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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
