ThinkingAfield.org

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) on Friday confirmed a man and his dog were mauled to death by a black bear in Jerome — marking the first fatal black bear attack in state history.

Family members reported 89-year-old Robert Markel missing from his home and “signs of recent disturbances” that could have been caused by a bear or bears around the property.  The rest of the story here…

TiCK MiTT delivers innovative and chemical-free tick protection for humans and pets heading into prime tick season

TiCK MiTT, the tick solutions company is on a mission to reduce cases of tick-borne diseases through innovative, chemical-free products – a safer, easier alternative to traditional chemical-based methods. Ticks can survive and thrive in unexpected places, posing significant risks to both humans and pets. While the threat can be alarming, it doesn’t have to be. May marks Lyme Disease Awareness Month, and TiCK MiTT wants to ensure everyone has the tools and knowledge to perform effective tick checks in the palm of their hands. Read more

By TOM GONIEA
Fisheries biologist, Fisheries Division
Michigan Department of Natural Resources

As spring transitions to summer and the warm temperatures roll in, Michiganders weary of winter excitedly begin adventuring across the state. It’s a time of renewal and reinvigoration for many.But as you head out, be on the lookout for turtles, which are also on the move this time of year.

Late spring and early summer are times when turtles are moving en masse across the landscape. The females are actively looking for nesting sites, and males also just kind of wander this time of year, moving between the lakes, ponds and streams they call home.

This overland movement often involves crossing roads, which unfortunately results in noticeable levels of turtle mortality throughout the state. That roadkill can be high enough to affect local populations and likely is the largest direct loss of adult turtles by humans.

“I receive calls every year from people in my area about dead turtles on the roads and have few answers for them,” said Scott Heintzelman, fisheries biologist and Central Lake Michigan Unit manager for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “It is particularly sad to see or hear about turtles that have been intentionally hit on the road.” Read more