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Monthly Wildlife Report

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM NEW HAMPSHIRE FISH AND GAME -- OCTOBER 5, 2006

Bears are working hard to put on the pounds for their long winter's rest -- they may eat as much as 10,000 calories a day this time of year to help store up fat to keep them cozy in their dens through the cold months ahead. This fall, nature's bounty is keeping bears where they belong -- away from communities and human-occupied areas, says Fish and Game bear biologist Andy Timmins. Yes, the abundance of natural fall food has kept bears deep in the more remote woods this year. Bears are feeding on beech, oak and various fruit species at higher elevations, rather than down in the valleys. As a result, bears are much less vulnerable to hunters this year, as compared to a poor food year (bears are easier for hunters to find during poor food years because they travel into areas near humans to take advantage of food found there).

The chorus of crickets and katydids still fills the night air, and frogs and toads have been on the move during recent sunny fall days and damp nights. Enjoy it, because the big chill is coming our way soon, with a hard frost that will silence the crickets and send frogs to their winter napping places. Keep your eyes and ears tuned for the honking, high-flying Canada goose migration that will be passing over the Granite State in the next few weeks. Animals are scurrying, feeding, storing food and flying south -- each species preparing in its own way for the dramatic changes the approach of winter will bring.

Even with the state's rapid population growth and development, New Hampshire residents have a better opportunity to see deer, moose, bear, fisher, beaver and coyotes more than ever before. Find out why and learn lots more about wildlife at a FREE TALK called "The Golden Age of Wildlife in New Hampshire" given by Fish and Game Wildlife Biologist Eric Orff on Tuesday, October 24, from 7 - 9 p.m. at the Conservation Center at 54 Portsmouth Street in East Concord. Co-sponsored by Fish and Game and the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.

Help support Fish and Game's wildlife work - buy a fishing or hunting license at http://www.nhfishandgame.com.

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Volunteer to Help Manchester's Wildlife

* How Antlers Grow

* Burning to Improve Habitat on Seavey Island

* Good Year for N.H.'s Bald Eagles

VOLUNTEER TO HELP MANCHESTER'S WILDLIFE

Amoskeag Fishways is looking for some adult "citizen scientists" in the Manchester area on Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. - noon in October. Amoskeag Fishways will lead adult volunteers to monitor wildlife in Manchester. No experience is necessary, only a willingness to learn and be outside in the woods for several hours. A unique opportunity to learn about your four-legged neighbors! For more information and dates, call (603) 626-FISH or Wendy Schorr at (603) 634-3312, or e-mail wschorr@nhaudubon.org. Visit http://www.amoskeagfishways.org.

HOW ANTLERS GROW

We're heading into the breeding season for deer and moose, so these animals are on the move. (To avoid collisions, stay alert while driving, especially around dusk or at night. Drive no faster than 55 mph, and use high beams whenever you can.) Both white-tailed deer and moose grow new antlers every summer and then shed them after the breeding season. Here's the general timetable for antler growth:

* Early spring -- Increasing hours of daylight cause the pituitary gland to give the signal to start antler growth. Actual growth starts in April and May.

* April -- "Buds" appear.

* May to late July -- Blood transports calcium, phosphorus, proteins and other materials from which the antlers are made. The soft skin and short hair covering each antler have a plush-like quality, giving this stage the name "velvet."

* Late August -- Antlers reach full size. The male hormone testosterone is being produced in increasing amounts and initiates the shedding of the velvet. The blood supply dries up and the velvet dries and begins peeling.

* Mid-September -- Time of prime condition. Velvet is rubbed off against trees and shrubs, leaving the lifeless, bony core of the antler. This hardens and is polished by continual rubbing.

* October-November -- Peak of the breeding season, when bucks spar, or fight with each other.

* January -- Toward the end of the breeding season, the antlers become loosened around the base. The shedding of antlers is related to a decrease of testosterone. Shed antlers fall to the ground and are gnawed by rodents, rabbits and hares for the minerals and protein they contain.

BURNING TO IMPROVE HABITAT ON SEAVEY ISLAND

What's hot (literally) in the Wildlife Division? In September, staff members of Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program and the N.H. Division of Forests and Lands performed a prescribed burn on Seavey Island to improve habitat for wildlife. Seavey Island is part of the Isles of Shoals, about 10 miles offshore from Portsmouth Harbor and about 6 miles offshore from Rye.

The focus of this habitat restoration project is the common, arctic and the federally endangered roseate tern. Biologists had observed thick grasses slowly taking over the island, impacting tern nesting sites. As a result, a large percentage of the island went unused by terns this season, and final numbers of common, roseate and arctic terns nesting at the Isles of Shoals were down this year. Biological staff observed that some terns even abandoned their nests in the midst of the breeding season because the thick grass had overgrown their nest sites. In order to restore this critical habitat, after the birds had left for the season, fire was used to eliminate overgrowth and non-native vegetation. Now that the prescribed burn has been accomplished, hopefully things will look up for nesting terns on the Isles of Shoals next year.

For more information about the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/nongame_and_endangered_wildlife.htm.

--Anne Arpey, Administrative Secretary, Wildlife Division

GOOD YEAR FOR NEW HAMPSHIRE's BALD EAGLES

The 2006 bald eagle breeding season in New Hampshire was exceptional, marked by high productivity and the discovery of new breeding territories in the state's Seacoast, Lakes Region and North Country. 12 New Hampshire sites had breeding pairs in 2006, a 20% increase over the prior record of 10 pairs confirmed in 2005. Incubation was documented at 11 active sites, up 57% over the prior record of 7 active nests in both 2004 and 2005. A total of 10 eagle nests produced fledged young in New Hampshire in 2006, a 67% increase over the prior record of 6 successful pairs in both 2004 and 2005. Statewide, a total of 21 young bald eagles reached fledging age, almost doubling the previous record high of 11 chicks fledged in both 2004 and 2005. In 18 previous New Hampshire breeding seasons, there had been only one case in which trios fledged successfully (Nubanusit Lake in 2004); however, in 2006, trios fledged from two locations (Plainfield and Umbagog North). This year's overall annual productivity rate (1.90 young fledged/active nest) was the highest reported in New Hampshire during the past decade. -- by Chris Martin, Senior Biologist, NH Audubon, http://www.nhaudubon.org

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Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. You can support our work by buying a fishing or hunting license, or making a donation to the Nongame Program. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

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To subscribe to other N.H F is WILDLIFE REPORT from New Hampshire Fish and Game - August 31, 2006

Summer is on the wane, and beaver, otters, mink, raccoons and even deer are beginning to change their sparse summer fur for dense winter coats. They know the cold is coming! Wild animals are eating up a storm, too, this time of year, to get them through the lean months ahead and pile on a thick layer of fat as added insulation. Black bears are foraging ravenously this time of year, sometimes consuming 10,000 to 20,000 calories a day. Even birds are bulking up for their southward migration.

Also, keep an eye out for bats this time of year! Bats that were born in mid-June and July are now learning to fly and may mistakenly enter a home or other living space. Fish and Game's advice is to keep children and pets away from the bat and open doors and windows to provide an exit for the wayward bat. And, consider the benefits of bats as they prey on mosquitoes and other insects. Please call the Wildlife Division at 603-271-2461 for more information about bats in New Hampshire or to receive a packet on the use of bat houses in your area. Read on to find out more about these amazing creatures. -- Anne Arpey, Administrative Secretary, N.H. Fish and Game Wildlife Division

Help support Fish and Game's wildlife work - buy a fishing or hunting license at http://www.nhfishandgame.com.

In this issue:

* Keep these furry flying creatures around

* Swallows Earn Their Name

* Ruffed Grouse Report

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NUISANCES?! NO WAY! KEEP THESE FURRY FLYING CREATURES AROUND FOR SOME MAJOR BENEFITS!

Did you know that in Bracken Cave, Texas, there are 20 million Mexican free-tailed bats that roost under a bridge? But most importantly, did you know that this population consumes a quarter to a half million pounds of insects every night!? Now, Texas is a long way from New Hampshire, but here in the Granite State we can still experience the benefits of having a few bats in the neighborhood. A single little brown bat, our state's most abundant bat species, will eat 1,200 mosquitoes a night - 3.5 per second and 500 per hour

Despite the saying "Blind as a Bat," these flying mammals actually have very good eyesight. But it is not their eyesight that makes them such accurate and intense insect predators. Instead, they hone in on tiny bugs with a method known as echolocation, similar to using sonar or radar. Bats emit high-frequency sound pulses that are above the range of human hearing. Some bats produce 110 decibels at four inches away - that is about the loudness of an alarm on a smoke detector at the same distance! When the pulse strikes nearby objects, their "echoes" return to the bat, which then identifies and locates the objects with precision. This information is then translated into an aural picture of the bat's surroundings. However, it is not only the distances that bats can determine, but also what exactly the object is. Using the echoed pulses, the bat can tell whether the object is a human, branch, mosquito or a slow-moving moth.

New Hampshire Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program recently took on a comprehensive project to protect Mascot Mine in Gorham. The mine is a critical spot for the Granite State's hibernating bats and has suffered severe damage over the years from vandalism. Thanks to the efforts of more than 200 donors, the habitat for over 1,500 bats will now be fully protected and preserved. For more information about Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program projects, visit http://wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/nongame_and_endangered_wildlife.htm.

by Kat Bagley, N.H. Fish and Game Department Public Affairs Intern

SWALLOWS WARN THEIR NAME

Swallows are already beginning to migrate southward, but we've all enjoyed watching their graceful flight in the summer skies. New Hampshire has several species of swallows, including tree swallows, barn swallows, and bank swallows. Do you ever wonder why New Hampshire's swallows are constantly plunging from the sky? Well, for the same reason our bats are. They also feed on insects, including mosquitoes and other harmful species. They can be found diving for prey very close to the ground in open fields and near water. However, sometimes during summer afternoons, they can be found as high as 70 feet in the air, following the insects' movements based on temperature.

Swallows' mobility and wing shape make them perfect for catching insects mid-air. They have slender, streamlined bodies and long pointed wings, allowing them to stop and turn abruptly. Swallows are known for their aerial acrobatics and can provide hours of entertainment to wildlife watchers. One scientist that studied barn swallows calculated that a single individual travels 600 miles a day by just coursing back and forth in search of food. Because they are so active on an everyday basis and eat insects as they go, they migrate during daylight hours (unlike most small songbirds).

Once thought a nuisance because they often nest near or on buildings, the birds are now understood to be very beneficial to humans, especially farmers, because they eat agricultural and community insect pests, such as nasty mosquitoes. Roughly 99.8% of a swallow's diet consists of insects! They are also known to eat flies that can plague livestock, such as horn flies, face flies, horse flies, and deer flies. Because of this, swallows can often be seen swooping around farmers doing fieldwork, catching insects kicked up by machines and livestock movement.

So, don't be afraid of or annoyed by bats or swallows this summer as they swoop in the skies looking for their dinner. They are harmless and, without them, you would need a lot more bug spray! -- by Kat Bagley, N.H. Fish and Game Department Public Affairs Intern

RUFFED GROUSE REPORT

"You can't help the weather," the old saying goes, and that was certainly true for New Hampshire this spring. Record rains came during peak week for the grouse hatch in the southern portion of the state. And then the following week, steady rain settled in to the North Country during peak hatch week.

However, not all is doom and gloom for upland game hunters this fall. Grouse are hearty birds and smaller broods have been seen, which indicates re-nesting efforts. Also, biologists up north have been seeing good numbers of woodcock with broods. The woodcock are earlier nesters than grouse, so the young had time to grow before the wet weather set in.

With the summer winding down and crisp mornings replacing hot and humid ones, it's time for those who love fall bird hunting to get ready. There are plenty of excellent hunting areas in northern New Hampshire, and with a little homework you can find good ones south of the White Mountains, too! Biologists count on field observations from hunters to give them valuable management insight into our small game species. If you hunt, you can help by participating in the Small Game Survey. To get a survey form, call 603-271-2462 or email wilddiv@wildlife.state.nh.us. Extra incentive: A drawing is held for survey participants at the close of the season for a 10-22 RR Rifle donated by the Sturm Ruger Company.

If you're planning on hunting for ruffed grouse north of the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), please participate in Fish and Game's new Ruffed Grouse Wing and Tail Survey. Packets are available at participating stores and through Fish and Game's Region 1 Office in Lancaster. For information, call Julie Robinson at 603-868-1095. -- Julie Robinson, Small Game Project Leader, N.H. Fish and Game

TWO PLOVER CHICKS FLEDGE

A final note: over on the seacoast, biologists cheered at the news that two federally threatened piping plover chicks fledged from Hampton Beach State Park in early August. A total of 9 chicks hatched this year; three made it to day 22, and of those three, two fledged to fly south. This success would not be possible without the support and involvement of the local community. Since the plover monitoring program began in 1996, 76 chicks have successfully fledged on the New Hampshire seacoast. The piping plover is one of many NH Species of Concern addressed in the New Hampshire Wildlife Action Plan.

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Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM NEW HAMPSHIRE FISH AND GAME -- JULY 31, 2006

This month the Wildlife Report looks at North Country bear trouble, tree frog songs, and more updates on how our ground-nesting birds are doing after a wet nesting season.

A new issue of our kids' web pages, Wild New England, is posted at http://www.wildnewengland.org. This bi-monthly issue features endangered species.

Help support Fish and Game's wildlife work - buy a fishing or hunting license at http://www.nhfishandgame.com.

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Incredible Journey

* What's Making All That Noise!? Tree frogs!

* New Hampshire Turkeys Holding Their Own

* Canada Geese in Good Shape

* Check Out the Osprey Cam

* Become a "Wonders of Wildlife" Volunteer

INCREDIBLE JOURNEY

Wildlife Biologist and Bear Project Leader Andy Timmins in Fish and Game's Region 1 Office in Lancaster reports that on June 27, he had to remove a sow black bear and her three 6-month-old cubs that were raiding dumpsters several times a day in a condominium complex in Jackson. The bears were transferred to the northern part of Pittsburg, N.H. -- some 80 miles away, straight line distance. Fourteen days later, the whole crew was back in Jackson, a remarkable journey for a mother and young cubs to make in such a short time!

This migration back to her home range illustrates the fidelity of some bears to specific feeding sites. Despite this long journey, all three cubs returned back at the site larger then when they left. Two cubs gained approximately 10 pounds each while the third cub gained approximately 5 pounds. The moral of the story -- get those bear attractants like garbage, pet food and birdseed out of your yards! Fish and Game can try to remove bears, but once they become habituated to human food sources, it can be a hard habit to break. - Andy Timmins, Fish and Game Bear Project Leader

WHAT'S MAKING ALL THAT NOISE!? TREE FROGS!

It's a beautiful summer night in July. The wind rustles the trees and chirping crickets fill the lawn. Fireflies dance near the edge of the garden and the smooth trickle of water from a nearby stream blends with the summer's rhythmic hum. Everything is peaceful until a series of loud, hearty trills break the calming, lazy mood, announcing the arrival of male gray tree frogs for mating season.

Gray tree frogs are found in the northeastern U.S. and live in wooded habitats near permanent or semi-permanent water sources. True to their name, they live in trees and bushes, foraging for moths and other insects at the tops of branches and shrubs. Their massive toe discs make them expert climbers. They have even been known to climb up windows and feed on insects attracted to indoor lights.

Only male gray tree frogs vocalize, mainly during mating season. The frogs leave hibernation sites in April and after a few weeks, they move from the wooded uplands to breeding pools and begin their mating calls. Since gray tree frogs are nocturnal amphibians, males situate themselves on a high, barren branch during the evening hours and call to females, their characteristic throat ballooning out with every vocalization. While they are normally only active at night, males are also known to call before thunderstorms. So keep your ears ready to hear for warnings of sudden weather changes!

Male gray tree frogs have three distinct calls: advertisement, courtship, and aggression. The advertisement call is a loud, prolonged trill that can be deafening when you're surrounded by a large cluster of males. The courtship call is similar to the advertisement song, but lasts longer. Male frogs make this sound when they have been approached by a female and are about to mate. The aggression call is a short, abrupt whoop repeated several times in succession to ward off other males competing for a female's attention.

As you sit outside during New Hampshire's beautiful summer evenings, pay attention to these distinct sounds. If you don't have a permanent pond in your backyard, don't worry! You'll probably still have gray tree frogs on your property near temporary pools formed by this spring's rains. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sounds of summer! -- Kat Bagley, N.H. Fish and Game Public Affairs Intern N.H.

