animal news

Bee population dying out Pollination of crops is threatened by hostile atmosphere - Bees work hard under terrible conditions — loss of natural habitat, growing use of insecticides and spreading viruses, to name just a few. (May 6, 08) Buffalo News
04/19/08 - Because Bat are so important and integral to our local ecology, check out this very thorough report on the White Nose Bat Syndrom from Science Friday: Science Friday Archives: Bat Die-Off Mystery --from sciencefriday.com - making science user-friendly
BIRDS SPRINGING NORTH TOO EARLY - Some migratory birds are heading North earlier because of climate change. That’s causing problems for some bird species. (April 15, 08) Environment Report
Bat Die-Off Prompts Investigation - NYS Dept. of Environmental ConservationThousands of hibernating bats are dying in caves in New York and Vermont from unknown causes, prompting an investigation by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), as well as wildlife agencies and researchers around the nation.New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Local Bats are Fine, DEC Says - 13WHAM.com The Department of Environmental Conservation reports that bats are dying off in alarming numbers in New York, Vermont, Massachusetts, and other areas in the Northeast. The dead or dying bats are thin and many have white noses covered by some sort of fungus. Researchers don’t know what’s killing the bats. (March 28, 08) 13WHAM.com
State DEC holds seminar on bears | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Black bears were sighted throughout Monroe County last year, and wildlife officials expect them to reappear soon. That's why the state Department of Environmental Conservation held a seminar Wednesday at the Public Safety Training Facility on Scottsville Road — to instruct local law enforcement personnel on how best to react, what to expect and how to handle the situation. It was the first such "mass training" for law enforcement in Monroe County. (March 27, 08) Democrat & Chronicle
Bats Perish, and No One Knows Why - Researchers have yet to determine whether the bats are being killed by a virus, bacteria, toxin, environmental hazard, metabolic disorder or fungus. Some have been found with pneumonia, but that and the fungus are believed to be secondary symptoms. ( March 25, 08) http://www.nytimes.com/
Bat Die-off Prompts Investigation - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Thousands of hibernating bats are dying in caves in New York State and Vermont from unknown causes, prompting an investigation by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), as well as wildlife agencies and researchers around the nation. The most obvious symptom involved in the die-off is a white fungus encircling the noses of some, but not all, of the bats. Called "white-nose syndrome," the fungus is believed to be associated with the problem, but it may not necessarily contribute to the actual cause of death. It appears that the affected bats deplete their fat reserves months before they would normally emerge from hibernation and die as a result. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Peregrine Falcons Return to Rochester - ROCHESTER, NY (2008-03-03) Rochester's duo of Peregrine falcons are back in town, and taking up residence again at the top of the Kodak Office Tower on State Street. Jim Pisello of the Audobon Society says the male falcon, Kaver, was sighted over the weekend. The female, Mariah, spent the winter in town. This is the eighth year the same pair has come to nest on the Kodak tower (Mariah nested with another falcon in Rochester since 1998 before Kaver replaced him). March 3, 08) WXXI Public Broadcasting Council
HWS forum to talk crow - GENEVA - The flocks of crows descending on Geneva may not be very good neighbors, but a forum Thursday at Hobart and William Smith Colleges aims to change some minds about the feathery fiends. “A Discussion of Perspective: Crow Roosting the Finger Lakes Region,” will bring experts on various sides of the crow problem together for a round-table discussion at 6:30 p.m. at the Geneva Room in the library. (Feb 27, 08) Finger Lakes Times Online
Mystery illness hits New York bats - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Bats in New York and Vermont are mysteriously dying off by the thousands, often with a white ring of fungus around their noses, and scientists in hazmat suits are crawling into dank caves to find out why. “White nose syndrome,” as the killer has been dubbed, is spreading at an alarming rate, with researchers calling it the gravest threat in memory to bats in the United States. (Feb 25, 08) Rochester, NY - MPNnow
Birds beset bird-watchers' haunt in Victor - Woodpeckers' reign of holey terror perforates Nature Club budget— Members of the Burroughs Audubon Nature Club love birds, and since the early 1900s, the group has been bird-watching and promoting ecology. But some birds — specifically, a hardy band of woodpeckers — don't seem to appreciate the care and concern. (February 19, 2008) Democrat & Chronicle
Reovirus Blamed for Crow Die-offs - NYS Dept. of Environmental ConservationReovirus Blamed for Crow Die-offs A strain of avian "reovirus" (pronounced: REE-O virus) is responsible for crow die-offs reported in at least six counties across New York in late December, according to a New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) investigation. Dead crows were reported in Albany, Dutchess, Jefferson, Montgomery, Orange and Steuben counties during that period, sometimes in large groups (exact numbers for the total die-off are not available; estimates are in the hundreds). New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Sick, injured birds make for busy week at DEC - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Ron Newell’s work week was for the birds, literally. He’s a wildlife technician with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, and he has been fielding calls from residents concerned about waterfowl. Residents around Calm Lake in Farmington enjoy the scenery and the geese that flock to their neighborhood. But lately, the geese have been dropping dead, and the residents wanted to know why. (Jan 20, 08) Homepage - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
Harassed from other communities, crows flocking to Syracuse - Syracuse is finding that one community's loss is another's gain - and that's not always a good thing. Driven from other cities in upstate New York, an increasing number of harried crows have found a new home in downtown Syracuse and its surrounding neighborhoods, where buildings provide warmth and lights offer protection from predators. (Jan 19, 08) The Ithaca Journal - www.theithacajournal.com - Ithaca, NY
Bear prowls lakeshore area - A black bear that had been spotted throughout the Rochester area last summer has resurfaced in the Manitou Beach Road area of Greece, near Braddock Bay. (Jan 17, 07) Democrat & Chronicle
30 years of kindness to kitties in Victor - Pet Pride in Victor is purr-fect provider of protection for pussycats Pet Pride, which recently turned 30, is a nonprofit group that finds homes for abandoned cats. Because of its "no-kill" policy, which means that any cat accepted won't be destroyed unless its health fails, Pet Pride tries to make sure that the cats admitted are in good health, checked out by a veterinarian. (Jan 14, 07) Democrat & Chronicle
Bird virus killing upstate crows - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. - The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation last week announced that a strain of avian reovirus is responsible for killing large numbers of crows in six counties scattered across the state. Avian reoviruses are widespread in nature and are known to cause problems such as viral arthritis in poultry. The viruses have been present in crows and other birds in New York, across the country and in Ontario, Canada, for much of the last decade, but the state has never before seen such a large die-off of crows, said DEC wildlife pathologist Ward Stone. (Jan 09/07) Messenger Post Newspapers
Eagle eyes needed - Rochester, NY - MPNnow The DEC has been counting bald eagles across the state for 29 years. Some spotters look for eagles and their nests from the ground, while other “eagle eyes” scan the landscape from helicopters. (Jan 08, 07) Messenger Post Newspapers
The plight of the honeybee - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Last year, beekeepers across the country and around the globe watched their hives dwindle down to nothing. So far this winter, the situation looks just as bleak. At issue was — and is — a mysterious condition known as colony collapse disorder, or CCD. In affected hives, almost all the adult bees have vanished completely. Only the queen and a few adult bees remain, with no carcasses left behind to explain the sudden population loss. Bees from other hives keep their distance, leaving the food stores in the affected hives untouched. In western New York, the damage has been acute. (Dec28 , 07) Messenger Post Newspapers
