The Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel is no longer at risk of extinction, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
USFWS will officially remove the squirrel from the list of Threatened and Endangered Wildlife under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in December 2015.
The species was one of the animals included on the first list of endangered species nearly a half century ago.
Larger than other squirrel species and generally not found in suburban or urban areas, the Delmarva Peninsula fox squirrel ranged throughout the Delmarva Peninsula of Maryland, Delaware and Virginia before experiencing a sharp decline in the mid-20th century.
With its range reduced more than 90 percent, the squirrel was one of 78 species listed under the Endangered Species Preservation Act in 1967, the predecessor of the ESA enacted six years later.
Since listing, the squirrel’s range has increased from four to 10 counties, and a population of up to 20,000 squirrels now covers 28 percent of the Delmarva Peninsula, primarily in Maryland.
Efforts contributing to recovery include translocation of animals to establish new populations, closing of the targeted hunting season, growth and dispersal of the population, and protection of large forested areas for habitat.
Delmarva fox squirrels are common at Blackwater (Maryland), Chincoteague (Virginia), and Prime Hook (Delaware) national wildlife refuges.
Prior to its 2014 proposal to remove the squirrel from the endangered species list, FWS followed a rigorous and detailed process to assess the Delmarva fox squirrel’s extinction risk.
The agency’s 2012 five-year review analyzed the status of populations, habitat and threats, considered the delisting criteria from the 1993 recovery plan, and ultimately recommended to delist the species because it is no longer in danger of extinction. A post-delisting monitoring plan will ensure the squirrel remains secure from extinction.
source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Showing posts with label nature. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nature. Show all posts
Monday, November 30, 2015
Friday, September 18, 2015
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary 30th Anniversary
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary 30th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Glendening Nature Preserve
1290 Wrighton Rd
Lothian, MD
On Saturday, October 3, 2015, the Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary (JBWS) will host an anniversary celebration and concert at the Glendening Nature Preserve (Plummer House).
The FREE anniversary celebration will feature a climbing wall, hayrides, live animals, touch-a-truck, kids’ zone, guided hikes, food, local vendors, gift bag giveaways, native milkweed planting, and more.
During the celebration, visitors will enjoy live music throughout the day from the Jug Bay Jug Band, Bridgette Michaels, Rockfish, and The Back Pages.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Glendening Nature Preserve
1290 Wrighton Rd
Lothian, MD
On Saturday, October 3, 2015, the Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary (JBWS) will host an anniversary celebration and concert at the Glendening Nature Preserve (Plummer House).
The FREE anniversary celebration will feature a climbing wall, hayrides, live animals, touch-a-truck, kids’ zone, guided hikes, food, local vendors, gift bag giveaways, native milkweed planting, and more.
During the celebration, visitors will enjoy live music throughout the day from the Jug Bay Jug Band, Bridgette Michaels, Rockfish, and The Back Pages.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Fall Bear Activity
Experts warn that during the fall season bears may be attracted to trash, pet food, birdfeeders, and other human-provided food sources, which can lead to dangerous encounters.
As temperatures begin falling, black bear activity usually increases as the animals prepare for hibernation.
According to Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Keeping trash and pet food in a place where bears can’t get to it is the best way to avoid problems with bears.
Citizens should also delay feeding songbirds until the winter months to avoid attracting these animals.
Since bears may travel many miles in search of food, motorists traveling in Maryland’s western counties are reminded to watch for them crossing roads, especially during October and November.
Maryland’s bears will begin entering dens in mid-November and most are denned by mid-December.
To learn more about Maryland black bears, citizens can contact DNR staff 301-777-2136 (Western Region), or 410-260-8540 (statewide).
source: MD DNR
As temperatures begin falling, black bear activity usually increases as the animals prepare for hibernation.
According to Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Keeping trash and pet food in a place where bears can’t get to it is the best way to avoid problems with bears.
Citizens should also delay feeding songbirds until the winter months to avoid attracting these animals.
Since bears may travel many miles in search of food, motorists traveling in Maryland’s western counties are reminded to watch for them crossing roads, especially during October and November.
Maryland’s bears will begin entering dens in mid-November and most are denned by mid-December.
