The Voice of Outdoor Kansas

November- December 2014

P.O. Box 771282 Wichita, KS 67277-1282

News & Events Pages 2, 4-6, 10, 12, 14-15

Anglers & Habitats Mountain lion Pages 11, 18, 38

Hunters & Habitats confirmed in Pages 2, 7, 12-13, 17, 20, 25, 27, 34-35, 37-39, 43-44 Labette County Mountain lion photographed on trail cam Natural Resource in southeast Kansas Management A deer hunter from Labette County got a surprise recently when he checked his trail Pages 4, 8-10, 14, 16-22, 24-25, camera he had set up for deer. He found a single image of a mountain lion walking 29-31, 33, 36-37, 40, 43 away, down the trail, the characteristic long tail prominently displayed. Kansas Depart- ment of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) staff visited the site last week and veri- fied the photo’s authenticity. This is the tenth mountain lion verified by KDWPT since Outdoor Recreation 2007, but the first in almost two years. Pages 3, 20, 39-41 The first confirmed mountain lion in 2007 was killed by an individual in Barber County. Since then, most of the sightings have been confirmed with photographs taken by remote, motion-triggered cameras commonly used by deer hunters to keep track of KIDS' WILD FRIENDS deer movement near their stands. Pages 15, 18, 21, 26, 32, 41-41 In each instance, KDWPT staff traveled to the sites where photos were taken to vali- date the photographs. Staff investigates sightings whenever evidence, such as tracks, a cached kill or a photograph exists. Biologists assume most sightings are of transient Go to our Web site, young males, coming from established populations in nearby states. www.kswildlife.org, “It’s not uncommon for young males to travel great distances looking for home for additional KWF information ranges,” said Matt Peek, KDWPT furbearer biologist. “So far, these animals appear to be passing through, rather than staying and establishing home ranges in Kansas.”

Protecting the Land... Passing on Our Traditions

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 1 KANSAS WILDLIFE President's Message FEDERATION By Troy Schroeder

Officers and This year has passed quickly for me. It is already that time of year when we Board of Directors are asking you to send in your member- ship dues for 2015. Memberships are very important to us. Not only do they Kansas Wildlife Federation, Inc. provide funding for projects and activi- P.O. Box 771282 ties but give us more clout for influenc- Wichita, KS 67277-1282 Business: 785-650-3182 ing legislative or administrative action Fax: 316-755-2239 related to wildlife. Thus we would like E-mail: [email protected] to increase membership in 2015. Website: www.kswildlife.org When you send in your membership, we suggest you ask a few friends to join KWF OFFICERS our ranks as well. We are continuing the President: option for you to give gift memberships Troy Schroeder to new members for half price when 1785 CR 390 you pay for one Basic ($30) member- this newsletter. Albert, KS 67511 ship. As I am writing this note, we are Home: 785-650-3182 New for this year, with a donation of gearing up for the upland bird season. E-mail: [email protected] $75 or more you get a free ticket to our Early word is that we have more birds annual meeting. That includes registra- than last year and hunters should find Immediate Past President: tion, lunch, and afternoon informational success in some areas. Of course habitat Don Snider sessions as well as the evening auction it still the key and areas with good 2319 W. 60th North and banquet where we give Conserva- habitat, providing adequate cover for Wichita, KS 67204 tion Achievement Awards to Kansans nesting and brood rearing will have Home: 316-755-0920 that have made a significant contribu- E-mail: [email protected] birds. However, it will take more than tion to wildlife conservation in 2014. If one year to rebound from last year’s all you have items you would like to do- time low resulting from three years of Administrative Vice President: nate for our auction, please let us know Angela Anderson drought. I am hearing that quail seem to 853 Road 300 and we will arrange pick up. have done better this year than pheas- Allen, KS 66833-9356 In addition to memberships we are ants. The more normal rainfall this year Cell: 620-481-9547 interested in donations or planned giv- resulted in lots of lush growth so we E-mail: ing. If you are interested in making a will have good cover to hunt and to help [email protected] tax deductible donation for tax purposes birds overwinter. We won’t know for or selecting charities to support through sure what we have until the rest of the Conservation Vice President: your estate or will, please keep KWF in fall crops are harvested and hunters take Steve Sorensen mind. For more information contact us to the field on opening day. 9 Weatherly Ct. (see article in this issue of the newslet- Please keep up with us by checking Valley Center, KS 67147-8547 ter). Our contact information is listed in our website at www.kswildlife.org. Home: 316-755-2239 Cell: 316-214-3001 Fax: 316-755-0321 E-mail: [email protected] Field care critical for Secretary: Matt Nowak tasty venison 1007 N. 2nd Lansing, KS 66043 Venison is healthy culinary trerat if cared for properly Business: 913-684-8979 “Gamey,” “tough,” and “dry” are three the video. Home: 913-727-3871 adjectives that should never describe your After a shot has been placed and the E-mail: [email protected] deer meat, and if proper practices take deer recovered, a hunter should immedi- place while in the field, the reward can ately tag the carcass and begin cooling the Treasurer: be quite a culinary treat. Whether you meat. This can be done by immediately Brian Snider are processing a deer for the first time, or field dressing, or gutting, the carcass. The 1058 N. Crestway St. are looking to try a different process, the first step in dressing the deer should be Wichita, KS 67208-2807 Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and to remove the deer’s entrails. Next, prop Home: 316-210-1277 Tourism has a brief, easy-to-follow video open the ribcage and let cool air circulate E-mail: [email protected] on field dressing your harvest that will throughout the body cavity. After a few walk you through the process from start to Editor: Steve Sorensen finish. Just visit ksoutdoors.com and click “Hunting/Big Game Information” to view Continued on Page 8 Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 2 KANSAS WILDLIFE FEDERATION Officers and Board of Directors

KWF DIRECTORS Northeast District: Ted Beringer 15313 W. 80th Terrace Lenexa, KS 66219-1530 Home: 913-541-1859 E-mail: [email protected]

Northcentral District: Nick Levendofsky 440 Marble Rd. Courtland, KS 66939 Cell: 785-527-0941 E-mail: [email protected] 239 Kansas schools are now Northwest District: Dave Hendricks P. O. Box 488 enrolled in National Archery in WaKeeney, KS 67672-0488 Home: 785-743-2644 the Schools Program E-mail: [email protected] It provides a lifetime of fun, enjoy- gram are Northern Heights, Emporia Southeast District: ment and friendly competition for all and Osage City. Schools with inter- Phil Taunton ages. est in the program may contact the 2508 Loma Vista Drive The Kansas Department of Wildlife Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks Emporia, KS 66801-5856 Parks and Tourism and NASP training and Tourism at (620) 672-5911. Olpe Home: 620-342-5016 Cell: 620-794-5373 instructors will host a National Archery High School’s NASP program will be E-mail: [email protected] in the Schools Program (NASP) Basic completely funded by KDWPT and the Archery Instructor’s Workshop at Flint Hills Chapter of the Quail and Southcentral District: Olpe High School, October 27th. The Upland Wildlife Federation. Carl Conley purpose of the workshop is to train and Schools and interested instructors 320 S. 2nd certify educators from Olpe, Hartford, may contact the Kansas Department Clearwater, KS 67206-9454 Reading and other local schools as of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism at Home: 620-584-2733 NASP Archery Instructors. 620.672.5911 for more information Cell: 620-641-3026 Kansas entered the NASP program concerning the NASP Program and the E-mail: [email protected] in 2006 and the program has grown October 27th workshop. Donations steadily since. State and National tour- to help fund the National Archery in Southwest District: Open naments are held every year, rewarding the School programs in other schools 2015 NWF Representative: all participants with a medal, and top would be greatly appreciated. Troy Schroeder scoring archers with prizes ranging Kansas Department of Wildlife, from brand new bows to academic Parks and Tourism Natural Resource 2015 NWF Alternate scholarships. The National Archery in Officers Jesse Gehrt and Dave Adams Representative: the Schools Program allows students helped kids participate in a modi- Angela Anderson who might not otherwise engage in tra- fied National Archery in the Schools ditional sports to participate. Students Program at Council Grove Reservoir KWF Affiliates: with special challenges, who cannot on Saturday, October 11 (see photo). Geary County Fish & Game Association participate in the traditional team More than 40 youth participated in the Junction City, KS sports, have excelled in archery and archery, shotgun, and pellet gun “in- love to participate. struction and safe handling” stations. Kansas Wildlife Officers The NASP program is second All youth received door prizes and one Association only to table tennis in safety in high lucky ‘Ambassador to the Outdoors Iola, KS school sports in the U.S. Local schools and future hunter” walked away with a already involved in the NASP pro- brand new .243 rifle. Quail & Upland Wildlife Federation Buffalo, MO

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 3 KANSAS WILDLIFE 2014 Conservation FEDERATION Achievement Program Awards You know someone who has volun- they felt in being bestowed such a note- Officers and teered countless hours towards a particular worthy recognition. Do your part and make Board of Directors wildlife project or someone who has de- certain we recognize those most deserving voted themselves beyond normal expecta- at the CAP banquet in February, 2015. tions for conservation. It is important for To nominate someone simply e-mail The Kansas Wildlife Federation conservationist to give credit to those who a nomination of 400-500 words (more or promotes hunting and fishing deserve it. It demonstrates that we hold less) to [email protected]. Make sure opportunities and associated these activities in high regard and gives you put full contact information for your- recreation for the benefit some appreciated recognition to folks who self and the nominee, including mailing of all hunters, anglers and work very hard for something they love. and e-mail addresses and phone numbers. conservationists. KWF supports the sustainable use Do your part and consider those you work Do it now! E-mail me if you’d like a cyber and management of fish with or know who have performed beyond copy of the form. Thanks for your help and wildlife and their habitats the call of duty, someone who deserves with this very noteworthy program for through education, partnerships, to be recognized for their contributions wildlife conservation in Kansas. Get your outreach and policy oversight. to Kansas’ wildlife. Let’s not let them go nominations to us by December 1. unrecognized for their dedication and sacri- Director at Large: fices. Randy Kidd Elby Adamson Please make an effort to identify folks CAP Chair 1838 12th Rd who have made special efforts for wildlife 16879 46th St. Clay Center, KS 67432 in 2014. Those who have received Con- McLouth, KS 66054-4125 Home: 785-632-5986 E-mail: [email protected] servation Achievement Program (CAP) [email protected] awards in the past can attest to the pride Ph. 785-863-3425 Director at Large: Cindy Higgins 1023 Elm Eudora, KS 66028 Four men caught with 209 Home: 785-542-2606 E-mail: [email protected] doves on 2nd day of season Director at Large: By Beccy Tanner Randy Kidd The Wichita Eagle 16879 46th St. McLouth, KS 66054 Four men who were stopped in rural Home: 785-863-3425 Ellis County last week with 209 doves E-mail: [email protected] in their possession have outraged hunt- ers and outdoor enthusiasts across the Director at Large: state. Jim Strine 1900 Fort St. The men were stopped Tuesday, the Hays, KS 67601-4304 second day of dove season. The daily Home: 785-625-8940 limit is 15 doves per hunter. E-mail: [email protected] “I hope they throw the book at them and take them to federal court and give A game warden for the Kansas Director at Large: them jail time,” said Spencer Tomb, a Department of Wildlife, Parks David Zumbaugh retired Kansas State University botany and Tourism came across four 15507 W. 61st Terrace professor in Riley County and an avid hunters in Ellis County on Tues- Shawnee, KS 66217-9692 hunter. day night. Between them, the Cell: 913-302-4177 “We have game laws so everybody four had shot 209 doves. The E-mail: [email protected] gets a fair chance at hunting. And they daily limit is 15 birds per hunter. Director at Large: did that in one day?” Photo courtesy of Kansas De- Open Kansas Department of Wildlife, partment of Wildlife, Parks and Parks and Tourism officials are in Tourism CHANGE OF ADDRESS the process of deciding what type of Please send your mailing label and charges the four will face, whether it the men, or say whether they were Kan- new address, clearly printed. Allow 2 will be on a federal or state level, said sas residents. to 6 weeks for the change to be made. Dan Melson, law enforcement supervi- If wildlife officials decide to pursue Send to: sor for the western region of Wildlife a federal case, the process could take a Kansas Wildlife Federation Newsletter and Parks. The four have yet to be P.O. Box 771282 year or more, Melson said. Wichita, KS 67277-1282 charged, he said. Melson would not give the ages of Continued on Page 7

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 4 Official entry form 2014 Kansas Wildlife Federation Conservaton Achievement Program Awards The Kansas Wildlife Federation CAP sion control, habitat improvement or other civic clubs, conservation groups, garden awards recognize outstanding accomplish- management practices that improve land so clubs, sportsman’s clubs, businesses, pro- ments in Kansas’s conservation. Nomina- as to benefit wildlife. fessional organizations and others. tions should be made for efforts worthy ● Conservation Education. For ● Stream Team or Stream Monitor. of state recognition. The accomplishment outstanding achievement in educating oth- For outstanding efforts by a group of citi- should reflect a long-time commitment to ers in conservation. The process may be zen volunteers or individual in monitoring natural resources in Kansas with a signifi- formal or informal. The nominations may and contributing to the protection of our cant effort during the past year. Awards are be for leadership, which by example of state’s waterways. Nominees should have presented in 13 categories to capture the demonstration, aids in the environmental/ demonstrated leadership in streem monitor- wide range of efforts that benefit wildlife wildlife education of others. ing, protection and educational efforts. and the cause of conservation. Past year’s ● Forest Conservation. For outstand- ● Conservation Legislator. For out- winners are not eligible for nomination ing achievement in forest and woodlands standing achievement by a legislator in in the same category for 3 years. Current management, including reforestation, pres- conservation legislation that took place in KWF officers are not eligible. ervation of wilderness areas and wildlife or culminated in the contest year. Competi- ● Wildlife Conservationist. For out- habitat development. tion is open to state or federal legislators standing achievement in fish or wildlife ● Conservation Communicator . For and their staff members. resource management. Nominees should outstanding conservation achievement in ● Farmer/Rancher Wildlife Conser- have demonstrated leadership in manage- effectively conveying the conservation vationist. This award is to recognize spe- ment, restoration, or research of habitats or message and creating public awareness of cial efforts of a farmer and/or rancher who wildlife species. conservation issues in the news and other has made extra efforts towards conserving ● Water Conservationist. For out- media. wildlife. standing achievement in water pollution ● Youth Conservationist. For outstand- ● Outdoor Skills Instructor. This control, conservation, and protection of ing conservation efforts for someone under award recognizes wildlife, nature, shoot- rivers and wetlands, preventation of deg- 21 during the contest year. Winners should ing, and outdoor instructors for their supe- radation of water quality through effective have demonstrated ability and accomplish- rior involvement in educating others. planning and management or other activity ment in some phase of conservation. Youth ● Conservationist of the Year. The aimed at maintaining or improving water groups are eligible as well. Conservationist of the Year will be selected standards. ● Conservation Organization. For from all the nominations submitted in all ● Land and Soil Conservation. For outstanding achievement by an organiza- categories. This award will be based on ex- outstanding achievement in watershed tion for work in some phase of conserva- emplary service to Kansas’s fish, wildlife protection, wetlands development, ero- tion during the contest period. May include and environmental conservation efforts.

CAP Nomination Form

To make a nomination, send this form with attached write up to Randy Kidd, CAP Chairman, [email protected]. Nominating write-ups should be approximately 400-500 words, and should list the accomplishments of the nominee, especially those accomplishments during the contest period (2014). The Deadline for nominations is December 1, 2014. Any questions, contract: Randy Kidd [email protected] or 785-863-3425.

Name of nominee______Address______Phone(s)______eMail(s)______Award Category ______(please specify one of the categories, above) Nominator’s name______Address______Phone(s)______eMail(s)______

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 5 2015 KWF Annual Meeting set for Hays The Kansas Wildlife Federation’s 2015 to review pending Kansas legislation dealing special rates of $64 per night and will be held Annual Meeting is set for Friday and Sat- with wildlife issues and discuss any resolu- until December 30, 2014. Call the Days Inn urday, February 20 and 21 at the Whiskey tions to be brought before the membership at 785-628-8261 or 800-225-3297 to make Creek Wood Fire Grill at 3203 Vine Street in at the meeting Saturday morning. Come reservations. Be sure to tell them that you are Hays. The 2014 Conservation Achievement participate in this important process. with the Kansas Wildlife Federation to re- Program (CAP) awards banquet will be held Motel rooms have been reserved at the ceive the special room rate. Call soon before Saturday night at the same location. Days Inn at 3205 Vine Street in Hays. A the rooms run out. Friday night we will convene a meeting block of rooms has been reserved at the See you in Hays. Calendar of events Nov 4 Kansas Wildlife Advisory Council meeting, Topeka 4631 Nov 7-8 Kansas Rural Center 2014 Farm & Food Conference, Mar 16-22 Spring Break for Kansas Regents Schools Manhattan Apr 10-11 Kansas Assn. of Teachers of Science [KATS] Kamp, Nov 7-9 Kansas Herpetological Society annual meeting, KSU, Rock Springs Manhattan Apr 24-25 Wings n/Wetlands Festival, Great Bend Nov 12-13 Governor’s Conference on the Future of Water in Kan- May TBA Kansas Ornithological Society spring meeting, Western sas, Hilton Garden Inn, Manhattan KS Nov 16 Prairie seed collecting at Burnett’s Mound, Topeka May 2-3 Kansas Sampler Festival, Wamego contact Vivien Smith 785.231.4030 May 29-31 Kansas Assn. of Biology Teachers spring field trip, Chautauqua Hills 2015 June TBA Symphony in the Flint Hills, TBA Jan 19 KS Assn. of Biology Teachers Winter Board Meeting, June 6 11th Annual Glen Elder Youth Fishing Tournament, Camp Williamson, Venango Scott Waters, 785-545-3345 Jan 29-30 Kansas Natural Resources Conference combined meet- June 7-12 KWF Outdoor Adventure Camp, Rock Springs Camp ing – Airport Hilton, Wichita Theresa [email protected] 1. Great Plains Society of American Forestry, June 13 6th Justin Corbet Foundation “Youth in the Outdoors 2. Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams Day” 785-256-6444 3. Kansas Chapter: American Fisheries Society July 30-Aug. 2 Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, 4. Kansas Chapter: Soil and Water Conservation Society national meeting, KU, Lawrence 5. Kansas Chapter: The Wildlife Society Sept 12 Kansas Assn. of Biology Teachers annual mtg, Konza 6. Kansas Section: Society for Range Management Biological Station, Manhattan 7. Kansas Grazing Lands Coalition Sept TBA Kansas Native Plant Society annual meeting, Konza Feb 20-21 Kansas Wildlife Federation Annual Meeting, Hays Biological Station, Manhattan Feb 21 Flint Hills Chapter QUWF Banquet, Morris County Fair Building For a more up-to-date calendar go to http://kswildlife.org/ Mar 7-8 6th Kansas Hunting & Fishing Expo, Emporia 620-342- calendar.php.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 6 Affiliate news A successful guide and hunter for 2014 Tuttle Creek Assisted Hunt By Ben Jedlicka Kansas Wildlife Officers Association