TURKEYS HOLDING THEIR OWN

We promised to keep you posted on how this year's wet weather has affected New Hampshire's wild turkeys. Here's what Wildlife Biologist Ted Walski had to report:

Because of the record rains this spring, I believe that New Hampshire's summer 2006 turkey hatching success will be below the long-term average, but not nearly as bad as sportsmen and the public might think. The majority of the state's wild turkey hatch occurred during the second half of May, when there was a period of good hatching weather. A good random sample of New Hampshire brood sightings from turkey hatches in May from towns in 7 of the 10 counties totaled 50 hens and 330 poults, for a respectable "average" of 6.6 poults per hen.

There were two potentially bad periods of heavy, soaking rains for any turkeys hatching in early June. There was some decimation of turkey chicks from this period, however, the middle of June saw favorable hatching weather. A sample of 16 turkey hatches from June totaled 16 hens and 90 poults, for an average of 5.62 poults per hen.

Based on these observations, I believe New Hampshire will end up with some decent or fair production of young turkeys for summer 2006. I have gotten numerous brood sighting reports during July, especially after more hay fields were mowed, making it a lot easier to see turkeys (which feed extensively on the grasshoppers in fields). Hatches from new nesting hens during July and August will also add to the recruitment of more young turkeys.

Even if the turkey hatch is not "great" this summer, there are a lot of hen turkeys out there, and they will probably rebound with a bigger hatch in summer 2007. Considering the record rains during May and June, we should be thankful for the turkey broods that have been produced. -- Ted Walski, Turkey Project Leader, N.H. Fish and Game

CANADA GEESE IN GOOD SHAPE

We also asked Waterfowl Biologist Ed Robinson to give us an update from the annual goose banding that occurs in late June. Here is his report:

This summer, we completed goose captures at 21 sites in six counties. We banded 633 geese, which is the highest number we've banded in a season since we began banding in 1991. We recaptured 121 previously banded birds, and we assisted Wildlife Services in obtaining our goal of some 350 samples from the geese to test for avian flu. Our total of 754 geese captured was our fifth highest total ever.

Gosling survival this year was better than I thought it was going to be after the flooding rains in May and June. Overall, we captured 82 broods of geese, and the average brood size was 4.8 gosling/brood, which was only slightly smaller than last year. The brood sizes were definitely larger in the North Country and in western areas, and were smaller in the southeast where we had higher rainfall in the spring.

Thanks to everyone who participated in the goose banding effort this year. Everything went very smoothly, and the geese looked to be in very good shape. -- Ed Robinson, Waterfowl Biologist

CHECK OUT THE OSPREY CAM

Public Service of N.H. now offers live streaming video from the osprey nesting platform located at the Ayers Island Dam in New Hampton. (You may need to download Windows Media Player in order to access the live images or the photo gallery of the season.) It is quite interesting. This platform was established in fall 2004 through the efforts of PSNH, New Hampshire Audubon, and N.H. Fish and Game as a way to address the problem of ospreys trying to nest on the dam. Creation of this platform was one of the last projects undertaken under the formal funding umbrella of PROJECT OSPREY, a 5-year partnership of these groups. Check out the Osprey Cam at https://www.psnh.com/Osprey/default.asp#news. -- Chris Martin, Senior Biologist, Conservation Department, N.H. Audubon

BECOME A "WONDERS OF WILDLIFE" VOLUNTEER

If you like learning about wildlife, enjoy young people and can volunteer during the day, considering becoming a Wonders of Wildlife (WOW) educator for New Hampshire Fish and Game. Volunteer WOW docents present programs about the state's wildlife in elementary school classrooms. Starting this year, the training for new WOW volunteers is being held jointly with training for Community Tree Stewards and Earth Team Natural Resource Volunteers, programs coordinated by UNH Cooperative Extension Service.

The training course for new volunteers begins in early September in a choice of two locations: either the Urban Forestry Center in Portsmouth, from September 5 - November 14; or the Hillsborough County Complex in Goffstown from September 7 - November 16. Classes meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m., with optional Friday field days. The $50 course fee includes an extensive resource guide. Some scholarships are available, as is college credit through UNH. Those becoming trained WOW docents for Fish and Game will have additional training in January

. To sign up for the class, visit http://extension.unh.edu/Forestry/Forestry.htm and click on "Community Tree Stewards," where you can print out a Community Tree Steward volunteer application (the first step to becoming a WOW volunteer). A detailed course listing is also posted at this site. For more information, contact Pam Doherty, UNH Cooperative Extension -- email pam.doherty@unh.edu or call (603) 629-9494, ext. 120.

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Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - June 30, 2006

After weeks of rain, New Hampshire's wildlife are welcoming the sun as much as we are. In this month's report, find out how to ID snakes, why we're seeing animals in unusual places, herald the much-anticipated arrival of piping plover chicks on the seacoast, and hear some preliminary thoughts on how the wet spring could affect our bird populations.

Help support Fish and Game's wildlife work - buy a fishing or hunting license at http://www.nhfishandgame.com.

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Snakes of New Hampshire

* Animals on the Move

* Piping Plover Chicks Expected Soon

* Suncook River Changes Direction, Endangering Brook Floater Mussels

* Wet Waterfowl

* Rain and Turkeys

SNAKES OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

This time of year, snakes are in their summer mode and may be seen out foraging for mice, frogs and insects. That means Fish and Game gets lots of calls about snake sightings. It's true that some of these snakes are easily confused with others, often leaving people wondering what kind of snake they've seen. Now there's help at hand! Fish and Game has created web pages with descriptions and photos of our native snakes. Check it out at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/Nongame/snakes.htm.

In all, New Hampshire has 11 species of native snakes. Some of these, like the garter snake, are common across the state. Others, like the timber rattlesnake (our only venomous snake), are extremely rare and are now state-protected. Five of the 11 species - the timber rattlesnake, eastern hognose snake, northern black racer, smooth green snake and ribbon snake -- were identified in New Hampshire's Wildlife Action Plan as among the state's species of wildlife in greatest need of conservation. We encourage you to use the online guide to get to know and appreciate our snakes.

ANIMALS ON THE MOVE

Recent weeks have seen animals turning up in surprising places - including bears in backyards and moose in a Manchester parking garage. Why animals are moving around so much this time of year? It's common for animals to be on the move for a number of reasons. Bears have entered the breeding season. Both males and females have increased their movements and expanded their range in search of prospective mates. Bears in general and sows with cubs in particular have been actively searching for food during the lean months of April, May and June, waiting for summer fruits and fall nuts to become available, so human-related food sources are particularly attractive. Combine this natural wildlife food-seeking activity with the start of the summer/tourist season that gets people out camping, picnicking and grilling, it makes for a dynamic mix.

In addition, deer and moose are on the move this time of year. Pregnant females break away from their normal routine to give birth to fawns and calves. At the same time, year-old animals are encouraged to disperse from those mothers who now have a new generation of young to care for. These animals are breaking their family bonds. They are encouraged to move on and fend for themselves. In doing so, and like teenage humans, some of them make bad decisions and end up in harm's way. --Mark Ellingwood, Wildlife Programs Supervisor

PIPING PLOVER CHICKS EXPECTED SOON

If you're heading for the seashore this holiday week, watch out for some very important new arrivals. A clutch of New Hampshire's federally threatened piping plover chicks is expected to hatch next week at Seabrook Town Beach. Once the chicks hatch, they will be under heavy surveillance by volunteers and monitors to ensure their survival. "These birds have come back from the brink because of the efforts of monitors and beachgoers," said Conservation Biologist Emily Brunkhurst. "This is exciting - a rare situation when people can take action and make a real difference for a threatened species."

Three pairs of piping plovers have nested this year on New Hampshire beaches. The clutch at Seabrook contains four eggs. One pair at Hampton Beach State Park hatched a single chick that disappeared within a few days. Another pair at Hampton Beach is now on its third attempt. In the first nest, the single egg was crushed; then a second clutch of four eggs was buried during a storm. The Hampton pair's current nest is tucked further back in the dunes and is scheduled to hatch in mid-July.

Piping plovers are small shorebirds that are sand-colored on top and white underneath. They can be distinguished from other shorebirds by a black band across the forehead, a black band around the neck and bright orange legs. The tiny piping plover chicks look like cottonballs on toothpick legs. They can walk and eat within hours after hatching, but are unable to fly for the first 30 days of life, making them extremely vulnerable.

To protect the plovers, Nongame staff and volunteers have fenced off areas close to the nesting pairs and posted signs. A predator exclosure, or cage, protects the nest. Beach raking or mechanical beach cleaning has been temporarily stopped, because the chicks feed off small invertebrates that occur in the wrack line.

A state-endangered and federally threatened species, piping plovers have been the focus of a massive region-wide effort. Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program has provided protection and monitoring for this rare bird since 1996. In the past 3 years, an average of 2-7 nesting pairs have returned to New Hampshire, producing a total of 11 fledged chicks. Since the monitoring program began, 74 chicks have successfully fledged on the New Hampshire seacoast. If you'd like to help monitor the piping plovers, call plover monitor Kristen Murphy at 603-419-9728. - Kat Bagley, N.H. Fish and Game Public Affairs Intern

SUNCOOK RIVER CHANGES DIRECTION, ENDANGERING BROOK FLOATER MUSSELS

When a mile of the Suncook River was redirected in Epsom during New Hampshire's May floods, one of the state's largest, previously undiscovered brook floater mussel populations was found in the deserted riverbed. Biologists from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, N.H. Fish and Game, the Nature Conservancy and a professor from St. Anselm's College joined in the effort of recovering approximately 1,100 mussels in only two days.

The river, which once curved nearly 180 degrees and wrapped itself around Bear Island, broke free, pushing into a nearby wetland and barreling its way straight ahead through a sand pit, backyards and cornfields. Many residents downstream from the new path are dealing with a buildup of runoff sand and gravel on the edge of their property. Businesses that relied on the tourist potential of the river are now questioning future revenue. The river's shift has already greatly affected the brook floater mussel by leaving behind the mussels' natural habitat. This has sparked concerns about the unstable conditions for other species. The mussels collected in the two-day recovery were moved to a Federal fish hatchery in Nashua, where they are being kept in tanks and monitored.

Brook floater mussels are a state-endangered species and listed as a federal species of concern. They are about 3 inches in length and range from a yellowish-green (juveniles) to a greenish-brown (adults) color. They have a characteristic salmon-colored foot and distinctive ridges and wrinkles on their shells. These freshwater mussels are found in rivers and streams with stable habitats, such as coarse sand and gravel. Populations can be found along the Atlantic coastal region, from South Carolina to Nova Scotia, but their numbers have been declining steadily because of natural and human disturbances, including a decrease in host fish populations, habitat destruction and water quality.

According to Fish and Game biological technician Kim Tuttle, the collected brook floater mussels will be returned to the Suncook River upstream from their previous location in a site not affected by the large amounts of sand and gravel displaced by the flood. Thanks to quick action, there is hope for this population of a rare and valued species. - Kat Bagley, N.H. Fish and Game Public Affairs Intern

WET WATERFOWL

Waterfowl plot surveys done in May indicated that this year's breeding numbers overall look good, even though they were lower for mallards and wood ducks. Waterfowl biologist Ed Robinson reported that the flooding rains south of Coos County will have a substantial negative impact on this year's production. Luckily, Canada geese and some mallards began hatching 7-10 days earlier than normal, so a larger number of broods may survive than normally would have. The heavy rain with 40-degree temperatures came at peak hatching time, so mortality was expected to be high on nests and newly hatched chicks. Biologists had reports of many abandoned broods and were seeing paired waterfowl again in late May, so were expecting re-nesting to be common this year. They will start to get a better handle on production when the Canada goose brood counts are done during goose banding going on right now (late June).

RAIN AND TURKEYS

Rains and flooding this year have affected homes and towns, but also pose concerns for wildlife agencies and hunters about future wild turkey populations. According to Bob Eriksen, National Wild Turkey Federation Northeast regional biologist, an overabundance of rain during the breeding and nesting season can cause problems, but the rain is even harder on turkey populations if it comes in late May and into June.

While floods can wash out nests in low-lying areas and make hens more susceptible to predators when nesting, predators and lost nests are typical hazards in the lives of turkeys. "Wild turkeys are ground nesting birds," Eriksen said. "Hens incubating their eggs are normally more vulnerable to predators, and a wet hen has more scent, making it easier for predators to find her."

Hens often re-nest when disturbed, or when their nests are lost to flooding, and predators only take out a small percentage of adult hens. If poults are hatching, it is a different story. "Extended cold rains in the first few weeks of a poult's life can be devastating to the next year's crop of turkeys," said Dr. James Earl Kennamer, NWTF senior vice president for conservation programs. "In fact, rain after poults hatch is much worse than heavy rains during the incubation period."

Research conducted in New York showed that spring and summer weather plays a major role in turkey populations. Heavy rains during the nesting and poult seasons have more impact on turkey populations than harsh winters. The full impact of recent rains on turkey populations will not be known until at least late summer, after brood surveys are conducted by state wildlife agencies. If there is a negative impact on turkey numbers, hunters shouldn't notice any major difference until the 2008 spring turkey season, when the 2-year-old gobblers enter the breeding season.

Note: N.H. Fish and Game Turkey Project Leader Ted Walski reported in early June that most of the turkey hatch in the southern half of New Hampshire would have taken place during the last two weeks of May, which were warm and sunny (good hatching weather) after the initial heavy spring rains ended May 19. He did note that heavier rains and flooding in the flat topography from Rochester and Durham to the seacoast could have washed out a significant number of waterfowl, woodcock, grouse and turkey nests in that area. We will check in with Ted for an update next month on how the broods are faring

LOON CENTER ACTIVITIES

Looking for some summer fun? Check out what's going on at The Loon Center in Moultonborough, N.H., open 7 days a week from July 1 through Columbus Day. Upcoming activities include the Annual New Hampshire Loon Census, conducted statewide on July 15, 2006, between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. Volunteers count loons and send the results in to the Loon Preservation Committee. Call LPC for details 603-476-5666. Also on July 15, 2006, the Annual Loon Festival is a great day to visit the Loon Center to take in exhibits, slide shows, live blue grass music, children's activities. From July 6 through August 24, 2006, the center offers a free Summer Nature Talk Series every Thursday evening at 7:30, with programs on various topics from Mt. Washington weather to moose and other New Hampshire wildlife. Visit http://www.loon.org.

SNEAK A PEEK

Manchester's peregrine falcons once again nested on the Brady-Sullivan Tower (formerly New Hampshire Tower) this year. New Hampshire Audubon has a web-cam that gives you a "bird's eye view" of the nest. At http://www.nhaudubon.org, you can see images and video of the progress of two peregrine chicks that hatched on May 25, 2006

_________________________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - May 31, 2006

A few days ago, Fish and Game Wildlife Biologist Mike Marchand witnessed two female painted turtles making their move to nesting habitat. The migration is on! In this month's report, learn more about turtles and how you can help them survive.

***SPECIAL OFFER for Wildlife Report readers! For a limited time, subscribe to N.H. Wildlife Journal magazine for ONLY $10! You'll get a full year (6 issues) of award-winning wildlife photography and stories about wildlife, hunting and fishing, plus tips on wild places to explore. See sample articles or print an order form at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Shop/order_form_WJmag_special.htm.

We're reaching of this year's fundraising campaign for the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program. Help support this important work by visiting http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/nongame_and_endangered_wildlife.htm for a print-and-mail contribution form. The deadline is June 30. Thanks for your support!

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TURTLE SHELLS NO MATCH FOR TIRES

By Mike Marchand, Wildlife Biologist It's one of my favorite times of year, but also one that brings me much sadness and frustration...turtle nesting season. After an afternoon of yet more rain, I left my Chichester home in order to salvage the last several hours before nightfall. Soon after departing, I found a small turtle on the side of a busy road in the center of town. I safely turned around, pulled over, and approached the turtle. Despite my hopes, this turtle had been struck by an automobile. For a turtle, this individual had survived surprisingly well, considering the speed at which cars travel here. The turtle had crossed the actual road safely, but then was struck two feet into the sandy front lawn of a local residence, the tire tracks still apparent. The images of an impatient driver swerving around traffic and striking the turtle haunted me. Perhaps more disturbing was that this turtle was still alive...not functionally and not for long, but still breathing and capable of moving its legs when touched. It was a fresh strike!

This turtle was a male painted turtle. Its movement from the neighboring pond several hundred yards away was probably prompted by the afternoon showers. Male turtles often move among ponds during the spring in search of potential mates, but the amount of movement of male turtles generally doesn't even begin to approach that of females. Females that hope to contribute to future generations MUST leave the relative safety of ponds and wetlands. Biologically speaking, female turtles could be considered more important than males in local populations. That's not to say that males aren't needed. To complete reproduction and produce young, both males and females are required. However, female turtles carry the hope of future generations within their shell.