Tests to be conducted on roosting patterns of American crows -Albany – At the request of the City of Albany, wildlife biologists with the US Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service – Wildlife Services, will be conducting a non-lethal pilot project to investigate techniques to change roosting patterns of American crows roosting in the city. (Dec 19, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Opponents slam pay-to-hunt proposal — Opponents of a proposed pay-to-hunt preserve at the former Seneca Army Depot placed the plan squarely in their sights Thursday — and blasted it. At a morning public hearing in the town of Varick, about 70 people braved the winter storm to challenge a plan by a Waterloo-based company for the preserve at the depot site. More than 25 people spoke, with only one voicing any support for the proposal. (December 14, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
DEC extends emergency trapping regulations - Albany - The State Department of Environmental Conservation has extended emergency regulations that will help reduce or eliminate the capture or killing of pets in body-gripping traps. The extension was filed with the Department of State on Dec. 11, 2007. New York's 2007-08 trapping season opened on Oct. 25 in most areas of the state and the restrictions apply to the setting and use of body-gripping traps. (Dec 14, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Dam it! - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Whether city residents welcome them as natural wonders or revile them as pests, beavers are their new neighbors in Canandaigua. Evidence of at least one family of the water-dwelling rodents is all over the trails and stream banks of Lagoon Park, behind the retail plazas on Routes 5 and 20. (Nov. 15, 07) Homepage - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
Never say never, when it comes to coyotes - Rochester, NY - MPNnow “I may know a lot about coyotes, but I’m not an expert,” Scott Smith told a crowd at Finger Lakes Community College on Oct. 23. “I don’t think there is a real coyote expert in the country.” Smith, a wildlife biologist who has worked with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for 18 years, was not just being modest. It’s impossible to have a complete understanding of the coyote, he explained, because Canis latrans is one of the most adaptable, rapidly evolving species in the mammalian world. Coyotes’ size and color vary based on what part of the country they live in, and there are few things they won’t eat, few animals they won’t attack if challenged or in dire need of food.(Oct. 31, 07) Homepage - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
UR dog suit one of a litter of cases — Colleges here and across the country, long accustomed to dealing with service dogs for people with physical disabilities, are now contending with a new demand: animals that lend emotional support for the mentally disabled. (October 22, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
DEC captures black bear on Monroe County's west side - Rochester, NY - MPNnow Parma, N.Y. - Officials with the New York Department of Conservation captured and released a bear today that spent the summer and fall living around western Monroe County. According to Mike Wasilco, a regional wildlife manager for the DEC for Region 8, the bear was captured in a trap behind a house on Manitou Beach Road, near the Braddock Bay wildlife management area, around 11:30 p.m. Thursday. This afternoon, wildlife management officials transported the bear to Yates County, where it was released on public forest land. Based on the size - 170 pounds - and shape of the bear, Wasilco said it was either a two- or three-year-old male. (Oct. 19, 07) http://www.mpnnow.com/favicon.ico
Black bear caught near Braddock Bay - A black bear that had apparently been wandering all over Monroe County for months was caught in a trap set by the state Department of Environmental Conservation late Thursday near Braddock Bay. DEC wildlife technicians recovered the bear and transported the animal early today to the Southern Tier, in a more natural habitat, said Michael Wasilco, the DEC regional wildlife manager. (Oct.19, 07) Democrat & Chronicle
Does this cat have legal claws? - Rochester, NY - MPNnow American Indians, consummate woodsmen and hunters, saw them so infrequently that they called them the ghosts of the forest. Diaries from the 1800s include detailed descriptions of encounters with the menacing cats. In our times, it seems like everyone in the Bristol Hills or other rural parts our region at least knows someone who claims to have seen a cougar. Each new reported sighting brings up the familiar debate: Do eastern cougars — also known as mountain lions, pumas, catamounts or panthers — really exist in our area? And if cougars really live here, are they part of a natural breeding population or are they merely a handful of pets that were released into the wild? (Sept. 5, 07) Homepage - Rochester, NY - MPNnow
New Yorkers Urged Not to Disturb Young Wildlife - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation New Yorkers are reminded to keep their distance from newborn fawns and other young wildlife during the warm weather months. Although they may seem as though they're abandoned, helpless and in need of assistance, it usually isn't true. Look -- but don't touch. It could do more harm than good. NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
TOXIN KILLS ENDANGERED BIRDS A toxin that has killed tens of thousands of shorebirds throughout the Great Lakes is back. Type-E botulism is spread up the food chain by invasive species. And as Bob Allen reports, the toxin recently killed four birds on the endangered species list: (July 24, 07) The Environment Report
MPNnow.com: 'Adaptable' coyote now calling suburbia home Coyote sightings in the area are becoming more common. ( July 13, 07) MPNnow.com: Rochester and Western Finger Lakes News, Entertainment, Sports, Opinions, Photos and More
MPNnow.com: Young bear cruises CA, causing a stir. Hide the birdseed! CANANDAIGUA — Police were busy Sunday fielding calls from residents who had spotted a black bear lumbering about in the city, from North Bloomfield Road to West Gibson Street (July 9, 07) MPNnow.com: Rochester and Western Finger Lakes News, Entertainment, Sports, Opinions, Photos and More
At least 3 black bears roaming region — State Department of Environmental Conservation officials today said they believed there are at least three young black bears roaming the region.One bear was spotted walking in Ogden yesterday afternoon, another was spotted in Geneva yesterday morning and a third was sighted in Canandaigua yesterday morning, said Randy Nemecek, DEC regional supervisor for natural resources. (July 10, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Hot Weather Impacts Animals - As summer temperatures get close to the 90 degree mark, pet owners certainly can't forget about their furry friends. Lollypop Farm has some important do's and dont's for pet owners. When it's 90 degrees out it can actually feel much warmer to pets. (July 8, 07) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
MPNnow.com: The disappearing honeybee - One of nature's best and most vital pollinators is enduring tough times because of a mystery disease. Just this week, Senator Clinton requested quick federal funding for research. Not everyone takes his cup of tea with a dollop of honey. But whatever your sweetener of choice, local experts agree there's reason to be seriously concerned about what's happening to the honeybee — here, nationally and worldwide. (June 5, 07) Messenger Post Newspapers
Troubled by coyotes' howl? State offers the lowdown — IRONDEQUOIT— Suburbanites shouldn't fear sharing their neighborhoods with coyotes — most of the time anyway. Scott Smith, a wildlife biologist with the state Department of Environmental Conservation, and Irondequoit Animal Control Supervisor Richard Keppler will host an information session called "Suburban Coyotes" to help people understand when alarm is appropriate and what to do when a coyote menaces. (July 5, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Expect to spot more bears, say experts — The bear that wandered into Monroe County's suburbs last week apparently has left the area, but environmental officials said such sightings almost certainly will become more common here. The black bear population has exploded in the Rochester region, said Greg Fuerst of the state Department of Environmental Conservation. In 1990, an estimated 150 to 200 bears were in the 11-county region. Today, he said, "we could be dealing with 600 bears." (July 1, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