What a difference a year makes. I looked back to the weather conditions for the Tuttle Creek 2013 assisted hunt. Each of the two days of last year’s hunt, highs for the day were officially recorded at 103 degrees with Sunday’s temperature a record high for the date. This year hunt- ers and guides were greeted with much improved conditions, a high temperature of 75 degrees for Saturday opener of youth disabled season, and Sunday morning a chill of 44 degrees at o-dark-thirty as guides and hunters departed for the their blinds. On Saturday, September 6, 2014, the 27 assisted hunt participants harvested five does and three bucks for a total of eight deer after the morning and evening hunts. The 100 degree heat of 2013, a bad memory, produced the best success of the hunt’s twelve year history with eight deer Pictured above (l-r): Donevan Gillespie, Frank McMaster and his deer, taken that warm morning. Game Warden Ben Jedlicka and Kelly Gillespie One young guide is a product of his participation as a hunter several years waited for this buck to get within range. a rifle they brought or a loaner provided. ago. Donevan Gillespie was guided as a We can only hope that in years to come, This aspect of the program may explain hunter by guide Greg Bloomdahl. Donnie’s this youngster will join us as a guide and how each of the 15 deer taken was with father, Kelly, an avid archery hunter, was provide an opportunity to a hunter that one shot. No problems finding or retriev- deployed to Iraq at that time. Both, father today may be in first or second grade at his ing any of this year’s deer were experi- Kelly and son Donevan, now share their or her grade school. enced. experience as guides for the assisted hunt The 27 hunters with the help of their Planning for next year’s hunt has program. Donnie’s hunter, Frank McMas- guides bagged 15 deer during the two already begun. As in every year, places ter, was successful Saturday morning and days of the 2014 hunt. The guides and to hunt, new guides to replace those not is pictured here with his first deer. The each hunter met at Fancy Creek Range available next year, and of course new young hunter made a text book well-placed August 17th, 2014. Every hunter was participants are all needed for the 13th shot as the hunter and guide watched and required to show their marksmanship with year of this program.

and former director of the Kansas Depart- can’t always.” DOVE ment of Wildlife and Parks. He is now But residents can help. If they are director of the Missouri River Association aware of poaching or see it happening, Continued from Page 4 of States and Tribes. they are encouraged to call the KDWPT’s The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is “Certainly hunting ethics is something Operation Game Thief at 877-426-3843. currently processing a similar case from very important,” Hayden said. “When As game birds go, doves are relatively last year from Ellis and Graham County. things like this happen, it casts a shadow. small. Fifteen doves per day per hunter is Doves are a migratory bird. If the men It is unethical and jeopardizes the future typically enough meat to feed two people, are found guilty of violating the federal of hunting.” Tomb said. Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, the One of the problems in rural areas is “What a waste this is,” Hayden said. four could face stiff fines and possible that game wardens often have to cover “The season limits are very generous jail time. In addition, poachers can face four and five counties each, an equivalent and why you need to break the law goes revocation of any hunting, fishing or trap- of 4,000 to 5,000 square miles, Hayden against everything I was ever taught. ping licenses. said. “My thought is that if somebody has For now, the 209 doves are being pre- “It does sometimes cause people to shot this many birds, they have probably served as evidence, Melson said. have a lax attitude toward game laws and violated other laws. There may be a series Most hunters despise poachers, said to let them think they can get away with of violations other than just being over Mike Hayden, former governor of Kansas anything,” Hayden said. “This shows they the bag limit.”

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 7 The country loses a courageous wildlife conservationist By Ron Klataske Executive Director Audubon of Kansas

With the passing of rancher Larry Haverfield on September 21, the country and especially Kansas lost a courageous conser- vationist dedicated to doing all he could on the 10,000 acres of Logan County, Kansas rangeland to provide a refuge for short-grass prairie wildlife. He and two other private landowners hosted one of the most promising reintroduction sites in the Great Plains for endangered Black-footed Ferrets. Ferrets are one of the rarest mammals in North America. Many species of wildlife benefit from the presence of prairie dog colo- nies, but Black-footed Ferrets rely on them for prey and for burrow habitat used as dens to raise young and for shelter. Captive-raised ferrets were released on the ranch complex in 2007. Burrowing Owls also depend on prairie dog burrows and associated habitat, whereas Golden Eagles, Ferruginous Hawks and Swift Foxes depend substantially on prairie dogs as prey. Black-tailed Prairie Dogs are a Larry and Bette Haverfield (left) stand with Gordon and Martha Barnhardt keystone species but their numbers have been at the Black-footed Ferret reintroduction site in 2008. Note the ferret, decreased by over 95% in the past 150 years. released a few minutes earlier, peering out from the burrow behind Larry. It takes courage and commitment for ranch landowners to maintain prairie dog plains in the 19th century. colonies in some Kansas counties where an Articles about the struggles that Haver- antiquated century-old state statute call- field overcame appeared nationwide in ing for eradication of prairie dogs, gophers newspapers and magazines. A recent article and moles is imposed on landowners. Larry that details Larry’s efforts was published in Haverfield and his conservation partners our Summer 2014 PRAIRIE WINGS maga- stood up against and fought, in court, the zine. An earlier article was also featured in Logan County commissioners who attempted the Fall 2011 issue of PRAIRIE WINGS. See to impose poisoning programs on their http://audubonofkansas.org/prairiewings/ for land. With the presence of the endangered both issues. species the courts in Kansas held at bay the Larry’s wife Bette, their five children and Logan County Commission and the Kansas One of the first ferrets reintro- many grandchildren are dedicated to continu- Farm Bureau, which advocated poisoning to duced to the Haverfield property ing his legacy of wildlife conservation on the achieve eradication. in December 2007. ranch. His family is proud of the ranch’s part One is reminded of the near extinction in reintroducing the Black-footed ferret to of American Bison and other wildlife in the conserve prairie dogs and all of the associ- Kansas and devoted to its continued success. prairies with a statute of Buffalo Bill in the ated wildlife in the 21st century is a reminder county seat of Oakley. Larry’s dedication to of the drumbeat to kill all of the Bison on the Continued on Page 15

make sure they are open and can get your of bacon to steaks or mixing beef tallow or VENISON deer into the cooler. If you plan to process sausage to the burger can add great flavor to the meat yourself, you’ll need a cool, clean the meat. The only “trick” to cooking tasty Continued from Page 2 place to hang the carcass, which should be venison, is not overcooking it as there is a minutes have passed the carcass can then be skinned as quickly as possible unless tem- fine line between just right and an over- moved to the final location of processing, peratures are very cool. Prompt skinning is cooked. Venison, as with all wild game, taking care to keep the meat clean. another important step in cooling the meat should be carefully cooked to medium or If you plan to use a commercial butcher/ when temperatures are mild. Once meat has medium rare. Let the meat rest a few min- processer, it’s a good idea to call ahead and been processed, it’s time to hit the grill. utes after cooking while you prepare your Since venison is very lean, adding a strip sides, dish up a plate, and enjoy! Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 8 Rancher did what needed doin' By Evan Barnum Larry. His coffin was not polished mahog- his or what nature provided. It was that On the Other Hand any or brass, but smoothed rough-hewn subject that got some folks riled up, at Colby Free Press wood. At the viewing, he held not rose least when it came to prairie dogs and or a lily, but a sunflower. Oh, he did have ferrets. He liked them, others didn’t. And We lost a unique individual last week, anew truck that he fed the cattle with. when controversy swirled around him, he the kind that we can ill afford to lose. Well, new in the ‘70s anyway. Never got met it head on – not for the glory or the I came to know Larry Haverfield, who a newer one because the cattle wouldn’t fame, but because he felt it needed doin’. ranched south of Russell Springs, late in know it. He wasn’t angry or resentful of those who his life, but even in that short time, he Larry knew the rancher’s way of life. opposed him; he just said that some folks made an impact on me. It is the values Every day, you did what needed doin’. It saw things differently than he did. that one generation passes on to the next didn’t matter if it was cold and snowing, The world needs more folks like Larry that help determine the course that each of you were sick, or you just didn’t feel like Haverfield. People who aren’t out to us takes in this world. it, you did what needed doin’. To him it change the world, not after power or to At his funeral last Friday, I thought was simple – the cattle didn’t care, and make a name for themselves, but who are about how you would describe Larry in they depended on you, so you did it. Even just there to do what needs doin’. And in one word. (Limiting, I know, but that was a week before he died, with cancer cloud- the process set an example for the rest of the exercise I set.) I thought of indepen- ing his mind, he had one thought as he us. dent and simple, but settled for real. For tried to struggle out of bed. He needed to In the end that’s all that any of us can what you saw in him was real. No hidden get back to the ranch, back to the cattle, to do: Get up each morning and ask God motives, no agendas – the man you saw do what needed doin’. simply for the strength to do what needs was the real Larry. Larry had a love for the land and all doin’. And then do it. There was nothing pretentious about the creatures that lived on it, whether Kind of like Larry did. 19 sportsmen's groups call on Congress to fully fund LWCF The Outdoor Wire Groups collaborating on the report are “Over and over again there have been the American Fly Fishing Trade Association, worthwhile projects that would benefit fish The nation’s leading hunting and fishing American Sportfishing Association, Archery and wildlife and access for sportsmen - proj- conservation organizations are calling on Trade Association, B.A.S.S., Backcountry ects that have broad public support,” said the United States Congress to fully fund Hunters and Anglers, Delta Waterfowl, Becky Humphries, executive vice president the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a Ducks Unlimited, Izaak Walton League of of conservation for the National Wild Tur- critical tool for conserving valuable fish and America, Mule Deer Foundation, National key Federation. “ But what is missing is wildlife habitat and improving public access Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasants Forever, financial support from the Land and Water for hunting and fishing. Pope and Young Club, Professional Bow- Conservation Fund due to inadequate fund- The request comes in a report released hunters Society, Quail Forever, Quality Deer ing for the program. American sportsmen today, the eve of the LWCF’s 50th anniver- Management Association, Rocky Mountain are calling on our federal decision makers to sary. “The Land and Water Conservation Elk Foundation, Theodore Roosevelt Con- ensure full funding for the LWCF.” Fund and America’s sportsmen and women: servation Partnership, Trout Unlimited and State-by-state case studies in the new A 50-year legacy of increased access and Wild Sheep Foundation. report show how the LWCF benefits improved habitat” features a series of “Hunters and anglers are an economic sportsmen, with Montana, Utah, Louisiana, state-based case studies that profile places engine within the United States, spending a Kentucky, Alaska, Wisconsin, Ohio, North and people across that country that have combined total of approximately $90 billion Carolina, Idaho and the Dakotas among benefited as a result of LWCF funding. in 2011 alone,” said Mule Deer Foundation those featured. The report also highlights “From Louisiana to Alaska and Maine President Miles Moretti. “These expendi- projects that would benefit fish and game to California, the Land and Water Conser- tures help create hundreds of thousands of resources and improve access to hunters vation Fund is one of the most important jobs at the local, state and national levels. and anglers but have stalled due to a lack of federal programs for conserving habitat An increased commitment to the Land and available LWCF dollars. and providing public access to lands and Water Conservation Fund by Congress “For 50 years, the Land and Water waters,” said Whit Fosburgh, president and would help to sustain and grow America’s Conservation Fund has done, from a CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conserva- hunting and fishing based economy.” sportsman’s perspective, exactly what it tion Partnership. “Yet despite the fund’s Established in 1964 through a biparti- was intended to do: protect crucial fish and many conservation success stories, it has san act of Congress, the federal LWCF is wildlife habitat to help sustain our nation’s gone underfunded for too long, and many supported through royalties paid by energy rich outdoor traditions,” said Steve Moyer, opportunities to improve game and fish companies drilling for oil and gas on the Trout Unlimited vice president for govern- resources have been missed due to a per- Outer Continental Shelf. The fund’s prom- ment affairs. petual lack of funding. Now is the time for ise, however, is eclipsed by the fact that, Sportsmen will deliver the report to Congress to live up to its commitment and since 1978, the LWCF has been fully funded members of Congress and brief members in fully fund the LWCF.” only once. key committee positions.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 9 Lance Hedges, TNC director of conservation, passes away The Nature Conservancy’s Director of he had the best job in the world. Our world people made him who he was and he will Conservation, Lance Hedges, age 46, of is diminished by his passing. be greatly missed by all who knew and Garnett, Kansas died suddenly of an appar- Lance loved the outdoors, especially loved him. ent heart attack Thursday night, October 9, hunting, fishing and trapping. He spent Memorial contributions may be made 2014. many hours with his family teaching them to The Lance Hedges Memorial Fund for a Lance was a remarkable individual, to hunt, fish, garden, and whatever mis- children’s education fund and future con- devoted family man and deeply committed chief they could get into. servation development in Kansas and sent conservationist. He was a dedicated em- Lance was considered a “best” friend in care of the funeral home. ployee who shared and taught his passion and never met a stranger. He always had a His obituary can be seen at: http:// to conserving wild Kansas. He enjoyed smile on his face and a joke to tell. Laugh- www.feuerbornfuneral.com/tribute/ every day of his professional life and was ter was in abundance whenever Lance was details/842/Lance_Hedges/obituary. often heard telling friends and family that in the room. His zest for life and love of html#tribute-start KWF end of year giving Making a difference is important to The Kansas Wildlife Federation Foun- policy, real estate, stocks, business hold- many people, and charitable giving is a dation was established to accept planned ings, or a checking or savings account are way people can make a difference. You can gifts, to ensure the future of the Kansas all assets that can be leveraged in planned help the Kansas Wildlife Federation make Wildlife Federation and its programs. In- gifts. In addition to the satisfaction of a difference by giving a cash donation, a come from the Kansas Wildlife Federation making a meaningful gift, most planned gift of real estate, stocks or other assets, or Foundation will be used to further mission gifts have immediate and/or long-term consider making a planned gift. of the organization: conserving and pro- tax benefits. Be sure to consult your tax Donors have options when giving tecting wildlife and habitat; advocating for advisor to determine the consequences of to support the programs of the Kansas wildlife, sportsmen, and outdoor enthusi- making a gift. Wildlife Federation. Option #1 is giving asts; and informing and educating Kansans So whether you wish to make a dif- for today directly to the Kansas Wildlife of all ages about nature and the outdoors. ference today or tomorrow, the Kansas Federation, offering ongoing financial sup- Planned giving is the transfer of as- Wildlife Federation can help you make an port for conserving and protecting wildlife sets to a non-profit organization during impact through its charitable giving op- and habitat. Option #2, is giving for the your lifetime or as part of an estate plan. portunities. Contact Troy Schroeder, KWF future to the Kansas Wildlife Federation Planned giving is easy, and you don’t have President at [email protected] for more Foundation. to be wealthy to do it! A life insurance information.

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Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 10 15-page 'Boaters Guide To Winterizing' offered by BoatUS Boats that are property winterized are most likely to enter next year's boating season without damage and ready to hit the water Water expands in volume by about nine for any type of boat. freeze claims handled by the BoatUS Ma- percent when it freezes, creating a stag- “These claims come from all over the rine Insurance Program in the past decade. gering force that can crack a boat engine country, not just from the states that get Included are chapters on: Storing your boat block, damage fiberglass, split hoses, or snow every year, and give us a very real - The options and the tradeoffs; a Winter- destroy a boat’s refrigeration system over- picture of what goes wrong and what we izing Checklist to use as the starting point night. As fall approaches, Boat Owners can do to prevent this damage,” said Boa- for creating your own boat’s winterizing Association of The United States (BoatUS) tUS Director of Technical Services Beth list; Engines and Drives - The dos and recently dug deep into its insurance claims Leonard. “Boaters up North know they don’ts; and Plumbing - Getting the water files unearthing a trove of winterizing-re- need to winterize, so their freeze claims out, which is great for larger boats. lated boat insurance claims and found that almost always involve poor winterizing. Additional information includes tips on more than three-quarters involved cracks in In the temperate South, the issue can be choosing antifreeze, lessons learned from the engine block or the exhaust manifolds. a case of no winterizing, or relying on a BoatUS Consumer Affairs about protecting Now, the national boating services, safety heater when the electricity goes off, usu- yourself with a winterization contract, and and advocacy group is making available ally when you need it most.” green winterizing information. at no-cost the 15-page “Boater’s Guide to The downloadable brochure addresses The checklist is available at www.Boa- Winterizing” that can make the task easier the reasons for more than 95 percent of the tUS.com/winterizingguide.

Angler education certification in southeast Kansas Angler education prepares folks to teach fishing techniques in Kansas The Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is having an upcoming class designed to certify future angler educators. The class will be held December 6 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Greenbush Camp and Retreat Center, 947 W 47 Hwy, Girard, KS 66743. There is no cost to attend but the class will be limited to the first 40 registrants. Lunch will be provided. Apart from becoming certified, partici- pants will also be given valuable infor- mation regarding working with children, sample curriculums, and tips for prepar- ing a class or clinic. Other subjects cov- ered in the four-hour class include current fishing regulations, species identification, fishing ethics, equipment, knot-tying, casting, fish habitat, aquatic nuisance species, and conservation practices. The Program, in its first year and a half, has certified 230 Angler Educa- Photo by Angela Anderson at the Twin Lakes Water Festival at Council Continued on Page 12 Grove Reservoir Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 11 Nearly half of hunters took a kid along The Archery Wire reported they hadn’t taken any children “Sportsmen have long sought to hunting in the past 12 months. share their love for the outdoors with the Hunting is a rich American tradition So what was the relation of these people in their lives, particularly young often passed down from generation to children to the hunter? Traditionally, it is people, and when it comes to hunting, generation. A recent survey by Hunt- thought boys and girls most often learn introducing kids to the outdoors isn’t erSurvey.com reveals that passing that to hunt from a parent and in 59 percent limited to just immediate family mem- heritage along to younger people is still of the reported cases that is absolutely bers,” says Rob Southwick, president of alive and well with nearly 46 percent of true. But sportsmen aren’t just teaching Southwick Associates, which designs and surveyed sportsmen having taken at least their kids how to track a buck, shoot a conducts the surveys at www.HunterSur- one child hunting in the past year. The duck or call in a turkey; they’re introduc- vey.com, www.ShooterSurvey.com and common perception that those children ing the outdoors to other relatives and www.AnglerSurvey.com. are almost always a son or daughter, friends as well. After a son or daughter, To help continually improve, protect however, may not be completely accu- the next highest response was taking an and advance hunting, shooting and other rate. unrelated young person with 27 percent outdoor recreation, all sportsmen and When asked how many children they of respondents reporting they had taken sportswomen are encouraged to partici- had taken hunting within the past 12 a girl or boy hunting with them that was pate in the bi-monthly surveys at Hunter- months, 21 percent reported they had not related to them, 20 percent took a Survey.com, ShooterSurvey.com and/or taken one. Fifteen percent had taken two nephew or niece and 17 percent took AnglerSurvey.com. Every other month, children in the past year, 5 percent had a grandchild. Nearly four percent took participants who complete the surveys taken three, two percent had taken four, a child as part of an organized activity are entered into a drawing for one of while just over two percent had taken such as through scouting or as part of a five $100 gift certificates to the sporting five or more. Meanwhile, 54 percent church group event. goods retailer of their choice.

donated 1,100 hours of their time to pass on their passion for fishing to those FISHING this successful program. These volun- who may have yet to experience Kansas teer hours translate not only to a public fishing. Continued from Page 11 awareness and appreciation of natural Anglers interested in registering for tion Instructors including nearly 100 resources but to money reimbursed back the December 6 class must sign up by Kansas school teachers. In 2014 Angler to Kansas for aquatic education supplies visiting www.fishingsfuture.org and Ed Instructors and KDWPT employees (fishing poles, lures, fish trading cards, clicking “upcoming events,” then “Kan- held 135 events that ranged from fishing etc.) and towards enhancing the state’s sas Angler Education Training Program.” derbies and casting events to commu- fisheries’ resources. For more information, contact Fish- nity outreach and aquatic education in Kansas offers some of the best public ing’s Future coordinator Kevin Reich at the schools. The events reached 60,000 fishing opportunities in the nation, and [email protected] or by phone at participants. Certified instructors have we think this is a great way for anglers to (785)577-6921.

