ian G. Warkentin Title and abstract only available also in Spanish Abstract Abstract Interference competition occurs when an individual prohibits another’s access to a resource through antagonistic interactions. Despite considerable research on scavenger interactions at carrion, the limited evidence for competitive interactions between black vultures ( Coragyps atratus ) and turkey vultures ( Cathartes aura ) relies upon the frequency of antagonistic interactions without considering other forms of competition. Using remote cameras, we recorded the duration of aggression, scavenging, and vigilance behaviors exhibited by individual black vultures and turkey vultures scavenging stillborn domestic cattle carcasses within flocks composed of one or both vulture species. We tested for differences of durations of each behavior by vulture species, flock composition, and the combined effect of vulture species and flock composition. Surprisingly, aggressive behaviors were rare and their duration did not differ significantly based on vulture species. The clearest trends between our comparisons revealed that the duration of aggression was significantly longer for black vultures in single-species flocks, whereas their duration of scavenging was longer in mixed-species flocks. Turkey vultures in the presence of multiple conspecifics and heterospecifics exhibited longer durations of vigilance. Our results indicated that scavenging black vultures exhibited more aggression toward conspecifics than heterospecifics. Our findings identify the complex ways in which black vultures compete with turkey vultures, beyond simple aggression. Resumen La competencia por interferencia ocurre cuando un individuo, a través de interacciones antagónicas, limita el acceso de otro a un recurso. A pesar de que existe una cantidad considerable de investigaciones sobre las interacciones de los carroñeros en presencia de alimento, la poca evidencia de interacciones competitivas entre Coragyps atratus y Cathartes aura se basa en la frecuencia de interacciones antagónicas, sin considerar otras formas de competencia. Usando cámaras remotas, registramos la duración de los comportamientos de agresión, carroñeo y vigilancia exhibidos por individuos de Co . atratus y Ca . aura alimentándose de ganado doméstico natimorto dentro de bandadas compuestas por una o ambas especies de buitres. Evaluamos las diferencias en las duraciones de cada comportamiento según la especie de buitre, la composición de la bandada y el efecto combinado de la especie de buitre y la composición de la bandada. Sorprendentemente, los comportamientos agresivos fueron raros y su duración no difería significativamente según la especie de buitre. Las tendencias más claras entre nuestras comparaciones revelaron que la duración de la agresión fue significativamente más larga para Co . atratus en bandadas de una sola especie, mientras que la duración de su alimentación fue más larga en bandadas de especies mixtas. Cathartes aura exhibió tiempos de vigilancia mas largos en presencia de múltiples congéneres y de individuos heteroespecíficos. Nuestros resultados indicaron que Co . atratus exhibió más agresión hacia individuos carroñeros congéneres que hacia los heteroespecíficos. Nuestros hallazgos identifican las formas complejas en las que Co . atratus compite con Ca . aura , más allá de la simple agresión. DOWNLOADS Since November 23, 2024 Included in Natural Resources and Conservation Commons , Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons , Other Environmental Sciences Commons , Other Veterinary Medicine Commons , Population Biology Commons , Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons , Veterinary Infectious Diseases Commons , Veterinary Microbiology and Immunobiology Commons , Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons , Zoology Commons COinS
Bat Extraction Lake Worth Bat Extraction Lake Worth, FL, from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides professional help for bats entering residential and commercial buildings. Lake Worth’s warm climate, waterways, mature trees, and abundant flying insects create favorable conditions for bat activity. These animals may enter attics and roof voids…Bat Extraction Lake Worth Bat Extraction Lake Worth, FL, from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides professional help for bats entering residential and commercial buildings. Lake Worth’s warm climate, waterways, mature trees, and abundant flying insects create favorable conditions for bat activity. These animals may enter attics and roof voids through narrow gaps around soffits, fascia boards, vents, flashing, chimneys, and roof edges. Signs of a bat problem may include squeaking or fluttering noises, droppings below roof openings, dark stains around entry points, unpleasant attic odors, and bats emerging from the building around sunset. Because bats can use very small gaps, a detailed inspection is necessary to find active openings and other vulnerable areas. The property must also be checked for dependent young before any exclusion work begins. AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches uses humane bat extraction and exclusion methods suited to the property. One-way devices may be installed over active entry points, allowing the bats to leave while preventing them from returning. Once the bats have exited, our technicians can seal secondary openings and complete durable repairs to help protect the building from future activity. Bat droppings and other debris may contaminate insulation and create strong odors inside an attic. Cleanup, sanitation, and damaged insulation removal may be recommended to restore the affected area. Contact AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches today to schedule professional bat extraction for your Lake Worth, Florida, home or business. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu3jPmzcrB8 On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches offers professional bat removal services in Lake Worth, Florida. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches 4440 PGA Blvd Suite 600 Palm Beach Gardens , FL , 33410 561-515-0201 Website: https://palm-beaches.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: palmbeaches@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aaacwildliferemovalofthepa5785 Facebook: Twitter: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Date of this Version 3-2021 Document Type Article Citation Hansen, J. and C. Urbigkit. 2021. Monitoring for Wolves. Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series. USDA, APHIS, WS National Wildlife Research Center. Fort Collins, Colorado. 11p.…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Date of this Version 3-2021 Document Type Article Citation Hansen, J. and C. Urbigkit. 2021. Monitoring for Wolves. Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series. USDA, APHIS, WS National Wildlife Research Center. Fort Collins, Colorado. 11p. Abstract Gray wolves (Canis lupus) and Mexican wolves (Canis lupus baileyi) once again roam across landscapes where they have been absent for decades (Figure 1). With wolf range expansion comes increased opportunities for conflicts when wolves harass or prey on domestic livestock or other animals. Wolves have relatively high reproductive and dispersal rates but detecting individual animals in low-density populations is difficult without a concerted monitoring effort. In fact, wolf presence in an area often is not known until there is a confirmed livestock depredation. Ranchers and wildlife damage management experts need not wait for livestock depredations to occur before wolves are detected in an area. There are a variety of simple and inexpensive tools and techniques for monitoring for wolf presence (Figure 2). This publication provides information on the benefits of monitoring and monitoring techniques. For additional information on wolf damage management, please see the Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series publication on gray wolves. Monitoring for the presence of wolves can pose difficulties but there are numerous reasons for ranchers, wildlife damage management professionals, and others to undertake such efforts. Documenting the presence of wolves provides information that livestock owners can use in making decisions about managing livestock to help prevent or minimize wolf depredations. Wildlife damage management professionals may be able to use monitoring information when assessing livestock depredation events and verifying wolf depredations in cases involving damage payments. The information may also help determine whether the presence of wolves is responsible for changing behaviors and movements of livestock, game species, or other wildlife sharing the landscape with wolves. DOWNLOADS Since March 09, 2021 COinS