ENVIRONMENT: Nationally and locally, bird populations decline - News & Opinion - Rochester City Newspaper But times have changed. Back then, there were several hundred of the pheasants in the Greater Rochester area. In the last 10 years, however, the bird has all but disappeared from the region. There are generally fewer than five in the yearly bird count, says Spahn, who is the former records chair for the Genesee Ornithological Society. Only one was recorded during the 2006 Christmas Count in the Rochester area. (June 26, 07) Rochester City Newspaper
MPNnow.com: Irondequoit hosting community forum on coyotes The number of local sightings has been increasing, town officials say, and education is needed. The July 11 forum will also include a discussion of coyote behavior and habits, common nuisance situations, guidelines to prevent coyotes from hanging around a property, and guidelines for confronting coyotes. The forum is free and open to the public. It will be recorded for future broadcast on Irondequoit Cable Access Television, cable channels 12 and 15. (June 27, 07) MPNnow.com: Rochester and Western Finger Lakes News, Entertainment, Sports, Opinions, Photos and More
WSTM.com - Oswego to Trap Coyotes After several recent sightings of coyotes, the mayor of Oswego says the city will begin trapping the animals immediately. Residents of the city's 5th and 7th wards have voiced their concerns about coyotes roaming in the southwestern part of the city. If you have any questions you can call Animal Control at 343-1803 or the mayor's office at 342-8136. (June 19, 07) WSTM.com - WSTM.com Home
National Audubon Society - Birds in Decline Audubon's unprecedented analysis of forty years of citizen-science bird population data from our own Christmas Bird Count plus the Breeding Bird Survey reveals the alarming decline of many of our most common and beloved birds. Since 1967 the average population of the common birds in steepest decline has fallen by 68 percent; some individual species nose-dived as much as 80 percent. All 20 birds on the national Common Birds in Decline list lost at least half their populations in just four decades. (June 15, 07) National Audubon Society
Disappearing common birds send environmental wake-up call, Audubon Society says - Ithaca -- Population declines for some of the most recognized and beloved birds in New York echo the findings of a new analysis by the National Audubon Society that shows how local and national threats are combining to take a toll on birds, habitat and the environment across the country. (June 15, 07) New York State News on the Net!
Bald eagles are back in our skies - Returning from the brink of extinction In the 1970s, bird experts were resigned to the harsh reality that America's national symbol would soon be extinct in New York. Two pairs of bald eagles still nested in the state with no young birds hatching. That's because their eggs collapsed during incubation. The eggshells had thinned from dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane, or DDT, one of the first modern pesticides that affected the food chain. (June 4, 07) Democrat & Chronicle
DEC proposes new trapping regulations - Albany -- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Wednesday proposed new trapping regulations designed to reduce the chance that dogs may be caught in certain types of traps set on land. The official proposal is published in the May 30, 2007 issue of the New York State Register, available on-line at: www.dos.state.ny.us. The required 45 day public comment period will end on July 16, 2007 (May 31, 07.New York State News on the Net!
Bear visits Avon looking for eats — AVON — A female black bear has been spotted wandering around Avon. Sean Hanna, the regional director of the state Department of Environmental Conservation, says her presence is unusual but isn't cause for alarm. At this time of year, mother bears send their children off to find their own territory. Each new generation forges a little farther north and east from the Allegany Mountains. Bears have recently been spotted in Palmyra, Canandaigua and now Avon. (May 23, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Bee decline worries growers Beekeepers warn of disappearance from hives; some blame pesticides - In “Silent Spring,” ecologist and writer Rachel Carson pondered a season without bird songs as she detailed an unintended consequence of pesticides: a serious decline in bird populations. Today, beekeepers here and around the country are warning that a new spring season begins with a mysterious loss of bees. (April, 22, 07) The Buffalo News
Fish get a charge out of trout survey — URBANA — Counting fish in a Steuben County creek to get a sneak preview of the upcoming rainbow trout season is a shocking experience — at least for the trout. Wading into the creek with an electrically-charged wand, fish nets, tape measure, scale and clipboard is an annual pregame ritual performed by the state Department of Environmental Conservation for the opening of the trout season April 1.(March 23, 2007) Democrat & Chronicle
Coyotes too close - News - MSNBC.com Just a day after News 10NBC aired the amazing video of a coyote caught at a shopping plaza in Macedon, the Department of Environmental Conservation tells us we could see more of that in the future. (March 9, 2007) Rochester, NY news from WHEC-TV - MSNBC.com
DEC announces the 2006 black bear harvest - New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Tuesday announced the results for the 2006 black bear hunting seasons. Big Game hunters harvested 318 bears in the Adirondack bear range, 113 bears in the Allegany bear range, and 365 bears in the Catskill bear range. (Feb 28, 07) New York State News on the Net!
DEC begins second season of wild turkey studies - New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Denise Sheehan has announced that DEC is preparing for the second field season of two large-scale wild turkey research projects. The first project is a turkey banding program, being done in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, researchers from Pennsylvania State University, and the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). The second project is a statewide winter flock survey. These studies will provide information that DEC biologists need to help guide future management efforts for this popular game bird. (December 27, 2006) New York State News on the Net!
KILLER CARP! Coming soon to a Great Lake near you? In the meantime, Asian carp have closed within 50 miles of Lake Michigan and turned large sections of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers into carp havens where little else can survive. (September 6, 2006) Detroit Free Press - www.freep.com
Local zookeeper wings to Panama to help save frog species— John Adamski spent his summer vacation walking through the thick underbrush along Panamanian streams and snatching dozens of tiny gem-colored frogs from the air as they leapt away from his footfalls. He put in hours of hard labor installing fish tanks in the tropical heat, spent his nights in a hotel suite bathing hundreds of frogs in an antifungal solution — and he can't wait to go back. - (August 28, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Botulism in Lake Ontario harming birds, fish — Botulism is back on Lake Ontario's shores, where invasive species are helping it thrive. Every summer, when water temperatures rise, thousands of fish and fish-eating birds such as gulls and terns succumb to the toxin produced by botulism bacteria across the Great Lakes. And in recent weeks, state Department of Environmental Conservation scientists have confirmed an outbreak at the east end of Lake Ontario that has killed hundreds of birds. They also have found the toxin in Sodus Bay, 40 miles east of Rochester. (August 9, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Braddock Bay Raptor Research celebrates spring migration A Bald eagle, a Broad-winged hawk and a Turkey vulture are just three of the raptors that will help celebrate spring migration over Braddock Bay April 15 to 23. Braddock Bay Raptor Research (BBRR) is sponsoring its 18th annual celebration of Bird of Prey Week (BOP) in and around Braddock Bay Park, its lodge and its hawkwatching platform. Throughout the week, there will be numerous opportunities for people to get a close-up view of some of the majestic birds. There will be weekday programs for kids, and two full weekends of hikes, tours, presentations and activities for the whole family. Westside News Inc.
