Discarded Fishing Line Kills Wildlife

Fishing line discarded along waterways can harm animals. Each year across North America, birds, mammals, and other wildlife get tangled up in fishing line along rivers, creeks and reservoirs.

Some birds use fishing line to build nests. The result is that chicks and young waterfowl end up tangled in the mess.

Fishing line also cuts into the tender legs and feet of birds, waterfowl and other wildlife. Those cuts then can become infected and result in an agonizing death for the animals. Pets can also get tangled in fishing line with a potential to cause injury.

Monofilament line is very strong and can remain hazardous for years. Unfortunately, line can be found along reservoirs and stream banks throughout North America.

Outdoor enthusiasts who encounter discarded monofilament line or other trash should pick it up. Also, tell anglers about the dangers of discarded line.

If you want to recycle your old fishing line, it can be sent to: Berkley Recycling, 1900 18th Street, Spirit Lake, Iowa, 51360.

Fishing and sport shops that would like to offer recycling to customers, can contact Berkley at 800-237-5539. Berkley is a fishing products company.

source: Colorado Division of Wildlife

Maine eBird Birdwatching Resource

The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, the Maine Birding Trail and Cornell University have launched a state-specific version of eBird – a popular birding site where birdwatchers share information about sightings, trips and trends.

Birders are encouraged to visit the new Maine eBird site at ebird.org or from MDIF&W’s website at www.mefishwildlife.com. There birders can submit their observations, look at data that have already been collected, view news stories relevant to Maine birders, read articles regarding Department research and conservation planning efforts, and consider volunteer opportunities.

For more information about Maine Birder Bands, visit www.mefishwildlife.com

source: Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Red Fox Art in North America

Red fox artwork is a favorite of wildlife enthusiasts. These colorful predators are known for their intelligence, hunting ability and family-oriented lifestyles.

In the past, foxes were hunted for sport, killed for bounties, poisoned or simply shot. Centuries of mistreatment forced them to lead very shy lifestyles.

Eventually, cultures began to change and red foxes made an incredible recovery in North America. Today, red foxes are commonly seen along rural roads, fields, meadows and wildlife refuges.

Accompanying the return of red foxes is the popularity of red fox art. Nature enthusiasts love fox photos, illustrations, and other artwork. When choosing a gift for fox artwork collectors, shoppers often choose items such as coffee mugs, t shirts, hats or other items that can be enjoyed on a daily basis.

Red Fox mug

Red Fox Photo Shirt by north_america

Red Fox Art

Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Art Contest

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies will be sponsoring an art contest designed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program.

Submissions to the art contest must capture and illustrate the spirit of the Wildlife and Sport Restoration Program.

Artwork should highlight one or more land, and one or more water-dwelling species; wild mammal, sport fish (no reptile, amphibian, plant, invertebrate) -- found in the United States.

The contest is open to the public. There is no submission fee. For contest details, contact Kim Betton with the USFWS at 703-358-2081 or e-mail kim_betton@fws.gov.