JOIN THE KANSAS WILDLIFE FEDERATION! Current member New member Options: ❑ Basic $30 Name Name ❑ Expanded $75 ❑ Address Kansan $150 Address

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Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 12 2014 NWTF Kansas State JAKES Camp By Brian Lewellen & Gib Rhodes NWTF Kansas State JAKES Coordinators

Saturday’s activities included Geo- caching, fishing, turkey calling, JAKES Take Aim BB gun range, trap & still shooting, 3-D archery, Quail in Kan- sas, archery, arts & crafts, and canoe- ing. Geocaching, a new activity for the JAKES Camp, was instructed by Doug & Tami Cushenbery. Doug best described geocaching as using electronics to play “hide & seek.” Doug & Tami hide items and it was up to the JAKES to use GPS to locate the items. Fishing was instructed by Mark Osmundson, George Dille, and Phil Taunton. Chris Grant from Council Grove had chummed the fishing area for some time ahead of the event so sev- eral very nice catfish were caught! The instructors even showed the kids how to On September13th & 14th, 136 people including 69 JAKES members clean their catch. attended the 2014 NWTF Kansas State JAKES Camp at White Memorial Teaching turkey calling was 3 time Camp located 6 miles north of Council Grove on Council Grove Lake. “World Turkey Calling Champion” Chris Parrish. Chris taught sessions all day Ben Schneider, and Mike Adams. Lots of the packed house with turkey calling and long, passing out tips to help bring in a “Bulls eyes” were hit! turkey hunting stories. The evening con- gobbler. Arts & Crafts was instructed by Teresa cluded with S’mores being made around The JAKES Take Aim BB Gun Range Adams and Theresa McFarland. This the camp fire. was supervised by John Adams, Gary year’s project involved using recycled Sunday’s activities began with a Cargill, T.J. Orender, and Fred Masters. materials to make planters for some re- well attended Sunrise Service with The kids enjoyed some friendly competi- ally nice looking plants. Pastor Gary Cargill. JAKES member tion to see who could get the most BB’s Canoeing was instructed by Justin Audri Turner provided a trumpet solo in the center of the target. Sharples. of “Amazing Grace.” After a breakfast Trap & Still Shooting was instructed Saturday evening the 5th Annual Kan- of the famous White Memorial Camp by Kirk Hammond, Dennis Vincent, Scott sas State JAKES Turkey Calling contest pancakes, the activities included “Turkey Newton, Andy Blaylock, and Shannon was held for two divisions which were Biology & Management” presented by Eickhoff. JAKES members had a chance the JAKES Division for kids age 12 and Jim Pitman. Local Game Warden Randy to shoot at still turkey targets as well as younger and the Xtreme JAKES Division Benteman also talked to the group about fast moving clay targets. for youth age 13 to 17. Thirty JAKES game laws of Kansas and answered a va- Another new activity this year was and Xtreme JAKES members entered the riety of questions. Rose Rozmirek, Chief 3-D Archery. The Lyon County 4-H contest. Judges for the contest were Chris of Investigation Division for the Kansas Archery Team brought their collection of Parrish, John Adams, Vance Ralstin, and Fire Marshall’s Office, gave an arson dog 3-D targets along with instructors Mark Brian Lewellen. demonstration. Next, a drawing was held Witherspoon, Heath Botkin, Kim Botkin, In the JAKES Division, the winners where all JAKES members attending won Taylor Botkin, and Casey Wells. Also at were: a prize. the 3-D Archery station was Daryl Blay- ♦ 1st place Kansas State JAKES White Memorial Camp provided a lock who operated the “Flu Flu” machine Turkey Calling Champion: Isaac Cush- beautiful location with wonderful facili- and targets. At 3-D Archery, kids had a enbery, ties. Camp Director Jancy Pettit goes out chance to let a lot of arrows fly at every- ♦ 2nd place: Lane Jeannneret, and of her way to make sure that all needs are thing from small to large targets and from ♦ 3rd place: Mary Paige Bramlett. taken care of! Everyone attending had still to fast moving targets. In the Xtreme JAKES Division, the nothing but good things to say about the Quail in Kansas was ran by the winners were: event, facilities, and food. Kansas State Council Grove Chapter of Quail and ♦ 1st place Kansas State Xtreme JAKES Coordinators Brian Lewellen and Upland Wildlife Federation. Instructors JAKES Calling Champion: Dakota Gib Rhodes are already looking forward Daryl Finch, Shirley Henton, John Watts, Orender, to the 2015 NWTF Kansas State JAKES and Jason Heath discussed the biology ♦ 2nd place: Kohl Prose, and Camp at White Memorial Camp on needed for healthy quail populations and ♦ 3rd place: Jaxon Heath. September 12th and 13th. There’s bound answered questions. After the Kansas State Turkey Call- to be some surprises and some new and Archery was instructed by Tim Sparks, ing contest 3 time “World Champion” exciting activities. turkey caller Chris Parrish entertained

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 13 SE District Director Phil Taunton receives Kansas House of Representatives tribute The winners of the first-annual Catch, Photo and Release Contest were an- nounced during the Friday, August 29 episode of “What’s In Outdoors.” For ten weeks, from mid-June to the end of August, fishing photos and stories were submitted from all across the state, with winners each week. The top winners are: *Catfish: Kohl Prose, Emporia *Crappie: Trey Benjamin, Emporia *Largemouth Bass: Reese Houck, North Lyon County *Sunfish: Max Byer, Louisburg These winners will receive a $50 Cabe- la’s gift card. An overall winner was also chosen, with the prize being an educational float trip down the Kansas River courtesy of Friends of the Kaw. The overall winner was Max Byer of Louisburg. “What’s In Outdoors” host Phil Taunton says these stories bring back all kinds of memories for him. The Catch, Photo and Release Contest was sponsored by Fishing’s Future, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism’s FishKS, and Cabela’s. During the show, Taunton also received “What’s In Outdoors” host Phil Taunton and Rep. Peggy Mast pose with a tribute from the Kansas House of Rep- the award given to Taunton for his outdoor volunteer work. Photo by resentatives for his service as a National AJ Dome/KVOE News. Wildlife Federation volunteer. Emporia Rep. Peggy Mast nominated Taunton for along with KVOE’s Roger Hartsook and www.kvoe.com/news/4999-what-s-in- the award, and bestowed it to him. Mast AJ Dome. outdoors-catch-photo-release-contest-win- was a judge of the stories in the contest, Read the winning stories at: http:// ners-announced#sthash.IxBSqTHZ.dpuf KRC announces move: New address, telephone and fax By Julie Mettenburg Lominska. “With staff located across the home offices as well as community office KRC Executive Director state, and new technologies linking them, spaces and services. KRC also anticipates we had to admit that keeping the overhead savings in fuel, paper and other resource As the old saying goes, times change of a centralized office that wasn’t so central use. Lominska pointed out, “This is also an — and organizations change with them. was hard to justify. Therefore, the board of opportunity to model the mission of sustain- The Kansas Rural Center has reached one directors has decided to close our longtime ability, which we are always looking to do.” of those times! ‘bricks and mortar’ location in Whiting. “For 35 years, Whiting has been home In response to new staff locations and Added Executive Director Julie Metten- base for KRC,” stated Mary Fund, Pro- technologies that allow for more office flex- burg: “New technology has allowed us to grams and Policy Director and founding ibility, KRC is closing its longtime office at invest and update with networked phone staff member and long time KRC em- Whiting. Effective October 1, KRC will use systems across distances, video meet- ployee. “Closing the office marks the end a centralized Topeka postal address and a ings and chats, and utilization of vendors of an era, but new technology allows us to centralized, toll-free “866-” phone and fax statewide, which KRC had already begun work from anywhere in Kansas and still be number that features direct extensions for to implement. Empowering employees to in touch with each other and the informa- each staff member. work from any community in Kansas, in tion central to the organization’s operation “As with any business or organization, support of the mission of the Kansas Rural and to our efforts as a team. Maintaining a we must be prudent and look for the most Center, makes a lot of sense.” central office no longer makes sense.” efficient means of operations at the best Current staff members work in locations costs,” said KRC president of the board Joy from Great Bend to Lawrence, and utilize Continued on Page 15

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 14 What makes autumn's leaves so colorful? By eNature

Sometime between now and the middle of November, the trees in North America’s eastern broadleaf forests will reach their full fall glory. From Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom and New Hampshire’s White Mountains to the Shenandoah Valley and beyond, leaf peepers will bring traffic to a stand- still on beautiful fall weekends. By the carful and busload, they’ll come to gawk at the beautiful countryside. But what will they be seeing? How do leaves end up in such spectacular colors? Hidden Colors Leaf color arises from various chemi- cals within trees. It’s the strength as well as the presence or absence of compounds like tannins, xanthophylls, and carotenes that determines fall hues in the scores of tree species found in the East. Paper Birch Red Maple Back in the spring and summer, when the millions of trees in these same wood- ly by noting their hues. The brilliant red tling red, and Sassafras comes in various lands were busily growing and produc- leaves belong to the Red Maple, Ameri- shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple. ing food, their leaves were chock full of can Mountain Ash, and Black Tupelo, If you want to enjoy the fall colors chlorophyll, and it was the chlorophyll plus sumacs, blueberries, and Virginia yourself, plan ahead and, if possible, that colored the forests varying shades Creeper in the understory. Richer red fo- venture out during the week as opposed of green. But chlorophyll is a mask, and liage is typical of Red Oak, Scarlet Oak, to on a crowded weekend. once trees sense the change in the weath- and White Oak. Birches and beeches No matter when you go, though, spend er and start to stop chlorophyll produc- sparkle with bright yellow foliage, while a little time outside your car. The trees tion, the mask drops and the other colors Witch Hazel and Striped Maple are a less are even prettier close-up, along a quiet of the leaves come to the forefront. intense yellow, and walnuts, hickories trail or down a less traveled side road. A Color For Every Tree and aspens attain a truly golden glow. Have you had time to enjoy Fall’s The fall colors can be so distinctive Of course, not all trees settle on a colors this year? in some tree species that it’s possible to single color. Sugar Maples, for example, We always enjoy hearing about your identify these trees from a distance mere- blaze in green, yellow, orange, and star- experiences.

Their website remains the same Advertisements KRC at: www.kansasruralcenter.org Continued from Page 14 accepted in “Our number one concern is mak- KWF newsletter ing sure that we remain as acces- HAVERFIELD Beginning with the January 2015 newsletter the sible to all of you as we have always Continued from Page 8 Kansas Wildlife Federation is accepting advertise- been,” Fund explained. “The new ments. If you or your company caters to hunters, phone number should actually put anglers and outdoor enthusiasts, this is the vehicle They strongly believe that wildlife callers in touch with the staff more to reach them. conservation is, as Larry would say, quickly and directly than the current For more information and rates, contact the edi- “the right thing to do”. one!” tor at [email protected]. Beginning October 1, the KRC Funeral Services were held on address, phone number, and general September 26, the 33rd anniversary of e-mail inquiry address are: the rediscovery of the ferrets, thought KANSAS RURAL CENTER extinct until that date in 1981. 4021 SW 10th Street #337 The family requested that memori- Topeka, Kansas 66604 als be given to Audubon of Kansas, the 866-579-5469 Defenders of Wildlife or the donor’s [email protected] choice.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 15 Mike Rader named Avian Conservationist of the Year Rader is recognized for his significant contributions to bird conservation, education If you’ve ever cracked open an issue award at the fall meeting, Oct. 3-5, and working on projects that will benefit of Kansas Wildlife & Parks magazine if you ask his nominator, Chuck Otte, birds and all wildlife, and helping other and read the “Bird Brain” column, there couldn’t have been a more deserv- people learn more about the wildlife you’ve learned about birds from Mike ing person to recognize. around them,” said Otte. “He has turned Rader. If you’ve ever attended an Eco- The KOS’s Avian Conservationist us into better conservationists.” Meet or Kansas Archery in the Schools of the Year Award is given each year to Apart from KOS, Rader also serves event, Rader played a pivotal role in that. an individual who has made significant a member of the Kansas Association for If you’ve ever teamed up on a bird count contributions to bird conservation and/or Conservation and Environmental Educa- conducted by the Kansas Department of education; Rader has done this and more. tion. Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), “Conserving our avian resources has For more information on KOS and the chances are Rader showed you the way. become Mike’s life long, all-consuming Avian Conservationist Award, visit www. It’s these contributions and so many work,” said Otte, Geary County KSU ksbirds.org. more that make it no surprise that Rader, extension agent and past KOS president. For more information on KDWPT’s Wildlife Education Coordinator for KD- “Certainly, Mike’s birding is his passion, wildlife education programs, visit www. WPT, was named Avian Conservationist but making sure that we still have birds ksoutdoors.com and click “Services,” of the Year by the Kansas Ornithologi- to watch has become his driving force.” then “Education.” cal Society (KOS). Rader received the “Mike spends considerable time State benefits from hunting/fishing revenue Bird population numbers increase and media campaign introduced The Kansas Department of Wildlife, ♦ Less than 16 percent of Kansas’ counts by 70 percent. Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), along total license sales generate 60 percent of Quail – Roadside surveys reflect a with other regional tourism partners, license revenue statewide increase of 50 percent com- released data on the economic benefits ♦ Resident license sales (hunting & pared to 2013 of hunting and fishing in the state and fishing) $7.8 million Turkey – Population trend is stable updated species population numbers at a ♦ Kansas has more than 1.5 million or slightly increasing in the west and press conference on Friday, October 24 acres open to public hunting slightly declining in the east. at HorseThief Reservoir west of Jetmore ♦ Kansas has a variety of species to Waterfowl – American fall flight in Hodgeman County. About 100 people hunt (waterfowl, pheasant, turkey, deer, estimate of breeding ducks is 49.2 mil- attended the event and also heard the etc.…mixed bag in one trip) lion birds – an 8 percent increase since agency announce the launch of its first- ♦ Kansas has higher bag limits than standard surveys began in 1955. In the ever targeted media campaign geared some states for certain species Central Flyway, there were almost 12.9 to bring hunters and anglers to Kansas. ♦ Kansas has the range of experience million breeding ducks surveyed this KDWPT Secretary Robin Jennison and – from do-it-yourself hunting to guide spring – 68 percent above the long-term Assistant Secretary for Parks and Tour- hunts in premier hunting lodges average. ism Linda Craghead hosted the press Jennison reported that as a result of Hunters and anglers on average conference. partnerships between KDWPT, Pheas- spend 32 percent more during their stay Craghead relayed the message, there’s ants Forever, Ducks Unlimited and than the traditional leisure traveler. To no place like Kansas for an excellent landowners, along with good weather, further encourage out-of-state hunters hunting and fishing experience. Both the pheasant, quail, waterfowl and tur- and anglers to travel to Kansas for their activities have a substantial impact on key outlook for the 2014 hunting season outdoor activities, KDWPT will launch the Kansas economy: equals good news for Kansas. a targeted marketing campaign including ♦ Hunting - $401+ million trip related Pheasant - Kansas has one of the best television, digital, email blasts and print & equipment expenses annually pheasant populations in the nation. Fall advertising to educate outdoor enthusi- ♦ Fishing - $211+ million trip related harvest will again be among the best asts on the vast and excellent hunting & equipment expenses annually in the country. Conditions throughout and fishing experiences they will enjoy ♦ Non-resident license sales (hunting the spring and summer have reflected if they travel to Kansas. & fishing) $10.7 million a statewide increase in summer brood

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 16 The Franz Buck — the largest free range whitetail ever taken on film By Mark Kenyon Wired to Hunt