Dog parks hogtied by funds - County won't unleash canines without $50,000 - (March 27, 2006) — When the Monroe County Legislature in 2003 approved a proposal to establish four dog parks, the expectation was that the community would soon have designated areas for dogs to roam unleashed. But almost three years have passed and still no dog parks. The stumbling block has been the failure to raise the $50,000 needed, mostly for fencing, to set up the four dog parks. Although the county would own the dog parks, county officials, in the face of financial difficulties, insisted that private funds be used to establish them. (March 27, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Coyote hunt sparks debate - Contest to kill common predator upsets some in Ontario County— In the greater Rochester area, most residents' only knowledge of coyotes is the occasional sound of their yips and howls on clear nights. But in Ontario County, where local hunters have fanned out through the woods to kill as many of the predators as possible for a $2,000 prize, coyotes are a hot topic. So hot, in fact, that one vocal opponent of the Honeoye coyote derby awoke last week to find what he took to be a bloody message in his front yard. - (March 20, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Coyote carcass left in driveway of hunt foe John Street of Richmond had posted his land and written a letter to the editor criticizing a coyote hunt that offers prizes. - A man who has spoken out against a coyote-hunting contest co-sponsored by the Honeoye Fish and Game Club got a rude awakening this morning when he discovered a coyote carcass at the entrance of his driveway. Daily Messenger
Hilton Cat Shelter At Capacity - A non-profit organization in Hilton dedicated to the well being of homeless felines needs your help. The Kathleen Anne Tenny Animal Shelter has placed 300 cats in loving homes, but is currently at capacity. The volunteer run shelter is caring for 30 homeless cats of all ages and backgrounds. Feb 09, 2006 R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Wild Wings opens new site — Visitors to Mendon Ponds Park might be able to catch a glimpse not only of the deer that occasionally roam the park but also a bald eagle, nine other birds of prey and a bobcat. Wild Wings Inc., a local group that helps injured animals and educates the public about them, has, with the county's approval, relocated from a remote barn in Parma to this county park. (February 3, 2006) Democrat and Chronicle
Seizure Nets Dogs Used for Fighting - Animal cruelty investigators with the Humane Society seized several dogs allegedly used in illegal fighting. After receiving a 911 call from a concerned citizen Monday, six pit bull terriers were taken from a home on Dengler Street. Three of the dogs had severe injuries that indicated they were involved in dog fighting. Three others were puppies. (December 13, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
'Katrina dogs' find homes in area — Fourteen dogs from hurricane-scoured areas of Mississippi and Louisiana have traveled a long road to find a new home in western New York. From being separated from their owners and left homeless by Hurricane Katrina to adjusting to new homes with adoptive families in Rochester, these animals have endured a lifetime of upheaval in a short span of three months since the storm. (December 6, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Animal Group Suggests Eco-Tourism - According to an animal activist group, Auburn's troublesome crows could actually be helpful because of Eco-tourism. For years, residents have grumbled about the mess left by the more than 60,000 crows that spend the winter downtown. This season, the city and U.S. Department of Agriculture are planning a seven-day dispersal program like the one last January that removed more than half of the roost. The group called CROW or Citizens Respectful of Wildlife, does not oppose humane relocation but does want some crows to remain in the city. (November 25, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Crow tourism suggested in Auburn Pro-crow group downplays droppings, aims to have tourists flocking city. - Auburn's crow roost could be something the city can brag about, not just complain about, local animal activists believe. "To me, they're making too much of the crow poop," CROW Committee member Rita Sarnicola said. "Let's get off the bombast so we can see the other possibilities." For years, many residents have complained about the mess left behind by the more than 60,000 crows that spend the winter in downtown. This winter, the city will embark on a seven-day dispersal program in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's wildlife services. Last January, a similar program moved about 64 percent of the roost from downtown. (November 26, 2005) Syracuse.com: Latest News and More
Animal rescue group to open first shelter soon - Animal Service League seeks more volunteers and donations - — IRONDEQUOIT — In a little more than a month, the Animal Service League Inc. will celebrate the grand opening of its first permanent home in a former machine shop on Dubelbeiss Lane. But the 2,000 square feet of space won't solve all of the nonprofit shelter group's problems. (November 26, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Can N.Y. residents, coyotes coexist? - Wildlife expert says we'll have to as animal creeps into suburbs — The high yippy howl of a group of Eastern coyotes is becoming a common sound in the suburbs surrounding Rochester. But that sound need not inspire fear, said wildlife rehabilitator Elise Able, during a recent presentation to local Sierra Club members. "They are in New York, and they are here to stay, so we need to learn to coexist with them," Able said. The state Department of Environmental Conservation estimates that New York has 20,000 to 30,000 coyotes, medium-sized members of the canine family that have appeared in the Northeast over the past 50 years. (November 26, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Greyhound group celebrates 3rd birthday -— FAIRPORT — Greyhound Adoption of Greater Rochester will celebrate its third birthday Sunday with a bash fit for all "45-mph couch potatoes" and their owners. Since incorporating as a nonprofit organization, the Fairport-based group has found homes for 155 retired racing greyhounds. Some of them have been second adoptions by a family and, in some cases, even a third. (November 11, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Dog flu's bark puts area on alert — All we hear about these days is bird flu. But dog flu? That's right, canine influenza, which was found at greyhound racing tracks last year, is now spreading through the pet population in downstate New York and nationwide. It has not yet reached the Rochester area but is expected to get here eventually. Unlike bird flu, the dog flu is only occasionally fatal and has no prospect of spreading from dogs to humans. But it's another example of how the influenza virus is making an impact on animal and human health worldwide. (October 26, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Canandaigua acts to protect dogs — CANANDAIGUA — This Ontario County city has shortened the leash on dog owners who keep their pets chained outside for long periods of time. After a yearlong effort spearheaded by animal rights activist and retired social worker Joel Freedman, City Council on Thursday approved an ordinance that makes it illegal to tether dogs outside for more than 16 hours a day. (September 3, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
In Auburn, Something to Crow About - A yearly burden in Cayuga County is getting some national attention. National Geographic is back in the city of Auburn to again film a documentary about its copious crow population. The two-hour show titled “Swarms!'' includes a segment on Auburn's roost of thousands of wintertime crows. (Jun 07, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
A vicious sport leaves trail of death, cruelty - Dogs brutalized, but masters seldom caught — In a raid on a suspected dog fighter's residence in Rochester, the only ones home were three dogs covered in bloody wounds. Jill Ploof, a cruelty investigator at the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, walked toward the first dog she saw, a frightened 103-pound pit bull-mastiff mix. The dog quickly turned aggressive, barking, growling and showing its teeth. She followed the dog until it backed itself into a stairwell. There, Ploof was able to secure the dog and move it outside to the truck. How to help To report animal cruelty, or if you suspect dog fighting, call Lollypop Farm's confidential hotline at (585) 223-6500.(June 12, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