To find an appropriate nesting habitat, females may travel several meters or more, seeking a sandy or other well-drained area that is open to sunlight. Female turtles dig a nest chamber, deposit eggs, cover the eggs with soil, and depart, leaving the turtle embryos and future young turtles to fend for themselves. Predators, primarily raccoons, may dig up and destroy a large number of eggs. Although it saddens me to observe a turtle nest that has been destroyed by raccoons, it is generally not catastrophic for local populations. Turtles have overcome this problem by being able to live a very long time...with some local species of turtles possibly exceeding 70 years. Everything eats turtles when they are small...raccoons, great blue herons...even a bullfrog on occasion. As turtles approach adulthood, they are generally less vulnerable to predators. But low survival of young isn't the only reason why turtles must live a long time -- female turtles of some species may not be capable of reproducing until 15 years of age or later!!!

Today, the biggest threat to turtle populations in New Hampshire is being struck by automobiles on roadways. As I mentioned, female turtles must leave the relative safety of ponds and wetlands to find appropriate nesting areas. Although some species of turtles, such as painted turtles, are still relatively common, local populations are beginning to feel the effects of development and the associated increasing levels and speeds of traffic. Recent research has showed that some turtle populations near roads have proportionally more male turtles than females, compared with turtle populations where roads are few. Maintaining and improving wildlife's ability to move across a landscape of forests, wetlands, rivers and human-developed areas is a critical challenge.

Turtle nesting season (late May through early July) is here now and reaches maximum intensity in early June.

HERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP OUR TURTLES SURVIVE:

1) Slow down and watch for turtles in roadways!!

2) Help turtles cross roads safely. If you see a turtle crossing a road and it is safe for you to do so, help it cross in the direction it was traveling.

3) Don't take the turtle home or move it far from where you found it. A turtle taken to your home is a turtle lost from the local population.

4) If a turtle is injured, visit the Fish and Game website at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/wildlife_rehabbers.htm for a list of Wildlife Rehabilitators, or call Fish and Game's Wildlife Division at (603) 271-2461 for a list of rehabilitators in your area.

5) Report turtle sightings to New Hampshire Fish and Game's Reptile and Amphibian Reporting Program (visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/Nongame/reptiles_amphibians.htm).

6) Work with land trusts and town officials to help conserve important natural areas in your community. By taking these steps, we can all help to ensure that New Hampshire's turtles stay abundant and healthy.

_________________________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

Help support Fish and Game's wildlife work - buy a fishing or hunting license at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us. -- Copyright 2006 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - April 28, 2006

An early spring means there's lots of greenery for wildlife to munch on. Moose and deer are on the move; slow down and watch out for them. Herring are heading up the rivers, and birds are back and looking for nesting materials, so tuck some dog or cat fur into tree nooks and watch them grab it. This month, hear about a new plan that maps out the future of wildlife conservation in N.H. - and some ways you can help as a "citizen scientist."

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Have You Seen this Bird?

* Wildlife Action Plan Approved

* Support the Nongame Program

* Migratory Bird Day

* Brake for Moose: It Could Save Your Life

* Seen Any Horseshoe Crabs? Tell Fish and Game

* Celebrate the 2006 Fish Season!

* N.H. Deer CWD-free

* Birding with a Purpose -- NH Audubon Needs You

HAVE YOU SEEN THIS BIRD?

The U.S. Forest Service's Northeastern Research Station is conducting research on goshawk nesting habitat in the state of New Hampshire. If you see signs of northern goshawk breeding activity, please contact Christine Costello at the Bartlett Experimental Forest Office at (603) 374-2494 or email ccostello@fs.fed.us. Goshawks breed throughout New Hampshire.

The northern goshawk is a robust hawk (larger than a crow) with a long narrow tail, short rounded wings and bold white eyebrow. Adults are blue-gray above with a black crown and black eye patch, and pale underparts finely barred with gray. The tail is pale below with dark bands; legs and feet are yellow; eyes are red. Females are larger than males. Immature goshawks are similar in size and shape to adults, but brown above and streaked below, with yellow eyes. The goshawk flight pattern is several rapid wing beats, followed by a short pause. Its adult alarm call is a conspicuous "keek, keek, keek" (rapid series of 10-20 calls). Females boldly defend nest sites. A PDF identification document on the northern goshawk can be downloaded at the online version of this report at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/wildlife_reports.htm.

The goshawk is a species of concern addressed in the state's new Wildlife Action Plan. Concern exists because of the goshawk's association with large forested tracts that are rapidly being converted to other uses in New Hampshire. Populations of goshawks declined in the 19th century when passenger pigeons were extirpated and extensive land was cleared for farming. In the intervening years, abandonment and reforestation of agricultural lands contributed to an expansion of its population and range. Goshawks are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.

WILDLIFE ACTION PLAN APPROVED

The New Hampshire Wildlife Action Plan received federal approval in April from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, after review by a team of federal wildlife biologists and state wildlife administrators. The plan outlines a conservation strategy for New Hampshire's wildlife and their habitats. It represents nearly three years of intensive research and analysis by fish and wildlife biologists collaborating with conservation partners from a dozen organizations, including extensive participation and input from other conservation leaders and the public. New Hampshire's plan was named as one of 12 "excellent" plans out of 54 state and U.S. territory plans analyzed by Defenders of Wildlife.

The New Hampshire Wildlife Action Plan can be seen at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us. It details 104 species and 27 habitats in greatest need of conservation in the state and outlines specific actions we can take to maintain the diversity of wildlife and natural areas that exist in New Hampshire today. The species profiles are technical, but an amazing resource for anyone interested in New Hampshire's wildlife.

SUPPORT THE NONGAME PROGRAM

Last year, Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program worked with conservation partners to create New Hampshire's first-ever Wildlife Action Plan that you've been hearing about. The next step is to put the Plan into action. You can help by sending a tax-deductible contribution by June 30 to: Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program, N.H. Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. With a contribution of $35 or more, you'll get a new Frogs of N.H. field identification card, currently only available to Nongame Program donors. For a print-and-mail donation form, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/nongame_and_endangered_wildlife.htm.

MIGRATORY BIRD DAY

The second Saturday in May is International Migratory Bird Day, focusing on the nearly 350 species of migratory birds that travel between nesting habitats in North America and non-breeding grounds in South and Central America, Mexico and the Caribbean. Free bird walks are being offered on May 11 at Weeks State Park in Lancaster; and on May 13, 17, 18 and 20 at the Pondicherry National Wildlife Refuge in Jefferson. For more information, contact trip leader David Govatski at pondicherry@wildblue.net or call (603) 586-7776. For more on International Migratory Bird Day, visit http://www.birdday.org.

BRAKE FOR MOOSE: IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

Moose are an important and much loved part of our state, but it can be dangerous to encounter them on the road. As May progresses, female moose (and deer) will be on the move before they give birth. While the number of moose/vehicle collisions has been stable at approximately 250 each year for the last ten years, that's little comfort if you're one of the people involved in a collision. A few simple rules can help motorists greatly reduce their chance of a moose/vehicle collision or the severity of personal injury if they do hit a moose.

When driving on New Hampshire's roads, keep these points in mind:

* New Hampshire's moose herd is approximately 7,000 strong.

* Moose/vehicle collisions happen statewide on all types of roads.

* Moose collisions happen most often from the months of May through November.

* While collisions happen at all times of the day and night, most collisions happen at dusk and during the night. * Moose are dark brown and hard to see against pavement.

* Don't depend on 'eye shine' to alert you to a moose's presence.

* To reduce the chance of a collision -- or the severity of occupant injury if you do hit a moose.

* Drive no faster than 55 mph, and wear your seatbelt;

* Scan the sides of the road;

* Be able to stop within the zone of your headlights;

* Use high beams whenever possible;

* If you see a moose, slow down, or stop if necessary, until you are past it or it has left the road.

New Hampshire residents and visitors love to see moose and enjoy sharing the state with these largest denizens of the forest. Make sure your moose encounters are safe for you and the moose: Brake for moose! -- Fish and Game Moose Project Leader Kris Bontaites

SEEN ANY HORSESHOE CRABS? TELL FISH AND GAME

If you're around Great Bay early this summer, watch for one of the estuary's longest-living creatures, the horseshoe crab. More closely related to spiders and scorpions than crabs, horseshoe crab adults spend the cold winter months in offshore waters, but come into shallow coastal waters to feed and reproduce during spring and summer.

In Great Bay, horseshoe crabs mate from late May through June and into the summer. You might be lucky enough to see adult horseshoe crabs near the shore this season during especially high tides, called spring tides, during the full or new moon (dates to watch: full moon May 13; new moon May 27; full moon June 11; new moon June 25; full moon July 11; and so on). You may see horseshoe crabs at other times than the full or new moon.

Horseshoe crabs live along the coast from Mexico to Maine. Unfortunately, they are diminishing in number in New Hampshire. Fish and Game is trying to learn more about the habitat of horseshoe crabs by monitoring the spawning and nursery grounds in the Great Bay Estuary and the Seabrook-Hampton Estuary.

You can help by letting Fish and Game know whenever you see a horseshoe crab in New Hampshire. You're most likely to see them in shallow water in sandy, muddy or cobbly areas. If you see horseshoe crabs, take note of how many you observe, where you see them and the date and time of the observation. Look carefully to make sure you are seeing a live horseshoe crab and not the empty outer shell of one that has molted! Once you have this information, report it to Fish and Game's Durham office at (603) 868-1095. -- Clare McBane, Marine Biologist, N.H. Fish and Game

CELEBRATE THE 2006 FISH SEASON!

Amoskeag Fishways in Manchester celebrates the 2006 fish migration season from May 1 through June 16. The center is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., during that time (closed May 29). Walk-in visitors are welcome and guided fish season tours are offered to groups. For more information about the fish season or to schedule a tour, call (603) 626-FISH or visit http://www.amoskeagfishways.org.

The Fabulous Fishways Carnival, on Saturday, May 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., is a great time to visit the fishways. This opening season celebration is a warm welcome to New Hampshire's migrating fish and an introduction to the Fishways' new live timber rattlesnake exhibit. The day will be full of exciting programs, as well as live music, Morris dancing, outdoor games, tasty food, a grand opening parade, river paddling demos and of course, live FISH in the fish ladder! Cost: $3 per person or $6 per family (parents and their own children under age 18). No registration is required.

Fish season at Amoskeag Fishways happens in the spring when the fish ladder is operating and migratory river herring, American shad and sea lamprey traverse the ladder's 54 steps to bypass the Amoskeag Hydroelectric Dam. These species are called "anadromous," meaning they are born in fresh water, live in the ocean as adults, and return to fresh water to reproduce. Fishways Director Helen Dalbeck reports that center staff and visitors are already seeing brood stock salmon traversing the ladder, and other species of fish are expected to begin passing through in the next week to ten days.

N.H. DEER CWD-FREE

New Hampshire's deer population once again showed no evidence of chronic wasting disease (CWD), based on monitoring data gathered during the 2005 hunting season. Last fall, N.H. Fish and Game collected heads from hunter-killed deer across the state and sent a total of 402 tissue samples to be tested. All were negative for CWD. More than 1,400 deer have been tested in New Hampshire since 2002. The monitoring is part of a nationwide effort to identify areas with CWD, a neurological disorder that is fatal to white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk and moose. First identified in western U.S. states, CWD has now been found in deer as far east as New York state. The World Health Organization has concluded that there is no evidence that people can become infected with CWD.

BIRDING WITH A PURPOSE -- NH AUDUBON NEEDS YOU

New Hampshire Audubon is about to embark on a critical new phase of bird monitoring projects and to accomplish our goals we'll need your help. As you may know, N.H. Fish and Game recently completed its Wildlife Action Plan, a document that will guide wildlife conservation in the state for the next 10 years. N.H. Audubon biologists are working to carry out the bird conservation strategies in the Wildlife Action Plan. At the same time, we are working with regional and national bird conservation partnerships to identify priority tasks and coordinate monitoring efforts. This process will allow us to develop comprehensive conservation plans for New Hampshire. It also provides exciting opportunities for you to participate!

Although some bird species are already well monitored through programs such as the Breeding Bird Survey, many of the species of greatest conservation concern are not. This year, biologists are developing several programs that will help us understand, and ultimately conserve, these species. This is no small task and to be successful, we need the help of the entire birding community. N.H. Audubon is creating a corps of volunteer "citizen scientists" to scour the forests, fields, and wetlands of the state, and help collect critical data on the species of greatest conservation need. In the conservation community, this is often called "birding with a purpose."

N.H. Audubon has volunteer opportunities for birders of all experience levels. For specific details and contact information on the volunteer opportunities listed below, visit http://www.nhaudubon.org. Volunteers are needed for:

* URGENT NEEDS FOR THIS FIELD SEASON: Marshbird Monitoring; Hampton Marsh Study; Whip-poor-will Monitoring; Rusty Blackbird Survey.

* ANNUAL AND ONGOING FIELD PROJECTS: Important Bird Areas Program; Monitoring Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Peregrine Falcons; New Hampshire Audubon Sanctuaries (stewards and monitors); New Hampshire Bird Records Reporter.

* FUTURE NEEDS: Owl Survey; Breeding Bird Survey.

* IN THE OFFICE: New Hampshire Bird Records Office Assistant; Office Assistant. -- Julie Klett, Communications Director, New Hampshire Audubon

_________________________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

Help support Fish and Game's wildlife work - buy a fishing or hunting license at http://nhfishandgame.com

. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - MARCH 31, 2006

With the next warm rains -- probably this weekend -- New Hampshire's frogs and salamanders will be on the move, hopping and slithering to wetlands and vernal pools to breed. Many of them have to cross roads to get there; you can help ensure their survival by avoiding driving after dark on rainy spring nights. In this issue of the Wildlife Report, find out how you can help Fish and Game document these species by becoming a volunteer observer in the RAARP program, hear how New Hampshire's black bears fared over the winter, and get the lowdown on a slippery fellow - the river otter.

Want to help the Fish and GameDepartment this spring? Buy a fishing license at http://www.nhfishandgame.com. Thanks for your support!

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Seen any reptiles and amphibians?

* Spring bears are here

* Take down your birdfeeders -- or the bears will!

* Meet the playful river otter

SEEN ANY REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS?

The spring migration of reptiles and amphibians will likely be going full tilt by the end of this weekend if the rain arrives. With frogs and salamanders out and about, Fish and Game needs volunteers to send observations to its Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program. Through the Reptile and Amphibian Reporting Program (RAARP), volunteers report sightings of reptiles and amphibians, from spring peepers to snapping turtles. Many of the tools that RAARP volunteers use are now available on Fish and Game's website at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/Nongame/reptiles_amphibians.htm, including reporting forms, identification keys, documentation photo tips and much more.

The 2005 RAARP summary report is also posted, with an interesting list of the species seen in the 404 reports volunteers sent in last year. One of the best results of the year was the number of Blanding's, spotted and wood turtles reported. The most commonly reported frogs were green frogs, American toads, wood frogs and spring peepers. No mink frogs were reported in the state. Mink frogs have a distribution north of the White Mountains, so RAARP volunteers in northern N.H. are being encouraged to keep an eye out for them. Listen for their call (sounds like hitting two boards together). If you are fortunate enough to capture one, try to take a good photo! Careful, though -- mink frogs can look very similar to our more common green frog. Mink frogs are so named because, if disturbed, they smell like either mink or rotten onions. Later this year, Fish and Game also needs verified reports of leopard frogs (photos are crucial); focus searches for these amphibians during late summer in floodplains, fields and agricultural areas along rivers.

And don't forget snakes. Hognose snakes are state threatened, and their sandy habitat continues to be developed in southern New Hampshire. To protect this species, we need to document the best places hognose snakes still occur. Other snakes in the greatest need of additional reports are timber rattlesnake, black racer, ribbon snake and smooth green snake. All snakes are underrepresented, though, and we need more reports on them.

Get involved as a RAARP volunteer -- email wilddiv@wildlife.state.nh.us or call (603) 271-2461 and ask for the RAARP Volunteer Packet.

SPRING BEARS ARE HERE

This past winter in New Hampshire has been odd and certainly mild, to say the least. While Mother Nature still may throw an early spring storm our way, the strong sun and increased day length make it a sure thing that any late snow likely will not be around for long. The same weather that will soon melt the last snow of winter causes bears to emerge from their winter dens during late March and early April. Ambient temperatures greater than or equal to 50 degrees F for several days typically will cause bears to emerge from dens. Males generally are the first to come out, while females with cubs emerge last. Bears generally do not feed and maintain low levels of activity during the first two weeks after they leave the den. This represents a physiological and behavioral adaptation by which bears adjust their digestive system from a period of inactivity.