Over the past week or so, word has been spreading across the internet of an absolute monster whitetail being killed on film in Iowa – possibly the biggest ever killed on film and that rumor eventually proved to be true. Our friends at TrophyPursuit. com were fortunate enough to have had a camera rolling for this hunt, and finally, the video is live for us all to see. Quite simply, you need to check out this video. This deer is unbelievable. Enjoy. Go to: http://wiredtohunt.com/2014/10/23/the- franz-buck-the-largest-free-range-white- tail-ever-killed-on-film/ Sportsmen's groups oppose House bill to undermine Clean Water Act Sporting groups representing a full we’ve seen a number of serious water recreation. spectrum of anglers and hunters from all quality problems this summer that demand “Our goal is to promote the sustained across America announced on September solutions. The proposed Clean Water Rule growth of the fly fishing industry,” said 10 their opposition the Waters of the Unit- is a common-sense way to better protect Ben Bulis, president and executive director ed States Regulatory Overreach Protection the drinking water supplies of 117 mil- of the American Fly Fishing Trade Asso- Act of 2014, which is being considered lion Americans and improve the habitat ciation. “That can’t be accomplished with- by the House. If signed into law, this bill for thousands of species of fish and birds. out clean water in our rivers and streams would jeopardize Clean Water Act protec- Rather than undoing 40 years of prog- across the country. As a nation, if we fail tions for important fish and game habitat, ress under the Clean Water Act, we urge to protect our streams and wetlands, we including millions of acres of wetlands and Congress to work with anglers, hunt- could destroy the $200 billion hunting thousands of miles of headwater streams. ers, wildlife watchers and other outdoor and fishing industry that supports over 1.5 “Plain and simple, a vote for this bill to- enthusiasts to improve water quality in million jobs. These jobs depend on clean day is a vote against America’s sportsmen ways that will create billions of dollars water for quality fishing.” and women who depend on wetlands and of economic benefits nationwide and Joining Trout Unlimited, National headwater streams to provide the highest expand outdoor recreational opportunities Wildlife Federation, the Theodore Roos- quality fishing and hunting opportunities,” for tens of millions of Americans,” said evelt Conservation Partnership, and the said Steve Moyer, Trout Unlimited’s vice Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the American Fly Fishing Trade Association president of government affairs. National Wildlife Federation. were B.A.S.S., Bull Moose Sportsmen’s Prompted by a series of Supreme Court The rule is presently subject to public Alliance, Backcountry Hunters and An- decisions and stakeholder requests, the En- comments, and members of the House can glers, The Berkley Conservation Institute, vironmental Protection Agency and Corps comment on the bill just like any other The International Federation of Fly Fish- of Engineers are currently undergoing a American. ers, The Snook and Gamefish Foundation, public rulemaking process to clarify which “In the years since the Supreme Court The North American Grouse Partnership, bodies of water are protected by the Clean decisions, we’ve seen the first increase in the American Fisheries Society and the Water Act. These waters include season- the rate of wetlands loss in the history of Izaak Walton League of America in send- ally flowing intermittent and ephemeral the Clean Water Act,” said Whit Fosburgh, ing a letter to the House of Representa- streams and certain “isolated” wetlands, all president and CEO of the Theodore Roos- tives. The letter opposed this legislation of which contribute to water quality and evelt Conservation Partnership. “Passing and recommended that the House work provide fish and game habitat. The rule this bill and halting the proposed rule risks through the public process to address has no impact on farm ponds, farm ditches continued loss of wetlands such as the potential concerns with the rulemaking or “mud puddles,” as some in the House prairie potholes, America’s most important without derailing this much needed clari- have claimed in recent weeks. Claims like waterfowl breeding habitat.” fication. that fuel the partisan divide and amount to The recreation economy is a growing If you would like a copy of the letter little more than political theater. player in this discussion. As Moyer said, these groups sent to the House, please “From toxic drinking water in Toledo the bill is bad for sportsmen’s interests contact Chris Hunt at [email protected]. to the ‘dead zone’ in the Gulf of Mexico, and for the industry surrounding outdoor

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 17 Zebra mussels discovered in Pomona Reservoir Invasive, sharp-shelled mollusk discovered in Management Park cove The Kansas Department of Wild- life, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) has confirmed the presence of invasive zebra mussels in Pomona Reservoir in Osage County. A small adult group was dis- covered on a single rock by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) staff on September 23 in Management Park cove near the south end of the dam. KDWPT staff found more zebra mussels the next day. KDWPT is sampling other parts of the lake to determine if the population has spread. Twenty-three Kansas lakes now have confirmed zebra mussel popu- lations. Other reservoirs in northeast Kansas with zebra mussel infestations include Milford, Perry, John Redmond, Clinton and Melvern. Pomona Reservoir covers approxi- mately 4,000 acres and is located 24 miles south of Topeka. It is managed by the USACE, and KDWPT manages the fishery. The lake, completed in 1963, is home to Pomona State Park and several Management Cove, officials may attempt there may be some mortality among fish USACE parks. It is a popular destination to treat the cove within the next week to remaining in the cove. for fishing, camping, swimming, hiking, kill as many of the mussels as possible Officials emphasize that every- and a variety of boating and other water- to slow their spread. The cove and boat one using the lake plays a key role related activities. ramp will be closed for at least 72 hours in stemming the spread of mussels to USACE and KDWPT officials stress if the chemical is used. Generally, fish uninfested lakes. “This situation shows that there is no known method to com- will move out of an area where treat- how important it is for boaters, anglers, pletely rid a lake of zebra mussels. If ments are applied. As a result, officials the population appears to be limited to don’t expect a large fish kill, though Continued on Page 19 Create a brush pile and watch your local wildlife thrive! By eNature Blog should benefit from brush pile cover. Dark- eyed juncos, towhees, winter wrens, quail, Fall is in the air across the country— pheasants, and ground doves, also spend a and now is the time to be thinking about great deal of their lives on the ground, and what we can do to help our local wildlife seek the kind of cover in backyards that get through the cold of winter. brush piles offer. Autumn is the best time of the year An evergreen tree that has been cut to create some brush piles for the birds down will also make excellent cover for in your backyard. Fall trimmings can be ground inhabiting birds when the tree is piled up in a corner or along the edge of laid on its side along a fence row or in a the yard, where it will give ground-inhabit- corner of the yard. Discarded Christmas ing birds additional cover against winter trees give the same kind of cover. Even weather and predators. piles of rocks and logs will furnish some About half the birds that we feed in cover for birds during cold weather or our backyards spend much of their lives when there is a threat from predators. Brush Pile © George Harrison on the ground nesting, roosting and in So, next weekend, take a look around search of food. Piles of brush are ideal your yard for pruning and clipping op- Are you doing anything to make your protective cover for resident and migrating portunities. Not only will a little trimming yard wildlife friendly for the upcoming white-throated, white-crowned, and fox improve the appearance of the yard, but it winter? sparrows. Song sparrows, tree sparrows, will also help a few birds and other wild- We always enjoy hearing from our and field sparrows all visit backyards, and life survive the winter. readers!

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 18 Yellowstone National Park plans to remove 900 bison Daniel Xu OutdoorHub

Officials from Yellowstone National Park announced last month that they recommend the removal of 900 bison from the area, primarily through hunting. According to the park’s summer bison population estimate, the cull will account for nearly 19 percent of the area’s 4,900 bison. Other methods of removal include agreements with local Native American tribes to ship the animals off to slaughter, or transport them for research purposes to the Stephens Creek facility. According to the Associated Press, the proposed cull would be the largest since the winter of 2007-2008, when 1,600 bison were removed from the park. Although large-scale management actions are not preferred by wildlife experts, they are necessary to keep the bison population in check. Living in the sanctuary of Yellow- Officials want to remove bison as worries over disease increase. stone provides bison with high survival rates. With little predation by wolves, is split between the Northern herd, which herd. bison can grow to fill available habitat at contains 3,500 animals, and the Central Hunters on average harvest 250 bison an alarming rate. This puts pressure on herd, which is comprised of 1,400 indi- per year from outside the park’s boundar- other species like elk for food competition, viduals. The species historically occupied ies, although park and tribal officials want and can also foster the spread of disease to more than 7,000 square miles near the to increase that number. However, park livestock outside of the park. headwaters of the Yellowstone River, authorities are under pressure from outside “We’re trying to avoid these massive, but that range is now reduced to the park groups to limit bison hunting. According big harvests, but we haven’t been able to boundaries and some areas in Montana. to the National Park Service, allowing meet our objective yet,” bison program The species almost disappeared entirely hunting within the park itself would be manager Rick Wallen said. “If we had from the park before 1900 with only a vastly unpopular and create conflicts with a relatively mild winter, we probably mere handful holding out in Yellowstone’s non-hunting park visitors. As it is, hunters wouldn’t see a significant migration to the Pelican Valley. In 1902, a small herd of 21 are limited to what animals stray out of the boundary until later on, and that would bison were transported from Montana and park every winter during their infrequent make it a challenge to hunt the animals.” Texas and settled in northern Yellowstone, migrations. The bison population in Yellowstone which soon became known as the Northern

nuisance species that may be present,” ber to follow regulations and precautions MUSSELS Howell said. that will prevent their spread: The lake will be added to the list of Clean, drain and dry boats and equip- Continued from Page 18 ANS-designated waters in Kansas, and ment between uses swimmers and skiers to be aware of notices will be posted at various loca- Use wild-caught bait only in the lake aquatic nuisance species (ANS) and to tions around the reservoir. The sharp- or pool where it was caught take precautions to prevent their spread,” shelled zebra mussels attach to solid Do not move live fish from waters said Jessica Howell, KDWPT Aquatic objects, so lake-goers should be careful infested with zebra mussels or other Nuisance Species Coordinator. when handling mussel-encrusted objects aquatic nuisance species Prevention is the best way to avoid and when grabbing an underwater object Drain livewells and bilges and remove spreading ANS. They often travel by when they can’t see what their hands drain plugs from all vessels prior to “hitchhiking” with unsuspecting lake-go- may be grasping. Visitors should protect transport from any Kansas water on a ers. “Always clean, drain, and dry boats their feet when walking on underwater or public highway. and other equipment and don’t transfer shoreline rocks. For more information about aquatic lake water or live fish to another body of Zebra mussels are just one of the non- nuisance species in Kansas, report a pos- water. This can help stop the spread of native aquatic species that threaten our sible ANS, or see a list of ANS-designat- not only zebra mussels, but most aquatic waters and native wildlife. After using ed waters, visit ProtectKSWaters.org. any body of water, people must remem-

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 19 It's Whooping Crane time

Adult Whooping Cranes were spotted on Oct. 28 at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area in Barton County but were gone by the next day. Five Whooping Cranes (4Adults, 1Juvenile) were in the northwest corner of Big Salt Marsh at Quivira on Oct. 29. Rare Whooping Cranes make appearance in Kansas They are part of the only sustaining for the 5-foot-tall birds to stop for rest and to alert managers of key areas along the wild population estimated at 250 birds. food at Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira flyway — such as Quivira NWR and Whooping Cranes from this population National Wildlife Refuge on their way Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area in central will fly through the state in upcoming through. Kansas — and to provide sighting records weeks, making their way to wintering As part of a cooperative monitoring for the Whooping Crane Recovery Plan grounds at Aransas National Wildlife Ref- program supervised by the U.S. Fish and and for Whooping Crane research in the uge on the Texas Gulf Coast. Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Kansas U.S. and Canada. Records indicate that most whooping Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism For more information, visit the USFWS cranes will pass through Kansas between (KDWPT) encourages anyone who spots website at www.fws.gov/midwest/whoop- Oct. 17 and Nov. 10, usually travelling in a whooper to contact their local KDWPT ingcrane. small family groups. It’s not uncommon office. Sighting information can be used USDA announces approval of new 2,4-D resistant crops From The Organic & Non-GMO have voiced concerns about the risks that 2,4-D comes back into heavy use. Reporter accompany such a release. Agriculture had USDA has acknowledged that if Dow’s moved away from 2,4-D, which is a highly GM seeds are approved, applications of USDA recently announced plans to toxic and drift prone herbicide in favor 2,4-D could increase by 200 to 300 percent allow Dow Chemical Company to begin of what were believed to be more benign by 2020. marketing its new GM corn and soybeans, products. Now that critical problems are According to the Center for Food Enlist Duo, that is resistant to 2,4-D. They arising with weed resistance to the most Safety, “the biotech industry is about to re- also indicated they are leaning toward commonly used herbicides like glyphosate peat the same mistakes that got us into this approving Monsanto’s new GM crops (Round Up), the companies are returning predicament”. Agriculture experts warn resistant to another herbicide, dicamba. to their arsenal of older stronger herbi- that the weeds that became resistant to This is despite opposition from farm- cides. Specialty crop farmers and organic glyphosate will quickly become resistant ers, scientists and health professionals who farmers fear damages and crop losses if to 2,4D and dicamba.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 20 Autumn's bounty can turn some carnivores into carb-loving vegans! By eNature Vegan Coyotes and foxes follow a similar What would you expect a Grizzly pattern, dining on a broad range of fruits Bear to eat when fattening up for winter? during the fall. The superb climbing Caribou? Salmon? ability of the Common Gray Fox offers it How about a nice fruit salad? access to berries and other fruits grow- Yes, some of our most celebrated car- ing in places inaccessible to Coyotes and nivores become vegetarians in the fall. bears. Wolves, too, will eat berries in the Even the largest terrestrial preda- fall, though these seldom constitute a tor, the Grizzly Bear, turns into a berry significant portion of their diet. specialist at this time of year. It feeds on At first glance, it seems odd that these Salmonberries, crowberries, elderberries, large “meat eaters” would consume fruits and numerous other species of berries. at a time when their need for stored fats In fact, one type of manzanita is Female Grizzly Bear, Yellowstone and proteins is paramount. Research, called Bearberry because of its impor- National Park however, reveals that the carbohydrates tance in the fall diet of bears. found in fruits are easily converted into Black Bears, which tend to be more fruit they may encounter in farms and fats when eaten in large quantities. herbivorous than Grizzlies, also load gardens. What are your local animals doing to up on berries before the winter, and in Even the Polar Bear, the most preda- prepared for winter? Have you seen any areas where oak trees grow, these bears tory of all the bears, feeds on berries seemingly unusual behavior or obvious consume vast quantities of acorns, too. when they’re available. preparation taking place? Not to mention apples, grapes and other And It’s More Than Bears Who Go We always enjoy your stories! Upset? Yeah you might say By Steven Williams, Ph.D. signing. agreements on the 14 provisions by one President Not surprisingly, this potentially his- party or another. However, there was bi- Wildlife Management Institute toric bill that would improve hunting and partisan support for the original bill, and fishing opportunities and access, enjoyed co-sponsors expressed strong optimism. As I write this column, the bitter strong support from dozens of national In the end, according to the website con- taste of partisan, election-year politics is hunter-conservation organizations. gress.gov, there were 34 Senate actions still in my mouth. Prior to the summer The Congressional Sportsmen Founda- on the bill and 97 proposed amend- recess, the Senate rejected the Biparti- tion, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation ments. Amendments are a legitimate san Sportsmen’s Act (Act) despite its Partnership, Safari Club International, and routine legislative procedure, used 46 bipartisan, co-sponsors. The original and other organizations, over the course since our founding fathers set up this Act had 14 provisions to enhance hunt- of years, spent countless hours in both republic. However, in this case, many of ing and fishing across the nation. These House and Senate offices explaining the amendments were obviously politi- provisions included: easing state fish the importance of the Act to members cal schemes from both parties to force and wildlife agencies’ ability to finance and their staff. Individual phone calls votes on issues thought to embarrass one shooting ranges; improving opportunities expressing support for the legislation another in an election year. Consider a for hunting and fishing on federal lands; poured into Washington. Co-sponsors sampling of the proposed amendments: exempting lead ammunition and fish- from both political parties recognized the to prevent EPA from finishing Clean Wa- ing tackle from control under the Toxic constituent support they might garner by ter Act guidance; to plan for motorized Substances Control Act; providing a por- sponsoring the legislature in a mid-term vehicles on the Ozark National Scenic tion of the Land and Water Conservation election year. I believe it was safe to say Riverways; to address management of Fund for increased access to landlocked that many of us expected to celebrate the Gulf of Mexico’s red snapper fishery; public lands; creating an electronic a major political victory for sportsmen to further control gun ownership and Federal Duck Stamp; and reauthoriz- and sportswomen. Once and for all, we use; to ensure gun access on Army Corps ing both the North American Wetlands would demonstrate the political influ- of Engineers’ lands; to delete the bill’s Conservation Act and the National Fish ence and momentum of some 40 million provisions on ammunitionand fishing and Wildlife Foundation. The House hunters and anglers. Then, our hopes tackle… and so on. Finding the wording had previously passed a similar bill (the all dissolved on July 10 when the Sen- of all 97 amendments is next to impos- Sportsmen’s Heritage and Recreational ate failed to pass a cloture vote to end sible on government websites. Conse- Enhancement Act) that would have al- debate on the bill—the death knell for quently, constituents would have a hard lowed the two houses to hold a confer- the bill. time finding out what their senator did ence to work out differences and then The lack of passage in the Senate pass the bill to the president’s desk for would have been frustrating enough if there had been simple and honest dis- Continued on Page 24

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 21 A new Silent Spring? Neonic pesticides threaten pheasant, other wildlife By Greg Hoch neither are neonics. past four years. From Pheasants Forever magazine In the last couple years, commercial The USFWS estimates that each year, beekeepers sounded the first warning 67 million birds die from direct expo- “It is ironic to think that man might about neonics as they watched colony sure to pesticides on farmlands in the determine his own future by something so after colony collapse or disappear. When US. Most tragic are hens who die from seemingly trivial as the choice of an in- researchers began collecting and analyz- poisoning, killing her and the all the eggs sect spray.” ― Rachel Carson, author Si- ing their data, they found it wasn’t just in her nest. Ten times that number are lent Spring. (Silent Spring was met with bees. These chemicals, and their effects, exposed to pesticides, but presumably fierce opposition by chemical companies, were rippling through the landscape. survive. but it led to a nationwide ban on DDT Neonics are neurotoxins. They kill These, and other, chemicals impact and other pesticides and inspired creation insects by disrupting their nerve cells, pheasants and other wildlife in a number of the U.S. Environmental Protection causing paralysis, leading to suffocation, of ways. Pesticides are applied to fields Agency. Carson, a former U.S. Fish and causing death. The problem is that all of and some frequently drifts into adjacent Wildlife Service scientist, was awarded us, bees, birds, people, have nerve cells wildlife habitat areas, including grass- the Presidential Medal of Freedom.) and all those nerve cells function pretty lands and wetlands. Also, insects exposed Across much of the Midwest, the heart much the same. As researchers contin- in the cropland fly into the grassland hab- of pheasant country, 95 percent or more ued to investigate these chemicals, they itat and are eaten by pheasants and other of the grasslands have been lost. What found that many neonics can suppress the wildlife. Pheasants also go into the crop remains is often 80 acres here, a quarter immune system and cause developmental fields to forage. Researchers in Canada section there. We owe it to the pheas- abnormalities. found neonic levels as high as 100 times ants and other upland wildlife struggling There’s a 2012 research paper titled the acceptable level in many wetlands. to hang on in this region to make those “Immune suppression by neonicotinoid These chemicals may be killing remaining acres as safe, healthy and pro- insecticides at the roots of global wild- millions of insects in pheasant habitat, ductive as possible. Yet, today, that may life declines.” Another paper published insects egg-laying hens and fast-grow- not be the case. the following year is titled “Pesticide ing chicks must have to survive. With There is one class of pesticides on the acute toxicity is a better correlate of US fewer insects, hens will lay fewer eggs market since the mid-1990s that has been grassland bird declines than agricultural and chicks may not find enough food to generating a lot of press recently, little intensification.” The titles alone speak for survive. If hens are eating insects with of it good. Neonicotinoids, neonics for themselves. sublethal levels of neonics, she passes short, are derived from the nicotine in the Bees, bugs, songbirds, pheasants, those chemicals to her eggs. That may tobacco plant. people, all live in the same environ- lead to developmental problems and Many older pesticides were synthetic ment, drink the same water and breathe fewer eggs hatched. Some chicks may and had unintended negative conse- the same air. A 2007 study stated that not find enough food to survive, starving quences in the environment. Think DDT. “Increasing use of this insecticide [imi- or becoming weak and more vulnerable Neonics, and other pesticides such as dacloprid] and potential toxicity among to predators. As chicks eat insects, the the pyrethroids (derived from chrysan- humans warrants a heightened aware- chemicals may be compromising their themums), are plant-based chemicals, ness…” A 2013 press release by the immune systems, making them more sus- and were hopefully less destructive to European Food Safety Authority stated ceptible to diseases and parasites. Each non-target species. It’s hard to find corn some neonicotinoids ‘damage the devel- insect is small, but birds eat hundreds of or soybean seed, for crops or foodplots, oping human nervous system- in particu- thousands of insects over the year. Added that’s not coated with neonics. lar the brain.” up, that’s a lot of toxic chemical. In nature, everyone is attacking every- Use of these chemicals has increased Put together, toxicity and habitat one else, or fending off attacks. It’s sur- dramatically since their introduction. loss means fewer rooster tails to chase vival of the fittest out there. Animals can Neonics came into the market in the through fall bluestem. Whether beekeep- fight or flee, but plants can do neither. mid 1990s. By 2003, Americans were er, bird hunter, parent or expectant parent, So, plants have evolved poisons to defend using just under 500,000 pounds. That we should all be concerned. themselves. Hydrogen cyanide, strych- increased to nearly 1.5 million the fol- nine and curare, to name but a few, are all lowing year and climbed to almost 3.5 Hoch is a professional grassland plant-derived chemicals. It would be hard million pounds in 2009. Presumably, ecologist in Minnesota. to argue that any are benign. Likewise, numbers have continued to climb in the