WXXI: Cornell Researchers Find (2005-04-28) ITHACA, NY A bird once thought to be extinct has been rediscovered in the Big Woods of Arkansas. Researchers from Cornell University have confirmed that at least one male ivory-billed woodpecker is living in vast areas of bottomland swamp forest. Melanie Driscoll with the Cornell Laboratory of Orinthology says this is an important finding. she says since the bird seems to have hung on through changes in its habitat, that may be a good sign for the future. (2005-04-28) Public NewsRoom
Contestants bagged 56 coyotes - Two hunters who tied for first place will each receive $500. - RICHMOND - With the upstate coyote population reported on the upswing, hunters who entered a coyote hunting contest say this winter was a particularly good one for killing the elusive creatures. (March 29, 2005) Messenger Post Newspapers
Otters making a comeback - The slinky critters have done well in Honeoye Lake, but they face a threat as their numbers increase. HONEOYE - There's more to do on Honeoye Lake these days than hunt for bullhead and carp - if you're an otter, that is. (March 29, 2005) Messenger Post Newspapers
Control Those Sheep-Nabbing Coyote -- Some farmers blame the Department of Environmental Conversation for introducing coyote to our area in order to help control the deer population. As a result, the numbers of coyote have increased and some farmers claim the coyote are attacking sheep and cow herds. (March 29, 2005) 13WHAM-TV || ROCHESTER
Hundreds sign up for coyote hunt - HONEOYE, N.Y. A western New York coyote hunt has drawn hundreds of contestants -- as well as some protests. The monthlong hunting contest is underway in the Ontario County town of Richmond, south of Rochester. About 300 hunters have signed up for the event sponsored by the Honeoye (HONEY'-oy) Fish and Game Club. NBC3

Coyote Contest Draws Hundreds - A month long coyote hunting contest is underway in the Ontario County town of Richmond. About 300 hunters have signed up to take part in the event, which is being hosted by the Honeoye Fish and Game Club. (Mar 06, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Coyote hunt contest starts At 12:01 a.m. today, the first hunters fanned out into the woods in Honeoye, Ontario County, looking for coyotes. It marked the start of a one-month contest at the Honeoye Fish and Game Club on Howcroft Road, sponsored by Dick Kraft Real Estate. The hunter who brings in the largest coyote, calculated by weight and length, gets a $500 prize. (February 26, 2005) — Democrat and Chronicle
Canadian province may ban pit bulls - Rochesterians, others say they may have to skip trips to Ontario - — Legislators in Ontario, Canada, appear poised to adopt controversial legislation that would ban the possession, breeding and transfer of pit bulls within the province — even if the dog in question belongs to a visitor. What's at stake -Legislators in Ontario, Canada, are considering legislation that would ban the possession or transfer of pit bulls, or dogs resembling pit bulls, within the province. Violators could face fines, jail time or both; their dogs could be subject to seizure, destruction or sale to a research facility. Rochesterians traveling through Ontario would be subject to the law, if it is enacted. (February 25, 2005) Democrat and Chronicle
Orphan bear has a new family - The discovery of three healthy cubs indicates black bears are finding the Finger Lakes a nice place to live.
RICHMOND - A young bear whose mother was killed by a car in the Adirondacks before she was old enough to fend for herself has a happy new life near Honeoye Lake. Messenger Post Newspapers
Crow Hunt On in Auburn - The controversial crow hunt in underway in the city of Auburn. City leaders have been trying to force out tens of thousands of the birds for years. The roost, which was 68,000 strong months ago, has been reduced to 27,000 by non-lethal methods. ( February 13, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
Lights Brought Crows To Auburn - After a week long effort to rid the City of Auburn from it's infamous flock of 60,000 crows, Cayuga County officials say it was newer, brighter lights that attracted the birds to the city. R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
USDA Rids Auburn Of Crow Problem - There seem to be fewer crows in Auburn today than there were a week ago. That's thanks to a weeklong crow-scaring test by the US Department of Agriculture. (January 15, 2005) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
State law ready to bare sharp teeth at pet owners with exotic beasties - — By Jan. 1, New York state will have the toughest law in the country banning private ownership of venomous reptiles, constricting snakes, crocodiles, big cats and other exotic animals that could pose a danger to their owners. On the Web For a copy of the law, go to: http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=A11753&sh=t For more information, call the special licenses unit of the DEC's Fish and Wildlife Division at (518) 402-8985. (December 10, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
35 cats recovering from horrific conditions - Thirty-five cats living in horrific conditions in a city home have been confiscated by the Humane Society at Lollypop Farms. Animal cruelty investigators said they found squalid conditions inside the house and many of the cats near starvation. The conditions were so bad the home might be demolished. (November 18, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
3 pit bulls taken from city home; dog fighting suspected — Three dogs, two of which may have been used in dog fighting, were taken from a Rochester home Tuesday night, investigators said. Investigators from The Humane Society at Lollypop Farm took the three pit bull terriers after following up on an anonymous tip, said Richard Gerbasi, vice president of operations and field services. (October 28, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Pit bull attacks woman; man faces charges — GENEVA - A Geneva man is scheduled to appear in Ontario County Court today in connection with a charge that he ordered his pit bull to maul an unidentified woman who lost her nose and suffered other severe facial lacerations in the attack. (September 14, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
WXXI: Seneca Park Zoo's (2004-08-26) One of two endangered African Elephants at Rochester's Seneca Park Zoo is pregnant. Zoo officials say 27-year-old "Genny C" will give birth in March of 2006 if all goes well. The Zoo's Director of Health and Conservation -- Doctor Jeff Wyatt -- led the team that artificially inseminated Genny C. This was their third try over three years under a program overseen by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association to preserve African elephants. (August 29, 2004) Public NewsRoom
Reptile Training for Police - Police officers are learning how to deal with dangerous animals. Today, reptile expert Tom Hudak held an 8-hour training session for law enforcement. It seems poisonous snakes and other reptiles are being found in drug houses around the area. WROC TV NEWS 8 NOW ROCHESTER NEW YORK - Local News
Radio Collars Help DEC Track Bears - The Department of Environmental Conservation wants to help campers prevent visits from unwanted animal guests. (July 15, 2004) R News: Your NewsChannel
Pit Bulls on the Attack - Two pit bulls tried to attack neighbors and police officers on Rochester's northwest side Wednesday night. The animals were on the loose in the 200 block of Ridgeway Avenue around seven o'clock. Police say they were very aggressive and attacked two neighbors before lunging at officers. Both dogs were shot to death. WROC TV NEWS 8 NOW ROCHESTER NEW YORK - Local News