To learn more about Maryland black bears, citizens can contact DNR staff 301-777-2136 (Western Region), or 410-260-8540 (statewide).
source: MD DNR
Saturday, July 6, 2013
July is Lakes Appreciation Month
July is Lakes Appreciation Month in Maryland. Marylanders are encouraged to visit and enjoy their favorite lake, pond or reservoir during Lakes Appreciation Month and discover ways to help protect and enhance these vital resources.
Maryland contains 60 man-made lakes of five acres or more, all of which are open to the public. Maryland lakes provide a number of recreational activities, ranging from fishing and swimming to boating and water sports
Maryland's largest impoundment is Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland. Deep Creek lake features 18 species of fish, camp sites, boat rentals, and other resources. Another large lake, Liberty Reservoir, contains landlocked striped bass up to 40-pounds.
Lakes Appreciation Month is a nationwide initiative by the North American Lake Management Society. The non-profit organization promotes partnerships between citizens, scientists, and professionals in order to protect lakes and reservoirs in North America.
source: MD DNR
Maryland contains 60 man-made lakes of five acres or more, all of which are open to the public. Maryland lakes provide a number of recreational activities, ranging from fishing and swimming to boating and water sports
Maryland's largest impoundment is Deep Creek Lake in Western Maryland. Deep Creek lake features 18 species of fish, camp sites, boat rentals, and other resources. Another large lake, Liberty Reservoir, contains landlocked striped bass up to 40-pounds.
Lakes Appreciation Month is a nationwide initiative by the North American Lake Management Society. The non-profit organization promotes partnerships between citizens, scientists, and professionals in order to protect lakes and reservoirs in North America.
source: MD DNR
Monday, August 20, 2012
Things to Do in Maryland USA
Several Maryland cities are famous for their culture. Baltimore is a historic city and bustling industrial port with an incredible number of weekly events and other things to do.
Annapolis, Maryland's capital, is home to the Naval Academy, numerous historical buildings, and one of the nation's most famous sailing ports. In the western part of the state, cities like Frederick, Hagerstown, and Cumberland have plenty of history and culture.
One of the state's most important attractions is the Chesapeake Bay. While the upper bay is famous for its cities, the middle and lower bay is mainly occupied by small to mid-sized communities. On the western shore in southern Maryland are the fishing communities of Deale and Solomon's Island.
On the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Chestertown, Easton, Saint Michaels, Cambridge, and Crisfield all have rich histories that are closely tied to the bay. In Tangier Sound, three small communities on Smith Island have been occupied by watermen for hundreds of years.
With scores of ports, Maryland is an excellent state for boating. Sailboat enthusiasts find the Chesapeake Bay to be an excellent body of water to explore. Cruisers, water skiers, and powerboaters also enjoy the bay and its many rivers.
In some areas, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and other paddlecraft are popular. These small but useful boats allow enthusiasts to explore areas where larger boats cannot travel.
For anglers, the list of things to do in Maryland is incredible. The state has outstanding opportunities for fishermen, including freshwater as well as saltwater fishing. Freshwater anglers will find trout streams, rivers, lakes, farm ponds, and other fishing areas.
For those that prefer saltwater fishing, there are fishing piers, beaches for surf fishing, fishing aboard private boats, guided fishing trips, and deep sea fishing charters.
Nature lovers will also find plenty of activities in Maryland. Birdwatchers will find hundreds of species of birds, including songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, birds of prey, and other bird life.
The state also has plenty of mammals such as whitetail deer, sika deer, black bear, coyote, red foxes, gray foxes, skunks, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, chipmunks, groundhogs, and others. For herp enthusiasts, there are hundreds of species of turtles, snakes, lizards, frogs, toads, and other creatures.
For many visitors, Maryland beaches are a major attraction. On the Eastern Shore, Ocean City and Assateague Island attract visitors from across the nation. Just minutes apart, the two destinations offer totally different experiences.
Ocean City is a bustling beach resort that receives millions of visitors annually. This nationally recognized vacation destination features lifeguards, well maintained beaches, a historic boardwalk, amusements, restaurants, museums, and other attractions.