Bat Removal Near Me Lake Worth Searching for “bat removal near me” in Lake Worth, FL? AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides professional bat removal and exclusion services for local homes and businesses. Lake Worth’s warm climate, waterways, mature trees, and abundant flying insects create favorable feeding conditions for bats.…Bat Removal Near Me Lake Worth Searching for “bat removal near me” in Lake Worth, FL? AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides professional bat removal and exclusion services for local homes and businesses. Lake Worth’s warm climate, waterways, mature trees, and abundant flying insects create favorable feeding conditions for bats. These animals may enter attics and roof spaces through narrow gaps around soffits, vents, fascia boards, flashing, chimneys, and roof edges. Common signs of a bat problem include squeaking or fluttering noises, droppings below roof openings, dark stains around entry points, unpleasant attic odors, and bats emerging from the building around sunset. Bats can use small openings that may be difficult to spot from the ground. A detailed inspection is necessary to locate active entry points and other vulnerable areas around the structure. AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches uses humane, species-appropriate exclusion methods to remove bats safely. Our team checks for dependent young before installing one-way devices that allow bats to leave while preventing them from returning. Once all bats have exited, secondary openings can be sealed and durable repairs completed to help prevent future activity. Bat droppings and debris may contaminate insulation and create strong odors inside an attic or roof space. Cleanup, sanitation, and damaged insulation removal may be recommended to restore the affected area. Contact AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches today to schedule professional bat removal near you in Lake Worth, Florida. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_UJeeeL-pA On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches offers professional bat removal services in Lake Worth, Florida. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches 4440 PGA Blvd Suite 600 Palm Beach Gardens , FL , 33410 561-515-0201 Website: https://palm-beaches.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: palmbeaches@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aaacwildliferemovalofthepa5785 Facebook: Twitter: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Document Type Article Publication Date 2004 Abstract An unbiased assessment from an ecological perspective of the current status and the potential factors that influenced the long-term conservation of greater sage-grouse populations and the sagebrush ecosystems on which they depend. Recommended Citation Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, "Conservation assessment…Document Type Article Publication Date 2004 Abstract An unbiased assessment from an ecological perspective of the current status and the potential factors that influenced the long-term conservation of greater sage-grouse populations and the sagebrush ecosystems on which they depend. Recommended Citation Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, "Conservation assessment of greater sage-grouse and sagebrush habitats" (2004). Wildlife Conservation and Management. Paper 1. https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/govdocs_wildlife/1 DOWNLOADS Since August 31, 2010 COinS
Bat Removal Lake Worth Bat Removal Lake Worth, FL, from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides professional help for bats entering homes and businesses. Lake Worth’s warm climate, mature trees, waterways, and large insect populations create favorable conditions for local bat activity. Bats may enter attics, roof voids, and other…Bat Removal Lake Worth Bat Removal Lake Worth, FL, from AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches provides professional help for bats entering homes and businesses. Lake Worth’s warm climate, mature trees, waterways, and large insect populations create favorable conditions for local bat activity. Bats may enter attics, roof voids, and other protected spaces through small gaps around soffits, vents, fascia boards, flashing, and roof edges. Common signs of a bat problem include squeaking or fluttering noises, droppings below roof openings, dark stains near entry points, unpleasant odors, and bats emerging around sunset. Because bats can fit through narrow openings, locating every active and potential entry point requires a careful inspection. The attic must also be checked for dependent young before exclusion begins. AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches uses humane exclusion methods to remove bats safely from buildings. One-way devices may be installed over active openings so the bats can exit but cannot return. After confirming that all bats have left, our team can seal secondary gaps and complete durable repairs to help prevent future activity. Bat droppings and nesting debris may contaminate insulation and create strong odors inside an attic. Cleanup, sanitation, and damaged insulation removal may be recommended to restore the affected space. Contact AAAC Wildlife Removal Palm Beaches today to schedule professional bat removal for your Lake Worth, Florida, property. More on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipTKFVBDJL4 On Sound Cloud: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches offers professional bat removal services in Lake Worth, Florida. Contact Us: AAAC Wildlife Removal - Palm Beaches 4440 PGA Blvd Suite 600 Palm Beach Gardens , FL , 33410 561-515-0201 Website: https://palm-beaches.aaacwildliferemoval.com/ Email: palmbeaches@aaacwildliferemoval.com Find us around the web: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aaacwildliferemovalofthepa5785 Facebook: Twitter: SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/aaac-wildlife-removal Blogger: WordPress: Tumblr:
Author affiliation: Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany (J. Schön, N.J. Halwe, A.K. Ahrens, A. Aebischer, D. Hoffman, M. Beer); Department of Experimental Animal Facilities and Biorisk Management, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald (A. Breithaupt, M. Hertel) In 1996, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus (goose/Guangdong/96) appeared in southern China, causing…Author affiliation: Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany (J. Schön, N.J. Halwe, A.K. Ahrens, A. Aebischer, D. Hoffman, M. Beer); Department of Experimental Animal Facilities and Biorisk Management, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald (A. Breithaupt, M. Hertel) In 1996, highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus (goose/Guangdong/96) appeared in southern China, causing outbreaks in poultry and infecting 18 humans, 6 of whom died ( 1 – 3 ). Descendants of that lineage subsequently triggered major outbreaks in poultry in Southeast Asia and Europe, including H5N1 clades 2.2 (2005–2006) and 2.3.2.1c (2010) and H5N8 clade 2.3.4.4a (2014), reflecting a global rise in HPAI virus (HPAIV) outbreaks ( 4 – 7 ). In 2016, Europe experienced major HPAI H5 clade 2.3.4.4b outbreaks in wild birds and domestic poultry ( 4 ), followed by major outbreaks during 2020–2021 ( 7 – 9 ); the clade then became endemic ( 10 ). Nevertheless, during that period, clade 2.3.4.4b virus continuously evolved; serotype H5N8 predominated in 2016, transitioning to H5N6 by 2018, and shifting to H5N1 by 2020 ( 9 , 11 , 12 ). Although the virus remained in the same clade as classified by homologies of the hemagglutinin (HA) segment, the genotypes changed through continuous reassortment events ( 7 , 13 ). In December 2021, HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus spread from Europe to Canada and the United States via wild birds ( 14 , 15 ). Subsequently, several Eurasian H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b virus genotypes entered North America, and lineages A1 and A3 reassorted with local low pathogenicity avian influenza viruses in migratory birds, giving rise to new H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotypes like B3.13 (late 2023–early 2024) and D1.1 (September 2024) ( 15 , 16 ). Those viruses spread rapidly in US wild bird populations, including waterfowl, birds of prey, seabirds, shorebirds, and a wide range of common land birds; during December 2021–December 2025, a total of 17,718 wild birds tested positive ( 17 ). In addition, clade 2.3.4.4b virus spread to domestic livestock birds, affecting 186.18 million birds in 2,029 flocks during February 2022–January 