Democrat & Chronicle: A falcon recruited in solving a mystery Tiny gizmo to track flight of a peregrine, learn where it travels. — Armed with protective brooms, hard hats and a net, a team of environmentalists borrowed a young peregrine falcon from its nest box atop the Eastman Kodak Co. headquarters Friday despite the very vocal objections of its protective parents, who swooped at the invaders. Their mission: to place a custom-made neoprene harness on the young bird and install a tiny transmitter to help researchers study the migratory patterns of peregrines. (June 12, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Reward offered in deaths of 26 guinea pigs - Lollypop Farm is asking for your help to solve a mysterious case of animal abuse. Someone left 26 dead guinea pigs in a cardboard box behind the animal shelter in Fairport. Investigators don't know yet how they died but the Humane Society is concerned because of the link between animal cruelty and human violence.- Lollypop Farm is offering a $1,000.00 reward. The Humane Society of the United States is offering its own reward of $2,500.00.- Anyone with information is asked to call the Animal Cruelty Hotline at (585) 223-6500.(May 21, 2004) 10NBC / WHEC TV-10
MSNBC - Three falcon chicks hatch, two more on the way May. 14 - Peregrine falcons Mariah & Kaver, who live atop the Kodak Office tower, are now the proud parents of three bouncing baby falcons. MSNBC - News Front Page
Democrat & Chronicle: Tiny frogs find new home at UR Cooperation on pond project shows it can be easy being green.— For one community of marshland frogs in Brighton, 2004 was literally a leap year. In late March, western chorus frogs successfully leaped from their old habitat off East River Road to a new one created for them less than 100 yards away. (May 10, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Dog parks still exist only on paper County approved project but $50,000 more needed to open - — Although a law authorizing four dog parks in Monroe County was approved in September, their establishment is still almost $50,000 short of becoming a reality. (March 28, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
City Newspaper: For the birds Members of UR Veg, the University of Rochester's Vegetarian Education Group, know that activism is a tough job with little instant gratification. That's why public relations manager and UR sophomore Ryan Merkley isn't crushed that more crows were killed this year in Auburn's crow shoot than ever before. "When I heard that 1,000 crows had been shot [compared with approximately 700 last year], it really got me down," Merkley says. Merkley and two other members of UR Veg drove around rural Cayuga County for five hours recently, searching for crow-hunters to deter. They were armed with an audiotape looped with a distressed crow's call. (February 19, 2004) City Newspaper
Meatless Nuggets At KFC Protest Animal Abuse - (Henrietta, NY) 02/3/04 - Local vegetarians and an animal rights group are taking on Kentucky Fried Chicken. They handed out meatless nuggets in front of a Henrietta KFC Friday. (February 14, 2004) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Bird Hunt Draws Protest - A crow hunt in Cayuga County has put hunters in the sites of some protestors. Two hundred people took part in the second annual Crow Shoot in Auburn. (February 9, 2004) R News: Your NewsChannel
Democrat & Chronicle: UR group hopes to save crows — AUBURN — A group of University of Rochester students and staff members plans to head to Cayuga County today to rescue birds injured in a controversial annual crow shoot. “It’s not likely we’ll recover many birds,” said Hoss Firooznia, a UR alumnus who now works as a computer programmer at the university. “But on the chance we’ll be able to do some good.” (February 7, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Pet foster homes sought GRASP takes in suitable animals found or given up to the town of Greece Animal Control. Using private donations and adoption fees, the group gives the animals vaccinations and medical attention. They then place the animals in volunteers’ homes until they can be permanently adopted, which often is done through adoption nights held at various pet stores. (January 31, 2004) Democrat and Chronicle
MSNBC - New law protects dogs in winter - The Humane Society is warning pet-owners to make sure there animals are protected during the cold temperatures this winter. A new law calls for protecting your pet by having a waterproof roof, a clean environment and proper insulation for animal shelters during the winter. (January 10, 2004) MSNBC - News Front Page
A de facto stay of execution for pair of pit bulls - It has been 10 days since two dogs were sentenced to death for attacking other dogs on Bristol Street. (January 3, 2004)
Birds And Teflon Don't Mix - -- After a recent incident, Rochester-area veterinarians are reminding bird owners that the gas emitted from non-stick pans coated with materials such as Teflon can be fatal to their feathered friends. (December 31, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: Dogs rescued from Ohio Northeast volunteers target shelters that shoot or gas animals. — An underground of compassionate dog lovers is giving unwanted canines from Ohio a chance to live and find good homes in Rochester and throughout the Northeast. (December 28, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Pit bulls get death sentence - CANANDAIGUA - Two pit bulls that got loose, killed one dog and injured two others in the past week were ordered to be put down following a civil proceeding Tuesday in City Court. Messenger Post Newspapers
Animal Cruelty Arrest Made - State Police in Wayne County arrested a man on animal cruelty charges. Police seized 71 live animals and 3 deceased from a farm in Williamson. (December 20, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Democrat & Chronicle: DEC seeks killer of young bear — RICHMOND — Department of Environmental Conservation investigators are on the trail of a suspected deer hunter who killed a black bear then dumped the carcass in this rural Ontario County town. (December 6, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Otters get in the swim near lake -Three years ago this month, in wetlands south of Honeoye Lake, the last of 279 river otters were released into the wild, capping a $300,000 restoration project that began in 1995. Today, those involved in the New York River Otter Project say the animals are doing swimmingly, slowly reinhabiting wild remnants of the area that centuries ago supported them by the millions. (November 30, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Dog owners beware Albany-AP) - Pet owners who leave their dogs out in the cold could be fined up to $100.00 under a doghouse law that takes effect Friday. For subsequent violations, the fine goes up to $250.00. Under the law, dogs left outside must have a shelter with a waterproof roof, shade from the summer sun, insulation against cold, and enough room to move around. (November 21, 2003) MSNBC Local News
New Animal Shelter Opens - The Rochester Animal Shelter on Verona Street opened its doors to the public Sunday. It's all part of National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. (November 4, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
UR animal lab is protested - — In a steady rain Sunday evening, 16 protestors brought a little thunder of their own to the sidewalk in front of the University of Rochester’s animal experimentation laboratories on Elmwood Avenue. They used a megaphone to read a litany of charges during a 90-minute candle-light vigil sponsored by Animal Rights Advocates of Upstate New York. (November 3, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Open house helps pets find families - On Sunday, the Johnsons had to contend with about 200 potential animal owners at the shelter’s open house in honor of the first day of National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. (November 3, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Dog shot to death then stuffed in garbage bag Police are looking for the person who shot a dog in the city Wednesday night on North Street. Officials say they think someone actually climbed a fence, got behind the dog and shot it execution style, then stuffed the dog into a garbage bag. (October 9, 2003) MSNBC Local News