Just to the South, Assateague Island lies in stark contrast to Ocean City. This barrier island is occupied by Assateague Island State Park as well as Assateague Island National Seashore.
Its undeveloped beaches are occupied by wild ponies, deer, sea birds, and other wildlife. Visitors can swim, explore the island, collect shells, enjoy surf fishing, or simply enjoy the view.
Related Information
Things To Do on the Eastern Shore
Things To Do in Ocean City MD
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
2012 Maryland Natural Resources Photo Contest
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is now accepting entries for its annual Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest. According to DNR Secretary John Griffin. “This contest gives photographers of all skill levels a chance to share their work with the public and win some great prizes.”
Last year, Allen Sklar of Bishopville topped more than 300 other photographers with his winning image ‘Fast’ Food Pick-up. His photograph of a bald eagle swooping down onto the Assateague Beach shoreline was featured on the cover of the 2012 calendar.
Photos entered into the 2012 contest will be judged in six categories: birds, wildlife, insects, scenic, wild plants and Maryland State Parks or people enjoying them. Winning entries will be featured in the winter issue of The Maryland Natural Resource magazine as well as the 2013 DNR calendar.
The best overall photo will win the grand prize of $500, a 2013 Maryland State Park Passport, a lifetime subscription to the magazine and five copies of the 2013 DNR calendar, which will feature the winning photo on the cover.
All qualifying photographs must be taken in Maryland. Photographers may submit up to three entries for a $10 entry fee and additional entries for $3 each. Photos may not be more than two years old or previously published. Non-residents may participate as long as the photos were taken in Maryland. Submissions are due by August 31, 2012 and winners will be announced online September 30, 2012.
Official rules and contest entry forms are available online at dnr.maryland.gov/photocontest/
source: MD DNR
Last year, Allen Sklar of Bishopville topped more than 300 other photographers with his winning image ‘Fast’ Food Pick-up. His photograph of a bald eagle swooping down onto the Assateague Beach shoreline was featured on the cover of the 2012 calendar.
Photos entered into the 2012 contest will be judged in six categories: birds, wildlife, insects, scenic, wild plants and Maryland State Parks or people enjoying them. Winning entries will be featured in the winter issue of The Maryland Natural Resource magazine as well as the 2013 DNR calendar.
The best overall photo will win the grand prize of $500, a 2013 Maryland State Park Passport, a lifetime subscription to the magazine and five copies of the 2013 DNR calendar, which will feature the winning photo on the cover.
All qualifying photographs must be taken in Maryland. Photographers may submit up to three entries for a $10 entry fee and additional entries for $3 each. Photos may not be more than two years old or previously published. Non-residents may participate as long as the photos were taken in Maryland. Submissions are due by August 31, 2012 and winners will be announced online September 30, 2012.
Official rules and contest entry forms are available online at dnr.maryland.gov/photocontest/
source: MD DNR
Sunday, March 4, 2012
State Champion Sweet Birch Tree Discovered In Gunpowder Falls State Park
A new Maryland State Champion tree was recently found in Gunpowder Falls State Park. Dan Wilson, a volunteer with the Maryland Big Tree Program, located the massive sweet birch (Betula lenta) hidden deep within the Park.
The tree was found to be 115 feet tall, 10 feet 1 inch around and with a crown spread of 45 feet, equaling a total point value of 247. According to American Forests this is the tallest tree of its species on record. The previous sweet birch State Champion, with a point value of 237, is located in Cecil County.
The United States Champion is located in New Hampshire at 266 points. The Maryland champion appears healthy and could seize the national title in future years. The tree is also the largest of its species ever recorded in Maryland (dating back to 1925). The tree is located at GPS coordinates N39 32 093 W76 29 955.
The sweet birch is native to all of Maryland north and west of I-95, the tree can be found in counties south and east of that area but usually only sporadically and in small groups.
The name sweet birch comes from the sweet wintergreen flavor of its bark and twigs. The tree is also referred to as black birch because of its dark bark.