2026 ( 18 ). Besides avian species, a wide range of mammals have been infected, including 683 wild mammals tested during April 2022–December 2025, mostly terrestrial carnivores feeding on H5-infected birds, including 148 red fox ( Vulpus vulpus ), 81 skunks (various species), 34 raccoons ( Procyon lotor ), 28 mountain lions ( Puma concolor ), and 18 bobcats ( Lynx rufus ) ( 19 ). In addition, 148 domestic cats ( Felis catus ), 110 house mice ( Mus musculus ), and 26 deer mice ( Peromyscus spp.) also were infected, mostly in the context of affected farms ( 19 ). In March 2024, H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype B3.13 virus was detected in US dairy cattle, representing the first well-documented instance of widespread HPAIV infection in bovines ( 20 ). That detection was accompanied by evidence of high infectious virus shedding in milk, making milk-mediated cow-to-cow transmission highly likely ( 20 – 23 ). Concurrently, young goat kids co-located with infected poultry on a Minnesota farm exhibited neurologic signs and tested positive for H5N1 genotype B3.6 virus ( 24 , 25 ). During March 2024–May 2025, a total of 70 cases of human H5N1 infection were reported in the United States ( 26 ); most were associated with exposure to infected dairy cattle (41 cases) or commercial poultry (24 cases) ( 15 ). Among human cases, the most common reported symptoms were conjunctivitis (89%), fever (46%), and respiratory symptoms (41%) ( 26 ). All sequenced viruses from human cases belonged to clade 2.3.4.4b, predominantly B3.13 and D1.1 genotypes, but 1 D1.3 genotype virus also was identified ( 15 ). In May 2024, the US National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed detection of HPAI H5N1 virus from alpacas at a premises where poultry had previously tested positive ( 27 ). The viral genome matched the B3.13 genotype circulating in US dairy cattle and the depopulated poultry, strongly implicating environmental contamination and cross-species exposure ( 27 ). The alpacas shared pasture and water sources with infected poultry and ducks but initially showed no clinical signs ( 27 – 29 ). However, on May 10, the day H5N1 virus infection was confirmed in poultry, 1 alpaca experienced spontaneous late-term abortion; 2 more aborted on May 14 and 15, and another spontaneous abortion occurred before September 2024 ( 29 ). By May 15, 2024, four of 18 alpacas showed clinical signs, including depression, weakness, and mild respiratory symptoms ( 29 ). An additional alpaca died acutely, without prior reported signs, 10 days after the first reports of influenza-like illness in poultry; a nasal swab sample collected on the day of death tested H5N1-positive, but no postmortem examination was conducted ( 29 ). Of the 18 adult alpacas (14 female, 4 male), only the female animals were affected ( 29 ). One aborted fetus was later examined, and H5N1 was confirmed in brain tissue ( 29 ). Ten surviving female alpacas seroconverted ( 29 ). Of note, alpaca milk samples tested positive for viral genome, indicating acute infection of the udder, but also later tested positive for influenza virus A–specific antibodies ( 29 ). On the same farm, milk from 1 llama tested positive for specific antibodies 4 months after the outbreak, and 2 of 13 yaks (both female) also seroconverted ( 29 ). That detection expanded the known host range of HPAI H5N1 virus and raised questions regarding its susceptibility, pathogenesis, and transmission dynamics in camelids. HPAIV H5N1 continues to pose a threat to birds and, under certain conditions, to mammalian species. Although spillover into mammals is generally rare, the recent detections in nonavian hosts have heightened concerns about cross-species transmission, adaptation, and the emergence of novel mammalian hosts ( 11 , 20 ). Given that precedent, controlled experimental infection studies can address key knowledge gaps, including the incubation period, clinical spectrum, transmission routes, duration of viral shedding, tissue tropism, and the potential for adaptation in nonavian hosts. We report an experimental challenge study in alpacas using HPAIV H5N1 genotype B3.13, the same genotype identified in the US field case in camelids, to characterize virus kinetics, pathology, and shedding. Our aim was to clarify risk for H5N1 infection among camelid populations, elucidate cross-species transmission dynamics, and better define the potential for additional mammalian adaptation. The experiment and all subsequent sample analyses were conducted at the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (Greifswald, Germany) in the licensed high containment Biosafety Level 3 laboratories and Biosafety Level 3 large animal facilities by using required personal protective measures in accordance with the respective permits. We obtained 6 healthy male alpacas ( Vicugna pacos ), 12–24 months of age, from a local breeder. We housed animals in 2 groups of 3 (stable 1 and stable 2) and allowed them to acclimatize to housing conditions for >2 weeks before infection. We provided loose hay in hay bags and specialized camelid feed in troughs; water was available ad libitum throughout the study period. Experimental Setup and Sampling We obtained baseline jugular venous blood samples and nasal and rectal swab samples 1 day before inoculation. Then, we intranasally inoculated each of the 6 alpacas by using a nasal nebulizer device on a 1-mL syringe. Animals received 10 5.9 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID 50 ), 10 5.6 TCID 50 /mL per nostril, of HPAI H5N1 genotype B3.13 virus isolate A/Cattle/Texas/063224-24-1/2024 (GISAID accession no. EPI_ISL_19155861). We confirmed inoculum titer by back-titration. Staff monitored animals daily for wellbeing and collected nasal and rectal swab samples on days 1–9 and 11 after inoculation. At 4 days postinoculation (dpi), the 3 animals from stable 1 were euthanized to collect serum and organ samples, including nasal conchae (respiratory and olfactory regions), trachea (cranial and caudal), lungs (all lobes), liver, kidney, and spleen. The 3 animals from stable 2 were euthanized at 20 dpi for collection of the same sample panel. Sample Preparation We collected blood samples by using KABEVETTE G systems with disposable needles (KABE Labortechnik, https://kabe-labortechnik.de ). We suspended swabs in 2 mL of Dulbecco Modified Eagle Medium supplemented with 1 mg/mL enrofloxacin, 1 mg/mL lincomycin, 0.05 mg/mL gentamycin, and 0.05 mg/mL amphotericin. We transferred organ samples (≈2 mm 3 ) into tubes containing medium with penicillin (10 U/mL) and streptomycin (10 µg/mL) and a stainless-steel bead. We homogenized organ samples for 2 minutes at 300 Hz by using TissueLyser II (QIAGEN, https://www.qiagen.com ). We extracted viral RNA from 100 µL of swab medium and organ homogenates by using the NucleoMag Vet kit (Macherey-Nagel, https://www.mn-net.com ) on a BioSprint 96 platform (QIAGEN). ELISAs We evaluated serum samples by using 2 different ELISAs. First, we used an in-house clade 2.3.4.4b–adapted H5 nanoluciferase–based ELISA ( 30 ). In brief, we coated high-binding ELISA plates overnight at 4°C with 0.2 µg/well H5 HA1 and blocked with 5% skim milk. We preincubated 1:10 serum samples with 2 × 10 5 luciferase light units (LU) H5-nanoluciferase for 1 hour at room temperature, then added to ELISA plates for and incubated another hour. We measured bioluminescence in LU by using the Nano-Glo Luciferase Assay System (Promega, https://www.promega.com ). Second, we used an updated version of the ID Screen Influenza H5 Antibody Competition 3.0 Multi-species ELISA (Innovative Diagnostics, https://innovative-diagnostics.com ), following the manufacturer’s protocol. We diluted heat-inactivated serum 1:10 and incubated on H5-coated plates with controls. After washing, we sequentially added conjugate a