Democrat & Chronicle: Expert to display beauty of bats — Merlin Tuttle was a boy of 15 in rural Tennessee when he looked up one day to see a cloud of bats emerge from a cave. It was the start of his scientific love affair with the winged mammals that are still so little understood. While still in his teens, he banded 40,000 of the same migrating creatures he watched pour out of the cave. Today, after a pursuit of truth and justice for bats that has spanned nearly five decades, the 62-year-old Tuttle is a world-class expert. (October 1, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Too Many Bees - Rochester, NY (09/08/03) - Yellow jacket bees are busier than ever this year and they're creating problems in homes and outside. Bee experts are blaming the extremely high population on the weather. Brian Eshenaur of Cornell Cooperative Extension said, "It has been a wet summer. Often times, we have a drought period in the summer. This year we had consistent rains through growing season so that helped yellow jacket population." (September 9, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Vandal kills young exhibitor's bees (Syracuse-AP) -- State Police say they have no suspects so far in the death of 5,000 honey bees that were part of a young exhibitor's hive at the State Fair. But William Ransom, a co-coordinator for Future Farmers of America, says someone has been leaving unsigned notes for the past week (August 31, 2003) MSNBC Local News
Pataki Vetoes 'Canned Hunt' Ban - Albany, NY (AP) 08/28/03 -- Animal rights activists criticize Governor Pataki's veto of a bill that would have banned "canned hunts." The bill would have banned hunts in which people pay to shoot non-native animals in enclosed areas. Canned hunts are already banned when the animals are in a pen or a fenced-in area of ten acres or less. (August 28, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Animal Cruelty - Canandaigua, NY - (08/29/03) - Investigators in Ontario County are looking into a suspected case of animal cruelty. They said someone tied one end of an air compressor around a cat's neck and tied the other end around a pole. (August 28, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: Spaying like never before — Rochester Animal Services plans to remodel its Verona Street shelter to accommodate a new surgical suite for spaying and neutering dogs and cats. The goal is to increase the number of animals sterilized at the facility before they are adopted. (August 26, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Fish Back In Hatchery - The hatchery at Powder Mills Park will soon be re-stocked with fish.-(August 28, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Leash-Free Parks Proposed - Dog owners are one step closer to getting some space to let their dogs run leash-free.
Members of the Monroe County legislature's Ways and Means and Recreation and Education Committees passed a proposal to create four off-leash areas, in four Monroe County parks. These areas would be fenced in or bound by natural barriers and self-policed by registered users who pay an annual fee. (August 7, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Democrat & Chronicle: Two charged in dogs' deaths— Two Rochester men have been charged with animal cruelty in the deaths of three dogs. (August 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Falcon watch - The five Peregrine Falcons recently hatched and fledged from the Kodak Office tower are now flying on their own. One or more of these exciting and beautiful birds (pictured) can usually be seen from the pedestrian bridge at High Falls at almost any time of day. (July 24, 2003) City Newspaper
Two beheaded chickens found in cemetary Two mutilated animals were found near a cemetary on Spencerport road in gates on Friday. (July 13, 2003) MSNBC Local News
Animal Abuse - Syracuse police are looking for the people who threw a dog and five puppies out of a window of a moving car.
Police say someone tossed a garbage bag full of five American Eskimo puppies out one window and their mother out another window. (July 5, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Dogs Might Get Looser Leashes - Dog owners may soon have the chance to loosen the leash in some Monroe County parks.
The county held it's final public hearing on the proposal to create leash-free areas in four county parks. It would give dogs a 3-acre section to run free and socialize with other dogs. (June 18, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Schenectady Pigeons Missing - Schenectady, NY (AP) 06/13/03 - The pigeons of Schenectady have mysteriously disappeared. Pigeons outnumbered downtown shoppers at one point in the city, about ten miles west of Albany. But recently, the birds have inexplicably disappeared from windowsills, overhangs and other roosts. (June 13, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: Kodak falcons need baby sitters — Now that the five young peregrine falcons in the Eastman Kodak Tower nesting box are a month old, their first attempts to fly will come soon. The Genesee Valley Audubon Society is asking for volunteers who are willing to work three- or four-hour daylight shifts beginning Sunday through July 7 to watch the falcons and assist them should they land in dangerous places, such as an air conditioning vent, a smokestack or in the middle of State Street or Lake Avenue. (June 13, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Lollypop has cats and cats the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm is deluged with about 80 unwanted cats and kittens daily. To encourage more people to adopt cats, Lollypop is once again hosting a June Adopt-a-Cat month. Throughout June, the cost of adopting a cat is $50 -- $15 off the regular cost. The adoption fee includes spaying or neutering, a feline leukemia test, vaccinations, worming and flea treatment. Staff at the Perinton animal shelter say cats are boarded as long as possible. But in the warm weeks, during which scores of kittens are given up for adoption, space is at a premium. In 2002, of the cats brought to Lollypop, 3,834 were adopted and 3,541 euthanized. (June 3, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Don't feed the lobsters, activist in Canandaigua warned — CANANDAIGUA — Joel Freedman grew upset at seeing lobsters, with rubber bands on their claws, piled atop one another in a supermarket tank. The animal-rights advocate figured it was time to make his anger known. (June 2, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Dog gets death for killing woman — CORTLANDT — A pit bull that killed a 75-year-old woman will be put to death next week, a judge in this Westchester County town ruled Friday. (May 31, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Teen guilty of killing parakeet — RIVERHEAD — A Long Island teenager pleaded guilty Friday to animal cruelty charges, admitting he killed his pet parakeet last New Year’s Eve by setting the bird on fire, the Suffolk County district attorney’s office said. (May 31, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: 2 charged in abuse of 23 dogs — EAGLE — Authorities have accused a Wyoming County couple of starving 23 English setter dogs at their residence. (June 1, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Hamlin Horses Helped By Humane Society Humane Society investigators removed five horses from a home in Hamlin Thursday. (May 30, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Nature Center Gets New Birds Otis the owl and Kady the kestrel have a new home thanks to a group of naturalists. A joint project at the Helmer Nature Center between staff and three West Irondequoit students created two new raptor cages for the birds. (May 25, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Democrat & Chronicle: Critters shy away from I-87 culverts — ALBANY — Unlike the chicken, bears aren’t crossing the road. Neither are coyotes, foxes or weasels, according to a new study on whether wildlife are using culverts under the interstate that cuts through the Adirondacks. The only evidence of wildlife using the culverts under Interstate 87 were a few pictures of raccoons using one of 19 culverts that were monitored, says a study by State Museum researchers published in the spring/summer issue of the Adirondack Journal of Environmental Studies. (May 25, 2003)Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: State shuts some climbing routes — ALBANY — The state on Friday announced the closure of several Adirondack rock climbing routes to protect nests of endangered peregrine falcons. (May 17, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Pittsford tells pooches to clean up their act — PITTSFORD — Dog poop has become a problem in the village, but officials have taken action to curb it. Two dispensers containing free, glove-shaped plastic bags are now located at the pavilion in the small park at the entrance to Schoen