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 22 Hunting participation in the United States: 2012 to 2014 and participation forecasts for 2014 to 2016 Responsive Management recently co- ordinated with all 50 state fish and wildlife agencies to continue monitoring hunting participation throughout the United States. Following up on the 2011 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associ- ated Recreation, Responsive Management worked with key personnel in each agency to estimate the trend in their state’s hunting participation for the past two years as well as the next two years. Findings from the 2011 National Sur- vey (which examined the trend in hunting participation between 2006 and 2011) and the Responsive Management study (which looked at hunting participation between 2012 and 2014 and expected participation between 2014 and 2016) together offer a more complete picture of the state of hunting participation in the United States. One of the immediate takeaways is that the participa- tion gains documented by the last National Survey have begun to level off across much of the country. The 2011 National Survey determined that 28 states experienced increased hunting participation between 2006 and 2011. Re- sponsive Management, meanwhile, identified just 12 states that saw increased participa- tion in hunting between 2012 and 2014 (see map above). These states are Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, Missis- sippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah. Each of the states that reported increased hunting participation between 2012 and 2014 were continuing a trend of rising hunter numbers as documented in the National Survey, with four exceptions: Georgia, Maine, North Carolina, and Oklahoma each saw decreased hunting participation between 2006 and 2011, before reversing this trend for the period between 2012 and 2014. On the whole, agencies most commonly reported that their state’s hunting participa- tion had stayed the same between 2012 and 2014. States that reported increases in hunting in recent years, meanwhile, tended the southern region predominated among earlier timeframe, agencies most commonly to be in the southern region of the country states that saw increased participation be- expect that their state’s hunting participation (exceptions are Connecticut, Idaho, Maine, tween 2012 and 2014, those agencies expect- will stay the same over the next two years, and Utah). Otherwise, a fifth of the agencies ing increased hunter numbers over the next while eight states anticipate a decline. indicated that hunting participation in their two years make up a more geographically di- The maps reflect agency responses state had decreased between 2012 and 2014. verse selection of regions: states anticipating regarding current and anticipated hunting Looking ahead to the next two years, one a rise in hunting participation between 2014 participation. Because, in some cases, con- in five agencies anticipates an increase in and 2016 are Connecticut, Idaho, Louisiana, flicting data were obtained, the maps occa- their state’s hunting participation between Maine, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, sionally use an “average” color to represent 2014 and 2016 (see map below). And while Texas, Utah, and Washington. As with the the overall state response.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 23 Got birds? Tell FeederWatch! Don't let what happens at the feeder stay at the feeder Chickadees, Bushtits, Northern Car- dinals, and other feeder birds carry an important message about the health of bird populations and our environment. In order to decode that message, people just need to count their birds and report what they see to Project FeederWatch. The 28th season of this Cornell Lab of Ornithology citizen-science project is about to begin. The door is open for new participants and more observations. FeederWatch begins November 8, 2014, and continues through April 3, 2015. New and returning participants are urged to sign More Bushtits are showing up in FeederWatchers report more Yel- up now at www.FeederWatch.org to enjoy FeederWatch reports from western low-rumped Warblers in the East. the full season. The project is easy to do states. Photo by Thomas Meinzen Photo by Connie Pinson and makes a great family activity. “We learn so much from the informa- tion people report to us, and the data different parts of the country. The new To learn more about joining Project become more and more valuable as time trend graphs are in the Explore section of FeederWatch in the U.S. and to sign up, goes by,” says project leader Emma Greig. the FeederWatch website. visit www.FeederWatch.org or call the “This is how we learned that Bushtits are “One trend we’d like to see is more Cornell Lab toll-free at (866) 989-2473. In increasing in the western part of the coun- bird reports coming in from cities,” Greig return for the $18 fee ($15 for Cornell Lab try and that more Yellow-rumped Warblers explains. “During the past 27 years of members), participants receive the Feeder- are appearing in the East.” FeederWatch, we’ve only had reports of Watcher Handbook and Instructions with A new tool on the FeederWatch website Monk Parakeets from 136 participants out tips on how to successfully attract birds to makes it easy for everyone to see the of more than 50,000. We’re very interested your feeders, an identification poster of the trends, such as the Bushtit and warbler in this invasive species which has estab- most common feeder birds, and a calendar. increases, along with many others that lished breeding populations in cities from Participants also receive Winter Bird High- decades of data reveal. a few escaped caged birds. And overall, lights, an annual summary of FeederWatch “With this new tool, anyone can make we need to hear from people with feeders findings, as well as the Cornell Lab’s discoveries about bird populations using in cities to make sure we’re getting a good printed newsletter, All About Birds News. the millions of FeederWatch data points, sample of urban species.” The fee is $35 in Canada. To sign up visit with just a few clicks of their mouse,” says Join the 20,000 FeederWatchers from Bird Studies Canada at www.bsc-eoc.org. Greig. around the U.S. and Canada who already Project FeederWatch is a joint research Look at reports for one species, com- make this an important part of their year and education project of the Cornell Lab of pare two species, or compare trends in and contribute vital information to science Ornithology and Bird Studies Canada. while enjoying their feeder visitors.

process to kill this bipartisan supported unadulterated bull manure. That would POLITICS bill that would enhance our hunting and explain the taste in my mouth. We owe fishing opportunities and access. What a debt of gratitude to the organizations Continued from Page 21 could have become an historic legislative and individuals that fought so diligently or did not do to kill the bill. I am making victory for hunters and anglers became for the rights of sportsmen and sports- the assumption that constituents had the an ideological vehicle for senators to women. They will continue their efforts time and desire to find out what their improve their reelection opportunities to improve hunting, fishing, and conser- representatives actually say about hunt- and try to embarrass the other political vation in spite of the kick in the teeth ing and fishing and how they actually party— all at the expense of the Ameri- they received on July 10. We owe them vote on those issues. can hunter and angler. our respect. Congress owes us an honest I respect the legitimacy to offer “Welcome to hardball Washing- explanation for their blatant disregard of amendments to any bill providing those ton politics,” you might say. And you our values. amendments are germane to the bill’s would be right. As a hunter and angler, original purpose. Each provision de- I say that trading the enhanced hunting Published with permission of Boone serves a fair and open debate. What and fishing opportunities of 40 million and Crockett Club. Reprint from Fall is breathtakingly obvious was the fact Americans for the political opportuni- 2014 Fair Chase that some senators used the amendment ties of 100 senators is 100 percent pure,

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 24 Youth pheasant hunt with Flying W Game Birds On October 4th, the Pass It On Outdoor an upland bird hunt. work a field and lock up on point when they Mentors held a Youth Pheasant hunt for The morning was spent reviewing their found birds. some of our recent Hunter Ed graduates. The hunter safety class and working on their We’re looking forward to taking these great folks at Flying W Game Birds hosted shotgun shooting skills. That afternoon, 2 kids out for a real hunt on the youth upland the hunt and provided the birds for the event. birds per hunter were placed in bird launch- weekend, coming up November 1. We had 10 youths and 2 adults who had ers and concealed in the field. The youths Check out photos from the days activities recently completed their hunter ed class, but hunted with guides and mentors and got to at http://outdoormentors.org/content/youth- had not had an opportunity to participate in experience the thrill of seeing hunting dogs pheasant-hunt-wflying-w-game-birds KDWPT and conservation organizations team up for wildlife and hunters Land acquisition made possible through collaborative effort The Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area has portunities for outdoor recreation,” said ing example of what the conservation grown by almost 500 acres as the result Robin Jennison, KDWPT secretary. “In community can accomplish when we all of a collaborative effort by The National Kansas, where less than three percent of work together for a unified cause,” said Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), Pheas- the land is in public ownership, projects Jared McJunkin, NWTF Great Plains ants Forever (PF), Quail Forever (QF), like these and our continued relationships District conservation field supervisor. and the Kansas Department of Wild- for conservation are extremely impor- “While this is the first successful land life, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). The tant.” acquisition for the NWTF in Kansas, we conservation organizations and KDWPT In addition to providing partial fund- believe additional projects will follow.” partnered to acquire a 484-acre tract of ing for the land acquisition, the conserva- The NWTF and PF/QF are national land adjacent to the Tuttle Creek Wildlife tion organizations worked with KDWPT nonprofit wildlife conservation organiza- Area in Riley County. The tract, which to help the acquisition pass through the tions working to conserve wildlife habitat is open to public hunting, permanently Legislature. and our outdoor traditions. The NWTF protects habitat vital to many species NWTF, PF/QF and Ducks Unlimited (www.nwtf.org) has 36 chapters across of wildlife, including turkey, pheasants, (DU) signed a memorandum of under- Kansas, and the organization’s “Save quail and prairie chickens. The acquisi- standing earlier this year, creating a the Habitat. Save the Hunt.” initiative tion also improves access to 550 acres of historic partnership to ensure wild bird was launched with goals of raising $1.2 the existing Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area. habitat conservation and North America’s billion to conserve more than 4 million “It’s great to see conservation organi- hunting heritage remains strong for gen- zations work together with state wildlife erations to come. Continued on Page 27 agencies to increase public access op- “This particular acquisition is a shin-

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 25 What makes crows gather in large roosts during fall and winter? By eNature

Steve Bailey is a bit of an exception. Whereas most people in Danville, Il- linois, wish the crows now in their midst would find themselves another winter home, he welcomes the visitors with open arms. He’s a bird lover, of course, and proud to live in the unofficial Winter Crow Capital of North America—despite the noise, the mess, and the smell that comes with that distinction. Danville is home to roughly 35,000 people. Its crows, however, number American Crow vocalizing Range of American Crow some 162,000 according to the recent Audubon Christmas Bird Count. There crows. It’s in a river valley surrounded few roosts. And in the 1940s and ‘50s, are so many crows in the 6- to 8-block by agricultural land in all directions. As Stafford County, Kansas, hosted upwards area where they nightly roost that their for the crows’ communal tendencies, of a million crows in winter, though that weight sometimes snaps branches off the birds know that there is strength in roost eventually disintegrated. trees. numbers. That is, roosting together helps And perhaps the same fate will And then there’s the endless supply of them watch for predators and increases someday befall Danville’s crows. No droppings and the incessant racket. No their chances of finding food. doubt most of the town’s residents would wonder some desperate residents have Given these tendencies, it should welcome such a development. For bird cut down healthy shade trees in order to come as no surprise that Danville’s is not lovers like Steve Bailey, though, Dan- force the birds to relocate. Others have the only large crow roost that takes shape ville just wouldn’t be the same without tried scaring the birds away with plas- in the United States from fall to spring. its winter crows. tic owls and sirens, even recordings of In Jasper County, Iowa, for example, Good or bad, they’re certainly a Barred Owl calls played throughout the thousands of crows settle down a little to spectacle! night. the east of Newton. In Massachusetts, up Have you encountered a large roost of Still, the birds remain. The most to 20,000 descend on the center of Fram- crows? It’s always a fun visit. obvious reason for their stubbornness is ingham every afternoon. Wichita, Kan- Let us know what you’re seeing out that Danville offers a perfect location for sas, has 100,000 crows spread among a there! What terrestrial animal has the longest lifespan? By eNature

If you’re a TV watcher, you may have noticed that the long-running TV show Sur- vivor keeps showing up every season. But there’s a much more interesting ver- sion playing out in the wild. It’s one thing to survive a few weeks on a television show, but it’s quite another to live 180 years and never be voted off the island! The tale of the ultimate survivor be- gins in a world of 18th century explorers, kidnappings, and tropical islands, when long-distance travel was by ship and many Eastern Box Tuttle Aldabra giant tortoise © Muham- lands were still uncharted. The secret to this mad Mahdi Karim creature’s longevity may be in its philoso- Seychelles, Madagascar, and other islands phy: Slow and steady wins the race. that lived well over 100 years. What Creature Has Lived Longest? The Real Survivor Sailors were said to carve their names The longest life of any tortoise of which By all accounts the longest-lived creatures and dates into the shells of these behemoths, there is an authenticated record is that of on earth are turtles. It may have something to providing something of a record of their Marion’s Tortoise, a Testudo gigantea. This do with the slowed-down lifestyle and per- lifespan. But it is quite difficult to track the giant tortoise, along with four of its compan- haps the protective armor. At any rate, tales lifespan of a wild animal, especially when abound of giant tortoises of the Galapagos, the animal outlives the person keeping track! Continued on Page 27

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 26 Jayhawk Chapter of the QUWF sponsored youth pheasant hunt By David Zumbaugh

On October 12, 2014, the Jayhawk Chapter of the Quail and Upland Wild- life Federation sponsored a youth pheasant hunt managed by the Eckman Hunting Preserve. The morning hatched a windy, drizzly dawn, but the spirits of the young guns were not dampened. About 48 kids showed up to participate and an ample number of bird dogs were excited to show their handlers they had not forgotten proven instincts. Jon Francis took on the important safety briefing mission and live-fire sessions to get everyone familiar with the day’s activities. Mentors were assigned to just about every shooter to ensure the focus was on wise use of scatter guns, having fun and not just harvesting feathered fly- ing targets. The wily ringnecks proved to be worthy sport as they attempted to dodge and bag the birds. It was an exhibition that all enjoyed, got the best attempts by the young nimrods. Many youth commented that witness- some fresh air, muddied their boots and However, with the noble hounds and ing the dogs do their chores was the most left with some stories to brag on! experienced guides, most of the shooters exciting part of the day. A variety of For more information contact: at least got to test their shotgun skills. canines were on hand including pointers, John H. Hill II, D.C., 3320 Clinton Many gaudily clad roosters were brought setters and retriever breeds as well. Few Parkway Court #200, Lawrence, KS to the cleaning station by freshmen hunt- birds escaped the practiced noses of the 66047, Phone: (785) 841-9555, Email: ers for a demonstration on how to dress assembled core of qualified bird dogs. [email protected]

Even the smaller members of the turtle That makes them older than all mammals LIFESPAN order are known to be long-lived. One Box and birds, as well. Turtle, passed down as a family pet, is said Surely they are doing something right. Continued from Page 26 to have died at the ripe old age of 123. It There may be more to the tale of the tortoise was just one year older than the person and the hare (lifespan probably up to 8 or 10 ions, was taken as an adult from its native many consider the oldest human on record, years, if lucky!) than race strategy! island in the Seychelles to Mauritius, where a French woman named Jeanne Louise Although their numbers are threatened no tortoises occur, by the French explorer Calment (1875 to 1997). by development, the Eastern Box Turtle Marion de Fresne in 1766. It lived there for Winners All Around is common sight in the woods. Have you 152 years, until it died in 1918. Since it was Interestingly, turtles aren’t only the encountered any turtles— in your yard or in a full-grown adult at the time of its capture in longest-lived individuals known, they are your travels? 1766, its actual age may be estimated at not the oldest type of living reptiles, vastly more We always enjoy your stories! less than 180 years and perhaps as much as ancient in lineage than the fossil dinosaurs 200 years. and most of the other extinct forms.

shooting and outdoor enjoyment nation- PF and 13 QF chapters in Kansas, where PF/QF wide. the organization has spent more than $4.7 Since 1982, PF and QF (www.pheas- million enhancing wildlife habitat on Continued from Page 25 antsforever.org) have impacted more than more than 437,000 acres. Events con- 10 million acres of wildlife habitat in the ducted through various partnerships and acres of essential upland wildlife habitat, U.S., of which more than 175,000 acres the organization’s grassroots network of create at least 1.5 million hunters and have been permanently protected and chapters, have provided nearly 13,000 open access to 500,000 acres for hunting, opened to public hunting. There are 36 youth with positive outdoors experiences.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 27 Climate change science aided by huge but 'invisible' efforts of amateurs Many studies rely on citizen-science data, but few acknowledge it By Caren Cooper

Hundreds of thousands of volunteer data collectors are due for some thanks from scientists, according to a new paper that reveals the role of citizen science in studies of birds and climate change. Data collected by amateurs underpins up to 77 percent of the stud- ies in this field, but that fact is largely invisible by the time the research ap- pears in journals, according to a study published September 3 in the open-ac- cess journal PLOS ONE. Tree Swallows have been an im- Through projects like NestWatch, “Our paper is a chance to say thank portant subject of citizen-science citizen scientists have provided you to the many people who are citizen projects, helping to demonstrate the data to document regional scientists,” said lead author Caren changes in migration timing and differences in the breeding cycle Cooper, a research associate at the breeding as climate has warmed. of the Eastern Bluebird. Photo © Cornell Lab of Ornithology. “These Photo © Brian Kushner Gary Mueller/Cornell Lab people are part of the process of creat- ing new knowledge—and whether it’s because the great popularity of bird of other projects cover bugs, trees, counting birds or butterflies, gazelles watching offers a ready pool of skilled flowers, mammals, and microbes, as or galaxies, they should know that observers. Some well-known North well as topics like water quality, air their observations really make a differ- American projects are the Christmas pollution, and astronomy. ence in professional science.” Bird Count, eBird, and the Great Back- Citizen science provides scientists Birds make excellent subjects for yard Bird Count, as well as activities with continent- or globe-spanning ob- citizen-science projects—the term for such as bird-banding stations and servations, often over periods so long studies that depend on members of the breeding bird atlases. But citizen sci- public for data gathering. That’s in part ence is not limited to birds—hundreds Continued on Page 29

