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.

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.

Cougars, mountain lions, pumas: They have several different names, but these elusive predators can be found throughout Utah. While cougar attacks are quite rare in the U.S., if you do happen to encounter a cougar, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) has created a new educational Be Bear Aware Pamphlet. Pamphlets can be ordered to supplement hunter education or bowhunter education classes. Information is applicable to staying safe in bear habitat, bear encounters while hunting or coming upon a bear in your own backyard.

A second case of CWD in a hunter harvested, white-tailed deer has been confirmed in Lauderdale County. The first case of CWD in Alabama’s deer herd was detected in Lauderdale County in January 2022.

The onset of fall sends bats into motion, which makes it an important time for conservation-minded Vermonters to learn about, and help conserve Vermont's nine native bat species.