Wildlife

The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department urges residents to remove birdfeeders and secure food sources as black bears emerge from winter dens earlier than usual. Bear biologist Jaclyn Comeau emphasizes proactive measures including bear-resistant garbage containers and electric fences to prevent conflicts, as Vermont's bear population continues to grow despite increased hunting harvests.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife counted 715 bald eagles during a midwinter citizen survey from January 7-21, receiving 391 separate reports. Ohio's bald eagle population has dramatically increased, with 964 active nests found in 2025 compared to 707 nests in 2020.

With a long holiday weekend right around the corner, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is reminding campers, hikers, and other outdoor recreationists to be “bear aware.” AZGFD officials advise those living or visiting in bear country to remove or block access to trash, food, or other attractants (such as pet food or bird seed). Unfortunately, a fed bear is a dead bear.

With a long holiday weekend right around the corner, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is reminding campers, hikers, and other outdoor recreationists to be “bear aware.” AZGFD officials advise those living or visiting in bear country to remove or block access to trash, food, or other attractants (such as pet food or bird seed). Unfortunately, a fed bear is a dead bear.

With a long holiday weekend right around the corner, the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is reminding campers, hikers, and other outdoor recreationists to be “bear aware.” AZGFD officials advise those living or visiting in bear country to remove or block access to trash, food, or other attractants (such as pet food or bird seed). Unfortunately, a fed bear is a dead bear.

A grizzly bear was killed Monday in an encounter with bowhunters in Tepee Creek, north of West Yellowstone. The two hunters reported being charged by a sow grizzly bear with two yearling cubs. Using handguns, the hunters shot and killed the sow. The yearling bears also charged at the hunters, who shot at and injured one of the yearlings. The hunters were not injured.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department’s 77th annual spring breeding duck survey conducted in May showed an index of about 2.9 million birds, down from 3.4 million last year. The 2024 breeding duck index was the 30th highest on record and stands at 17% above the long-term (1948-2023) average.