Grouse and Woodcock Management at Jamie’s Pond WMA

Text and photo by Leigh (Eric) Hoar, Assistant Regional Biologist/Lands Management Jamie’s Pond Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is an 800 acre upland parcel surrounding a 100 acre cold water fishery in the towns of Farmingdale, Hallowell and Manchester which the Department be

WHEP in Maine?

I have been asked to serve as a wildlife biologist representing state agencies for the National Committee for the Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP), a 4H-based program to inform high school students about wildlife species, habitats, and management practices.  No doubt that I was nominated to this committee because

Help the Hellbender!

Recently, I traveled to Indiana and spent time at my Alma Mater – Purdue University and visited with a former classmate and life-long friend Dr. Rod Williams. Rod is conducting some pretty interesting work with an endangered salamander – the Eastern Hellbender, also known as the Devil Dog.

Biological Bull’s Eye: Practice Makes Perfect with Dart Guns by Regional Wildlife Biologist Chuck Hulsey

A young bull moose enters a small Maine city.  It is confused and scared.  Refuge is found in an alley between two stores and he won’t leave. It appears healthy and non-threatening, but hanging around the side entrance of the store may not be good for business. Regional wildlife biologists are experienced and well trained in handling such situations and do so on a fairly regular basis.

Major Gregory Sanborn Wildlife Management Area by Regional Wildlife Biologist Cory Stearns

  Major Gregory Sanborn Wildlife Management Area (formerly known as Brownfield Bog WMA) is located in the towns of Brownfield, Fryeburg, and Denmark.

Free Fishing Weekend in Maine and Tips for Taking Kids Fishing

On Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31 the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is promoting free fishing days to encourage people to get out and enjoy Maine's waterways. This free fishing event is open to any person except those whose license has been revoked or suspended. All Maine fishing regulations apply.

If you care, leave them there!

With nature in full bloom, many people are headed outdoors – in their backyards, the woods and the beaches – to enjoy the nice weather. Wildlife is active, too, and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife reminds people to follow these simple steps to be safe among the wildlife and to keep the young animals with their mothers. Below is information that should help everyone live harmoniously with wildlife, including fawns, moose, fox, baby birds and others.

Remove potential meals so bears don't become a nuisance

Nuisance bear calls are on the increase this spring, and the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is reminding homeowners to remove potential bear attractants from their yard. “Maine has a growing bear population, and this time of year, hungry bears are out looking for food,” says Jen Vashon, IFW’s bear

On the Ice with Brittany Humphrey: IFW's Outreach Coordinator

[caption id="attachment_542" align="alignleft" width="246"] IFW's Outreach Coordinator Brittany Humphrey[/caption] Brittany Humphrey's self-proclaimed home away from home is out on the frozen lakes and ponds of Maine.  A native Mainer, Brittany grew up in Gray-New Gloucester spending most of her free time enjoying the Maine outdoors. One of her favorite pastimes?

Ice Safety Tips

We're all anxious to get out on the ice this winter, but it's not worth taking the risk when the weather doesn't cooperate. Ice safety is no joke! Here is some information about judging ice conditions, being prepared to enjoy the winter season outside and what to do in an emergency. "Thick and blue, tried and true.  Thin and crispy, way too risky" Before stepping on the ice check for a bluish color and that it is at least 4-6 inches thick. Even if the weather has been below freezing for several days, don't guess about ice thickness.