Spring is a critical time for bears. Many adult sows are accompanied by newborn cubs or yearlings, while adult males are more solitary. Bears will feed heavily on any available food to replenish fat reserves depleted during the long denning period.

The abundant mast crops last fall, specifically acorns, allowed bears throughout much of New Hampshire to enter dens in excellent shape. Given that reproductive success in bears is directly influenced by nutritional fitness, an abundance of cubs should have been born in dens during January throughout most of New Hampshire. Winter den checks conducted by Fish and Game during early March 2006 indicated average litter sizes of 2-3 cubs per female, consistent with the typical reproductive success of black bears. Acorns produced last fall will continue to serve as an important food source this spring. These nuts will allow bears to begin to replenish used fat reserves and will result in the increased survival of bears. This food source is very important to sows with cubs-of-the-year, given the nutritional demand cub rearing places on the sow. As the sow's nutritional condition improves after she leaves the den, so does the survival rate of young cubs. Currently, the statewide bear population remains stable at about 5,100 animals. - Andy Timmins, Bear Project Leader, N.H. Fish and Game

TAKE DOWN YOUR BIRDFEEDERS -- OR THE BEARS WILL!

Last fall's abundant mast production will provide critical spring food for bears, but spring and early summer still represent lean times for bears. Be assured -- bears will be hungry as they emerge from their dens this spring, and homeowners need to be prepared for them. Remove all attractants in your yard to keep it from becoming a cafeteria for bears! It is also very important that bears find natural foods and not become dependent on human-related food sources. Cease all bird feeding by April 1, or as soon as snow melts, and clean up any spilled seed and dispose of it in the trash. Secure all garbage in airtight containers inside a garage or adequate storage area, and put garbage out only on the morning of pickup. Avoid putting meat or other food scraps in your compost pile. Don't leave pet food dishes outside overnight, and clean and store outdoor grills after each use.

Finally, never intentionally feed bears. These steps will ensure that your backyard doesn't become a magnet for bears, preventing property damage and keeping bears from becoming nuisance animals. Please help prevent bear/human conflicts, so we can coexist with this magnificent animal. - Andy Timmins, Bear Project Leader, N.H. Fish and Game

MEET THE PLAYFUL RIVER OTTER

River otters are built for speed. They are expert swimmers and divers; they can swim at an average of 7 mph and can stay underwater for up to 2 minutes. Their sleek bodies barely make a ripple when gliding through the water. River otters have a thick body with short legs. But don't think that makes them slow -- they can run up to 15-18 mph and can slide on ice 25 feet! Their hind feet are webbed and all have claws, making them efficient for both swimming and running. Specialized ears and nose have valve-like skin that closes to keep water out. An adult river otter can weigh between 15-30 pounds and be up to 60 inches long. Females are smaller than males, sometimes up to 25% smaller. When prime, the river otter's fur appears black-brown, with the belly fur slightly lighter; fur under the chin and on the throat is grayish. Otters have a strong sense of smell and hearing; while their vision is not as good, it may be better underwater than above.

River otters are primarily nocturnal and active all year long. They feed primarily on fish, but will take insects, frogs and occasionally small mammals. Otters are highly mobile, males more so than females. Their home range varies from less than one square mile to more than 20 square miles. Wrestling and chase play are important socializing activities. River otters breed in March and April, beginning at the age of 2. Young are born in February to April after a period of delayed implantation. Litter sizes can be from 1 to 5, but on average are 2 or 3.

River otters live in the riparian borders of streams and lakes and other wetlands in forested areas. One of the best habitats for river otters in the northeast is beaver-influenced drainages. They prefer waterbodies rich with fish in areas with plenty of denning sites. Den sites can consist of a rocky ledge, a fallen tree or an abandoned beaver lodge. Otters are extremely sensitive to changes in habitat. Pollution and destruction of wetland habitats are detrimental to river otters and other wetland species.

In New Hampshire, otter may be trapped by licensed trappers. The take during the 2004-2005 season was 304 animals. The number of river otter that can be trapped is regulated by season dates and a season limit. - Julie Robinson, Wildlife Biologist ______________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - FEBRUARY 28, 2006

Keep an ear and an eye out for the stirrings of spring in the next few weeks: chickadees and tufted titmice tuning up their spring songs; white-breasted nuthatch males and females maintaining visual and voice contact; the "konk-la-reee" song of red-winged blackbirds perched atop cattails in the thawing wetlands and marshes. We may be in winter's grip this week, but wildlife know that spring is not far off.

IN THIS ISSUE:

* That quacking may not be ducks!

* Changing status for eagles?

* Cheeky Chipmunks Out and About

THAT QUACKING MAY NOT BE DUCKS!

If you hear duck-like quacking sounds coming from vernal pools and other fishless waters (including swamps, pools in gravel pits and ditches) in the next few weeks, look a little closer. You might be surprised to discover that it is not ducks at all, but wood frogs calling. Male wood frogs often begin their enthusiastic quacking chorus in late March and early April, well before the spring peeper, even when ice may still partially cover their breeding pools. Wood frog choruses often go unheard, though, not only because of the brevity of their breeding activity (wood frogs may assemble, mate and depart their breeding pools in as short a time as a week), but because their quacking just doesn't carry that far, unlike the spring peeper. Also, wood frogs may call during the day in undisturbed locations but they generally begin "quacking" in the early evening hours and continue through the night.

The wood frog is easily recognized by its brown color and distinctive dark eye-mask. It is a medium-sized frog, up to 2.5 inches long, and can be found in woodlands and moist lawns bordering woods. Wood frog tadpoles feed on algae, leaves, aquatic plant material and microorganisms found in their breeding pools, while adults eat a variety of invertebrates such as worms, beetles, and caterpillars. They are quick transformers; tadpoles can be seen in April and small-sized versions of the adults can be seen leaving their pools in early to mid-summer. Hail to all quackers! -- Kim Tuttle, Biological Technician

CHANGING STATUS FOR BALD EAGLES?

In February the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service began the first step towards taking the bald eagle off the federal endangered and threatened species list. Over 7,000 known nesting pairs now live in the "lower 48" states. The recovery of the bald eagle has been a national effort. The most critical factor was a federal ban on the use of the pesticide DDT in the U.S. in 1972. The eagle was listed under the Endangered Species Act, which allowed us to protect habitat for the bald eagle, including nesting sites and summer and winter roost sites. States, private landowners and others played a vital role in restoring eagles, including purchasing and protecting important habitat, reintroducing the bald eagle back into the wild, and making extensive efforts to educate the public.

Here in New Hampshire, bald eagles will remain endangered at the state level even if their federal status changes, according to John Kanter, Coordinator of Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program. In 2005, New Hampshire had 9 nesting pairs of bald eagles that fledged a total of 11 chicks, the second straight year of fledgling success for the state (11 chicks fledged in 2004, up from 5 in 2003 and just one in 2002).

In addition to state protection, bald eagles are also covered by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, a law passed by Congress in 1940 to protect our national symbol. Protection under these laws would also continue if the eagle is federally delisted.

The public may comment on the proposed delisting until May 17, 2006. For information on eagles and the federal action, visit http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/baldeagle.htm

CHEEKY CHIPMUNKS OUT AND ABOUT

Any day now you may catch a glimpse of an Eastern chipmunk scampering along a rock wall or hear its endless, bird-like "chip-chip-chip" warning call. After spending several months underground, chippies are transitioning back to the active life. Though a true hibernator, chipmunks don't have large fat reserves, so they awaken every three to four days to nibble on the stores of nuts and seeds stored in their nesting burrow during the fall. By now, these supplies are running low, so warming days bring chipmunks out of their burrows in search of food.

Less than six inches long (not counting the tail), chipmunks are easy to spot by the stripes on their back and sides. These little fellows are fast - they can zip along at up to 15 feet per second for short distances - which helps them stay out of the clutches of hawks and foxes. You'll most often see them on the ground, but you should look up in the branches, too, as they are agile climbers. Females give birth to a litter of 3 to 5 young in May, and may have another litter in August-September. These members of the squirrel family live about three years in the wild. Keep an eye out for these cheery noisemakers - a sure sign that spring is on the way. _______________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - JANUARY 31, 2006

New Hampshire's wildlife are taking advantage of the mild winter -- as long as it lasts!

IN THIS ISSUE:

* There's a Lotta Winta Left In New Hampsha!

* Backyard Winter Bird Survey, February 11 and 12

* Turkeys Enjoying Mild Weather

* New Hampshire's Seven Sleepers

THERE'S A LOTTA WINTA LEFT IN NEW HAMPSHA!

Don't be fooled by the January thaw that lingered longer than usual this year. While it seemed like winter's grip has loosened, it will only take another good winter storm to bring us back to reality. Sure, wildlife took advantage of the reduced snow and ice; as we all did. Bear biologist Andy Timmins had several reports of bears mid-January bellying up to bird feeders all around the state. It was a midnight snack for the bears! Ducks and geese were quick to dabble in the open water or graze like sheep in the green fields exposed by the thaw. Woodchucks, though, remained in their slumber, unaware of the green grass on their roofs. That's because below ground in a woodchuck's burrow, where they snuggle below the frost line, conditions change very little from week to week.

The lack of snow is a disadvantage for some wildlife. What about all those snowshoe hares that are white this winter? Plus, what about all the mice, voles and other little scampering critters that count on a thick layer of snow to tunnel in to hide them from the preying eyes, and talons, of a barred owl or red-tailed hawk?

While a January thaw can be a nice break from winter, a winter that lingers into spring that can dramatically affect the survival of this state's wildlife. If you want to know how winter has affected the state's wildlife, ask me in May. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

BACKYARD WINTER BIRD SURVEY, FEBRUARY 11 AND 12

New Hampshire Audubon (NHA) needs assistance from citizens all over New Hampshire to determine the status of bird species in the state. Participants in the annual Backyard Winter Bird Survey on Saturday, February 11, and Sunday, February 12, will help N.H. Audubon get a clearer picture of what's really happening with our winter birds this year.

Anyone can participate in the Backyard Winter Bird Survey simply by counting the birds in their own backyard on the survey weekend and sending the results on a special reporting form to N.H. Audubon. Last year, more than 1,200 observers submitted data from every county in the state and tallied more than 56,000 birds of 73 species.

To receive a copy of the reporting form and complete instructions on how to participate, send a self-addressed, stamped, long envelope to: NHA, Winter Bird Survey, 3 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH 03301-8200. Forms are also available at New Hampshire Audubon centers in Auburn, Concord, Laconia, Manchester and Moultonborough; or you can find them on the N.H. Audubon website, along with more information about the survey, at http://www.nhaudubon.org. -- Julie Klett, Communications Director, New Hampshire Audubon

TURKEYS ENJOYING MILD WEATHER

Fish and Game's Turkey Project Leader Ted Walski reports that New Hampshire's wild turkeys are taking advantage of the warmer weather and lack of deep snow. A mid-winter check of eight dairy farms in the western part of the state (important winter feeding sites for wild turkeys) yielded a count of more than 550 birds in just a few days, in spite of the fact that many of the birds were wandering in search of green grass and other greens in bare ground sites on southern and western slopes. By the middle of February, lengthening days with strong sunlight will warm areas of southern exposure, melting snow and uncovering acorns and other food left from last fall. The New Hampshire turkey population going into spring 2006 looks like it will be in good condition, Walski says.

NEW HAMPSHIRE'S SEVEN SLEEPERS

With the January thaw and light snow bringing more wildlife activity than we sometimes see this time of year, we thought it might be handy to refresh readers on the seven types of mammals that dodge the depths of New Hampshire's winter by snoozing it away.

Bats, woodchucks, chipmunks and jumping mice go into a deep sleep, or hibernation. For these animals, life nearly ceases; they are at death's door. Yet, somehow, an alarm clock built into their bodies awakens them at just the right time. Imagine if you could hit the snooze button for four more months! These animals have a weight loss program that works, too -- the winter sleepers lose between 25 and 50 percent of their weight while sleeping. Rounding out the seven sleepers, bears, raccoons and striped skunks sleep during the cold months, but not as deeply as the true hibernators. Sometimes they snooze only during the coldest, snowiest parts of the winter.

Woodchucks are masters of winter sleep. By late September, when air temperatures drop into the 40s, woodchucks go into hibernation. The woodchuck's weight will drop by about half over the winter. Its heart rate plummets from 105 beats per minute to just 4, and body temperature drops from 104 degrees F to about 38.

Bats are also true hibernators. By late August or September, five species of New Hampshire bats are headed for their winter dens. These are usually caves or mines, not necessarily in this state, but possibly as far as 200 miles away. The last days of summer were spent adding about 25 percent to their body weight in order to have enough fat to last the seven months in hibernation. Bats' heartbeats slow from 210 per minute to just 8. Their body temperature may drop from nearly 100 degrees F to 32. Shivering prevents bats' body temperature from dropping below freezing.

Jumping mice, both woodland and meadow, occur across the state and, like bats and woodchucks, are true hibernators. They curl into a little ball and sleep for two or three weeks at a stretch, briefly awaken, then resume their torpor. Their body temperature hovers just above freezing.

Chipmunks are winter wanderers between weeks-long periods of sleep. These little creatures take the time in late fall to store a cache of winter food which they eat during waking periods over the winter. Typically, chipmunks have excavated one or two chambers in their underground burrows and have filled them with hundreds of nuts. They, too, are true hibernators, as their body temperature drops from 96 to 106 degrees F to as low as 42-45 degrees F. Their heart rate slips from 60 per minute to 20. A mild winter day with little snow and an abundance of acorns will draw chipmunks out of the den for a winter scamper.

Bears may double their weight in late fall in preparation for denning. Autumns with a lack of nuts and other foods can send some bears into their dens as early as September. During falls with an abundance of nuts, especially beechnuts or acorns, bears often will stay active into December. Bears usually build a den on top of the ground or under a blow-down or brush pile. Their winter sleep is not as deep as that of the true hibernators, as bears remain alert and can run away or defend themselves if disturbed. Their body temperature drops only about 10 degrees, from 100 degrees F to 90. Respiration drops more significantly, from about 40 to 8-10 breaths a minute. Unlike chipmunks, bears do not eat or drink or even relieve themselves during the 5-6 months of denning. Yet adult female bears give birth to two or three cubs in January about every other year. They are able to nurse the cubs and care for them during the coldest of months by relying on body fat stored from the previous fall.

Raccoons and striped skunks are the last of the winter sleepers. Unlike the true hibernators, these animals may sleep only during the coldest temperatures and the deepest snows, but remain active periodically. There is no dramatic reduction in their body temperatures, heart rate or respiration. Life goes on, just at a slower pace. Just like us humans! To conserve energy, both raccoons and skunks congregate in communal dens. Often, it will be the mother and her young from the summer who will den together, but sometimes as many as 12 to 20 raccoons may den together.

Skunks enjoy the company of other skunks, as well; there can be 20 or more in a den, but usually no more than 10. Skunks, especially females, prefer to make their winter dens under or in buildings. Did you notice a telltale odor of skunk during the skunk-breeding season in January? Male skunks may travel over two miles a night in search of that den full of vivacious babes. Squabbling males or reluctant females may cause a stir that will include some spraying. Keep that clothespin handy! The denned skunks tend to have two or three brief active periods each day, each lasting less than 10 minutes. Skunks have a slight depression in body temperature and lose between 40 and 58 percent of their body weight.

New Hampshire's seven sleepers are snuggled into their dens for a long winter's nap. Wouldn't it be nice to sleep through that next big snowstorm, or, better yet, that ice storm when the power is out? Plus, great news - "you snooze, you lose." If you've put on a few extra pounds this winter, remember, the solution is only a nap away. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist (Adapted from Wildlife Report, December 2003.)

_______________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

Copyright 2005 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME -- DECEMBER 23, 2005

This month, meet some snowbirds that head to New Hampshire for the winter. When the holidays are over, don't toss the Christmas tree - put it out for the birds! There's still time to comment on a Fish and Game proposal to prohibit the feeding of nuisance bears.

In this issue:

* New Hampshire's Winter Visitors - Redpolls to Eagles

* Don't Toss that Tree!

* Proposed Rule Prohibits Feeding Nuisance Bears

NEW HAMPSHIRE'S WINTER VISITORS - REDPOLLS TO EAGLES

The common redpoll is a cheery little visitor that can be seen at bird feeders around the state this time of year. It comes to New Hampshire from its breeding grounds in the sub-arctic forests and tundra scrub of northern Canada and Greenland. True to its name, it sports a red or orange-red cap or "poll." These are social birds and flocks should be checked for the presence of hoary redpolls, which are frostier in appearance with a whiter rump. Common redpolls may interbreed with hoarys where their breeding ranges overlap, and it is still unclear whether the two are indeed separate species.

