One of the things I’ve been wanting to do for a while is to list some of the news stories that have piqued my interest (or yours) periodically–maybe once a week if you are interested.
So, here are a few interesting articles from last month.
Over in England Puss in Boots has nothing over Pig in Boots. The little porker didn’t want to get her feet in the mud. The photos are really cute and it is an interesting story/PR piece.
On the down side, police shot and killed a dog after failing to subdue it with a taser.
Just recently there was a mountain lion attack in New Mexico. A cougar was wounded and then killed by the US Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services. It is not know whether or not the lion was the one that killed and began eating the victim.
Then there was the guy who thwarted an attack by a crocodile with a palm frond while he was out hunting boar–one of his dogs was injured but is okay.
Bear attacks have been pretty common this year–this story is the account of one woman who was picking mushrooms and who got attacked by a sow (female bear) with cubs.
Of course there were other stories…but that is all for now. Have a great weekend!
Urban Wildlife: Who are you gonna call?
Above: American Black Bear in Fawnskin, California
There seems to be some confusion as to who has jurisdiction over animals in an urban setting near wildlife habitat. The recent wildfires have shrunk local habitat and so animals are turning up in record numbers in the local area–and someone left a message about the bear over in the TwentyNine Palms area.
As this article states, the heat is unbearable and up here we are seeing animals seeking water in areas they would most likely avoid and during abnormal times.
In most cases you need to start with a phone call to Animal Control. Sometimes they get the moniker of Animal Services. They have the local numbers they need to call for assistance if they cannot handle the situation.
In our area we have the Fish & Game Warden for crimes against wildlife or violations of law concerning wildlife.
In addition, we have Forestry biologists who monitor the animals and a Fish & Game Biologist that handles nuisance animals.
It can get a little confusing especially since we also have the Bureau of Land Management–who handles animals in the areas under their jurisdiction.
If the animal is an escaped critter from a captive facility–well then add the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) to the mix.
Are you shaking your head yet? Try figuring it out if you live in an area with ALL of these agencies–like I do.
Please remember that rescue groups, humane societies, and small wildlife rehabilitation centers do not have jurisdiction (in most cases) and most will not have the skill set or equipment for dealing with large predators.
If you call the police or sheriff, in most case they will shoot the animal in question if they feel it is a public safety threat.
For the bear’s sake, keep your distance and avoid any interactions. While you are at it, pull up any outdoor food and water sources for birds, other wildlife, and those for your pets.
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