Place. And there’s a sign encouraging pet owners to take advantage of the opportunity to keep the area clean when they are walking their dogs. (May 18, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Bill for four county dog parks coming— Monroe County officials said Thursday that they plan to introduce legislation this summer to establish four dog parks. The county, however, won’t provide the funds -- expected to be almost $50,000 -- to establish these off-leash sites in county parks. Fundraising is being conducted by private residents working with the county. (May 16, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Arrests made in alleged dog fight — A Humane Society investigation into an alleged dog fight in a Mt. Read Boulevard home early Saturday led to the arrest of 14 people. (May 11, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: International Migratory Bird Day celebrated Saturday. — Several demonstrations with live birds, educational talks and family activities are planned for International Migratory Bird Day on Saturday. Local events are being held by BirdCOR, a nonprofit coalition of local environmental organizations and agencies. (May 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Watching Pets For Signs Of Bioterrorism Pets share our homes and our lives. Because the health of our pets can tell us a lot about the health of our environment both inside and outside our homes, some believe pets could be the first to warn of exposure to chemical or biological terrorism. With the exception of small pox, dogs and cats will react to anthrax or botulism--just as humans would, only they'd experience symptoms a lot quicker. (April 29, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: 12 dogs, three cats rescued at filthy Orleans house — SHELBY — Investigators for The Humane Society at Lollypop Farm have seized 12 dogs and 3 cats from a squalid Orleans County house. Orleans County Animal Control officers called investigators to the home of Zanella Deacon at 4541 Baby Lane in Shelby on Saturday for a report of dogs allegedly left unattended there for at least five days, said Lollypop Farm Field Services Vice President Richard Gerbasi. (April 18, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Monroe County lists rabies clinics (April 15, 2003) — The Monroe County Health Department has scheduled a series of rabies clinics for pets belonging to county residents. State public health law was changed in 2002. Pets not immunized against rabies that may have exposed someone must now be confined in an approved animal shelter for a period of 10 days -- at the owner’s expense -- to observe the animal for symptoms of rabies. (April 15, 2003) —Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Zoo society proposes new facility — The Seneca Park Zoo Society announced plans Tuesday to donate $3.6 million for a new complex providing an animal hospital, classrooms and exhibit area within the footprint of the existing zoo. (April 9, 2003) —Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Leads sought in slaying of pets near Batavia — ALABAMA — Shelly and Bill Schutt came home on a recent afternoon to find two pets, including a Shetland pony they bought for their daughter, dead from gunshot wounds. (April 3, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Seneca Park Zoo joins effort to protect sloths (February 24, 2003) — The Monroe County’s Seneca Park Zoo has partnered with the Center for Ecosystem Survival to further augment the Adopt An Acre program. The Adopt An Acre program is aimed at helping preserve the two-toed sloth and its habitat in the Rincon Rainforest of the Guanacaste National Park in Costa Rica. (February 24, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Hardships convert to bliss for dozens of abused pigs — Lobo-Cerdo came in severely emaciated, with thick scabs behind her ears. Pink Rosebud survived an infestation of parasites. Carmen still walks with a limp caused by frostbite. Forty-one pigs found wandering around an upstate farm without food, water or shelter from the bitter cold caught an animal-lovers fantasy ride Thursday to adoptive families around the nation. Another 32 pigs will be shipped out in trailers over the next few weeks. (February 21, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: 'Dog parks' proposed in Monroe— Advocates for setting up dog parks in Monroe County are trying to finalize a proposal to establish four such off-leash sites. The group of about 10 has been meeting over the past eight months with county Parks Director Frank Allkofer and Legislator Raymond Santirocco, R-Penfield, who submitted legislation last spring to look into creating unleashed areas. If enough details are worked out at their meeting Thursday, a plan would be submitted for consideration by County Executive Jack Doyle. (February 11, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Discovery of dead horse, dogs likely to bring cruelty charges (February 7, 2003) — YATES — Investigators with the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm have discovered a dead horse and two dead dogs at an Orleans County property and are considering animal cruelty charges against the owners. Additionally, the animal cruelty investigators have rescued five dogs and a horse from the property. (February 7, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: Pit bulls attack girl, neighbor — A 15-year-old girl was attacked by two pit bulls Tuesday on Ellison Street while she was walking home from school. (February 5, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Groups Plan To Protest Crow Hunt Auburn, NY (AP) - The organizers of a weekend crow hunt plan to proceed with their contest despite the mayor's opposition and plans by animal advocacy groups to protest the event. Auburn Mayor Melina Carnicelli, adamantly opposed to the tournament, has directed police this weekend to strictly enforce Auburn's trash law, which prohibits hunters from bringing dead birds into city limits for disposal. (January 31, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Democrat & Chronicle: Dead pit bull found frozen under Williamson trailer — WILLIAMSON — The Wayne County District Attorney’s office says animal cruelty charges are pending against a Williamson man after investigators found a chained 2-year-old pit bull frozen to death on his property. (January 23, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Democrat & Chronicle: One of 27 cats confiscated is put to death — PERINTON — One of 27 cats confiscated last Thursday in Webster has been humanely put to death. Richard Gerbasi, vice president of operations and field services at the Humane Society at Lollypop Farm, said the kitten was in poor physical condition. (January 16, 2003) Democrat and Chronicle
Dead Animals Discovered Inside Mt. Morris Trailer Mt. Morris, NY - Investigators from the Humane Society said charges are likely in an apparent case of animal cruelty in Mt. Morris. (January 11, 2003) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Cats Found Neglected In Home The humane society is now caring for more then two dozen cats found in a Webster apartment this morning. (January 10, 2003) R News: Your NewsChannel
Dog Shot in Irondequoit A man shot a dog on the loose in Irondequoit last week. He said the dog was acting aggressively toward him. The law says you can shoot if you feel threatened. (January 1, 2003) MSNBC Local News
Democrat & Chronicle: Polar bear cub dies at zoo — One of the two polar bear cubs born in November at the Seneca Park Zoo died suddenly Friday. The male cub’s death was discovered after staffers noticed via a closed-circuit monitor that he wasn’t moving. Preliminary examinations showed the cub had a twisted and ruptured stomach, according to zoo veterinarian Jeff Wyatt. (December 28, 2002) Democrat and Chronicle
Governor Signs Bill Requiring Wild Animal Registration Albany, NY - New Yorkers who keep wild animals at home must tell local officials under a bill signed this week into law by Governor Pataki. The measure is designed to inform "first responders" like firefighters, police officers, and medical technicians of potentially harmful or deadly animals in homes when they're called in for emergencies. (December 27, 2002) WOKR-TV 13 || ROCHESTER
Humans and coyotes cross paths Jerry Sullivan had a strange encounter last spring while jogging along Whiting Road which he still finds hard to believe.(December 20, 2002) Webster Post