Use your binoculars to check New Hampshire's farm fields and ocean shorelands for flocks, often numbering in the hundreds, of the dignified-appearing horned larks, which are often seen with the congenial snow bunting. Horned larks nest throughout Canada and Alaska, while snow buntings are found in the Far North, nesting on tundra, talus slopes and the rocky shores of extreme northern Canada, Greenland and Alaska.

Winter is also the best time to see the largest number of eagles in New Hampshire. Bald eagles from the frozen North have been showing up lately at their usual wintering areas along rivers and other open-water areas such as along the banks of the Merrimack River, Great Bay, and the Weirs Channel and Governor's Island at Lake Winnipesaukee. The presence of eagles at daytime perch areas at the water's edge may be easy to detect, but the nighttime roosts are usually well hidden (for protection from the wind) and up to several miles from the water. During the winter, eagles will feast upon slow swimming fish that they catch at the surface and just as readily upon fish left on the ice of the big lakes and ponds by ice fishermen. Wintering ducks, mostly mallards and blacks, which are congregated by the lack of open water during these months, are also a staple of the wintering eagles' diet. -- Kim Tuttle, Biological Technician

DON'T TOSS THAT TREE!

Evergreens, aka "Christmas trees," make wonderful winter cover for the birds. New Hampshire is off to another frigid winter, making life a whole lot more difficult for our fine feathered friends. Why not give them a little extra cover by placing your Christmas tree, stripped of ALL its decorations, near your bird feeder? Or better yet, prop it next to another live evergreen nearby. Evergreens actually provide needed winter cover by reducing heat loss for birds and reducing the amount of wind on them -- cutting the "chill factor." Every little bit of energy saved means a great deal in helping them survive through a long cold winter's night.

Don't forget to make sure you supply plenty of feed for your birds by mid-afternoon. This last meal of the day gives birds the energy they need to keep warm by shivering the night away. How about planting a few evergreens in your yard next spring to give the birds some natural cover in years to come? A row of evergreen trees along the northwest side of your house might also reduce the chill factor of your own home. These trees also make great nesting places for the birds. Learn all about creating wonderful wildlife habitat in your back yard at: http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/create_wildlife_habitat.htm. -- Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

PROPOSED RULE PROHIBITS FEEDING NUISANCE BEARS

A proposed rule being considered by Fish and Game would prohibit the purposeful or inadvertent feeding of black bears when it is determined that the feeding increases the likelihood of human injury or property damage

. "Every year, we have to deal with a handful of people who insist on feeding bears, despite countless complaints from neighbors, bear/car collisions in the area, occasional bear shootings, and repeated requests by Fish and Game for them to stop feeding the bears," said Mark Ellingwood, Wildlife Program Supervisor for Fish and Game. "This rule allows the state to compel people to stop feeding bears when that feeding threatens the safety or property of neighbors, or when it jeopardizes the well-being of local bears."

The proposed rule specifies that before legal action can be taken, Fish and Game must warn people to stop. "Our first action is and always will be public education. Hopefully, we won't need to go beyond that...we all share a common interest in safeguarding human health and property and in protecting New Hampshire's black bears," Ellingwood said.

Other states that currently have laws related to black bear feeding include Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Specific laws vary by state.

The complete rulemaking notice form, with original and proposed rule language, may be found by going to http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Legislative/Notices_summary.htm and clicking on "Nuisance bear control."

Fish and Game is still accepting written comments on the bear proposal. Comments must be received by January 3, 2006. Send to: comments@wildlife.state.nh.us (subject line should say "Wildlife Rules"); or mail to Executive Director, N.H. Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301; or fax to (603) 271-1438.

______________________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - October 24, 2005

Brake for beaver this fall. That's right, hundreds of beaver are on the move, as well as muskrats and even mink. Simply put, the extraordinarily high waters we've experienced this fall have flooded them out of their normal dens and lodges. The number of road-killed beaver and mink has risen sharply in New Hampshire during the past few weeks.

Most of the state's beaver live in dens hollowed out along the banks of rivers and ponds, but prolonged floodwaters have evicted many from their normal habitats. That spells trouble, because this is the time of year that they must earnestly cut and store a stockpile of branches near their den entrance to eat during the long cold months ahead. This will be a tough winter for the state's beaver, from the look of things right now.

Because these aquatic animals are on the move, avoid driving at night if you can -- get your groceries on the way home from work instead of going out later. As you drive past flooded wetlands and rivers, be especially careful to watch for movement in the road. While we always should be on guard for moose, deer or bears on the roads at night, this fall there is another whole host of critters displaced by the flooding that is on the move after dark. --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

IN THIS ISSUE:

* On the Wing over New Hampshire

* Loons Head for the Coast

* Wildlife Gets Ready for Winter

* Where Do the Insects Go?

ON THE WING OVER NEW HAMPSHIRE

The bulk of the hawk migration has passed, but some good looks at migrating raptors such as northern goshawk and golden eagle have been reported in the last few weeks. Although golden eagles do not breed in the state (the closest breeding locations are in Quebec and eastern Canada), a few individuals have been seen passing hawk-watching sites like Pack Monadnock at Miller State Park in Temple. Turkey vultures are beginning to move south, as well as red-tailed hawks from northern New Hampshire and Canada.

The first wave of Canada geese has passed, but in mid-November a second wave is expected of birds that have "staged" at Prince Edward Island in Canada. "Staging" refers to geese or other waterfowl, usually in large numbers, gathering to rest and feed for several weeks until weather forces them to migrate. Many of these geese, except those that regularly winter at Great Bay, will bypass the rest of the state to fly non-stop to wintering sites from New Jersey north.

Many reports of white-winged and black scoters have come in from inland locations such as Moore Reservoir on the Connecticut River in Littleton and Cherry Ponds in Jefferson. Although regular winter residents of New Hampshire coastal bays and the Atlantic Ocean, scoters, unlike eiders, regularly migrate along inland waters and are often seen during the fall on ponds and the big lakes. The diminutive Ruddy duck, another unusual visitor from Canada, has also been seen lately at Cherry Ponds and along the Connecticut River in Monroe, as well as at the Exeter Wastewater Treatment Plant sewage lagoons, along with green-winged teal and coots. -- Kim Tuttle, Biological Technician

LOONS HEAD FOR THE COAST

A warm summer's night on the shore of New Hampshire's larger lakes wouldn't be the same without the forlorn wail of a loon. It's hard to imagine these lakes in silence, but they are, for months at a time, when the loons leave each fall. Our loons will soon become silent sentinels of the sea, as the storm-tossed Atlantic will be their home for the winter. Based on a few bird band returns and radio telemetry studies, we know that New Hampshire's loons winter along coastal waters from Maine to the Chesapeake Bay.

The Loon Preservation Committee's preliminary 2005 numbers show that New Hampshire has 203 territorial pairs of loons and a total of 496 adult loons, about the same as last year. This year's nesting was affected by wet weather in late spring and early summer, and the number of loon chicks hatched (141) and chicks surviving through mid-August (111) were lower than usual. (Learn more about loons at http://www.loon.org.)

This time of year, loons fade away from our lakes along with the disappearing daylight. First the adults move toward the coast, followed by their young in a few weeks. Loons are common and easily spotted along our coast all winter long. Not only are their voices muted for the winter months, but so, too, is their beautiful summer plumage. Over the winter, the brilliantly white and olive-colored birds will become black-and-white silhouettes against the dark Atlantic waters. --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

WILDLIFE GETS READY FOR WINTER

Fall is a time of many changes. As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, wildlife prepare for the serious business of winter. Animals adapt to winter in different ways. Some migrate hundreds or thousands of miles to areas with more plentiful food supplies. Others may move a few hundred yards to a protected area, such as winter deer yards, and still others may move only a few inches to the underside of a log.

Woodchucks, jumping mice and little brown bats will hibernate. They prepare by building up layers of fat and seeking out den or cave sites where they are protected from the weather. Once they've entered their hibernating state, their heartbeat slows, their body temperature dramatically drops and they breathe slowly and unevenly. These true hibernators will remain this way throughout the winter.

During September, October and early November, New Hampshire's bears eat continually, feasting on an abundance of berries and acorns (and beechnuts, which are in short supply this year). Their body weight increases by 20 to 25 percent. Once bears den up in late November and December, they won't eat again until spring. Their body temperature lowers slightly. Den sites might be a hollowed out area in the ground or under a brush pile or downed tree. If the weather is mild or they are disturbed during the winter, bears will wake up and may even move their den site.

Other animals, like skunks, chipmunks and raccoons, become inactive and sleep through parts of the winter. Their body temperatures remain normal. Chipmunks spend the winter in a complex of underground tunnels and chambers, sleeping and eating their stores of food "squirreled" away during these busy fall months.

Most mammals and birds that don't migrate, sleep or hibernate, cope with winter by remaining active. To help survive the cold weather, these mammals grow thicker coats. Long-tailed weasel and snowshoe hare shed their summer brown fur coats and grow new white hairs; this protects them from predators by helping them blend in with the snowy landscape to come.

Deer are growing new coats, too. The reddish-brown summer coat of the white-tailed deer is replaced by a gray-brown winter one. The winter coat is not only a different color and coarser, but the hairs are hollow, allowing them to trap air and keep the deer warm by providing insulation against the cold. This insulation factor works so well that when snowflakes land on the backs of white-tailed deer, they don't melt! --Judy Silverberg, Wildlife Educator

WHERE DO THE INSECTS GO?

It's that time of year again in New Hampshire, when we switch on the furnace and dial up the thermostat (though not high as it was last winter!). Insects can't turn on the furnace, so how do they cope with the cold? Chances are, you already know what some do -- they move in with you for the winter, along with the field mice that find your house quite nice!

First in line to move in each fall are the ladybugs. Indeed, many do move indoors en masse for the winter and survive happily in our heated homes. Others head closer to the coast for the winter, where the freezing cold nights are kept to a minimum by the warmer ocean waters nearby. Some bees may find your attic the perfect winter retreat.

Not all insects are looking for a free ride. Honeybees don't need to move in, because they have made and stored honey inside their homes to eat, and will generate heat for the hive by vibrating their wings to keep from freezing. Other insects find a hole in a tree or burrow under loose bark to survive the winter and emerge as adults in the spring. Mourning cloak butterflies are one of the first to emerge each spring from a hollow tree at the first sign of spring.

Dragonflies, mayflies, stoneflies and even mosquitoes will spend the winter under the ice as larvae in a pond or river, safe from the worst that winter has to offer. Other larvae or nymphs burrow into the ground or deep within a tree to escape the grasp of Old Man Winter. Some larva slip into a stem of a tree or plant that reacts by forming a giant blister, called a gall, where the larvae spends the winter protected by the big bubble of plant life.

Many insects, like grasshoppers and crickets, will be here next summer because the females lay eggs into the soil that will hatch into nymphs this fall. Winter will put them into semi-dormancy, a state called "diapause," until spring. These juveniles will not be fooled into emerging during some mid-winter thaw; they require a long period of cold or a certain amount of daylight to wrestle them from slumber. --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

______________________________

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

What New Hampshire wildlife topics would you like to know more about? Send your ideas for future Wildlife Report stories to jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us. -- Copyright 2005 New Hampshire Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - September 30, 2005

Jack Frost has it all over Houdini when it comes to disappearing acts. Over the next few weeks, Jack will amaze us by making all manner of New Hampshire's wildlife disappear before our very eyes. As Jack lays the groundwork for Old Man Winter; he wipes out much of the state's wildlife from our view and our hearing. The flocks of whirling birds will seemingly disappear overnight. And that is exactly what they do! Many bird species do migrate in the dark of night.

Frogs, turtles and even snakes are headed underground or into the mucky bottom of a beaver pond, as Jack sprinkles them with his first magical frosty dusting. Even the deafening roar of the nighttime crickets will be silenced by the first hard frost. In one swipe of his frosty touch, the night air will be silenced until next summer. Jack marches us all unwittingly into winter's grasp. Soon, another year has vanished. --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Prickly Porcupines

* Pheasant Time

* Eyes Out for Moose and Deer!

* N.H.'s Strangest Creature?

PRICKLY PORCUPINES

One animal that won't be vanishing this winter is the porcupine, which is active year round in New Hampshire. With thousands of quills on their backs, porcupines are not in any hurry! They sit quietly munching in trees, or waddle along the ground. Clues that porcupines are around include ground littered with short twigs of hemlock. Porcupines break twigs off the larger branches, chew off the tasty needle tips and toss the rest away. Chewed bark is another sign. Porcupine scat looks like a pile of brown elbow macaroni.

Porcupines are active mostly at night. This time of year through early December is their breeding season. Between next April and August, females will give birth to one baby. (What's a baby porcupine called? A porcupette! No kidding!) Our porcupines are also busy eating up a storm, feasting on bark, twigs and acorns. Porcupines are best known for defending themselves with their quills. Quills can be up to three inches long, and a single porcupine can have 30,000. Porcupines can't "throw" their quills, but if another animal comes into contact, the quills release easily. Once embedded, quills work their way deeper and deeper into an animal's skin (up to an inch a day!), so they should be removed as soon as possible. Porcupines don't have quills all over - just on their backs. That's why they lower their heads and turn their back when threatened. Coyotes, bobcats, owls and especially fishers prey upon porcupines.

PHEASANT TIME

It's pheasant time in New Hampshire, and Fish and Game biologists are busy releasing 13,500 adult ring-necked pheasants in 50 towns across the state, with an average of 120 birds released at each of about 75 sites (listed at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Hunting/Hunt_species/hunt_pheasant.htm) This is an increase of 500 birds from recent years. Pheasants are not native to New Hampshire, but the tradition of stocking birds goes back to before 1900.

The pheasants are purchased with revenues from the sale of pheasant permits that are required to hunt the birds. Pheasant hunting starts October 1 and lasts through the end of the year. About half the birds released are generally taken by hunters, some are eaten by predators and others may wander to show up under bird feeders anywhere in the state. Keep your eyes out for these flashy birds, especially near open fields and cropland.

EYES OUT FOR MOOSE AND DEER!

Motorists traveling north of Franconia Notch will see a new sign alerting them to the dangers of car-moose collisions. The portable sign posts a safety message warning drivers to use caution and reduce their speed because they are entering an area of high moose activity. That's a good warning for all of us.

"There's no question that the best way to reduce personal injury and human fatalities in moose-vehicle collisions is to increase visibility so people can see the moose, and, above all, to get people to slow down," says Kristine Bontaites, Fish and Game's Moose Project Leader. "If you drive 55 mph or less, you're much more likely to walk away from a moose-vehicle collision."

According to Bontaites, New Hampshire motorists kill close to 1,000 deer and 250 moose on our roads every year. There is a very strong correlation between speed of the vehicle and severity of the accident, with speeds in excess of 55mph far more likely to result in serious injury or death of occupants. Collisions occur most frequently under conditions of poor visibility, at dawn, dusk and night; at speeds in excess of 50 mph; and -- surprisingly -- on straight and relatively flat stretches of road. In New Hampshire, most moose-vehicle collisions happen between the months of April and November, and May, June and October are the months of greatest activity. Slow down and save wildlife!

N.H.'S STRANGEST CREATURE?

A reader asked the Wildlife Report to help identify "the great gobs of gelatinous stuff" observed in Squam Lake this summer. Our Fisheries Biologist Don Miller helped solve the mystery: these gelatinous masses are likely to be bryozoans, also called "moss animals." These organisms are found in colonies, and several thousand may inhabit a small area.

The individual bryozoan has tentacles that are extruded into the water and capture food (zooplankton and phytoplankton). The gelatinous mass is secreted by the bryozoans and may be of considerable size. Bryozoans have been around for millions of years. Several websites offer more insight into (and a look at) this mysterious part of New Hampshire's wildlife, dubbed "the strangest creature in the Connecticut River." One to try is http://www.bio.umass.edu/biology/conn.river/bryozoa.html

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The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - July 22, 2005

This month the Wildlife Report looks into how our wild creatures cope with the summer heat. Hope you're managing to stay cool and get out to see lots of great wildlife!

IN THIS ISSUE:

* How Do Wild Things Keep Their Cool?

* Moose Wishing for Winter

* A Way Out for Bats

* Become a "Wonders of Wildlife" Docent

* N.H. Deer CWD-free

THE HEAT IS ON! HOW DO WILD THINGS KEEP THEIR COOL?

The hottest days of the year are at hand. While we can escape to our air-conditioned offices, cars and homes, the wild things have their own methods of keeping their cool. For starters, most wild critters shed their winter coats, just like us, and go with a much lighter covering for the summer. Even the birds have far fewer "summer" feathers. Gone is the luxurious winter fur of the mink, fisher or fox. Deer have shed the long, hollow insulating hair of their winter coat. In fact, not only do deer have less hair, but you'll notice that deer even are sporting a much lighter-colored reddish coat of hair for the summer. They'll put on their darker winter coat to absorb more warm sunlight this fall.