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United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Martin S. Lowney , USDA, Wildlife Services Follow Scott F. Beckerman , USDA-APHIS-Wildlife Services, Springfield, Illinois Follow Scott C. Barras , USDA-APHIS-Wildlife Services, Moseley, Virginia Follow Thomas W. Seamans , National Wildlife Research Center,…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series Martin S. Lowney , USDA, Wildlife Services Follow Scott F. Beckerman , USDA-APHIS-Wildlife Services, Springfield, Illinois Follow Scott C. Barras , USDA-APHIS-Wildlife Services, Moseley, Virginia Follow Thomas W. Seamans , National Wildlife Research Center, Sandusky, Ohio Follow Date of this Version 5-2018 Document Type Article Citation Lowney, M.S., S.F. Beckerman, S.C. Barras, and T.W. Seamans. 2018. Gulls . Wildlife Damage Management Technical Series. USDA, APHIS, WS National Wildlife Research Center. Fort Collins, Colorado. 16p. Abstract Abundant gull (Figure 1) populations in North America have led to a variety of conflicts with people. Gulls cause damage at aquaculture facilities and other properties, and often collide with aircraft. Their use of structures on and near water results in excessive amounts of bird droppings on boats and docks. Their presence near outdoor dining establishments, swimming beaches, and recreational sites can lead to negative interactions with people. Large amounts of gull fecal material pollutes water and beaches resulting in drinking water contamination and swim bans. A combination of dispersal techniques, exclusion and limited lethal control may reduce damage to an acceptable level. No single management method to prevent gull conflicts works all the time or in all settings. Wildlife management methods should be integrated so that one method enhances the effect of another. For example, frightening devices often are more effective when done in conjunction with habitat modification (e.g., removal of food resources or roosting habitat) to make a site less attractive to gulls. Likewise, exclusion devices, such as overhead wires, work better when combined with covering or removing food resources. Gulls are classified as a migratory bird species and are protected by federal and, in most cases, state laws. In the United States, gulls may be taken only with a permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Occasionally, an additional permit is required from the state wildlife management agency. Permits are issued only after dispersal and other non-lethal damage management methods have been employed and proven ineffective at resolving the conflicts. No federal permit is needed, however, to frighten or mechanically exclude gulls. DOWNLOADS Since May 18, 2018 COinS
The Journal of Wildlife Management is a benefit of membership in The Wildlife Society. Published eight times annually, it is one of the world’s leading scientific journals covering wildlife science, management and conservation, focusing on aspects of wildlife that can assist management and conservation. Join today for access to The…The Journal of Wildlife Management is a benefit of membership in The Wildlife Society. Published eight times annually, it is one of the world’s leading scientific journals covering wildlife science, management and conservation, focusing on aspects of wildlife that can assist management and conservation. Join today for access to The Journal of Wildlife Management and all the other great benefits of TWS membership. In the featured article for this issue, researchers looked at the relationship between humans, domestic dogs and bears in conflicts across North America from 1901 to 2023. They uncovered that it may be riskier to hike with a dog companion than without one when it comes to bear attacks. Other articles in this issue address the potential of military lands providing an opportunity to recover red wolves, how little penguins select nest boxes and how recreational boats affect beluga whale dispersion and more. Log in to read the August issue today.
A study published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry by Oxford University Press reports that widely used flea and tick treatments for dogs and cats may pose a serious threat to insects in the natural environment. Isoxazoline drugs are a relatively new class of antiparasitic medications prescribed by veterinarians around the…A study published in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry by Oxford University Press reports that widely used flea and tick treatments for dogs and cats may pose a serious threat to insects in the natural environment. Isoxazoline drugs are a relatively new class of antiparasitic medications prescribed by veterinarians around the world to protect pets from fleas and ticks. Introduced in 2013, they quickly gained popularity because they were the first oral treatments capable of controlling both pests for a month or longer. After pets take these medications, the active compounds pass through their bodies and are excreted in feces. Drug Residues Enter Soil and Ecosystems The European Medicines Agency has previously warned that these substances could contaminate ecosystems, although detailed information about how much of the drugs enter the environment remains limited. The main concern centers on how veterinary parasite treatments might affect species that are not the intended targets. Isoxazolines are designed to kill fleas and ticks, but when treated animals eliminate the drugs, other insects may also be exposed. Research suggests pets can introduce these chemicals into the environment through feces, urine, and even shed hair. Of particular concern are dung-feeding insects such as flies, dung beetles, and some butterflies. These species play a vital role in breaking down waste, recycling nutrients, improving soil quality, and helping control pests. If they consume feces containing the drug residues, they may be harmed. Study Tracks Isoxazoline Residues in Pet Feces To better understand the risk, researchers in France monitored 20 dogs and 20 cats owned by veterinary students. The animals received isoxazoline treatments over a three month period. Scientists collected fecal samples to measure how much of the active ingredients remained and to estimate how much exposure dung-feeding insects could face. The analysis focused on how these medications are eliminated in pet waste. Even after the recommended treatment period had ended, researchers detected two of the four active ingredients commonly found in isoxazoline products in the animals' feces. Potential Impact on Dung Feeding Insects An environmental risk assessment based on these findings suggests that dung-feeding insects could experience high levels of exposure to isoxazoline compounds as a result of routine pet treatments. The researchers warn that this exposure could disrupt important ecological processes and potentially lead to serious consequences for environmental lifecycles.
Every year, cities participating in the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge program monitor different legs of the monarch migration through community science events. These events encourage individuals to collect data that contributes … Read more The post Science is for Everyone: Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Cities Monitor Monarch Migration Through Community Science Efforts…Every year, cities participating in the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge program monitor different legs of the monarch migration through community science events. These events encourage individuals to collect data that contributes … Read more The post Science is for Everyone: Mayors’ Monarch Pledge Cities Monitor Monarch Migration Through Community Science Efforts appeared first on The National Wildlife Federation Blog.
Ducks Unlimited has hired Karen Waldrop as its new chief operating officer after years serving as its Chief Conservation Officer. Waldrop joined the organization in 2019 and has since worked as Ducks Unlimited (DU) chief conservation officer. “Since Karen joined DU in 2019, her impact on our conservation delivery has…Ducks Unlimited has hired Karen Waldrop as its new chief operating officer after years serving as its Chief Conservation Officer. Waldrop joined the organization in 2019 and has since worked as Ducks Unlimited (DU) chief conservation officer. “Since Karen joined DU in 2019, her impact on our conservation delivery has been historic,” said the organization’s CEO Adam Putnam. In her tenure at DU, she has overseen the expansion of DU’s conservation delivery footprint across the United States, surpassing one million acres of conservation in FY24 and FY25. Waldrop was previously part of The Wildlife Society’s “Leaders in Conservation on Mentoring the Next Leaders.” The session, held at the TWS’ 30 th Annual Conference Louisville, Kentucky, brought together a group of women who overcame obstacles in a male-dominated field to reach top leadership positions in conservation. Before joining Ducks Unlimited, Waldrop spent 20 years at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, starting as a graduate student and progressing to leadership roles, including Wildlife Division Director and then Deputy Commissioner. “It’s a privilege to work alongside the passionate volunteers, staff and members who make DU a uniquely effective force for conservation,” Waldrop said. “Everything we’ve accomplished so far has been a team effort, but there is still much more work to be done to combat North America’s continued wetland loss and habitat degradation—that’s a challenge we readily accept.” Read more in the Duck’s Unlimited press release.
