Wildlife News

Outbreaks, law changes and seasonal activity that affect your home, checked with state agencies before we publish.

Updated Oct 17, 2026
HealthOct 3, 2026

Alabama woman spots rattlesnake 'bigger than a can of spray paint' near her home

An Alabama woman recorded a large rattlesnake near her home, saying she was shaking while filming. The encounter highlights the need for caution and yard maintenance.

Law & policyOct 3, 2026

More than 100 pet rats found living in parked cars, police say

Police in Eugene, Oregon found over 100 pet rats living in two parked cars last month. The owner was cited for animal neglect.

HealthOct 2, 2026

Rabies alert issued in Indian River County after rabid bat found near apartment complex

The Florida Department of Health issued a 60-day rabies alert after a bat near Sonrise Apartments tested positive. I compared the notice with state data on rabid bats.

Law & policyOct 2, 2026

Wildlife Agency Approves Emergency Bear Feeding Rule for Buncombe County

NC Wildlife Resources Commission approved an emergency rule banning bear feeding in Buncombe County to reduce human-bear incidents.

FloridaOct 2, 2026

Deputy in Tampa rescues hawk trapped under pool cover, bodycam video shows

A Hillsborough County deputy freed a red-shouldered hawk trapped under a pool cover in Tampa, and bodycam video captured the rescue.

ResearchOct 1, 2026

Zebra mussels confirmed in Sauer Lake in Becker County, Eleventh Crow Wing Lake in Hubbard County

Zebra mussels have been confirmed in two Minnesota lakes by the DNR. I checked the official news release for details on the spread and homeowner tips.

FloridaOct 1, 2026

Florida golfers spot giant alligator on fairway, trailed by a flock of turkeys

Golfers in Florida watched a large alligator cross a fairway followed by a flock of turkeys, in a sighting that drew comparisons to a security escort.

SeasonalSep 30, 2026

Bird strike sends Southwest flight back to Orlando, FAA confirms

A Southwest flight bound for Rochester returned to Orlando after a bird strike shortly after takeoff. No injuries were reported, and the plane landed safely.

SeasonalSep 30, 2026

Minnesota DNR Fish and Wildlife Almanac Highlights Early Season Talent and Tick Awareness

The DNR's weekly almanac discusses early goose hunting for youth and adults and reminds residents to stay aware of ticks despite cooler weather.

Law & policySep 30, 2026

Endangered Western ribbon snakes put a Wisconsin highway project on hold

State law requires wildlife specialists to draft a capture-and-relocation plan for endangered Western ribbon snakes before bulldozers can enter a Wisconsin highway site.

SeasonalSep 29, 2026

Colorado dog owners warned after 3 rattlesnake bites hit an open space in a single weekend

Three dogs were bitten by rattlesnakes in a single weekend at a Westminster open space, serving as a reminder for Colorado pet owners.

HealthSep 29, 2026

Ohio homeowner says bats pour from condo roofline after dark, above where children play

A Painesville, Ohio homeowner reports hundreds of bats emerging from a condo roofline each night, with one entering a child's bedroom.