For more information, visit dnr.state.md.us/forests/trees/bigtree.asp
The tree was found to be 115 feet tall, 10 feet 1 inch around and with a crown spread of 45 feet, equaling a total point value of 247. According to American Forests this is the tallest tree of its species on record. The previous sweet birch State Champion, with a point value of 237, is located in Cecil County.
The United States Champion is located in New Hampshire at 266 points. The Maryland champion appears healthy and could seize the national title in future years. The tree is also the largest of its species ever recorded in Maryland (dating back to 1925). The tree is located at GPS coordinates N39 32 093 W76 29 955.
The sweet birch is native to all of Maryland north and west of I-95, the tree can be found in counties south and east of that area but usually only sporadically and in small groups.
The name sweet birch comes from the sweet wintergreen flavor of its bark and twigs. The tree is also referred to as black birch because of its dark bark.
For more information, visit dnr.state.md.us/forests/trees/bigtree.asp
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Maryland Summer Wildflowers
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts know that Maryland is home to an incredible array of wildflowers. Summer is peak time, with new species blooming every few days.
Pastures, meadows, roadsides and other wild areas are home to species such as black eyed susans, butterfly flowers, goldenrod and other species.
Some of the lesser known Maryland wildflowers are found in wooded areas, swamps and other areas where they are rarely seen by people.
The following photos showcase just a few of the more common wildflowers that bloom throughout Maryland each summer.
Pastures, meadows, roadsides and other wild areas are home to species such as black eyed susans, butterfly flowers, goldenrod and other species.
Some of the lesser known Maryland wildflowers are found in wooded areas, swamps and other areas where they are rarely seen by people.
The following photos showcase just a few of the more common wildflowers that bloom throughout Maryland each summer.
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| Black Eyed Susan |
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| Butterfly Flower |
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| Cardinal Flower |
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| Goldenrod |
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Outdoors Maryland Wins Emmy Awards
The television show "Outdoors Maryland" recently won two regional Emmy awards. The nature and recreation series is co-produced by Maryland Public Television (MPT) and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
The Emmy Award is the industry's benchmark for the recognition of television excellence. Outdoors Maryland, now in its 23rd season on public television, has won 32 Emmys since it began its run in 1988. The series’ latest Emmys were awarded June 25 at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The program, broadcast each Tuesday night at 7:30 on MPT is considered the mid-Atlantic’s premiere video guide to nature and recreation.
The 2011 Emmy award for Best Magazine Program Feature went to a segment, The Sacred Places. The story follows three friends as they explore the wilds of the Chesapeake Bay by kayak. The story captures the extraordinary beauty of the remote islands in Maryland’s south-central Bay, showcasing the vibrant life of rare salt-marshes, and seeking inspiration in dazzling sunsets and sunrises.
The series also won a second Emmy for Best Magazine Program. Episode 2204 told three important natural resource stories; Maryland DNR’s annual Fishing Challenge; the controversy surrounding the Tiger Beetle habitat at Calvert Cliffs; and the State’s purchase of pristine shoreline and open space in Southern Maryland.
For more information about Outdoors Maryland visit http://video.mpt.tv/program/1100712969/
source: MD DNR
The Emmy Award is the industry's benchmark for the recognition of television excellence. Outdoors Maryland, now in its 23rd season on public television, has won 32 Emmys since it began its run in 1988. The series’ latest Emmys were awarded June 25 at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The program, broadcast each Tuesday night at 7:30 on MPT is considered the mid-Atlantic’s premiere video guide to nature and recreation.
The 2011 Emmy award for Best Magazine Program Feature went to a segment, The Sacred Places. The story follows three friends as they explore the wilds of the Chesapeake Bay by kayak. The story captures the extraordinary beauty of the remote islands in Maryland’s south-central Bay, showcasing the vibrant life of rare salt-marshes, and seeking inspiration in dazzling sunsets and sunrises.
The series also won a second Emmy for Best Magazine Program. Episode 2204 told three important natural resource stories; Maryland DNR’s annual Fishing Challenge; the controversy surrounding the Tiger Beetle habitat at Calvert Cliffs; and the State’s purchase of pristine shoreline and open space in Southern Maryland.