Did you know that wild critters have AC, too? Sure they do. We call them ears! Deer, moose and rabbits, as well as all others with ears, use them to radiate heat away from their bodies. The ears are full of blood vessels that help move the heat out of their bodies.

Just like we humans, wildlife prefers the nightlife on these hot summer nights. During the day, bears will go to the local bog to wallow in a cool spring-fed hole in the ground to stay cool. In fact, lots of critters will head underground during the hot summer days to keep their cool. Just like you'll probably be spending a little more time in your basement, or at least appreciating it a little more, this summer. Don't forget to keep plenty of fresh water available for your pets at all times this summer and make sure they have shade. Your basement is a great place to keep your pets cool, too. --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

MOOSE WISHING FOR WINTER

Like every good Yankee, moose hate the heat. They don't spend the dog days of summer in lazy contemplation of possible summer fun. They spend it praying for cold or rain or possibly both. Moose are perfectly adapted for extreme cold and this, unfortunately, makes them not so well adapted for heat. First there is the fact of their large-volume-to-surface ratio. An adult bull moose weighs around 1,200 pounds, but is only 6 feet tall at the shoulders. That's a lot of volume packed into a relatively small surface! If you've ever gained 50 pounds while remaining the same height, you'll instantly understand how a larger volume-to-surface ratio causes problems with heat dissipation.

While you're still packing those extra pounds, put on your grandmother's old mink coat. Now you're coming closer to understanding heat from a moose's point of view. A moose has one of the thickest hides and most insulative hair coats of any land mammal. Moose do completely shed their winter coat every spring, but they immediately grow a new hair coat of both hollow guard hairs and wooly undercoat. As a result, moose start to heat stress when summer temperatures reach 57 degrees F and are panting by 68 degrees F.

A moose's idea of a fantastic vacation would probably be the Arctic Circle in August. Sadly, they can't call a travel agent, so instead they hunker down and try to stay cool. They accomplish this in a variety of ways. If moose get too hot, they can reduce their heat load by panting or, like us, sweating. To avoid getting hot, moose will reduce their activity and stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. They may bed down in shaded wet areas, getting rid of heat through convection.

If it stays hot for several days, moose will also limit their food intake. Finding, consuming and digesting 40 pounds of browse every day creates a lot of heat, so by limiting food intake, they can also limit the amount of heat they generate. Unfortunately, this can cause problems in late winter if a moose fails to gain enough weight in the summer to get it through till spring. Too much heat stress in the summer can cause moose to starve to death by winter's end. Is it any wonder they prefer cold, wet summers?

Living in New Hampshire, moose are very nearly at the southernmost extremity of their range. Our highest moose densities are found in the northern portion of the state and moose densities diminish rapidly as you travel north to south. We are very fortunate to have moose in our state, but if you live in southern New Hampshire you need never worry that moose densities may increase till there is a moose in every backyard. Unless, of course, every backyard comes with a shaded pool! -- Kristine Bontaites, Wildlife Biologist and Moose Project Leader

A WAY OUT FOR BATS

Watch out! Duck! Take cover! Is that a bat flying around in your bedroom? By mid-summer, bats born a few weeks ago are ready to try out their wings. Some of these bats end up in strange places, like right in your bedroom. Isn't it amazing how, as adolescents, bats make foolish mistakes just like we humans do?

The best way to get rid of an unwanted bat is to give it a route to fly outside. Get children and pets into another room and isolate the bat to a room by closing the door, keeping the bat inside. Then, open the top of a window and simply let the bat fly out.

Avoid handling the bat if possible, but if the bat won't fly out, put on gloves and throw a large cloth over the bat. Scoop it up inside the cloth and toss the whole bundle outside.

Bats only rarely have rabies. However, if any person or pet is bitten by a bat, be sure to save the bat and have it tested by the State for rabies. But remember, don't touch dead animals - if it is absolutely necessary to pick one up, wear rubber or latex gloves. If you think you have been exposed to rabies, seek medical advice immediately. There's more advice on the Fish and Game website.

Remember, in New Hampshire, a bat in the house just needs a way out! --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

BECOME A "WONDERS OF WILDLIFE" DOCENT

If you're into wildlife, like kids and have time to volunteer during the day, you might enjoy being a Wonders of Wildlife (WOW) educator for New Hampshire Fish and Game. A three-month training course for new volunteers begins September 22.

Trained WOW docents travel to schools to present programs on New Hampshire wildlife and endangered species, aquatic ecology and wetlands. WOW volunteers get 11 sessions of free training between September and February on topics like the importance of habitat; wildlife restoration programs in New Hampshire; and furbearers. Lectures and other activities give docents a chance to explore a wide range of wildlife themes, including migratory birds, deer population concerns and the future of endangered species.

Volunteers also learn teaching techniques and specific environmental school programs. After the training is complete, WOW volunteers commit to at least 48 volunteer hours of natural resource education over the following two school years. The training sessions and most presentations take place during school-day hours.

A full schedule of WOW docent training sessions and an application can be downloaded from http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Education/ed_WOW_docents.htm. For more information on volunteering for WOW program, contact Stephanie Hicks at Twin Mountain Fish and Wildlife Center, 1450 Route 3 North, Whitefield, NH 03598; e-mail mgoody@ncia.net; or call (603) 846-5108 or (603) 271-3211.

NH's DEER CWD-FREE

New Hampshire's deer population shows no evidence of chronic wasting disease (CWD), based on monitoring data gathered during the 2004 hunting season. Chronic wasting disease is a fatal neurological disorder known to affect white-tailed deer, mule deer and elk. There is no evidence that people can become infected with CWD.

Chronic wasting disease was first identified in 1978 and remained isolated in Colorado, Wyoming and Nebraska for about a decade. This spring, CWD was detected in both captive and wild deer in New York State, bringing the disease far closer to New Hampshire's borders than ever before. To date, CWD has been detected in wild or captive deer or elk in a total of 15 states and provinces.

During the fall 2004 deer hunting season, New Hampshire Fish and Game collected heads from hunter-killed deer across the state for testing. A total of 385 deer heads were sampled. All tested negative for CWD. This monitoring is part of a nationwide effort to identify areas with CWD and prevent its spread. For more on CWD as it relates to New Hampshire, visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/wildlife/CWD_QandA.htm.

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. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - June 24, 2005

Everything got off to a slow start this year -- the long, cold rainy month of May even has Mother Nature catching up. No doubt many birds had a tough time bringing off their first broods of the year, so the second nesting, or more likely, re-nesting, will be very important in maintaining bird numbers across New Hampshire this year. Very likely, many duck and goose nests were flooded out, so even they had to re-nest. We will probably be seeing newly hatched ducks and other birds well into July. Because of this, it would be a very good year for all of us to turn our housecats into "house cats." Our beloved pets can spell disaster for the local birds around our homes -- studies show that for every bird brought home by our cats, 5 or 6 are killed and eaten away from our sight. To keep the birds alive, keep your cats inside! --Eric Orff, wildlife biologist

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Young Birds Spread their Wings

* New Hampshire's Plodding Opossum

* Breeding Season for Black Bears

* Mosquitoes Get Under your Skin

* Help Endangered Wildlife

* Loon Festival, Census

YOUNG BIRDS SPREAD THEIR WINGS

This is the time of year when baby birds, such as robins, will flutter out of the nest and the adults take care of them from the ground. Oftentimes, people will call up Fish and Game because a baby bird shows up in their yard, and they think that it has been abandoned. Chances are, however, that the adult birds are not far away. There comes a point when the young leave the nest, even though their wings are not fully developed. The adults will try to "herd" the chicks to what they consider a safe area so they can continue to feed and take care of them. It's important to leave the area as undisturbed as possible, so the adults can properly care for the chicks. Also, as mentioned above, if you have an outdoor cat, try to keep it in, as these chicks are very vulnerable since they cannot fly. --Linda Verville, Administrative Secretary, Wildlife Division

NEW HAMPSHIRE'S PLODDING OPPOSSUM

Did you know that there are opossums in New Hampshire, and that they are expanding their range northward? Opossums are relatively new to New Hampshire, gradually moving into the state from Massachusetts in the late 1960s. Rockingham and Hillsboro Counties began to have increasing numbers by the mid-1970s and by the early 1990s, the opossum had moved north to the Lakes Region, sweeping past Lake Winnipesaukee on the east side by the mid-1990s. They seemed to have moved up the major river systems in their march northward. First, they followed the coastal rivers, then the Merrimack, and they have now populated the Connecticut River Valley all the way into Coos County! By 2001, a few had made it all the way to Stratford, Columbia and Stewartstown.

Opossums are the state's only marsupial. That is, the females have a pouch on their belly, just like a kangaroo, where the honey-bee-sized babies crawl at birth to spend their first 3 months of life. There are so many unique things about opossums! They have a long prehensile tail, like a monkey, that aids them in climbing trees. Although they can snarl and open their mouths wide when threatened, they also will feign death and "play possum." Most live out their lives within just a few hundred yards of where they were born. In fact, over 90 percent of opossums die before they are two years old.

In New Hampshire, opossums are at the very northernmost edge of their range. Their hairless ears and toes often are blackened or missing from being frozen. Opossums were once thought to not be able to survive such a cold climate, but they just keep plodding north on frostbitten feet. --Eric Orff, furbearer biologist.

BREEDING SEASON FOR BLACK BEARS

June and July are busy months for New Hampshire's black bears, as they are at the peak of breeding activity. Females may enter estrus as early as late May and as late as mid-August. During the breeding season, both males and females may mate multiple times, and initial breeding is necessary to induce ovulation. During the mating season, male bears travel extensively, which increases the likelihood of all receptive females being mated. The mating pair may stay together for a few hours or a few days. Both males and females may mate with more than one bear. Black bears have "delayed implantation" --the fertilized egg stays in the uterus after breeding, remaining at what's called the blastocyst stage until it attaches to the uterine wall in late November. The remaining fetal development occurs over a two-month winter period, with cubs born in the den during January or early February. Cubs are born hairless, with eyes closed, measuring 6-8 inches in length, and weighing 6-12 ounce s. Males and females are born in equal numbers.

Fall food availability and quality play an important role in the reproductive success of females. Females require fall foods that are high in fat and carbohydrates (like beechnuts and acorns) to reach a minimum body weight that will support fetal development. To successfully produce and nurse young, sows must build fat reserves that equal 30-50% of their body weight. If enough energy reserves are not built up, the fertilized egg may not implant, the implanted fetus may be absorbed by the sow's body, or cubs may die at birth from malnutrition.

Black bears have a low breeding potential and their reproductive capacity is among the lowest of all game species. Females typically breed for the first time between 2-4 years of age while males typically reach sexual maturity between 2-5 years. Litter sizes range from 1-4 cubs, with 2 or 3 cubs being most common. Litter size typically increases as females grow older. Females generally breed every other year, although early litter loss may allow females to breed and produce cubs in successive years.

Cubs remain with the sow for about 17 months and disperse during spring-summer as yearlings. At the onset of the breeding season, females become attractive to males and stop traveling with their yearling offspring. After family breakup, association between cubs and mothers decreases significantly. Siblings often associate with one another for a brief period after breakup and use relatively small home ranges within their mother's range. Between 2-4 years of age, male offspring disperse away from their former range, while females typically occupy a part of the mother's home range. If the mother dies, her female offspring often take over her range. -- Andy Timmins, Bear Project Leader

MOSQUITOES GET UNDER YOUR SKIN

I love New Hampshire, but the one time of year that gets under my skin is mosquito season. Over the ages, mosquitoes have helped decide the course of human history, and their role in diseases like malaria and West Nile Virus have caused these insects to be well studied. As simply designed as mosquitoes may seem, there are many different kinds, each with a distinct anatomy and life history. Throughout the world, about 3,000 distinct species of mosquitoes have been identified. Believe it or not, New Hampshire has 45 different species of mosquitoes, only some of which bite people.

Mosquitoes, like other aquatic insects, develop through a series of four life stages: egg, larva, pupa and terrestrial adult. The tiny eggs are laid in or near water in masses of 100 to 3,000. The manner in which eggs are laid is so diverse that this trait alone is sometimes used to identify different species. Some eggs hatch in as few as five days, while others remain dormant until triggered by a warm rain or high water. Some mosquito eggs even need to be frozen before they can hatch.

Now, here's an important point about mosquitoes - one you probably have some experience with: They belong to a group of insects that require adults to feed on blood in order to produce fertile eggs. Females obtain blood by biting birds, livestock and humans. Because only females produce eggs, males don't need blood and don't bite. The best protection for humans is long-sleeved shirts and pants, and insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin or the plant-based oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Mosquito larvae must live and grow in water. They can use water anywhere -- from tree holes to abandoned tires. To control mosquitoes around your home, get rid of any standing water in rain gutters or containers. Clean your birdbaths often. (Find more strategies at http://www.dhhs.nh.gov/DHHS/CDCS/West+Nile+Virus/WNV-prevention-guidelines.htm.)

During the larval stage, mosquitoes feed heavily on plant and animal material. This feeding creates incredible growth rates, and larvae will shed their skins as many as four times to accommodate a larger body. After one to two weeks, the mosquito larvae stop eating, change into pupae and begin to grow legs, wings and other adult characteristics inside their pupal case. Spending only a few days as pupae, they ascend to the water's surface, hatching out as adult mosquitoes and flying away to live a terrestrial existence. Adult mosquitoes are relatively fragile and short-lived, usually enjoying a life span of about two weeks, though some mosquito species in the Arctic take more than a year to complete their life cycle.

As pesky as they are, mosquitoes do offer some benefits. Indeed, they are a fundamental link in the food chain. As larvae and pupae, mosquitoes are food for small fish, such as minnows and sculpin. These small fish are eaten by the bigger fish we like to catch. As adults, mosquitoes are an important food source for bats, dragonflies, spiders, toads and birds, especially swallows. --Andrew Schafermayer, Fisheries Biologist

HELP ENDANGERED WILDLIFE

Don't forget: June 30 is the deadline for giving to the 2005 Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program Annual Appeal. Contributions help Fish and Game qualify for a $50,000 matching grant from the State to protect more than 400 species of birds and animals that aren't hunted or trapped. Send donations to: Nongame and Endangered Wildlife, N.H. Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Learn more about the work of Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program -- and find a print-and-mail donation form -- at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/nongame_and_endangered_wildlife.htm. Thank you!

LOON FESTIVAL, CENSUS

On July 16, the Loon Center on Lee's Mills Road in Moultonborough hosts its Annual Loon Festival. Also on July 16, the Annual New Hampshire Loon Census is held statewide between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m; volunteers count loons and send the results in to the Loon Preservation Committee; call for details at (603) 476-5666. The center also offers a summer Nature Talk Series every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. from July 7 through August 25. Visit http://www.loon.org.

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Let us know about wildlife topics you'd like to see covered by emailing jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Fishing is a great way to get out and enjoy nature...buy your license and help wildlife. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - MAY 27, 2005

Keep an eye out for turtles crossing our roads in search of warm sandy areas to lay their eggs. Please brake for them, because the loss of just a few individuals can decimate a local turtle population. For some turtle species, it takes two decades before they can reproduce, so the survival of these adults is critical. If you find a turtle trying to make its way across a road, help it continue in the direction it was traveling. Unless it's a snapping turtle, pick it up and carry it across. For snappers, stop traffic and wait, or get the turtle onto a flat shovel and pull it across. -- Mike Marchand, Wetlands Biologist

In this issue:

* Seldom-seen Animals on the Move

* Brake for Moose and Deer

* Salute to the Loon Ranger

* Any Horseshoe Crab Sightings?

* Listen for Drumming Grouse

* West Nile Virus Hotline

* Save that Frog; Leave Animal Babies Alone

* Join the Flock!

SELDOM-SEEN ANIMALS ON THE MOVE

Late May into June is when many of the most secretive animals seem to bloom into our lives like the spring blossoms -- folks in New Hampshire will soon be seeing many of the animals that are mostly invisible to us the rest of the year. Coyotes, foxes, fishers and bears are some of the most secretive larger land mammals in the Granite State. Despite their abundance statewide, we rarely see them. These animals will be more visible during the daylight hours over the next few weeks

. For coyotes, foxes and fishers, the need to feed their young in the den drives them into sight, risking life and limb to hunt for prey during the day. With fishers, only the females care for the young. With foxes and coyotes, both parents participate in food gathering to meet the insatiable appetites of their young. Hunting for food during daylight hours often means going near people. I sometimes get three or four calls a day the first week of June about "rabid" foxes out during the day. These foxes are simply trying to satisfy the needs of the young in the dens as the mother weans them.