PF/QF habitat specialist expansion in Kansas Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism provides vital support for expansion Pheasants Forever and Quail For- benefits in the form of increased wild- habitat specialists come highly trained ever are pleased to announce the ex- life habitat and recreational opportu- in the field of wildlife habitat man- pansion of habitat specialist positions nities on our state wildlife areas as a agement and this helps us to maintain in conjunction with the Kansas Depart- result of this partnership.” quality cover and services at some of ment of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism Habitat specialists are experts in our most popular recreation destina- (KDWPT). The expansion marks the planning, developing and implement- tions in Kansas.” fourth habitat specialist position in ing wildlife habitat management Kansas Habitat Specialist Program Kansas and is designed to provide projects for each of the assigned public Luke Winge - The most recent staff habitat management and restoration wildlife areas in Kansas. These spe- member employed by Pheasants For- for many public KDWPT properties cialists plant native grasses, perform ever and Quail Forever, Luke Winge is throughout the state. prescribed burns, and carry out a host the current habitat specialist working “The Kansas Department of Wild- of other specific practices to maxi- to improve wildlife resources for the life, Parks and Tourism is a key agency mize each area’s wildlife and natural Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area near Hays, partner for Pheasants Forever and resource values. Kansas. With an available 10,300 acres Quail Forever throughout the state. “The partnership we’ve created with open for public access, this wildlife Their support is critical to making Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever area is a popular destination for local these positions and the habitat acres allows us to keep staffing capacities residents. Among the hunting oppor- that follow a reality,” commented consistent on high-use public wildlife tunities available for big game, turkey, Zachary Eddy, Pheasants Forever’s areas during times of budgetary chal- upland birds and waterfowl, Cedar senior Farm Bill wildlife biologist in lenges,” said Brad Simpson, KDWPT central Kansas. “Clearly, the public public lands section chief. “All of our Continued on Page 31

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 28 Captive deer regulations remain with MDC By Brandon Butler believe in never ceases to amaze. We eration of Missouri and millions of Mis- Executive Director know white-tailed deer are wildlife. We souri wildlife enthusiasts, we thank the Conservation Federation of Missouri know it doesn’t matter what side of a 52 state representatives for their com- fence they are on. We are grateful to the mitment to sportsmen and the millions September 10, 2014 was a special legislators who voted to end this sense- of Missourians who simply appreciate day for the Conservation Federation of less legislation. wildlife. Missouri. It marked the 79th anniver- The founding fathers of CFM must CFM understands the importance sary of the formation of their organiza- be mighty proud of us today. CFM and believes in the strength of the tion, and now also marks the day CFM members who came before us fought to state’s agricultural industry. We be- helped end legislation that would have protect and promote the natural re- lieve agriculture and conservation must reclassified captive white-tailed deer sources of Missouri. Yesterday we left work together, and CFM is committed from wildlife to livestock. our mark with a win for this generation to helping further efforts to do so for Senate Bill 506 was an agriculture of conservationists. the greater good of our state. Yet, the omnibus bill that contained legislation Our friend, Collin O’Mara, the CEO captive cervid language in SB 506 was to transfer control of captive deer from of the National Wildlife Federation damaging to those efforts. It should the Missouri Department of Conserva- said, “This is a victory for wildlife and have never been added to the agricul- tion to the Missouri Department of Missourians. Governor Nixon’s veto of ture omnibus bill. A political maneuver Agriculture. The bill died on September legislation that would have transferred to backdoor bad legislation backfired. 10 when the House of Representatives regulation of deer farms to the state Hopefully, the good legislation that suf- fell one vote shy of the 109 they needed agriculture department sends a message fered because of politics can be passed to override Governor Nixon’s veto. The that the people’s wildlife is a benefit to as stand alone bills during the next Senate vote to override passed by two everyone, not for privatization and prof- legislative session. votes. it. We hope that this victory provides To the Representatives who made CFM members put their heart and other states facing the same challenges the difficult but correct choice to vote soul into ending this legislation and with a clear path forward based upon against SB 506, the conservation com- protecting wildlife. The power of moti- sound science and protecting wildlife.” munity of Missouri thanks you. We will vated citizens working for a cause they On behalf of the Conservation Fed- not forget who our friends are.

and consequences of climate change, watcher,’ or ‘I measure water quality,’” CLIMATE such as population declines and Cooper said. “People might realize changes in migration timing. they have a lot of kindred spirits out Continued from Page 28 Cooper says that it’s not as if there.” that they outlast the careers of individ- scientists are downplaying the role of Some North American Citizen Sci- ual researchers. (The Christmas Bird citizen science—in some cases, sci- ence Projects for Bird Watchers: Count has been running continuously entists use large data repositories and eBird accepts sightings all year since 1900) For many types of data, may be unaware that citizen science round and from anywhere on the globe there’s simply no other way to collect was involved. In the majority of cases, Audubon’s Christmas Bird it at such a scale than with volunteers. scientists simply don’t use a standard- Count runs during the holidays and So how well does that dependence ized term to refer to citizen science. welcomes bird watchers of all levels on volunteers come through in sci- The result is that the product of all Project FeederWatch is a winter entific papers? As a springboard for that volunteer effort is invisible in the project that gives people with backyard their study, Cooper and her colleagues literature, despite having played an feeders a chance to contribute their analyzed the bibliography of a recent integral part in analyses. sightings to science review on the effects of climate change “I’d like to see this information NestWatch is a summer project in on migratory birds. For each of the 173 coming full circle. In the world today which participants monitor the prog- primary studies cited in the review, we tend to have notions about exper- ress of nests Cooper and her colleagues tracked tise, and that only professionals have Great Backyard Bird Count happens down the sources of data used. it,” Cooper said, noting that this idea over Presidents Day weekend, accepts Neither the review itself nor any of can keep people from feeling they have sightings worldwide, and is a great the cited papers used the term “citizen anything to contribute to the scientific project for people just getting started science”—a term coined in 1995—and process. “But people who have been with citizen science only 37 papers used the word “volun- doing a hobby for years have tons of Not a bird watcher? Scistarter can teer.” Yet between 24 percent and 77 expertise, and they can make a very help you find a citizen-science project percent of the papers supporting each real contribution.” in whatever subject interests you. claim drew primarily on volunteer “It would be so cool for people to Caren Cooper blogs about citizen data. Citizen science proved especially start to identify with the term citizen science and is also on Twitter @Coop- important for documenting the patterns science, instead of thinking ‘I’m a bird SciScoop.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 29 Massive CWD outbreak on Iowa deer farm 79.8 percent of the deer tested positive for the disease The Iowa Department of Agriculture Plant Health Inspection Service’s (APHIS) time, which was before depopulation and and Land Stewardship announces that National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames, testing, at $1,354,250. At that time a herd the test results from the depopulation of IA confirmed that a male white tail deer plan was developed with the owners and a quarantined captive deer herd in north- harvested from a hunting preserve in officials from USDA and the Iowa Depart- central Iowa showed that 284 of the 356 southeast IA was positive for CWD. An ment of Agriculture and Land Steward- deer, or 79.8% of the herd, tested positive investigation revealed that this animal had ship. for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). The just been introduced into the hunting pre- Once the depopulation was complete owners of the quarantined herd have en- serve from the above-referenced captive and the premises had been cleaned and tered into a fence maintenance agreement deer herd in north-central Iowa. disinfected, indemnity of $917,100.00 with the Iowa Department of Agriculture The captive deer herd was immediately from the USDA has been or will be paid and Land Stewardship, which requires the quarantined to prevent the spread of CWD. to the owners as compensation for the 356 owners to maintain the 8’ foot perimeter The herd has remained in quarantine until captive deer depopulated. fence around the herd premises for five its depopulation on August 25 to 27, 2014. The Iowa Department of Agriculture years after the depopulation was complete The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship operates a voluntary and the premises had been cleaned and and Land Stewardship participated in a CWD program for farms that sell live ani- disinfected joint operation to depopulate the infected mals. Currently 145 Iowa farms participate CWD is a progressive, fatal, degenera- herd with USDA Veterinary Services, in the voluntary program. The above-refer- tive neurological disease of farmed and which was the lead agency, and USDA enced captive deer facility left the volun- free-ranging deer, elk, and moose. There is Wildlife Services. tary CWD program prior to the discovery no known treatment or vaccine for CWD. Federal indemnity funding became of the disease as they had stopped selling CWD is not a disease that affects humans. available in 2014. USDA APHIS appraised live animals. All deer harvested in a hunt- On July 18, 2012, USDA Animal and the captive deer herd of 376 animals at that ing preserve must be tested for CWD. Ding Darling and the Blue Goose By David Govatski logo was an outline of a stylized Canada Goose, not the “Blue Goose” morph of the There are three important 80th anni- Snow Goose, as some people assert. The versaries to celebrate this year, events all sign had the wording: “US Department of related to the National Wildlife Refuge Agriculture Biological Survey.” That’s System and the “Duck Stamp.” because the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service The first was in March, with the pas- had yet to be created inside the Depart- sage of the Act creating the stamp in 1934. ment of the Interior. Below the image of The second was in August, with the the goose were either the words “Migra- very first “First Day of Sale” for the tory Bird Refuge” or “National Wildlife stamp. Refuge.” The third may surprise you, so let’s The first sign templates were black on begin with the key individual behind all a white background. (See the image here.) three of these events in that historic year. An existing label from the back of the first Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling was the “Blue Goose” sign sample from the Erie conservationist and cartoonist/artist who, USFWS National Conservation Enameling Company of Erie, Pennsyl- among many other things, helped advo- Training Center Archive and Mu- vania, indicates that the signs could also cate for the creation of the stamp through seum be made in blue, instead of black. And, his role in the Presidential “Committee on indeed, they have been ever since! (The One of Darling’s associated tasks on Wild-Life Restoration,” a role he shared original heavy signs, by the way, each the job in 1934 was to prepare a design with two other perceptive conservation- weighed over four pounds.) for the new stamp, a short project which ists, Thomas H. Beck and Aldo Leopold. The flying-goose model sign replaced he did on cardboard shirt-stiffeners lying Working over a few short weeks, the a standardized circular sign that dated in his office. He thought these were to be committee submitted its report in early back to 1903 when President Theodore samples or prototypes, and he was cha- February, 1934. It included support for the Roosevelt created the Pelican Island Bird grined when the Bureau of Engraving and stamp idea, a concept that had been circu- Reservation. Printing selected one of the drawings to lating, unsuccessfully, for over a decade. The three interrelated events 80 years grace the stamp, a pair of Mallards land- Ding Darling was soon appointed head ago are highly significant for wildlife pro- ing in a pond. of the Biological Survey, an agency then tection in America. In fact, the Migratory What you may not know is that Darling in the US Department of Agriculture, by Bird Hunting and Conservation [Duck] is also credited for designing the famous FDR on March 10, 1934. Just six days Stamp has now raised over $900 million “Blue Goose” logo used on the signs on later, Congress passed and the President refuges starting that same year, although signed the Duck Stamp Act on March 16, we do not know the exact date. The 1934. Continued on Page 31

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 30 Five tips for helping birds this winter By Rob Ripma Garden Club Newsletter

With the sinking temperatures near my home in Indiana, it is evident that winter is quickly approaching, and the weather changes this time of year always get me thinking about how I am going to help our feathered friends survive the winter. Here are five tips for helping the birds survive the coming cold months. 1. Provide suet. Suet is a great source of protein for the birds. This will help them stay warm This Downy Woodpecker is feast- American Tree Sparrow is one of and survive those extremely cold nights. ing on some suet that will help the many sparrows that prefer to Remember that the larger woodpeck- her stay warm on this cold winter use ground feeders. ers much prefer a suet feeder with a tail day. prop! have easy access to food even when the peckers, nuthatches, and chickadees are ground is covered with snow. 2. Put out a heated birdbath. just a few of the many species that will 5. Leave your bird houses up. Once lakes and streams start to freeze, frequent a peanut feeder. There are several species that will use birds have a difficult time finding water. 4. Use a ground feeder. bird houses as roosting sites during the By offering a heated birdbath for your There are quite a few species that are winter. Bluebirds do this most common- birds to drink from, you will not only not comfortable coming to traditional ly. Be sure to clean out the old nesting help them survive but will also attract bird feeders. Most of our native spar- material and block any of the ventilation many more birds than you would with rows such as Song, White-throated, and holes so they can retain their warmth. If feeders alone. White-crowned, prefer to feed on the you can, flip the orientation of the front 3. Offer peanuts in your feeders. ground. By offering seed using a ground of the house so that the hole is on the Peanuts, like suet, are another good feeder, you will ensure that these species bottom. source of protein for your birds. Wood-

more information about Cedar Bluff ware River. Management of upland HABITAT Wildlife Area, Luke Winge can be habitat over the years has consisted reached at lwinge@pheasantsforever. of cropland conversion, native grass Continued from Page 28 org. establishment, planting of shrubby Alex Thornburg - The habitat cover, cutting of shrubby vegetation, Bluff Wildlife Area is also an excellent specialist at Tuttle Creek Wildlife and prescribed burning to stimulate fishery. Winge focuses his efforts on Area, Alex Thornburg is responsible warm season grasses and forbs. For creating diverse habitat with a mixture for the management of 12,200 acres of more information about Perry Wildlife of crops, grasses and weeds to provide wildlife habitat. This area consists of Area, Andrew Page can be reached excellent recreation opportunities for Tuttle Creek Lake, the second largest [email protected]. many visitors throughout the year. For body of water in the state which acts Brock Wilson - Located east of as a flood control unit for the Kan- Wichita, habitat specialist Brock sas River Basis. Thornburg is one of Wilson is responsible for the manage- two main employees for Tuttle Creek ment of 9,352 acres in the Fall River Wildlife Area and actively manages Wildlife Area. Known for its flood DARLING for multiple wildlife species through plain valley surrounded by rolling Continued from Page 30 mowing, food plots, controlled burns prairie country, this wildlife area con- and various other habitat improve- sists of 2,300 acres of riparian timber, since 1934, helping to secure over 5.5 ments. For more information Tuttle 2,500 acres of native grassland, 2,988 million acres of habitat for migratory birds Creek Wildlife Area, Alex Thornburg acres of cropland and 960 acres of and other wildlife on the National Wildlife can be reached at athornburg@pheasa the Fall River Reservoir. Wilson’s Refuge System across the lower-48 states. ntsforever.org. management techniques are focused It’s remarkable to recall how much was Andrew Page - Working to support on increasing the quality of wildlife started in that one year, how much was multiple wildlife species, habitat spe- habitat to provide ample recreational accomplished in 1934. cialist Andrew Page is an active leader opportunities for hunters to harvest in habitat improvements for the Perry game species such as deer, turkey, David Govatski is a Duck Stamp Wildlife Area located north of Topeka, waterfowl, doves and quail. For more advocate and President of the Friends of Kansas. The Perry Wildlife Area con- information about Fall River Wildlife Pondicherry, a unit of the Silvio O. Conte sists of 10,500 acres of wetland/upland Area, Brock Wilson can be reached at National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. complexes surrounding the Dela- [email protected].

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 31 Spotted skunk is one talented, but smelly acrobat

Spotted skunk demonstrating its warning handstand © PBS

By eNature

The skunk that most of us in the U.S. know best, the Striped Skunk, is just an entry-level stinker. Range of Eastern Spotted skunk Its cousin, the Spotted Skunk, pos- sesses an even more potent musk. And the Spotted Skunk is also the better entertainer. This small (16-23 inches) skunk is more weasel-like in body shape than the more familiar striped skunk. The Spotted Skunk’s strips are broken in pattern, giving it a “spotted” appearance. A Seldom Seen Skunk The smallest skunks found in North America, Spotted skunks are sleek, fast and skilled climbers. They’re highly nocturnal, too, which means that few of us ever see them. One of the two sub-species, Western Spotted or Eastern Spotted Skunk, can be found in most of the continental U.S. (See range maps) There’s very little difference between the two sub- species, although the Eastern tends to be slightly larger than the Western. These skunks’ nocturnal nature Range of Western Spotted skunk means that while we’re spared their malodorous weapon, we’re deprived What to Do if the Unfortunate sified as Threatened species in Kan- their acrobatic performances. These Happens? sas, meaning it appears likely, within start when the Spotted Skunk feels The malodorous oil that skunks the foreseeable future, to become an itself threatened. spray is produced by glands around the endangered species. An Endangered Fancy Dancers anus. The secretion of Spotted Skunks species is any species of wildlife First, the animal rapidly stomps the differs from that of Striped Skunks whose continued existence as a viable ground with its forefeet. Next, quite — and can actually smell stronger if component of the state’s wild fauna is remarkably, it rises up on its front legs water is used to remove it. One of the determined to be in jeopardy. and performs one or more handstands. most effective ways to remove the Spotted Skunks seem to prefer And if the threat persists, the skunk oil’s unpleasant smell is to oxidize the forest edges and upland prairie grass- will drop back onto all fours, curve its active elements in it with baking soda lands, especially where rock outcrops body so that both front and back ends or hydrogen peroxide when bathing and shrub clumps are present. In west- face the interloper, and deliver a blast humans or pets. of skunk musk up to 16 feet away. Eastern Spotted Skunks are clas- Continued on Page 40