For more information about Outdoors Maryland visit http://video.mpt.tv/program/1100712969/
source: MD DNR
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Maryland Songbirds
Maryland is home to many of North America's most beautiful songbirds. Some species reside year round, while others are migratory visitors. Several species are semi-migratory; they move seasonally throughout their range in order to find food supplies.
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| cedar waxwings |
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| blue grosbeak |
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| indigo bunting |
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| eastern bluebird |
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| Prothonatary warbler |
Thursday, September 23, 2010
2010 Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest
More than 170 photographers entered 850 photographs in the 2010 Maryland Natural Resource Photo Contest. Debbie MacArthur of Ellicott City took overall top honors with her wildlife photograph, Chipmunk, of a chipmunk perched on a flowering tree.
There were five additional first place winners, including Chuck Durfor of Rockville (Burnside Bridge) in the Scenic category; Larry Hitchens of Easton (Belted King Fisher) in the Bird category; Christine Edwards of Annapolis (Rounding the Red Buoy) in the Outdoor Recreation category; Lori R. Bramble of Cambridge (The Sweet Smell of Pollen) in the Insect category; and Lee Swantkowski of Kensington (Lotus) in the Plants category.
MacArthur will receive the grand prize of $500, a 2011 Maryland State Park Passport, a lifetime subscription to the Maryland Natural Resource magazine and five copies of the 2011 DNR Calendar, which will feature the winning photo on the cover.
First place winners in each category will receive a Maryland State Park Passport, a two year subscription to the Maryland Natural Resource magazine and two copies of the 2011 DNR Calendar. Second place winners will receive a one-year subscription to the magazine and a calendar.
The winning photos will appear in the winter issue of The Maryland Natural Resource Magazine, as well as the 2011 DNR calendar. The Maryland Natural Resource magazine is published quarterly by DNR.
There were five additional first place winners, including Chuck Durfor of Rockville (Burnside Bridge) in the Scenic category; Larry Hitchens of Easton (Belted King Fisher) in the Bird category; Christine Edwards of Annapolis (Rounding the Red Buoy) in the Outdoor Recreation category; Lori R. Bramble of Cambridge (The Sweet Smell of Pollen) in the Insect category; and Lee Swantkowski of Kensington (Lotus) in the Plants category.
MacArthur will receive the grand prize of $500, a 2011 Maryland State Park Passport, a lifetime subscription to the Maryland Natural Resource magazine and five copies of the 2011 DNR Calendar, which will feature the winning photo on the cover.
First place winners in each category will receive a Maryland State Park Passport, a two year subscription to the Maryland Natural Resource magazine and two copies of the 2011 DNR Calendar. Second place winners will receive a one-year subscription to the magazine and a calendar.
The winning photos will appear in the winter issue of The Maryland Natural Resource Magazine, as well as the 2011 DNR calendar. The Maryland Natural Resource magazine is published quarterly by DNR.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Birdwatching on Assateague Island Maryland
Mid-Winter on Assateague Island Maryland might seem like the least enjoyable time to visit, but for birdwatchers, waterfowl enthusiasts and photographers, there are excellent opportunities to enjoy activities.
Assateague Island is a barrier island along the coasts of Maryland and Virginia. Access to the Maryland portion of the island is available at Assateague Island National Seashore. In addition, two miles of the beach can be accessed at Assateague State Park.
Both parks contain seaside beaches, coastal marshes, protected coves, and other bird habitats. The bridge between the mainland and Assateague Island includes a pedestrian walkway and viewing platform with scenic views of the estuary.
Among the most common winter birds seen on Assateague Island are mallards, black ducks, pintail, teal, shovelers, buffleheads, mergansers, goldeneye, scaup, Canada geese, brant, snow geese, trumpeter swans, and the ever present herons, egrets, and gulls.
Among the most common winter birds seen on Assateague Island are mallards, black ducks, pintail, teal, shovelers, buffleheads, mergansers, goldeneye, scaup, Canada geese, brant, snow geese, trumpeter swans, and the ever present herons, egrets, and gulls.
In addition to waterfowl and songbirds, Assateague Island is inhabited by sika deer, whitetail deer, muskrats, cottontail rabbits, otters, and wild ponies.
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