Bears are also on the move this time of year, mostly males, as it is breeding season for New Hampshire's black bears. Their huge home ranges keep them on the move day and night, and sometimes they'll even venture into the urban areas in search of mates. No need to worry.... unless you are a female bear! --Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

BRAKE FOR MOOSE AND DEER

You may be seeing more deer and moose crossing the roads than usual, so be alert. Recent statistics support the notion that lots of moose and deer are killed on New Hampshire's highways the last week of May. An analysis of female deer and moose reported as road kills shows that nearly 6 percent of the female moose killed all year die in the fourth week of May. Female moose and deer tend to move more just before giving birth each year, as they look for places to calve or fawn. Their increased movement, combined with increased human travel for the Memorial Day holiday, makes for a deadly week on the state's roads.

To reduce your chance of hitting a moose or deer: 1) try to get to your destination during daylight hours; 2) slow down at night; 3) use your high beams whenever possible; 4) hit the brakes if something appears to be in or near the road. Remember, in New Hampshire a moose or deer crossing is just around the NEXT corner. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

SALUTE TO THE LOON RANGER

This month, New Hampshire's wildlife lost a longtime champion with the passing of "Loon Ranger" Herb Cilley of Strafford. Cilley began his long association with loons and loon preservation in the early 1980s. He is particularly well known for his volunteer efforts, receiving many awards for his work with loons -- educating local groups and hosting filmmakers from around the world. An educator at heart, he presented hundreds of video programs to school children and adults and wrote over 80 "Letters to Garth" published in the Suncook Valley Sun chronicling loon activity on Bow Lake.

Herb was an individual who made a real difference for wildlife. He would want us to note that the coming weeks are nesting time for New Hampshire's loons. They lay one or two eggs in June, and in 26-28 days, downy, brown-black chicks will hatch. Chicks can swim from day one, but often rest and avoid predators by riding on their parents' backs. Since they can't move around much on land, loons build their nests near the water, making them vulnerable to shoreline predators. It's important to give loons space during their nesting stage. Learn to recognize the warning signs that you're too close:

* Any time a loon swims away or vocalizes when you are near, it is a sign of distress. Move away.

* If a loon on its nest has its neck stretched out low to the ground, back off. If the head is up and the bird is looking around, it's probably not threatened.

* If a loon sinks down low in the water, as it does just before diving, it is nervous.

ANY HORSESHOE CRAB SIGHTINGS?

If you're around Great Bay early this summer, you may get to see one of the estuary's longest-living creatures, the horseshoe crab -- which, by the way, is not really a crab at all! More closely related to spiders and scorpions than crabs, horseshoe crab adults spend the cold winter months in offshore waters, but come into shallow coastal waters to feed and reproduce during spring and summer. In Great Bay, horseshoe crabs mate from late May through June and into the summer.

You might be lucky enough to see adult horseshoe crabs near the shore this season during especially high tides, called spring tides, during the full or new moon (dates to watch: new moon June 6; full moon June 22; new moon July 6; and so on). Only a handful of mating horseshoe crabs were sighted near Great Bay earlier this week during the full moon on May 22; because of the unsettled weather, you may see horseshoe crabs at other times than the full or new moon.

You can help by letting Fish and Game know whenever you see a horseshoe crab in New Hampshire. You're most likely to see them in shallow water in sandy, muddy or pebbly areas. If you see horseshoe crabs, take note of how many you observe, where you see them and the date and time of the observation. Look carefully to make sure you are seeing a live horseshoe crab and not the empty outer shell of one that has molted! Once you have this information, report it to Fish and Game's Durham office at (603) 868-1095. -- Clare McBane, Marine Biologist, N.H. Fish and Game

LISTEN FOR DRUMMING GROUSE

One of the sure signs of spring is the sound of ruffed grouse drumming. The male grouse uses a log, mound of dirt or a stone when drumming, he does not actually strike the log to make the noise, but uses the "drumming log" as a stage for his display. The male grouse produces the drumming sound by beating his wings against the air to create a vacuum.

Each spring for the last several years, New Hampshire Fish and Game biologists and volunteers have conducted surveys along established 10-mile-long "drumming routes," listening for the distinct sound of grouse drumming. At each stop, the cooperator listens for four minutes, counting the number of drumming events heard. This information is then summarized to determine an annual density index.

The key to a strong ruffed grouse population, and other small game species, begins with their habitat. Grouse need "early successional" habitats (recently cut forest that's beginning to grow back), with a strong shrub-scrub component. These early successional habitats are by nature ephemeral and require management, such as cutting or burning, to continue. New Hampshire is rapidly losing this vital forest type to development and forest maturation. Fish and Game, through the Small Grants Program, continues to work with landowners to create early successional habitat to maintain the diversity needed to sustain our small game populations. -- Julie Robinson, Fish and Game Wildlife Biologist

WEST NILE VIRUS HOTLINE

To answer inquiries concerning dead birds and West Nile Virus, the N.H. Department of Health and Human Services has their West Nile Virus Information Line in operation again this year. The Info-Line (1-866-273-6453) right now contains messages on how to protect yourself from mosquito bites and reduce the risk of becoming infected with a mosquito-borne infection and also how to reduce the population of mosquitoes around the home. Dead bird reporting, collecting and testing will begin June 1, 2005. --Jose Thier Montero, MD, Chief, Communicable Disease Control Section, N.H. Department of Health and Human Services

SAVE THAT FROG; LEAVE ANIMAL BABIES ALONE

If it ever stops raining, get off your lawn mowers and check your window wells for wayward amphibians. Migrating to and from wetlands, toads, frogs and salamanders can easily hop in, get trapped and die. Pick amphibians up and place them at the edge of the lawn. For snakes, lay a stick or branch down at an angle for them to crawl up. Other than frogs, please don't pick up any wildlife you find, especially babies. If an animal seems sick or injured, talk to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator (listed at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/wildlife_rehabbers.htm). Don't think a young animal is abandoned because you find it alone; many females must leave their young while they search for food. Remember -- wild animals that are picked up are considered a risk for rabies and will be euthanized and tested. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

JOIN THE FLOCK!

The Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program needs your help to continue its work protecting more than 400 species of birds and animals -- including the threatened New Hampshire State Bird, the purple finch -- and the habitat they need to survive. The Nongame Program relies on individual contributions to qualify for a $50,000 matching grant. Do your part by giving to the program's 2005 Annual Appeal by June 30; send tax-deductible contributions to the Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program, N.H. Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Find out more about the Nongame Program's work at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Wildlife/nongame_and_endangered_wildlife.htm. On behalf of New Hampshire's nongame wildlife, thank you!

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Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

Let us know about wildlife topics you'd like to see covered by emailing jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - APRIL 22, 2005

Long-awaited signs of spring are marching northward in New Hampshire, but the Great North Woods has a bit of a wait to catch up with the southern tier. While spring peepers have been peeping in Plaistow for a couple of weeks, Pittsburg is piled high with snow. Spring doesn't rush into New Hampshire, but plods along at a toad-hop pace. The sound of lawn mowers at work at the southern end of the state is echoed by the roar of snow machines in the north for at least a month each spring. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

Discover WILD New Hampshire Day is coming Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fish and Game headquarters in Concord. Hands-on activities and exhibits by conservation and wildlife organizations from around the state. Fun for the whole family!

IN THIS ISSUE:

* Weigh in on Big Game Population Goals

* Winter Ticks and Moose

* N.H. Coverts Project Offers Fall Training

* Waterfowl Watch; Gobblers; Wild Trout; Habitat Maps; Bird walks

* New Hampshire's Vernal Pools

WEIGH IN ON BIG GAME POPULATION GOALS

A once-in-a-decade opportunity is here to help Fish and Game set population targets for deer, bear, moose and turkey populations in New Hampshire. Think the number of deer is just about right in your region? How about bears? Weigh in on these questions and more at two open house sessions on April 26 at Fish and Game headquarters on Hazen Drive in Concord, and on April 28 at Fish and Game's Region 1 Office at 629B Main Street in Lancaster. Each open house will include two sessions, from 3:30-5:00 p.m. and again from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Participants can stop in at any time during the sessions.

These open houses give you a chance to comment on a draft plan created by a public working group that has met over the past year to come up with proposed ten-year population goals for deer, bear, moose and turkey. Read what they've come up with -- the draft "Big Game Management Plan for 2006-2015" -- at http://wildlife.state.nh.us.

Public input from the open houses (and submitted in writing) will be considered as Fish and Game determines regional population management goals and objectives for various species over the next ten years. Once finalized, these will guide Fish and Game's management program for these species. Keep in mind that these target values do NOT address specific strategies (such as adjusting hunting seasons) for getting to the goals; these are developed through the rulemaking process, which includes season-setting hearings held every two years.

Written comments may be sent by May 5, 2005, to: wilddiv@wildlife.state.nh.us (put "Big Game Plan" as the subject); or mail to Big Game Plan, Wildlife Division, N.H. Fish and Game, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301; or fax to (603) 271-1438.

WINTER TICKS AND MOOSE

If you harbor dreams of being reincarnated, I'd urge you to not wish for a next life as a moose. Sure, they're imposing, revered, have few natural enemies and are lords of the forest. BUT, they are also routinely home to tens of thousands of ticks. Yeach!

Every year moose get to host large numbers of ticks, and winter ticks are far and away the most numerous visitor. Winter tick, also known as Dermacentor albipictus, is common to all moose populations in the contiguous U.S. Unlike its cousins, the common dog tick, or even the dreaded deer tick (carrier of lyme disease), winter ticks complete their entire life cycle on one animal. They do this most successfully on moose. Unlike other winter tick hosts, moose tend to put grooming at the end of their list of daily chores. As a result, ticks that get on a moose tend to stay there for quite a while.

Winter ticks like to do things together. A female tick will lay several thousand eggs in late May/early June. These eggs hatch in late summer, and the resultant tick larvae climb nearby vegetation as a group and then "quest," or wait, for a moose to brush past. Because the ticks cling to each other, if one tick gets a good grip on a passing moose, the whole cluster of ticks will be able to climb on board. As each cluster is composed of several thousand ticks, it doesn't take too many cluster encounters to infest a moose with tens of thousands of ticks. Ticks that aren't successful in catching a ride, die.

Once they are on the moose, winter ticks moult twice before becoming adults. With each moult, and again as adults, they take a blood meal. Adult ticks fall off moose between March and May. If the tick falls off and lands on snow, it will die. If it falls off onto dry ground, it will survive to lay eggs and the cycle will be unbroken. So the number of ticks in the environment is strongly influenced by weather. Cold, wet autumns prevent questing ticks from catching a ride, and, if this is followed by a cold, snowy spring, adult ticks falling off moose will die before laying eggs. (Another reason moose love cold weather!) A warm, dry fall followed by a warm, snow-free spring will cause moose to have heavier tick infestations the following fall.

In an average year, most moose will host about 35,000 ticks, but in a good year for ticks, moose can become infested with up to 160,000 ticks per moose -- about 50 ticks per square inch of hide. Talk about unwanted visitors! Feeding these ticks creates serious problems for the host moose, including anemia from blood loss, damage to and loss of winter hair coat as the moose grooms and rubs in an attempt to get rid of the ticks, reduced stores of visceral fat as the moose decreases time both feeding and bedding to spend more time grooming, and reduced growth for young moose.

Unfortunately for moose, the tick infection occurs in winter, and the adult ticks feed in late winter and early spring, when moose are already challenged by cold and reduced body fat. Add to this a heavy tick load, with its attendant anemia and increased energy expenditure, and moose start to die. In New Hampshire, the month of April seems to be the month when moose stressed by winter ticks will die. Years of high tick loads can result in a significant loss of moose.

So, moose and winter ticks are an established host/parasite relationship. Virtually all moose are host to some level of ticks in all years. Occasionally, we have a year when weather conditions are perfect for ticks, and large numbers of moose die as a result. I'm sure that the ticks provide a lot of food for many species of birds, and the dead moose provides lots of food for everything from bears to worms. But I can't help but agree with Aristotle, who referred to ticks as "disgusting, parasitic animals." I'm sure our moose would agree. -- Kristine Bontaites, N.H. Fish and Game Moose Project Leader

N.H. COVERTS PROJECT OFFERS FALL TRAINING -- APPLY BY JUNE 1

Interested in local wildlife and concerned about the loss of wildlife habitat in New Hampshire? The N.H. Coverts Project offers a free training workshop in Hancock September 7-10 for those willing to volunteer on behalf of wildlife and land stewardship in their communities. Coverts volunteers join a team of natural resource professionals to learn about the latest issues in wildlife and forest ecology, habitat management, land conservation, community conservation planning and effective outreach. Volunteers agree to return to their communities to share what they've learned and motivate others to become stewards of the state's forests and wildlife habitats. The first year calls for a 40-hour volunteer commitment. Coordinated by UNH Cooperative Extension, in partnership with Fish and Game, The Ruffed Grouse Society and N.H. Division of Forests and Lands. Visit http://ceinfo.unh.edu/Wildlife/NHCovrts.htm. To request an application, call Malin Ely Clyde at (603) 862-2166 or email m alin.clyde@unh.edu. Applications are due by June 1. -- Malin Clyde, UNH Cooperative Extension, Durham

WATERFOWL WATCH

Over the next few weeks, Fish and Game biologists will be busy conducting annual surveys of waterfowl breeding plots, as they have done this time of year for the past decade. About 75 wetland plots across the state are observed to document numbers of waterfowl pairs and males on territory. The data is sent to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, which uses it to estimate the number of breeding pairs of waterfowl in the state.

GOOD YEAR FOR GOBBLERS

We'll see plenty of wild turkeys in New Hampshire this year. Last summer's turkey hatch was above average, and productivity was good. Plus, the 2004-05 winter was the second relatively easy one in a row for the birds, important because there weren't many acorns and beechnuts around from last fall, and the crop of wild apples and other fruits also was lean. Last winter saw three major thawing periods, with significant bare ground sites on south slopes and edges. Turkeys and deer were beginning to wander away from wintering sites by February 1, and gobblers were displaying to the hens by the end of the month. Sunny, thawing days stimulated gobbling by March 17. New Hampshire's youth turkey hunt weekend is April 30-May 1, and the regular spring gobbler season is May 3-31. -- Ted Walski, Fish and Game Turkey Project Leader

A FUTURE FOR WILD TROUT?

Learn about New Hampshire's wild trout fisheries, threatened by disease and climate change, at a talk at the Carolyn Fox State Forest in Hillsboro on May 12, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., with Dianne Emerson, Fish and Game Fisheries Biologist; Dan Hall of Trout Unlimited; and moderator Paul Doscher, of the Society for the Protection of N.H. Forests. Co-sponsored by the Forest Society, the N.H. Chapter of Trout Unlimited, N.H. Division of Forests and Lands and New England College. Call (603) 224-9945, ext. 311. OFF

THE WALLS WITH YOUR WILDLIFE HABITAT MAPS!

Fish and Game Wildlife Biologist Eric Orff and GIS Coordinator Katie Callahan will present a wildlife habitat workshop at the N.H. Audubon's Popple Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Epsom on May 26 from 6-8 p.m. Compare recently produced co-occurrence habitat maps with actual on-the-ground habitat features that make Popple Island a "high score" significant wildlife habitat area. Learn how your town can get the latest wildlife habitat maps for your area from the Fish and Game Department...for free! We'll traverse woodlands and wetlands, so wear appropriate gear. Co-sponsored by the Bear-Paw Regional Greenways and Friends of the Suncook River.

INTERNATIONAL MIGRATORY BIRD DAY

Bird watchers will have many interesting "bird walks" to enjoy as International Migratory Bird Day (celebrated annually on the second Saturday in May) approaches. Accomplished birder Richard Bickford will lead a Cocheco River Bird Walk through Farmington's Waldron Woods on Saturday, May 7, from 8-10 a.m, sponsored by the Cocheco River Watershed Coalition and Moose Mountains Regional Greenways. Call (603) 755-2456. Find more birding opportunities at http://www.nhaudubon.org.

NEW HAMPSHIRE'S VERNAL POOLS

In just 100 words Robert Frost captured one of the most dynamic spring processes that will sweep across New Hampshire in the next few weeks. Spring pools, as he calls them -- known to scientists as vernal pools -- are dynamic dimples in the forest floor that will soon be overflowing with snowmelt water and life. An excerpt from Frost's poem, "Spring Pools," captures their mysterious, fleeting beauty:

"These pools that, though in forests, still reflect The total sky almost without defect, And like the flowers beside them, chill and shiver, Will like the flowers beside them soon be gone....."