Most people care little about taking as many measures as possible to avoid mosquito bites. They slap on some mosquito repellent and go about their business. It’s a different story, however, when a mosquito-borne disease hits a specific locale. When people learn that a single bite can mean a deadly…Most people care little about taking as many measures as possible to avoid mosquito bites. They slap on some mosquito repellent and go about their business. It’s a different story, however, when a mosquito-borne disease hits a specific locale. When people learn that a single bite can mean a deadly disease or health issues for […] The post Don’t let mosquitoes take a bite out of business first appeared on Pest Management Professional.
Back to Resources Conservationists have released 3,000 endangered mountain yellow-legged frogs into California’s Sierra Nevada this year. Watch a video of a release. Conservationists have released 3,000 endangered mountain yellow-legged frogs into wetlands in California’s Sierra Nevada. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has been working to captive breed and…Back to Resources Conservationists have released 3,000 endangered mountain yellow-legged frogs into California’s Sierra Nevada this year. Watch a video of a release. Conservationists have released 3,000 endangered mountain yellow-legged frogs into wetlands in California’s Sierra Nevada. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has been working to captive breed and reintroduce mountain yellow-legged frogs ( Rana muscosa ) and tadpoles for two decades in partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USWFS) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Considered endangered by the USFWS, only 200 individuals were estimated to live in the wild before this release. The species’ main threats include disease, wildfires, drought and invasive species. Read more at People .
United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Amy J. Davis , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado Follow Wesley C. Dixon , University…United States Department of Agriculture: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services: Staff Publications Amy J. Davis , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado Follow Wesley C. Dixon , University of Georgia Richard B. Chipman , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, Wildlife Services, National Rabies Management Program, Concord, New Hampshire Follow Amy T. Gilbert , United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services, Wildlife Services, National Wildlife Research Center, Fort Collins, Colorado Follow Jacob E. Hill , Michigan State University James C. Beasley , University of Georgia Olin E. Rhodes Jr. , University of Georgia Guha Dharmarajan , Krea University ORCID IDs Davis http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4962-9753 Gilbert http://orcid.org/0000-0002-8256-0081 Hill http://orcid.org/0000-0003-2761-8786 Document Type Article Date of this Version 2024 Citation Journal of Wildlife Management (2024) 89(2): e22701 doi: 10.1002/jwmg.22701 Abstract Density estimation for unmarked animals is particularly challenging, yet density estimates are often necessary for effective wildlife management. Raccoons ( Procyon lotor ) are the primary terrestrial wildlife reservoir for Lyssavirus rabies within the United States. The raccoon rabies variant (RRVV) is actively managed at landscape scales using oral rabies vaccination (ORV) within the eastern United States. To effectively manage RRVV, it is important to know the density of raccoons to appropriately scale the density of ORV baits distributed on the landscape. We compared methods to estimate raccoon densities from camera‐trap data versus more intensive capture‐mark‐recapture (CMR) estimates across 2 land cover types (upland pine and bottomland hardwood) in the southeastern United States during 2019 and 2020. We evaluated the effect of alternative camera configurations and durations of camera trapping on density estimates and used an N‐mixture model to estimate raccoon densities, including covariates on abundance and detection. We further compared different methods of scaling camera‐based counts, with the maximum number of raccoons seen on any given image within a day best explaining density. Camera‐trap density estimates were moderately correlated with CMR estimates ( r = 0.56). However, densities from camera‐trap data were more reliable when classifying category of density as an index used to inform management (83% correct when compared to CMR estimates), although the densities in our study fell into the 2 lowest density classes only. Using more cameras reduced bias and uncertainty around density estimates; however, if ≤ 6 camera traps were used at a site, a line transect approach proved less biased than a grid design. Camera trapping should be conducted for at least 3 weeks for more accurate estimates of raccoon population density in our study area (< 5% bias). We show that camera‐trap data can be used to assign raccoon densities to management‐relevant density index bins, but more studies are needed to ensure reliability across a greater range of environmental conditions and raccoon densities. DOWNLOADS Since April 18, 2025 Included in Natural Resources and Conservation Commons , Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons , Other Environmental Sciences Commons , Other Veterinary Medicine Commons , Population Biology Commons , Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons , Veterinary Infectious Diseases Commons , Veterinary Microbiology and Immunobiology Commons , Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Epidemiology, and Public Health Commons , Zoology Commons COinS
Snow flies might seem like ordinary insects, but their survival strategy is anything but typical. In a new study, scientists at Northwestern University investigated how these small, wingless insects, which move across snowy surfaces to find mates and lay eggs, stay alive in freezing conditions. They discovered that snow flies…Snow flies might seem like ordinary insects, but their survival strategy is anything but typical. In a new study, scientists at Northwestern University investigated how these small, wingless insects, which move across snowy surfaces to find mates and lay eggs, stay alive in freezing conditions. They discovered that snow flies rely on a surprising mix of biological tools. The insects can generate their own body heat like mammals and produce antifreeze proteins similar to those found in Arctic fish. While most insects cannot survive below freezing, snow flies remain active at temperatures as low as -6 degrees Celsius (or 21.2 degrees Fahrenheit). These findings provide new insight into how life adapts to extreme environments. They may also help researchers develop new ways to protect cells, tissues and materials from damage caused by cold. The study was published on March 24 in the journal Current Biology . "Insects are cold-blooded, so they are at the mercy of external temperatures," said Northwestern's Marco Gallio, who led the study. "But they have a mind-boggling ability to adapt to extremes. When it gets cold, a common strategy is to find shelter and become dormant until conditions get better. But instead of slowing down, snow flies actually prefer freezing cold, snowy conditions and hide away when the snow melts and it gets warm. They really push the limit of what's possible. Now we've found snow flies aren't just tolerating the cold, they have multiple ways to counteract it." Gallio studies how temperature shapes biology and is the Soretta and Henry Shapiro Research Professor in Molecular Biology as well as a professor of neurobiology at Northwestern's Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. He co-led the study with Marcus Stensmyr, a biology professor at Lund University in Sweden. Other Northwestern contributors include William Kath of the McCormick School of Engineering and Alessia Para from Weinberg. Gallio and Kath are also affiliated with the NSF-Simons National Institute for Theory and Mathematics in Biology (NITMB). Unusual Genes and Antifreeze Proteins To understand how snow flies survive such harsh conditions, researchers first examined their genetic makeup. Gallio and his team were the first to sequence the snow fly genome and compare it with related insects that are not adapted to cold environments. They also analyzed RNA to identify which genes are actively used for survival in freezing temperatures. These complex comparisons were carried out by Richard Suhendra, a Ph.D. student working with Kath. The results were unexpected. "We couldn't find many of the genes within any database," Gallio said. "Initially, I thought we must have sequenced some alien species. It's very rare for an active gene, which makes a protein, to not have a match." Further investigation showed that these unusual genes produce antifreeze proteins. Like those found in Arctic fish, these proteins attach to ice crystals and prevent them from growing. This process protects cells from damage during freezing. "Remarkably, some of the antifreeze proteins we found are actually structurally related to those of Arctic fish," Gallio said. "That suggests evolution came to the same solution for a common problem." Heat Production Helps Snow Flies Stay Active The team also identified genes linked to