Environment DEC
From the June 2010 issue
Miscellaneous News Items
If You Care, Leave it There
DEC urges New Yorkers: Do not disturb fawns and other young wildlife. Many animals are now in their peak season for giving birth and it is not unusual to see a young bird crouched in the yard or a young rabbit in a flower garden, both apparently motherless. Finding a fawn lying by itself is also fairly common.
Resist the urge to help or adopt young animals that you may encounter
Many people assume that young wildlife found alone are abandoned, helpless and need assistance for their survival. But this is a mistake in nearly all cases, and human interaction typically does more damage than good. If you see a fawn or other newborn wildlife, enjoy your encounter, but keep it brief and maintain some distance.
Should you find a fawn or other young wildlife, follow the policy: If You Care, Leave It There. It may be difficult, but this is the real act of kindness and the best thing for the animal in nearly all cases. Do not consider young wildlife as possible pets. This is illegal and bad for the animal. Furthermore, wild animals do not make good pets. They are ill suited for life in captivity and may carry diseases that can transfer to people.
Please visit DEC's website for more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the care of young wildlife.
Deadline for Landowner Incentive Program for Bog Turtles Extended
The application period for the Landowner Incentive Program for Management and Protection of Bog Turtle Habitat has been extended through July, 1, 2010. To learn more about the program and obtain an application form, visit the Landowner Incentive Program page and LIP Bog Turtle Protection Project page on DEC's website. Email questions or comments regarding the program or call 518-402-8898.
DEC Takes Action to Protect Lake Ontario Barrier Beaches
Overuse of the Lake Ontario barrier beaches at Black Pond and Lakeview Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) recently prompted DEC to announce revisions to the rules governing public use of portions of these areas. Both WMAs are located in the Town of Ellisburg, Jefferson County. Lakeview has the largest, least-disturbed portion of the barrier system remaining on Lake Ontario and Black Pond has about one mile of barrier beach.
Please see the complete press release about protecting barrier beaches for more information.
Tentative 2010-11 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons Announced
Final season dates will be posted on the DEC website and advertised in a statewide news release
DEC recently announced the tentative schedule for many of New York's 2010-2011 migratory game bird seasons, allowing hunters to plan outdoor activities well in advance. Tentative season dates for ducks, geese, woodcock, snipe and rails can now be found on the Waterfowl Seasons and Information web page of DEC's website.
In the event that any season dates do not conform to federal regulations, DEC will strive to ensure that the final seasons encompass the tentative season dates to the extent possible. As soon as the final federal regulations are known, the final season dates, bag limits and other regulations for 2010-2011 migratory game bird hunting seasons in New York will be posted on DEC's website and announced by a statewide news release. Hunters should confirm final season dates before going afield.
For more information about how tentative hunting season dates are developed, waterfowl hunting, purchasing a Habitat/Access Stamp, or subscribing to Conservationist magazine, see the complete migratory game bird hunting press release.