Vernal pools come to life each spring based on the spring runoff of melted snow or rains. Because they are mere depressions in a forest floor, which only temporarily fill with water (and some years not at all), they tend to be overlooked. Yet it is these temporary pools of water that bring life to much of the forest. Wood frogs, spotted salamanders and spring peepers are right now migrating to the temporary pools of water to lay their eggs. Since most of the pools will be dry by mid-summer, the eggs must hatch, grow and develop from tadpoles to terrestrial creatures before the pools dry up.

It's always a race against time each year. Consequently, wood frogs and salamanders are the first amphibians on the move each spring. I've watched snow-covered salamanders crossing the roads in Epsom as the first spring rain suddenly turned to a snow squall during their annual migration to the vernal pools.

The leafless trees around the vernal pools allow the waters to warm quickly, causing the eggs to hatch within. In fact, wood frogs usually choose the sunniest location of the vernal pool, often in the northwest corner. The eggs hatch within a month, just a few days before the leaves pop out on the trees. The tadpoles then mature and return to the land where their parents live. Out of vernal pools comes life for the forests -- all in just a few short weeks each year. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

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Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

Let us know about wildlife topics you'd like to see covered by emailing jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us.

The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Spring fishing is here...buy your license and help wildlife. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME - MARCH 18, 2005

The raucous concert of the spring peepers will soon announce the official beginning of spring across New Hampshire. Secretive wood frogs will chime in the chorus with their quacking calls. Silent spotted salamanders will slide across our rural roads on the first warm rainy spring nights. The rest of the year, these salamanders remain under the debris of the forest floor, invisible to us. Avoiding after-dark trips on the first warm, rainy nights can help save amphibians on the march in search of mates in the wooded wetlands. -- Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

Interested in the Karner blue butterfly? Come to a free talk on the butterfly's status and efforts to restore the Concord pine barrens -- unique habitat for our endangered State Butterfly and many other wildlife species -- on Tuesday, April 19, at 7 p.m. at Fish and Game headquarters in Concord. Find out how you can get involved as a volunteer!

Save the date! Discover WILD New Hampshire Day - Fish and Game's biggest event of the year -- is coming April 30, with hands-on activities and over 35 conservation groups.

In this issue:

* Bears on the Move

* Watching for Red-tails

* Wintering Eagles Sighted

* Clean-up Crew: N.H.'s Turkey Vultures

* April Hearings on Wildlife Proposals

BEARS ON THE MOVE

March has looked more like winter than December, January and February did! Despite recent snowstorms that have dumped feet of snow across the state, the strong sun and increasing day length are reminders that spring is just around the corner. This is a welcome trend to those species that have been hunkered down all winter, including both humans and bears. The exact date when bears begin to wander from their winter dens is difficult to estimate, but we can generally count on seeing bear activity by April 1.

Spring is a critical time for bears. Many adult sows (females) will be accompanied by newborn cubs or yearlings, while adult males will be more solitary. Bears will feed heavily on any available food to replenish fat reserves depleted during the long denning period. New Hampshire has experienced very poor food conditions during the past two years. The mast failure during 2003 and 2004 may cause bears to be in poorer condition this spring than normal. The leftover mast on the forest floor (i.e., beechnuts and acorns) that bears rely on for their early spring foods, before vegetation begins to green up, will be scarce.

The statewide bear population is considered stable and is estimated at about 5,300 bears. Although productivity and survival of bears may have been reduced during the past two years, the impacts on the bear population have not been fully realized. These impacts will become clearer as we monitor the age and sex class distribution in the harvest and the population estimate in the next few years.

We can be assured that bears will be hungry as they emerge from their dens this spring, so homeowners should be prepared. It is important to remove all attractants in our yards to prevent them from becoming a cafeteria for bears. Furthermore, it is critical for bears to find natural foods and not become dependent on human-related food sources.

What can you do to help? Stop all bird feeding by April 1, or as soon as snow melts. Also, clean up any spilled seed and dispose of it in the trash. Secure all garbage in airtight containers inside a garage or adequate storage area, and put garbage for pickup out on the morning of pickup. Avoid putting meat or other food scraps in your compost pile. Don't leave pet food dishes outside overnight. Properly clean and store outdoor grills after each use. Finally, never intentionally feed bears! These steps will ensure that your backyard does not become attractive to bears, preventing property damage by bears and keeping bears from becoming nuisance animals. Following these simple steps will help to minimize bear/human conflicts, allowing us to coexist with these magnificent animals. - Andrew Timmins, Bear Project Leader, N.H. Fish and Game

WATCH FOR RED-TAILS

[A Wildlife Report reader, recalling a special connection with red-tailed hawks that would soar overhead as she galloped over the spring hills on her first pony, requested a story about the bird that will always be a symbol of freedom and independence.]

Looking up at the brilliant blue sky, the hawk circling overhead was easy to identify because of its fox-red tail and dark band streaking across its white belly. The red-tailed hawk made a lazy arc across the sky, finally coming to perch on a lone branch in a tree. Mature red-tailed hawks that live south of the White Mountains, unlike most of the hawks found here, maintain their territories year round. Immature red-tails, and those in more northern areas, migrate to points further south in the fall and return in the spring.

Red-tails hunt over wetlands and field. They are opportunistic, frequently hunting from trees bordering fields. They have excellent binocular vision that lets them see prey at a great distance. They watch for prey from their perch and then, with a few powerful wingbeats, glide in, snatching their prey from the ground with their talons. They mostly eat small mammals, but will also take amphibians, snakes, birds and insects. Adults sometimes make a falcon-like swoop at a bird or bat in flight, grabbing it out of the air. Red-tails' nests are large, about three feet around, shallow and built with sticks. The nest is lined with tree bark. In January, the hawks begin their aerial courtship on a warm day. The male, which is smaller than the female, will soar in the sky, making large circles, until it achieves great heights. At a certain point, it will rapidly dive out of the sky toward the female. She will flip herself over and present her talons. They make a hoarse rasping scream that sounds like escaping steam, "kree-ee-e-e," starting high and slurring downward as they return to the nest site where they may copulate. This will be repeated until the female lays eggs in late March to mid-April.

Two to four eggs are incubated by both parents for about 30 days. Then both parents hunt and provide food, although the female has the dominant role. The young will leave the nest in five to six weeks, although they'll only take short flights for the next couple of weeks. You can often hear young crying for food during this time. Soon, they're perching and learning to hunt from the adults. In September, the young red-tails are ready to hunt on their own. They're also ready to leave and begin migrating south, returning next year to establish territories, mate and become part of the cycle. - Judy Silverberg, Wildlife Educator, N.H. Fish and Game

WINTERING EAGLES SIGHTED

New Hampshire Audubon staff and volunteers counted record numbers of wintering bald eagles in the state during both the Mid-Winter Bald Eagle Survey and the new Late-Winter Survey. Findings indicate that New Hampshire's wintering bald eagle population continues to increase strongly as the Northeast's regional eagle population recovers from the long-term negative effects of DDT, a pesticide used widely between the mid-1940s and the early 1970s. We will use these Late-Winter Survey results, in combination with the long-established January Mid-Winter Survey, to give us a better understanding of the abundance, distribution and timing of this federally threatened species in the state. Results from both surveys this winter are an encouraging sign that these magnificent birds are finding healthy winter habitat in New Hampshire.

This was the first year a Late-Winter Bald Eagle Survey was conducted in New Hampshire. New Hampshire Audubon and N.H. Fish and Game developed this survey to provide an index of bald eagle presence in the state near the end of their wintering season. On the survey day, a total of 67 eagles were located, by far the highest number of bald eagles EVER counted in a single census day in New Hampshire and more than double the number of birds we counted just seven weeks earlier!

The official count date occurs within a more inclusive two-week "count period" from February 15 through March 1. We also record the number of eagles seen during this two-week interval, combining survey day data with any verifiably different individuals seen before and after the survey day to get a count period total. During this year's Late-Winter count period, we found total of 75 eagles.

Where were all the eagles? In the state's five major eagle-wintering areas during the Late-Winter Survey day and count period, we found: Androscoggin River -- 17; Connecticut River -- 13; Great Bay -- 8; Lakes Region -- 11; and Merrimack River -- 26.

ASNH staff and volunteers monitor wintering eagles throughout the state each year under a contract with Fish and Game's Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program. Thanks to everyone who participated in this year's Mid-winter and Late-Winter Bald Eagle surveys! Happy birding! -- Chris Martin, Senior Biologist, N.H. Audubon Society

CLEAN-UP CREW: N.H.'S TURKEY VULTURES

[A reader in Nashua was amazed to see seven large turkey vultures landing on a neighbor's roof in a residential area and wanted to know more about these eerie visitors. Don't read this one before lunch!]

What is that large bird that glides and then soars with its wingtips upturned in a V-shape (dihedral)? It's a TV! No, not the one you find in your living room, but rather a turkey vulture. From March until October, turkey vultures are common sights along the Interstate highway in New Hampshire. They are migrants, coming back to breed after spending the winter a little further south, where the weather is milder.

These large birds, with a 72-inch wingspan and bald (featherless) head, play an important role as part of Mother Nature's clean-up squad. Vultures gobble up road kill. That's one of the reasons for the bald head. When the vulture is eating carrion (dead animals), it often sticks its head inside the carcass to reach the meat.

Turkey vultures are unusual for a number of other reasons, too. They are the only bird in North America with a sense of smell. While turkey vultures have few natural predators, they do have a defensive behavior that is really smelly. They simply cough up a foul smelling lump of semi-digested meat. If the offending animal gets close enough, the bird will vomit in its face or eyes. Turkey vultures often direct their urine onto their legs. This does two things -- helps cool the bird, and kills any bacteria that might be on the bird's legs from stepping in its meal.

Vultures choose caves, rock piles, hollow stumps and even cliff ledges to lay their eggs. They raise one brood a year of one to two young, then send them off to join the road crew! - Judy Silverberg, Wildlife Educator, N.H. Fish and Game

APRIL HEARINGS ON WILDLIFE PROPOSALS

Hunters and other interested parties are encouraged offer their input at two public hearings on proposed state rule changes affecting wildlife and wildlife management: April 13 at 6:30 p.m. at Fish and Game headquarters on Hazen Drive in Concord, and April 14 at 6:30 p.m. at Fish and Game's Region 1 Office at 629B Main Street in Lancaster. The hearings will address Fish and Game proposals to amend the rule on night hunting for coyote by extending the season through August 31; to make changes in various other wildlife rules, and the rules relative to wildlife control operators.

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The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Spring fishing is around the corner...buy your license and help wildlife. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.

WILDLIFE REPORT FROM N.H. FISH AND GAME -- FEBRUARY 28, 2005

Sap is running, but we still have plenty of snow for tracking wildlife. Keep an eye out for seasonal clues, like hemlock tips scattered on the snow from a porcupine snacking in the branches above. And listen soon for the red-winged blackbirds' enthusiastic song of spring.

Know any aspiring young wildlife artists? They're invited to submit original artwork depicting North American waterfowl to the New Hampshire Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest. Deadline: April 1. For an application, visit http://wildlife.state.nh.us.

Know someone who'd enjoy getting this free monthly report? Have them sign up at http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us/Inside_FandG/join_mail_list.htm.

Let us know about wildlife topics you'd like to see covered by emailing jvachon@wildlife.state.nh.us

In this issue:

* The Sun Spots of March

* Deer Yard Checks Underway

* Red-winged Blackbirds Herald Spring

* Small Grants Program Helps Wildlife Habitat

THE SUN SPOTS OF MARCH

While most of us would think of sunspots occurring on the face of the sun, wildlife in March, particularly deer, are looking for sunny spots on a south-facing hillside. March's ever-warming sun has begun to change winter into spring along the many south-facing slopes in New Hampshire. In fact, in southern New Hampshire, deer may spend a considerable part of the winter on these warmer inclines.

Wildlife experts consider south-facing hills, with a slope of 10 degrees or more, critical habitat when mapping this state's significant wildlife habitats. These same slopes are considered preferred habitat for bobcats, as well. Even turkeys are quick to find the first green patch of south-facing field slope, laid bare by the March sun, to glean any green sprouts. By early March, these same spots of bare ground along the northern edge of a field will often have a male woodcock practicing his song and dance for the soon-to-be-returning females. Sunny south-facing slopes serve as survival spots for New Hampshire's wildlife. --Eric Orff, Wildlife Biologist

DEER YARD CHECKS UNDERWAY

In the next few weeks, Fish and Game biologists will check on the status of deer yards across the state. In all, about a hundred or so deer yards will get a visit, giving Fish and Game information about the status of these important wintering areas for white-tailed deer. Deer conserve their energy during the winter months, congregating in softwood cover, or "deer yards," to avoid deep snow, high winds and extreme cold. In these areas, deer move around very little, using a network of trails that disperses them and reduces competition for natural food. "Except for the southeastern part of the state, deer yards are very important to the winter survival of the herd," says Wildlife Biologist Karen Bordeau. "Anywhere the snow is over 18 inches deep for an extended time, deer need yards."

The deer yard checks provide the Department with an index of the landscape's ability to support deer in the winter. Fish and Game also assesses the yards' continuing ability to support deer. Biologists check to find new yards and to see how fast we're losing existing yards to development. Logging practices that result in the regeneration of hardwood rather than softwood trees are another cause of deer yard loss. If deer are present in the yards, biologists look for overbrowsing, which could mean the yard is supporting too many deer. They may also find mortality, telling them if deer are starting to die from winter stress.

Fish and Game keeps records of the use of deer wintering areas. Studies of deer behavior show that historical wintering areas will be used in future years. Use of an area in any particular year, however, depends on many factors, including deer density, food availability, winter severity and changes in the use of nearby land. The general public should stay away from deer yards, Bordeau says. Human presence can alarm the deer and cause them to waste their vital energy reserves, which can lead to injury or death. Even the presence of cross-country skiers nearby can be harmful, because deer perceive their quiet approach as a predator. Those looking for dropped antlers should wait until after the snowmelt to go into these areas. The general rule of thumb for everyone: stay away from deer yards until the snow is gone.

RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS HERALD SPRING

"Konk la ree, konk la ree." One of the first sounds of spring, the call of the red-winged blackbird, echoes across the marsh in late February and early March, depending upon the weather. Look for the bright red flash on the wing. Besides the red patch, the male blackbird also has a lower border of yellow on its wing. The females, which are a dull brown, will return a few weeks after the male.

It's great fun to find a marsh where red-winged blackbirds make their territories, because their displays are easy to understand. In as short as a half-hour of watching, you can map out the males' territories.

The best-known display is the song spread in which the bird arches forward, spreads its wings to the side and exposes the red epaulets. The tail may be bent down and spread. This, accompanied by the "konk la ree" song, is spectacular to watch, especially if there are a dozen males in the marsh. You can figure out territories by watching the perches they use. At the edge of a territory, you might see two males doing bill-tilts, when both lift their bills above the horizontal. After the display, one will fly off while the other remains. The one remaining marks the boundary of its territory.

A third display is the song flight, in which the male flies slowly and steadily with red wing patches exposed, tail spread and head down as it glides to its perch. The best time to see these displays is in the early morning or late afternoon.

When the females arrive, they perch in trees surrounding the marsh, and the males fly up to meet them, enticing them to their territories. The females also do territorial displays similar to the song spread, although they're subtle, as they don't sing or have the wing patch. Once the females are established on territories, courtship begins, with the male perching above the female and arching over with wings slightly spread. You may also see sexual chases, in which one or two males chase a female as she darts away in elusive flight. --by Judy Silverberg, Wildlife Educator

SMALL GRANT PROGRAM HELPS WILDLIFE HABITAT

The Wildlife Habitat Small Grants Program provides reimbursement to landowners who complete pre-approved habitat improvement projects on their lands that are open to public hunting. Funding for the Small Grant Program, and other habitat management and conservation projects, comes through the wildlife habitat check-off on the hunting license. Each license buyer pays $2.50 a year into the habitat fund. Fish and Game currently commits $70,000 per year to Small Grants.

Over the past five years, 270 grants have been authorized to conduct a variety of habitat improvements on lands owned by private individuals, towns and non-governmental organizations. Work accomplished through the program focuses on creating and maintaining declining wildlife habitats. The highlights of these projects include releasing 2,450 wild apple trees; brush cutting more than 1,100 acres of old-field, alder, aspen and shrubland habitats; mowing 990 acres of grasslands and shrubs; and creating or maintaining 500 acres of woodland openings and wood road edges.

Small Grants are available to landowners with more than 25 acres, and the program will reimburse costs up to $2000/year for pre-approved habitat projects. Information and applications are available through Fish and Game Regional Offices. -- by Charles Bridges, Habitat and Diversity Programs Administrator

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The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is the guardian of the state's fish, wildlife and marine resources and their habitats. Visit http://www.wildlife.state.nh.us.