energy use and cellular processes involved in producing heat. This suggested another unexpected ability. Snow flies do not just resist freezing, they also generate their own heat. "We found genes that in larger animals are associated with mitochondrial thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue," Gallio said. "Many animals like marmots and polar bears have brown fat, which is there to produce heat. When they go into hibernation, they burn this stored fat to produce heat rather than to produce chemical energy. So, in some ways snow flies use a combination of the strategies used by polar bears and by Arctic fish." Blocking Ice and Creating Warmth To test how the antifreeze proteins work, Matthew Capek, a Ph.D. student in the Gallio Lab, modified fruit flies to produce one of the snow fly proteins. He then exposed them to freezing temperatures in a lab freezer. The modified flies survived at much higher rates than normal fruit flies, confirming that the proteins act as barriers that stop ice from spreading. In another experiment, researchers tested whether snow flies actually generate heat. They measured the insects' internal temperature while gradually lowering the surrounding temperature below freezing. During this process, snow flies consistently remained slightly warmer than expected by a couple of degrees Celsius compared to other insects. "Other insects, like bees and moths, shiver to increase their heat," Stensmyr said. "But we found no evidence of shivering. Snow flies instead likely produce heat at the cellular level, more similar to how mammals and even some plants generate heat." Even a small increase in temperature can be critical for survival in such extreme conditions. This brief warmth may give snow flies enough time to find shelter and avoid freezing when temperatures suddenly drop. Reduced Sensitivity to Cold Pain Snow flies also appear to be less sensitive to the painful effects of extreme cold. Most people recognize the sharp sting of touching ice or cold metal. This sensation is triggered by reactive molecules in cells that signal the body to avoid harm. In snow flies, this response is significantly reduced. Gallio and his team found that a key sensory protein involved in detecting harmful stimuli is much less responsive in snow flies than in other insects. As a result, these insects can tolerate higher levels of cold-related stress and continue functioning in conditions that would overwhelm most species. "It turns out that a specific irritant receptor is 30 times less sensitive in snow flies than in mosquitoes and fruit flies," Gallio said. "So, they can cope with higher levels of noxious irritants produced by cold exposure." Future Research on Extreme Cold Survival Next, the researchers plan to explore in greater detail how snow flies generate heat at the cellular level and to identify the full range of antifreeze proteins they produce. This work could reveal whether other organisms use similar strategies to survive in extreme cold environments. The study, "Coordinated molecular and physiological adaptations enable activity at subfreezing temperature in the snow fly Chionea alexandriana," will appear in the April 6 volume of the journal Current Biology and feature on the cover. The work in the various labs was partially supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Pew Scholars Program, the McKnight Foundation, the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy, the Crafoord Foundation, the National Science Foundation, the Simons Foundation and NITMB. External collaborators included the DNAzoo project and Olga Dudchenko and Erez Lieberman Aiden, who are both faculty members at Rice University and at the Baylor College of Medicine.
Before Gabe Vasquez was spending his days on Capitol Hill working in hearings and introducing legislation, his childhood resembled that of many wildlifers. The U.S. representative for New Mexico’s 2 nd congressional district spent his time hunting and fishing with his grandfather in the Sierra Madre in Mexico, where he…Before Gabe Vasquez was spending his days on Capitol Hill working in hearings and introducing legislation, his childhood resembled that of many wildlifers. The U.S. representative for New Mexico’s 2 nd congressional district spent his time hunting and fishing with his grandfather in the Sierra Madre in Mexico, where he spent part of his childhood. Like other wildlifers, he also had a fairly nonlinear career path. While he maintained the conservation ethic his grandfather instilled in him, he chose to study computer science for his undergrad and later changed his major to journalism. But inherent wildlife passion turned into advocacy, and he worked as a staff aide for Sen. Martin Heinrich and later as a field organizer for the New Mexico Wildlife Federation. At the latter, he learned about a new wildlife program that piqued his interest. Gabe Vasquez stands in Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. Courtesy of Rep. Gabe Vasquez The Student Wildlife Adventure Program , launched by Certified Wildlife Biologists and TWS members Daryl Ratajczak and Robert Brewer, took 12 to 15 students from underserved communities to an area far from their state of origin to experience different ecosystems and have hands-on conservation experience. Vasquez attended the program as a chaperone twice before going on to work for organizations like the National Wildlife Federation and The Wilderness Society. He eventually became a congressman in 2023. For our latest Q&A, The Wildlife Society caught up with Vasquez to learn about his experience completing the program, which has since ended due to funding challenges, and how it helped shape the congressman—and person—he is today. What is your wildlife background? I think the conservation ethic really came from my grandpa, and it came natural to him because he had a very large family—10 kids to take care of. We weren’t just hunting for fun, we were hunting for sustenance. We were a family with not a lot of means and every ounce of meat we harvested was served on the dinner table to feed my grandpa’s kids and grandkids. That was just really the best way to learn about conservation and about making sure that you’re taking every part of the animal but also leaving something behind for the next generation. It was a unique experience for me growing up in Mexico and watching my grandpa spot and stalk. I developed the skills to track as well, and then later butchered animals at my grandma’s house in the middle of the city. It’s something I carried with me and something that I did for fun. Honestly, when I grew up, a career in conservation wasn’t something I thought was a viable career. Many kids from New Mexico will tell you that they didn’t know that there are careers working in the outdoors, working with your hands, doing what you love. That there are programs out there like those of The Wildlife Society, and there are places like New Mexico State University where you can get involved early as a student. Did you choose to study wildlife when it was time to go to college? When I was at New Mexico State University, I started out as a computer science major, probably the polar opposite of wildlife conservation. But that wasn’t what drove me. I was very interested in writing stories about people, about my community. I became the news editor at my local campus newspaper, and switched my career to journalism and public relations. Meanwhile, I was out on the weekends fishing. I was out hiking. I was out in places like the Gila National Forest, but again, I never really thought about wildlife as a career. I did a lot of community work and eventually worked for Sen. Martin Heinrich, our senior senator in New Mexico. That’s really what drove me to conservation policy and brought me to where I am today. How was your experience in the SWAP program? I was working for the New Mexico Wildlife Federation at the time, and we were approached by this great guy named Daryl Ratajczak. He was working for the U.S. Forest Service in northern New Mexico, and had this radical idea that we could enlist a group of underserved students studying wildlife sciences in all different aspects, and we could partner with a good friend of his that happened to be in Tennessee—Robert Brewer from Cleveland State College—who runs a top-notch program for The Wildlife Society there. The thought was really to expose New Mexico students to a completely different environment. They took students interested in everything, from range management to wildlife biology to entomology, to Tennessee. He needed a partnership in New Mexico to help pull this off, so he reached out to the New Mexico Wildlife Federation. I was working as a field organizer at the time, and I jumped at the chance to join some of my fellow students from New Mexico State University, my alma mater, and take a trip out to Ocoee, Tennessee. During the SWAP in Tennessee, Vasquez and the students went creaking, turning over rocks to find bugs and salamanders. Courtesy of Rep. Gabe Vasquez We spent a week learning about everything from feral hog management to salamander and aquatic fish surveys. We learned about the biodiversity of some of the private and public lands in Tennessee. We learned about regional dendrology, and the New Mexico students mixed in with a group of wildlife students from Cleveland State Community College and made some