After hearing from several readers about their observations of what seemed like fewer hummingbirds this spring, I checked in with state Department of Conservation ornithologist Kristen Heath-Acre to learn if there was an issue with the little bird’s numbers. While other migratory bird populations have plummeted, she said the hummers are actually in an oppositeContinue reading “Hummingbirds spread out during summer months”
Tag Archives: wildlife
Ten (or so) places to take the kids for summer adventures and learning
A friend of ours asked for recommendations for local places to take her children during their summer vacation. She planned to visit one new location each week for the kids to explore and learn. I thought it was a great idea, so I assembled my ten best suggestions. She did not put any restrictions onContinue reading “Ten (or so) places to take the kids for summer adventures and learning”
State plans permit price increases for third consecutive year
Just ahead of free fishing weekend, the state Department of Conservation is proposing increases in the cost of permits for the third year in a row. Based on the input it collected from hunters and residents in a survey this spring, the biggest boost will be on the backs of nonresident deer and turkey hunters.Continue reading “State plans permit price increases for third consecutive year”
County records 17 new positive CWD tests in 2024-25 season
Jefferson County and its neighbors continue to rack up substantial increases in cases of chronic wasting disease discovered in deer harvested by hunters. After increasing its total by more that 50% last year, Jefferson recorded an increased number of cases again this year, according to an annual report issued by the state Department of Conservation.Continue reading “County records 17 new positive CWD tests in 2024-25 season”
State surveys hunters on possible non-resident restrictions
To participate in the survey go to mdc.mo.gov/MDChuntersurvey. The deadline to complete the survey is March 24. One of the most contentious but least consequential issues that hunters argue about involves non-residents who come to our state to hunt for deer, turkey and waterfowl. The state Department of Conservation is asking hunters and the publicContinue reading “State surveys hunters on possible non-resident restrictions”
Annual antler measurement event Saturday at Henges Range
Most of the chatter following last year’s firearms deer hunting season was about the reduced harvest totals. Rationale such as weather, acorns, moon phases and timing didn’t appease the skeptics, but when reviewed over time, things certainly were not that bad. The overall harvest total was down 15% from the record set the previous yearContinue reading “Annual antler measurement event Saturday at Henges Range”
Montauk recovers in time for trout season opening day
When opening day of trout fishing season comes this weekend there will be plenty of reasons for celebration at Montauk State Park and big crowds of people at all four of the state’s trout fishing parks. Montauk was devastated by historic flooding in November and remained closed throughout the winter catch-and-release season, but contractors, stateContinue reading “Montauk recovers in time for trout season opening day”
Sounds and smells offer first glimpse of coming spring
The middle of February may be too soon to start looking for the signs of spring in our area, but if you rely on a few other senses you can get the sense that times are beginning to change. Early last week I was surprised to hear the familiar sound of honking geese flying overhead.Continue reading “Sounds and smells offer first glimpse of coming spring”
Efforts must be improved to keep cats from killing birds
Fifteen years ago I became a cat owner for the first time. Actually, I’m more of a co-owner, and in all reality, we are the ones who are owned. We have had a few barn cats in the past, but that was more akin to co-habitating on the same property than ownership. Our now 15-year-oldContinue reading “Efforts must be improved to keep cats from killing birds”
Wild areas continue to expand in Missouri at 60th anniversary
While many people look for more ways to exploit the earth and its resources, it is heartening to known that places still exist that are dedicated to preservation of our planet in its almost natural state. On Dec. 31, 2024, in recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Wilderness Act of 1964, the Missouri StateContinue reading “Wild areas continue to expand in Missouri at 60th anniversary”
Don't Call Me Outdoor John 