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 32 Lesser Prairie-chicken conservation efforts The Western Association of Fish & in the program will also receive exemp- value to lesser prairie-chickens. Once Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA) is continu- tions from the take prohibitions of the all the applications have been ranked by ously accepting landowner applications Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the WAFWA, all available funding will be for 5- and 10-year conservation contracts practices prescribed in their management committed to the highest ranking offers. that will benefit lesser prairie-chick- plan. Additional options are available for There may be a need to contract addi- ens. Conservation contract applications landowners who wish to forego pay- tional acres prior to next fall if industry would occur on native rangeland and ments and receive only the ESA take development exceeds projections. If that planted grass stands such as expired exemptions. happens, the WAFWA will rank all ap- CRP. To be eligible for the WAFWA pro- The WAFWA program is fully funded plications on-hand at that time and fund gram the parcel of land must be at least by private industry and landowner enough applications to meet the addition- 160 acres or larger, located within the participation is needed for companies al industry demand. Thus, a landowner’s lesser prairie-chicken range, and not cur- to operate in compliance with the ESA. chances to get into the program increase rently enrolled in a federal conservation More than 45 landowners across the by applying early rather than waiting program. Landowners who are accepted lesser prairie-chicken range submitted until fall 2015. into the WAFWA program will receive applications last spring and WAFWA ap- Landowners should contact the near- a one-time sign-up incentive payment proved 9 of those offers for funding. The est regional office of their state wildlife of up to $5/acre, a one-time payment total annual payments for these 9 con- agency to submit an application or find for any needed restoration practices, tracts are over $500,000. The remaining out more information about the program. and annual payments for implementing applications are being held on file and The state contacts are as follows: management activities for the length of will be considered for funding each time Brian Dreher, Colorado Springs, CO their contract. The payments for restora- additional resources become available. (719-227-5220) tion and management can be up to 125% Funding of conservation contracts are Grant Beauprez, Portales, NM (575- of the estimated cost of implementing based upon industry development within 478-2460) the prescribed practices. Exact payment the range of the lesser prairie chicken. Calvin Richardson, Canyon, TX (806- rates are based on quality of vegetation WAFWA does not anticipate funding 651-3014) and the location of the property relative additional contracts until fall of 2015. At Allan Janus, Stillwater, OK (405-744- to high priority lesser prairie-chicken which time, all completed applications 9527) conservation areas. Landowners enrolled on-hand will be ranked according to their Brad Odle, Hays, KS (785-623-2945) NBCI's state of the bobwhite 2014 released There was a major increase in bob- Texas as the nation’s first “legacy land- “If fact, I believe we will be able to white habitat management by the states scape for bobwhite conservation.” report success on one of those major in 2013 over the previous drought year “There are so many things moving ‘opportunities’ very soon,” McKenzie and the National Bobwhite Conserva- in the right direction now,” said NBCI said. tion Initiative (NBCI) was approved for Director Don McKenzie. “States have Headquartered at the University of funding from the Federal Aid in Wild- shown their commitment by increasing Tennessee’s Department of Forestry, life Restoration Program. These are but their habitat management efforts and Wildlife and Fisheries, NBCI is an two of the subjects detailed in the new now by stepping up to actually fully initiative of the National Bobwhite NBCI’s Bobwhite Almanac, State of the fund NBCI through Pittman-Robertson Technical Committee (NBTC) to el- Bobwhite 2014, the digital version of or other sources. The states’ support evate bobwhite quail recovery from an which is available on NBCI’s website at will allow us to fill some critically- individual state-by-state proposition to www.bringbackbobwhites.org. needed positions, including a grasslands a range-wide leadership endeavor. The Additional topics include the positive coordinator and national bobwhite committee is comprised of representa- impact on bobwhites of two national database manager that we’ve needed in tives of state wildlife agencies, aca- pine (longleaf and shortleaf) forest order to push progress in key ways.” demic research institutions and private restoration initiatives, the New Jersey McKenzie says it’s important to conservation organizations. Support for Division of Fish & Wildlife’s ability note that NBCI doesn’t duplicate the NBCI is provided by the Federal Aid to create four bobwhite focal areas in states’ efforts, but works at regional and in Wildlife Restoration Program, state one the nation’s smallest, most densely national levels to identify opportuni- wildlife agencies, the University of populated states, the U.S. Forest Ser- ties and remove obstacles for bobwhite Tennessee and Park Cities Quail. vice’s approval of a bobwhite emphasis restoration at those levels, something For more information, please visit area in the Kisatchie National Forest in individual states working alone cannot www.bringbackbobwhites.org, Louisiana and the designation of South do.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 33 Why hunting ethics matter By Mark Kenyon WiredtoHunt.com

It is said that in a single day, Daniel Boone once killed 11 black bears before breakfast. During the height of the buffalo hunt- ing boom, there were reports of hunters who had killed 100 to 200 buffalo in a single hour. At one time, this kind of hunting at a mass scale was acceptable. Today, of course, it is not. Why is that? Simply, because things change. And when circumstances change, the code of ethics that governs how hunters partici- pate with nature changes along with it. It must. The Taboo Ethics and hunting. They are two things that must go together hand in hand, but inevitably a discussion of the topic gets a rise out of people. Bring stance on hunting ethics related to long and what goes. Today, hunters make up a up ethics in a room full of hunters and distance shooting. minority of society, and therefore hunting you’re likely to be accused of at least one In response to these criticisms the traditions are potentially at risk if the of two things; 1) trying to divide hunters, B&C club released what I believe is a majority of citizens develop a negative or 2) helping anti-hunters. truly terrific explanation of why a serious perception of hunting, whether justified But why does a conversation on hunt- discussion of hunting ethics is neces- or not. ing ethics need to be so taboo? sary in today’s world. I think it perfectly Ninety percent of our population does In my opinion, it does not. In fact I be- explains many of the points I would like not hunt, but eighty percent still support lieve the much more dangerous practice to emphasize to all of you about the im- hunting as long as it is seen as: would be to sweep these conversations portance of at least examining our ethics 1) Not wasteful – the game taken is under the rug and ignore ethics and how as hunters, rather than hiding behind the used for food. they pertain to hunting. This is something way things always have been. 2) Ethical – guided by rules and that truly will help anti-hunters. I’ve copied a portion of their explana- values that honor the tradition and the When circumstances change, whether tion below, but to read the whole state- animals hunted. it be the environment, wildlife popula- ment as well as some clarifying points 3) The activity is in service to con- tions, culture or technology, it is our duty on their long-distance shooting stance servation – not overwhelming, but using to examine how we interact with nature http://www.boone-crockett.org/news/fea- wildlife resources in a sustainable way. as hunters. To forget that, in my opinion, tured_story.asp?area=news&ID=224. Today, more people are voicing their would spell the doom of our hunting way “All significant human activities, opinions about how wildlife is to be used, of life. Still though, debates or stances on sooner or later, are conducted under managed, and cared for than ever before. hunting ethics are derided. a code, or set of guidelines, that direct How hunting is being conducted is there- Of course, we’ll never all agree on appropriate behavior. Without this order fore of utmost relevance. all hunting ethics related issues – and there would simply be chaos and the Clearly we need never apologize for that’s ok. We’ll all draw different lines activity would become unacceptable. something that provides as much as hunt- in the sand. But what’s most important, Consequently, ethics apply in everything ing does for society and for the natural I believe, is that these conversations are we do, from our personal relationships environment. Having rules, laws and being had. It’s important that we are and how we treat our fellow man to busi- personal ethics to govern and guide our taking the time to look within ourselves ness and recreational activities. Hunting hunting practices is about respect, for the as hunters and asking, are we doing too is conducted under a code, or set of wildlife we pursue, for the landscapes in right by nature? Are we doing right by ethics, that direct appropriate behavior. which those creatures thrive – and for these animals? Are we doing right by our As such, a conversation about ethics in ourselves as hunters. ancestors? hunting is a conversation about values Certainly we should also acknowl- It’s a conversation we need to have as and continuance. edge that our society rightly expects, a community and as individuals. Values in hunting are more important and deserves, an ethical approach to the Why Do Ethics Matter? today than at any time in history. Why? use of any public resource and espe- Recently, the Boone & Crockett Club A hunter’s values - what motivates us cially toward any living creature. The has found itself the target of criticism due and how we conduct ourselves – shapes truth is, we are hunting today because to this exact issue. Specifically, it’s been society’s opinion of hunting. In any derided because of a recently announced democracy, society decides what stays Continued on Page 35

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 34 Poacher an 'anti-mentor' By J.R. Absher is ready to go hunting. (one inch or more), an additional $500 The Archery Wire In a search of Powers’ property, au- will be assessed for each point; thorities seized two large antlered heads, -For antlered deer with 11 or more In the course of my outdoor writing meat and a shotgun used to illegally take points, an additional $750 will be as- career spanning the past 35 years or so, the animals. It was determined Powers sessed for each point. I’ve reported dozens of stories about killed both deer himself that morning Powers was assessed $335 in fines game law violators and wildlife poach- in Bushnell Township of Montcalm and costs, $12,000 in restitution for ing incidents. They’ve run the gamut: County, while accompanying an 8-year- payment to the state’s Fish and Game from the bizarre and absurd to the fla- old youth. Officers testified that Pow- Protection Fund, and five days manda- grant and obnoxious. ers illegally tagged one deer with the tory minimum jail time to be served But there are game-law violators, and Mentored Youth Tag issued to the young as community service. In addition, the then there are despicable, scum-suck- hunter he accompanied and procured scumbag, er, I mean convicted poacher, ing, bottom-feeding poachers. And I’m a second Youth tag from a 6-year-old faces up to five years of hunting license betting readers will agree Jacob Powers female family member prior to transport- revocations in Michigan and 41 member of Lowell, Mich. easily qualifies for the ing the animals. states that participate in the Interstate latter category. Officers further established Powers Wildlife Violator Compact. Powers, 25, pleaded guilty during his had recorded trail camera images of the Also, subsequent to the initial search Oct. 3 arraignment before a magistrate trophy-class deer prior to the hunt and of Powers’ residence and the filing of of the 64B District Court at Stanton in knew the animals were present in the charges, authorities located two deer Montcalm County on the charge of tak- hunt area, indicating the poaching was hides from the poached animals dumped ing two deer during a closed season. Au- premeditated. in a parking lot at the Lowell State thorities investigating a phone complaint That’s the bad news. Now, some good Game Area in Ionia County. Having not to the state Report All Poaching (RAP) stuff. recovered these items on the night of the Line on Sept. 21 said Powers killed two In his sentencing, Powers received original investigation, officers returned trophy whitetails in Montcalm County fines and punishment established under to meet with Powers and obtained a during the 2014 Youth Hunt while acting Michigan’s newly passed law that pro- confession to the additional charge of as a mentor to an 8-year-old. vides a progressive penalty and restitu- littering on state lands. You read that right: The poaching tion system based on the trophy quality Even with the enhanced fines and took place while Powers was accompa- of deer taken illegally. It marked the first loss of hunting privileges, the punish- nying a youngster on his first deer hunt! time the new law has come into play ment for the wildlife crime committed In 2012, following the lead of other since becoming effective Feb. 1, 2014. by Powers may hardly seem adequate to state agencies and legislatures, the Mich- And it couldn’t have been used more many of us. We can only trust he will be igan Natural Resources Commission appropriately. paying for the despicable act for many approved the Mentored Youth Hunting Under the new law: years through his daily interaction with program, aimed at introducing children -For any deer with or without antlers, honest sportsmen and ethical hunters. under the age of 10 to hunting and fish- the base restitution will be $1,000; He will forever be an “anti-mentor” to ing. The action eliminated the minimum -For any antlered deer, there will be young, budding hunters - an example hunting age in the state, permitting par- an additional restitution of $1,000 plus; parents can point to as poaching’s ents to determine if and when their child -For antlered deer with 8 to 10 points worst.

than killing and that hunting does not mind. Examine your hunting ethics. And ETHICS risk – but rather ensures – the survival be open to conversation, debate and the of the hunted. Through the concept of occasional disagreement. Continued from Page 34 fair chase and the hunting ethic, hunt- We might never all draw the same the majority of sportsmen over the past ing transcends mere killing and becomes lines in the sand when it comes to hunt- century have held themselves to a high something more – much more. That ing ethics, but if we hope to continue ethical standard. The concern of many “something more” is a combination of this cherished way of life, we do need to sportsmen today is what they were taught the expectations of society, coupled with walk a line. was unacceptable is now being shown a binding contract on the part of the That lines runs a sometimes wavy as acceptable to our next generation hunter to behave in a manner that honors course, weaving in and out of culture, of hunters. Unfortunately, times and both hunting and the animals pursued. society, history and technology, balanc- circumstances are changing moving the The result will be a continuing social ing many people’s goals, hopes, fears and line between what was once unthinkable relevance for hunting in a modern world desires. It’s a winding road, but in the to something now less troubling. and the continued survival of the hunted end it leads to a dark timber, a thick oak, History has proven that our society in the wild state. a stand perched high in the branches, and will eliminate or at least greatly dimin- The values hunters carry should be a perfect evening filled with the steady ish those activities seen as unethical. the envy of everyone who cares about the crunch of an approaching animal. Therefore society at large must be as- land and wildlife.“ Some things change, but others will sured that hunting is something more I urge you to keep these words in always stay the same.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 35 This cave may hold the secret to ending the scourge that's killing bats According to a new study, bats living in Vermont's Aeolus Cave appear to be fighting off the deadly white-nose syndrome By Richard Conniff