really good friendships. I got to tag along and learn with them, and at the same time act as a chaperone. It’s an experience I won’t forget, especially doing some of the fun stuff like whitewater rafting down the Ocoee, which was an incredible experience, and going creeking for the first time, which is an activity we don’t have in New Mexico. That’s basically turning over stones in the creeks to see the insects and salamanders underneath. I signed up again in 2019. This time, a group of students from Tennessee came to New Mexico, and I joined them for their portion of the trip in the Gila National Forest. The theme was to follow Aldo Leopold’s footsteps across the state, and the Gila National Forest contains our nation’s first national wilderness, the Aldo Leopold wilderness. Getting to host those students and show them New Mexico hospitality was a great experience. How did the SWAP influence your worldviews and your conservation ethic? It really opened up my eyes to how many careers young people today can pursue in conservation. Many folks looking for careers working outdoors don’t know about these opportunities. But more than anything, conservation is about friendship. Conservation brings people together from different political and personal backgrounds. SWAP got students really excited about the possibility of returning to work in those states one day. It’s helped me understand that across the country, folks invested in protecting our wildlife and natural resources have a lot more in common than they have in contrast. I’m excited to see that many of our New Mexico students go on to great careers working across the country, some as far as Alaska. They take that spirit of friendship in their careers, and I think it serves them well. SWAP opened new doors for so many students and I hope that similar programs can thrive in the future. Article by Dana Kobilinsky
Snakes around the world are increasingly facing the threat of extinction, with disease emerging as a major concern alongside habitat loss. One of the most serious illnesses affecting snakes is ophidiomycosis, commonly called snake fungal disease, which is caused by the fungus Ophidiomyces ophidiicola ( Oo ). Since researchers first…Snakes around the world are increasingly facing the threat of extinction, with disease emerging as a major concern alongside habitat loss. One of the most serious illnesses affecting snakes is ophidiomycosis, commonly called snake fungal disease, which is caused by the fungus Ophidiomyces ophidiicola ( Oo ). Since researchers first identified the disease about 20 years ago, it has been detected in many snake species. In an effort to better understand the overall health of wild snakes, researchers in the southeastern United States investigated seven different pathogens in native snake populations. Their goal was to compare infection rates across species, locations, and time periods. The findings were published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science . "The fungus Oo and the parasite Raillietiella orientalis ( Ro ), appear to be the most important infectious agents in free-ranging snakes in the southeastern US," said first author Dr. Corinna Mishin (formerly Corinna Hazelrig), a researcher at the University of Georgia. "We also show that increased risks of ophidiomycosis was strongly associated with coinfections in free-ranging native snakes." Researchers Survey Hundreds of Wild Snakes The study, funded by the Morris Animal Foundation, involved sampling more than 500 snakes from two wildlife refuges in South Carolina and Florida, covering 29 species. Researchers also collected additional samples from other areas across the southeastern US whenever possible. Most snakes were captured alive so scientists could swab their skin and collect blood samples before release. A smaller number of snakes that had died on roads or in the wild underwent detailed postmortem examinations that included tissue collection. "For around 10 years, free-ranging snake research almost solely focused on Oo . We wanted to evaluate snake health on a more comprehensive level and really establish a broader view," Mishin said. Multiple Infections Common in Wild Snakes The researchers discovered that fewer than 20% of the snakes tested showed no signs of infection. The most widespread pathogen was the bacterium Salmonella enterica , which appeared in 63% of the snakes. Another common infection came from Hepatozoon spp., a tick borne parasite found in 53% of the animals. Scientists also detected antibiotic resistant Mycoplasma spp. bacteria in 18% of snakes. These bacteria can cause upper respiratory illness and had never before been reported in wild snakes in the United States. Many snakes were carrying more than one pathogen at the same time. Overall, 44% of the snakes had multiple infections. About 29% carried two pathogens simultaneously, while 11% had three infections and 3% carried four different pathogens. "When an animal has become sick from an infection their immune system is compromised which increases the risk of further disease exacerbation from other infectious agents that may have once been subclinical," Mishin explained. Pygmy Rattlesnakes Face Elevated Risk The study also found that some snake species were much more vulnerable to certain diseases than others. Pygmy rattlesnakes showed especially high rates of snake fungal disease. Of the 34 rattlesnakes tested, 12 were positive for Oo , and many also displayed visible signs of illness. By comparison, only one out of 55 eastern ribbon snakes and three out of 36 ring necked snakes tested positive. Rattlesnakes were also the species most frequently infected with Ro , an invasive crustacean parasite commonly known as snake lungworm. Fourteen of the 34 rattlesnakes carried the parasite. In several other snake species, Ro infections were much less common or absent altogether, including among Florida green watersnakes. "We hypothesize that certain species with poorer general population health, specifically rattlesnakes with historic and current increased risks of human persecution, are likely more susceptible to infection with subsequent disease," said Mishin. "In addition, pygmy rattlesnakes were expected to have an increased prevalence of Ro , as they primarily consume lizards and frogs which are known to transmit the parasite." Geography and Skin Damage Influence Infection Risk Location also appeared to affect infection patterns. Snakes sampled in Georgia were much more likely to test positive for Oo , while Ro infections were found only in Florida snakes. Skin damage was another important factor. More than 30% of snakes with skin lesions tested positive for snake fungal disease, compared to just 2% of snakes without lesions. Disease Risks and Conservation Concerns The researchers noted several limitations to the study. Sampling took place in only a small number of counties, meaning the findings may reflect local environmental conditions rather than the entire southeastern US. The team also explained that detecting Ro in living snakes can be difficult because testing relies on fecal samples. Since snakes often go long periods without eating, usable samples are not always available. As a result, the true rate of Ro infection may be higher than reported. Even so, the researchers say the findings could play an important role in wildlife conservation and invasive species management. Burmese pythons and brown anoles, both invasive species in the US, are known carriers of Ro . "Our data provide important information of which pathogens native snakes may likely have but also which they are likely naïve to. This can inform actions needed to prevent pathogen spillover from captive snakes," Mishin concluded. "When translocating wildlife, it's essential to consider which pathogens may be translocated with them -- and the potential downstream effects."
Back to Resources This footage represents the first sighting of a river otter in the Bronx River in more than a century. Credit: Wildlife Conservation Society Education Department/RJ Hawkins In the past century, the pace of river otter population growth has exceeded that of humans in New York City. While…Back to Resources This footage represents the first sighting of a river otter in the Bronx River in more than a century. Credit: Wildlife Conservation Society Education Department/RJ Hawkins In the past century, the pace of river otter population growth has exceeded that of humans in New York City. While human populations have increased by many millions in the state, depending on the source you use, the population of otters ( Lontra canadensis ) in the Bronx River has increased by 100%. In 1926, there were zero, and now there is one—a recent photo has captured the first shot of a river otter in the Bronx’s waterway for more than a century. “When I first reviewed the images, I could hardly believe what I was seeing,” said R. J. Hawkins, a scientist affiliated with the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Bronx Zoo, in a press release. “Knowing this may be the first documented river otter in the Bronx in generations was an incredible moment,” he said. “It shows why long-term wildlife monitoring and environmental restoration efforts matter.” The reappearance of these mustelids speaks to the decades of restoration conservationists have invested into the river, the WCS said. Read more at The Guardian .
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is excited to award Butler University the Plastics Reduction Partner Bronze level certification for their efforts to reduce single-use plastic waste on campus. Butler University, a … Read more The post Butler University in Indianapolis certifies as a National Wildlife Federation Plastics Reduction Partner appeared…The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is excited to award Butler University the Plastics Reduction Partner Bronze level certification for their efforts to reduce single-use plastic waste on campus. Butler University, a … Read more The post Butler University in Indianapolis certifies as a National Wildlife Federation Plastics Reduction Partner appeared first on The National Wildlife Federation Blog.
For decades, efforts to recruit more hunters and anglers have focused on identifying the barriers that keep women from participating. Women-focused programs are part of broader recruitment, retention and reactivation (R3) efforts aimed at attracting new and lapsed participants to outdoor activities. Research surrounding R3 efforts has focused in the…For decades, efforts to recruit more hunters and anglers have focused on identifying the barriers that keep women from participating. Women-focused programs are part of broader recruitment, retention and reactivation (R3) efforts aimed at attracting new and lapsed participants to outdoor activities. Research surrounding R3 efforts has focused in the past on understanding what prevents women from participating in hunting and fishing. Lauren Redmore, a research social scientist at the U.S. Forest Service, and colleagues from South Dakota State University are taking a different approach. In a series of three papers, Redmore and her collaborators have asked: What can we learn from the women who hunt and fish and the challenges they face? Nationally, hunting is generally declining, and angling participation is not changing much, but research tells us that women hunters and anglers are increasing. Together, the three studies paint a picture of hunting and fishing participation that extends beyond licenses or training classes. “Skills, confidence and community … those three things together are really the secret sauce,” said Redmore, summing up the findings of the papers. Across the research, one theme emerged repeatedly: community was a central source of practical knowledge and a pathway to confidence, helping women navigate challenges that might otherwise limit their participation. To hunt or not to hunt? Through interviews of women hunters in North Dakota, Wyoming and Montana, Redmore and her collaborators wanted to learn how women make decisions about hunting and ultimately participate. The research team immersed themselves in the experience, taking part in hunts alongside women. What they experienced mirrored the experiences of many women they interviewed. Wyoming BOW participants practice fly fishing skills in the field, putting classroom knowledge to the test. Credit: Wyoming Game and Fish Department “Barriers are real, but women are still getting out there and doing these things very effectively, very proficiently,” Redmore said. The study published in the Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism found that women are adaptable to the complex landscape of priorities and challenges they face, often navigating a complex web of considerations to go hunting. Five factors were significant in their decision-making gear: household responsibilities, hunting partners, hunting land access and general pre-planning. Decisions were often interconnected. What to wear and use When choosing gear, women weighed affordability and comfort. Participants frequently discussed the challenge of finding clothing and equipment designed for their bodies, while others noted that uncertainty about purchasing the right gear created an additional hurdle. The findings suggested that gear libraries, where people can rent or try out gear, such as Deer Camp in Montana, help reduce barriers to hunting by lowering costs and allowing women to find products that work for them. The lack of gear access and the need for more gear libraries were reiterated in social systems mapping, a technique that allows researchers to understand who is involved, how they are connected and how their actions affect one another within a system. The study, currently posted in a pre-publication archive , found that although women were interested in gear, there was a growing but uneven landscape of opportunities to buy women-specific gear. Finding the time and place The researchers also found that women often had to negotiate time for hunting within broader expectations around caregiving and household responsibilities. “A gigantic contributing factor was childcare. If you go out with a partner or even by yourself, women have to find somebody they trust to take care of their kids,” said one participant. Women want to hunt with their families yet have safety concerns about bringing children into the field. But women find a way. “For upland bird hunting, I can wear a baby on my back and throw some earmuffs on them,” said another participant. A social systems map revealing the various associations women hunters can tap into. Credit: Isensee et al. 2023 Women thought creatively about solving the challenge and put in extra effort to ensure children’s safety and comfort. The study suggests that hunter education could address this need by developing courses on safe hunting with children. Through their research, they also found a core tenet: land access matters. Redmore emphasized that public land is an affordable and accessible solution, enabling women to hunt on their own terms. Their research found that women chose to use public land, in part, because they understood it as land for all. What makes a hunt successful Redmore and her team found that when women hunt, they are often focused on using time productively, which many understood as bringing home something to eat. But Redmore stressed that hunting is more than bringing home food. It is time for self and connection with nature and community. In their research, they found that women felt guilty about taking leisure time. To reduce guilt and improve engagement, they found a need for messaging that redefines leisure as strength rather than selfishness—rebranding hunting and fishing as self-care for women. Hunting can be a source of self-care for those who are exhausted and need a recharge. “Programs are now really focusing on bucking the idea that bringing home something is success,” Redmore said. “Instead, they are recentering the many different ways that you can be successful without harvesting anything.” Community as a core pillar Decisions about who to go with were also important and listed by 70% of participants, suggesting that community was central to whether women hunted at all. While women develop strategies to navigate challenges independently, Redmore and her collaborators’ research suggests that community and social support enable women to hunt. Social support provides the freedom to go out and hunt. Experienced female hunters serve as a resource to less experienced hunters to help them navigate the process. For example, many participants relied on advice about gear from other women hunters, “Having a mentor who can tell you, ‘Here’s my pee cloth and here’s how I use it,’ is an empowering way for women to learn that there are these tools out there for them,” Redmore said. Mentorship and community emerged as a core theme in a companion study published in Human Dimensions of Wildlife , in which Redmore and her collaborators used focus groups to understand how the design of programs impacted women’s participation. “Just getting to know each other, having fun fishing and handling a shotgun for the first time, [we] weren’t terrified because no one was yelling at us,” said one participant. The study in Human Dimensions of Wildlife found that participants commonly described connections that led to lasting friendships. It also found that hands-on, in-depth learning opportunities helped women build the confidence necessary for continued participation in hunting. Wyoming BOW participants get hands-on experience processing meat from a deer during a simulated archery hunt. Credit: Wyoming Game and Fish Department The mapped network of groups and organizations serving women hunters and anglers showed connections across the region, enabling organizations to consider how to deepen ties among groups and expand the scope of what community means. Together, the three studies suggest that increasing women’s participation in hunting is not simply a matter of teaching technical skills. It also requires creating communities at different scales where women feel welcomed, supported and connected to others with similar interests. As agencies and organizations seek to sustain the future of hunting and fishing, the collection of research points to a simple but powerful lesson: Women are building the networks and support systems that help others enter and remain in the field, but they often need training and public land to ignite that first spark. “When we share the outdoors with other people, they can learn to appreciate it, too,” Redmore said. This article was sourced from USFS’ TreeSearch . We thank USFS for being a dedicated partner of The Wildlife Society. Article by Kaylyn Zipp