The first time white-nose syndrome really hit Aeolus Cave, on the side of a mountain in Dorset, Vt., the carcasses littered the entrance like a carpet. “You couldn’t step on the ground without step- ping on dead bats,” says Scott Darling, a biologist with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department. “Nowhere else have people seen that level of mortality in a cave.” Bats afflicted with the fungus during their hibernation usually “fly out and die on the landscape,” unnoticed. But “in Aeolus Cave, for whatever reason, many, many died right there in Guano Hall,” the steeply sloped tunnel-like cave entrance. Statewide, Vermont lost 90 percent of its bats between 2008 and 2010, the first years of the epidemic. The other 19 states and five Canadian provinces where white-nose Photo: Charlie L. Harper III/ Reuters occurs have experienced similar losses. It may be the most precipitous decline in any losses to seven species. The disease causes bats do not breed like mice. They are re- animal group ever, with an astonishing 5.7 hibernating bats to wake up in the middle markably long-lived. Researchers have re- million bats now thought to have died. But of winter, and it is a disturbing sight. I covered bats at Aeolus 30 years after they Aeolus, the site of decades of pioneering visited Aeolus in the 1990s, long before were originally banded. Each female also research on bats, became the poster child white-nose appeared. Biologists conduct- produces only a single offspring a year. of the epidemic. ing bat counts in winter were careful to So the devastating consequences of Now, Darling sees the first tentative whisper, to avoid waking the hibernating the white-nose epidemic are likely to be signs of a possible recovery. bats that covered the ceilings and walls. evident for decades to come, in the form In an experiment at Aeolus in April A bat in deep hibernation drops its heart of mosquitoes and agricultural pests not 2012, researchers placed identifying bands rate from as many as 1,300 beats a minute eaten. (In one study at Aeolus, a single on bats emerging from hibernation. When to as few as eight. Once disturbed, the bats bat caught and ate 175 mosquitoes in a they went back to count them last April, 50 seem to sway visibly, as they shiver toward 15-minute period.) A 2011 study in Sci- percent had survived. According to Dar- wakefulness. They warm themselves up at ence magazine estimated that the loss of ling, some banded bats have been known a rate of about one degree a minute. Some bats from white-nose syndrome and other to survive as long as six years in other shift their forelimbs, making the slow, factors is now costing North American white-nose areas. dreamy, ineffectual movements of a person farmers more than $3.7 billion a year. “We don’t know if it’s something trying to fend off a nightmare. Whether this will begin to change any- genetic or something behavioral,” says Because there are no insects to feed on time soon depends on another experiment Darling. But these survivors of the great in winter, bats must get through hiberna- in progress at Aeolus. At the beginning of die-off seem to have a kind of resistance or tion with stored body fat. It makes up 30 winter, researchers glued tiny radio tags to resilience. “Immunity” may be too strong a percent of their body weight at the start the backs of 450 bats there. A big, hoop- word. Somehow, though, they live normal and drops down to as little as 5 percent by shaped receiver antenna, positioned in a lives despite hibernating in a cave heav- spring. The trouble with white-nose fungus passageway leading to the cave entrance, ily infected with white-nose syndrome. isn’t just that it wakes bats in midwinter; will register every time those bats go in or “There’s hope here in the Northeast that the effect is to send them out looking for out. we’ve seen the worst of it,” says Dar- food that’s not there. A single day of wak- Roughly a month from now, in April ling. But he adds that there is “a lot of ing can burn 10 to 30 days’ worth of stored 2014, Darling and other researchers will uncertainty. Are we still losing 20, 30, 40 fat, meaning death. make the climb back up to Aeolus. They percent?” Even if a recovery occurs at Aeolus and hope to confirm last year’s promising White-nose fungus originated in Eu- spreads to other states, Darling warns that results. If it’s good news, church bells will rope, where it does not appear to harm the the bats are “not rebounding yet.” Any ring out across New England and perhaps bats. But in North America, where it first recovery will inevitably be slow. Despite beyond, even if the bell towers themselves appeared in 2006, it has caused devastating their small, somewhat mousy appearance, remain, for now, empty of bats.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 36 Kansas NWTF budgets $81,410 for state conservation projects The Kansas State Chapter of the Na- for hunting, shooting and outdoor enjoy- ment equipment for KDWPT Region tional Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) ment. Without hunters, there will be no 1 and pumping units for Fort Riley’s recently allocated $81,410 for state Save wildlife or habitat. The NWTF is deter- Prescribed Burning Program. Partners: the Habitat. Save the Hunt. programs in mined to Save the Habitat. Save the Hunt. KDWPT and Fort Riley Conservation 2015. Education and outreach funding totals Department “The state level support of the Save the $36,030 and will support JAKES, Women ♦ $10,430 to support KDWPT grass- Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative is tre- in the Outdoors, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, land restoration efforts at Clinton, Glen mendous,” said Becky Humphries, NWTF scholarships, education boxes for schools Elder, Norton and Cedar Bluff Wildlife executive vice president of conservation. and hunter access programs. Areas. Partners: KDWPT, Pheasants For- “The projects outlined in the state’s pro- The board of directors allocated the ever and Quail Forever posals exemplify what we look for when remaining $45,380 for habitat projects to ♦ $12,000 to support forest stand allocating Super Fund dollars.” address immediate focal landscape needs improvement at KDWPT’s Hollister More than $765,000 in matching funds identified by NWTF wildlife biologists. Wildlife Area and an oak regeneration/re- also will come from conservation partners; Projects include: search project at Kansas State University’s nearly a 12-to-1 match on NWTF funds. ♦ $5,000 for continued support of (KSU) Howe property. Partners: KDWPT, The NWTF Save the Habitat. Save the NWTF Regional Biologist Program. KFS and KSU Horticulture, Forestry and Hunt. initiative is a charge that mobilizes Partners: Kansas and Nebraska NWTF Recreational Resources Department science, fundraising and devoted volun- State Chapters, Nebraska Game and Parks ♦ $10,000 to support restoration of teers to give the NWTF more energy and Commission, Kansas Department of Wild- water corridors on KDWPT’s Cedar Bluff purpose than ever. Through this national life, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) and Melvern Wildlife Areas and U.S. For- initiative, NWTF has committed to raising ♦ $1,000 to support NWTF’s October est Service (USFS) on Cimarron National $1.2 billion to conserve and enhance more Forestry Workshop for Resource Profes- Grasslands. Partners: KDWPT and USFS. than 4 million acres of essential upland sionals. Partners: KDWPT and Kansas To learn more about the NWTF Save wildlife habitat, create at least 1.5 million Forest Service (KFS) the Habitat. Save the Hunt. initiative, visit hunters and open access to 500,000 acres ♦ $6,950 to purchase habitat manage- www.nwtf.org. Record pronghorn certified by Boone and Crockett By Outdoor News Daily cruitment of game animals into older age Outstanding features of Gallo’s tro- classes, sustainable harvest objectives phy: The largest pronghorn ever recorded and other elements of sound wildlife Lengths of horns: 18-3/8 right, 18-4/8 has been certified by Boone and Crockett management and fair-chase hunting. left. Club as a new World’s Record. “Records reflect success in big-game Total mass: 23-3/8 right, 23-2/8 left. The huge buck, hunted in Socorro conservation,” said Richard Hale, chair- Lengths of prongs: 7 right, 6-5/8 left. County, N.M., in 2013, scores 96-4/8 man of the Club’s Records of North Overall, New Mexico is second in B&C points. American Big Game Committee. “Re- pronghorn entries in Boone and Crockett The new record breaks a tie between member, the pronghorn was once nearly records, with 627. Wyoming is first with two specimens from Arizona. One was lost, much like the bison, until sportsmen 1,154. Rounding out the Top 5 are Ari- taken in Coconino County in 2000, the led an era of wildlife recovery. Now the zona (339), Nevada (288) and Montana other in Mohave County in 2002. Both species is flourishing. And the fact that (183). scored 95 B&C points. Club officials say such incredible specimens exist today When North America’s early explor- the difference between these old records says a lot about how far we have come, ers first described pronghorns, their and the new – a full inch-and-a-half and how bright the future might be.” journal entries referred to the animal as – is an extraordinary jump. In fact, the Forever attached to the new World’s a goat. A second misnomer – antelope – margin between the now No. 1- and No. Record pronghorn is the name of the appeared later when an observer noticed 2-ranked trophies is the largest in Boone lucky hunter: Mike Gallo. the similarities between pronghorns and and Crockett pronghorn records, which Hale added, “Congratulations to Mr. African antelopes. By the time biologists contain more than 3,400 entries. Gallo on a tremendous animal and a tip discovered this species actually is nei- The outstanding trophy also marks of the cap to the New Mexico Depart- ther goat nor antelope, both misnomers a notable achievement for conservation ment of Fish and Game and to the were in common use. Today, the prong- professionals. sportsmen and sportswomen of that state horn is known as a unique species whose Boone and Crockett records are a for their stewardship of this iconic North entire evolutionary path and distribution gauge of exceptional habitat, strong re- American species.” are exclusive to North America.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 37 Remember the Jordan Buck Boone and Crockett Club pays tribute to a legendary hunt By the Boone and Crockett Club neapolis Star Tribune, the Boone and Crockett Club re-opens investigation into Ninety-nine deer seasons have passed Jordan’s claim. since James Jordan pulled the trigger on 1978 – Boone and Crockett officials a gargantuan whitetail that would become confirm the story and officially recognize one of the best-known trophies of all time Jordan as the hunter and Burnett County, – and still stands as the biggest typical Wis., as the location taken. Sadly, Jordan buck ever taken in the U.S. With the 100th had passed away two months earlier. Anniversary coming up in November, the 1993 – After 29 years at the top of Boone and Crockett Club is pausing to Boone and Crockett records, the Jordan remember a tale that remains the stuff of Buck is overtaken by Milo Hanson’s legends. 213-5/8 buck from western Saskatchewan, “You know a deer hunt has reached leg- Canada. endary status when the local community 2001 – Bass Pro Shops acquires the plans a centennial celebration,” said Keith James Jordan with his eventual Jordan Buck mount for an undisclosed Balfourd, marketing director for the Club. record buck sum. The buck is now part of a touring Burnett County, Wis., is hosting buck. Jordan fires, follows the wounded collection of trophies and seen annually by the Jordan Buck Centennial Extrava- animal and finally drops it as it crosses thousands of sportsmen. ganza. Festivities include a walking tour to the opposite side of the river. Amazed 2013 – Through the 99 deer seasons of the hunt area, art project and raffles for locals estimate the buck’s weight at close from 1914 through 2013, Wisconsin a Jordan Buck replica mount and a .25-20 to 400 pounds. A local taxidermist offers produced 1,057 typical whitetails in Boone lever-action rifle like the one carried on to mount the head for $5. Jordan agrees. and Crockett records – 324 more than the historic hunt. Later he discovers the taxidermist has second-place Illinois. Balfourd said, “The popularity of moved away leaving no trace of his trophy. 2014 – 100th Anniversary of Jordan’s hunting in North America, and the institu- 1964 – In a strange twist a half-century landmark buck. tions of sustainable use conservation that later, a distant relative of Jordan’s buys a “When we deer hunters dream white- hunting supports, rest on the shoulders of massive but crude deer mount at a rum- tail, we dream big, typical five-by-fives. the whitetail deer. The Boone and Crockett mage sale in Sandstone, Minn., for $3. That’s the most common and sought after Club is proud to help celebrate the history, Jordan is certain it’s his long-lost buck. antler configuration for the species. The legacy and significance of this deer as well The new owner requests an official scoring Jordan Buck certainly exceeds that which as the man who brought it to the attention by Boone and Crockett. The Club scores dreams are made of,” Balfourd concluded. of hunters and conservationists around the the antlers at 206-5/8 and confirms it as Go to http://www.boone-crockett. world.” the new World’s Record typical whitetail org/bgRecords/jordan_buck.asp to read the The Jordan Buck tale at a glance: but, unable to verify Jordan’s story, lists entire story of the Jordan Buck. 1914 – Nov. 20, Jordan, 22, hunts the hunter as unknown and the hunt area as Jordan Buck Key Measurements: with a friend along the Yellow River near Sandstone, Minn. 53-7/8 inches of mass/circumference Danbury, Wis. Jordan kills a doe. His 1968 – The rack is sold to an antler col- 30-inch mainbeams on both sides friend agrees to drag the doe home while lector in New Hampshire for $1,500. The G1-G4 measurements: 7, 13, 10 and 7 Jordan continues the hunt. Jordan tracks trophy is remounted with a new cape. inches a deer into a patch of high grass near a rail- 1977 – Following outdoor writer Ron Only 3-2/8 inches in symmetry deduc- road. An approaching train flushes a big Schara’s story about the buck in the Min- tions Umbrella rigs banned from Bassmaster opens, other competitions Restrictions on the use of umbrella rigs, the Classic or qualify for the Elite Series, it 1982 Classic champ, believe A-rigs should also known as Alabama rigs, just got stron- shouldn’t be on something that everybody be allowed at all B.A.S.S. events, even the ger. The Bassmaster Elite Series has never can’t use.” Elite Series. permitted their use. Last week B.A.S.S. Four-time Classic champion Kevin “I think it’s sad,” said Grigsby. “I think announced a further limitation on umbrella VanDam agreed, saying, “It’s a good call. If it’s a sad day when we start taking innova- rigs: They will no longer be permitted in the it’s not allowed on the Elite Series, the rules tion out of the sport. It’s not the greatest Bassmaster Opens or any other B.A.S.S. should be the same across all platforms.” thing to ever hit. It’s a very situational lure. event that leads directly to a Bassmaster But that decision wasn’t met with It has also taken away some other neat tools, Classic qualification. Some anglers are unanimous approval from Elite Series pros. like the two-fluke rig and the (Norman) happy about this change, others not so much. Even though the FLW tour banned the use Front Runner. “I think that’s fantastic,” said Chris Lane, of umbrella rigs after allowing them for one Read more at Bassmaster.com, www. the 2012 Classic champion. “If you make year, both Shaw Grigsby and Paul Elias, the bassmaster.com.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 38 The binocular tip: Don't sell kids short By Paul J. Baicich the ability for the young folks to get their group, binoculars that are small, light, The Birding Wire hands around the binoculars, access the flimsy, very low power, narrow field of focusing knob, and adjust the interpupil- view, and really unacceptable. Why is it that when you share binocu- lary distance (to match the closeness of The options for binoculars appropri- lars with an adult, perhaps a beginning the eyes among the youngest kids in the ate for youngsters are many today. It’s bird watcher, you make sure that you group). What’s more, finding the bird in not like the limitations of a decade or share a solid, quality, even impressive, the tree or bush is difficult enough for two ago. In fact, we live in an era when pair of binoculars, but when you go beginning birders - of any age - without relatively good quality binoculars can afield with a child, say, between 8 and 12 having to deal with a narrow field of be secured for around $100 or even less. years of age, almost any piece of optics view or a high magnification that may Some of these are porro-prism binocu- will do? have the image almost bouncing around. lars that can be outstanding. There are Worse yet, why is it that inexpensive Try a lower power - between 6X so many options that recommending a and light “compact binoculars” are al- and8X - and definitely stick to a wide particular brand would be inappropriate most always ascribed to kid use? field of view. or misleading here. Still, you might look It’s a big mistake. Of course, some training and help around the website for Eagle Optics to Too often, the very people whom - from a parent or other adult - is essen- review the many, many brands and sorts many bird educators value the most, tial. Learning to bring the binoculars to of models that are available. youngsters, are left with the worst in your face, while constantly watching the A final point to be aware of is war- introductory binoculars. Nothing will bird, needs practice. (Focusing on a far- ranty. Some manufacturers will offer an discourage continued bird-watching ac- off sign - and reading simple text - is a unconditional warranty, a relief when tivity and learning in the field more than fine way to learn locating the object and binoculars get dropped, slammed against an initial experience with binoculars that focusing properly.) While practice makes a tree or run over with a lawn mower. are, essentially, junk. It’s just no fun. perfect, that practice can be squandered if Don’t sell the kids short. They usually Of course, there are important optics the binoculars are unserviceable. arrive in the field eager to learn some- features that do need attention when deal- We have probably all seen a box of thing new. Don’t make it more difficult ing with youngsters. These may include binoculars distributed among kids in a for them at the very outset. Make it fun.

Report shows hunting more affordable than many outdoor activities, including golf We’re sure you know that a day spent far lower than a round of golf, estimated number of species available to hunt hunting beats a day in the office. What at $72.54 for greens fees and a sleeve of (more than 40 in some states), available you might not know, though, is that a balls, or a day at a major league ball- hunting days and legal firearm use by day spent hunting in many cases is more park, which will set you back $57.45 state. The report’s pages contain interest- affordable than a day spent on the golf for a ticket, parking and a drink and a ing factoids on hunting-nine states, for course or at a major league ballgame. hotdog. While 10 days of hunting costs example, allow the hunting of white- Statistics in NSSF’s latest report, essentially the same as one day afield, tailed deer with an air rifle-and there is “Hunting in the 50 States: Regulations, taking in 10 movies at your neighbor- an entire page on feral hog facts (popula- License Fees, Species and Methods of hood multiplex will add about $185 onto tion estimated at 5 million). Take,” clearly show that you get more your credit card. The report reveals how states provide bang for your buck hunting than in other Of course, “Hunting in the 50 States” many economic incentives to encour- competing hobbies and activities. includes much more information than age hunting. Sportsmen and women in “There’s a misperception about hunt- these comparisons-information that is South Carolina, for example, enjoy two ing being a very expensive pastime. It valuable to manufacturers, retailers and free days on which they can hunt without can be in some circumstances, but for shooting ranges. purchasing a state hunting license. In the most part hunting compares very To gain a better understanding of the many states, licenses for apprentice favorably with the costs of other popular expenses associated with hunting, NSSF hunters, juniors, seniors, military and the activities like playing golf, attending combed through the regulation guides disabled are modestly priced, including professional sports games and even go- of all 50 states to produce “Hunting for non-residents. ing to the movies,” said Jim Curcuruto, in the 50 States,” which consolidates “Hunting in the 50 States” is available NSSF Director of Industry Research and data regarding big and small game, and to NSSF members at www.nssf.org/re- Analysis. provides both state-specific and national search under the Industry Intelligence The report estimates the average cost information. Reports tab, and non-members can con- of a day of turkey hunting at $37.54 for The new report includes resident tact [email protected] for additional license, tags and ammunition, placing it and non-resident license and tag costs, information.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 39 KWPTC holds last commission meeting of 2014 Commissioners vote to do away with protection of threatened species Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism com- ers also unanimously voted to categorize since it is abundant in Missouri and concern missioners engaged in lively discussion and Clinton, Glen Elder, Lake Shawnee and over the potential impact on construction voted on several regulations relating to fish- Lake Wabaunsee as Aquatic Nuisance Spe- activities in northeast Kansas. Commis- ing and more at the Oct. 16 public hearing in cies (ANS) waters due to zebra mussels, as sioners eventually voted 6-1 to accept the Salina. For those that were unable to attend, well as categorize a stream located from the department’s recommendation regarding the a video of the meeting can be seen at www. Lincoln Street Dam in Wichita to the Okla- changes in the T&E Species list, including ksoutdoors.com by clicking “KDWPT homa line as ANS-designated water due to moving the Redbelly Snake to the SINC list. Info/Commission/Past Meetings.” white perch. Only Commissioner Aaron Rider of Colum- During the public hearing, commis- The last item presented to commissioners bus voted against the measure. Apparently sioners voted unanimously to eliminate the was the potential delisting of three species the Commission has forgotten their mission need for a permit to floatline fish and to previously listed as Endangered, reclassify- statement, which says “To conserve and increase the mesh size allowed in seines and ing six species from Threatened Species to enhance Kansas’ natural heritage, its wildlife cast nets used for taking baitfish to one- Species In Need of Conservation (SINC), and its habitats to ensure future generations half-inch; Herington - Father Padilla Pond including the Redbelly Snake, and adding the benefits of the state’s diverse, living was added to the list of Type 2 trout lakes; one previously unlisted species to the SINC resources.” That’s unfortunate. a 35-inch minimum length limit for blue list. Throughout the public comment period, The next commission meeting is sched- catfish was added to reservoirs Glen Elder Commissioners expressed disbelief in the uled for January 8, 2015 at Bonner Springs and Lovewell; and a five-day creel limit was science behind the population surveys, the Parks and Recreation, Sunflower Room, 200 added to Coffey County Lake. Commission- lack of need to protect the Redbelly Snake E. 3rd St., Bonner Springs. Owls and slob photographers By Paul J. Baicich egory, with both birders and bird photogra- intentionally lure or feed an owl in the wild Birding Community E-bulletin phers approaching far too close to the owls, with any animate or inanimate object, food, and on occasion, using “bait” (e.g., live or or animal... For the purposes of this section, In the January 2012 E-bulletin, we not-so-live rodents) to draw the owls even ‘lure’ means to purposefully attract a wild described a SLOB as a Selfish, Lazy, closer. Some Snowy Owls got so used to owl in an attempt to cause it to move from Obnoxious, Birder: http://refugeassociation. this activity that they would actually ap- one location to another and ‘feed’ means to org/?p=4687#tip proach observers, landing at their feet and put in place, in the presence of a wild owl, A SLOB rarely gives help to others in begging for food, whether or not mouse- any living or frozen animal or facsimile.” a birding group, is convinced that “Keep bait was being used! Clearly, this activity Exceptions are made for scientific Out” signs are not to be taken seriously, puts the owls at risk. research, bird banding, or for rescue. The and through other clueless or irresponsible This baiting practice has also been ob- proposed regulation is restricted to visual activities is an embarrassment to other served with Great Gray Owls and Northern luring, and an amendment is being consid- birders. Hawk-Owls. ered to clarify that the use of audio record- Unfortunately, we have this sort of activ- After a series of these incidents in ings will not become illegal. ity among some rogue bird photographers, Minnesota, the state legislature is now You can read the original wording of the too. considering a proposed wildlife regulation, proposed regulation here (without reference Last winter’s invasion of Snowy Owls supported by a number of Minnesota leg- to audio recording): http://www.house.leg. brought out some of the worst in this cat- islators. In part it reads: “A person may not state.mn.us/comm/docs/H2852A23.pdf

within which critical habitat has been demonstration) has evolved as a warn- SKUNK designated. ing to predators and other animals. Have you encountered a Spotted Once a would-be predator has seen it Continued from Page 32 Skunk, or even a Striped one? We’ve and then been sprayed, the thinking is ern counties, it relies heavily on ripar- heard many good skunk stories over that subsequent demonstrations act as ian corridors where woody shrubs and the years and would enjoy hearing warnings and discourage further at- woodland edges are present. Woody yours. Send them to info@kswildlife. tempts at predation. fencerows, odd areas, and abandoned org. It all sounds quite entertaining, as farm buildings are also important habi- The video from the BBC show long as you’re not on the receiving tat for Spotted Skunks. Weird Nature shows the Spotted end! Spotted Skunks may occur in suit- Skunk performing its distinctive See the video at: http://wild.enature. able habitat anywhere in the state. The dance, although it’s in an unusual com/blog/the-spotted-skunk-is-one- marked counties are those for which setting. Researchers speculate that this talented-but-smelly-acrobat#sthash. occurrence has been documented or performance (which they refer to as a uJ8A0SF2.dpuf

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 40 What's the best birdseed to put in your

By eNature feeder this winter?

Winter is all but in the air in many parts of the country—and it’s a time of the year when many people think about feeding birds in their backyards. We’re not sure why this happens only in winter, because feeding birds throughout the year has many rewards. Yet, winter is the time when bird seed sales are held, and bird feeders are promoted most widely. Perhaps, it’s the notion that birds need more help in cold weather, and therefore, bird feeding is more popular in winter. Whatever the reason, the bird feeding Chickadees are common visitors Dark eyed Junco season is on, and people are buying lots of to backyard feeders bird seeds. mixes are eaten by sparrows, doves, juncos The kind of seeds you offer backyard hulled (medium cracked) sunflower seed, and blackbirds. birds makes a difference, because all birds which is out of the shell. eNature’s bird So don’t miss out on having a busy don’t eat the same foods. expert, George Harrison, tells us that if he backyard this fall. If you leave bird seed If there is one kind of seed that is could feed only one kind of bird food in out, it’s almost certain to get found. most attractive to the greatest number of his backyard, it would be hulled sunflower What do you do this time of year to backyard birds, it would be sunflower in seeds. attract or (as some of us like to say) take any form. Sunflower seeds are relished Other popular seeds for finches include care of your local birds? by finches, grosbeaks, cardinals, jays, and niger (thistle), also spelled nyjer, a tiny We always appreciate hearing your even some species of woodpeckers. black seed that is offered in a tube feeder hints, suggestions and stories. Just The two most popular forms of sun- with tiny port holes. Safflower seeds are a send your thoughts or comments to flower seeds for birds are the black oil sun- favorite among cardinals, doves and house [email protected]. flower seed, which is in the shell, and the finches. And the various wild bird seed And have fun with the birds this winter! New bird biology website awakens the sense of discovery Enjoy interactive activites about bird son, feathers and more We know birds have feathers—but keep score as they gradually learn to rec- what are they made of, how do they work, ognize more than 50 bird species by sound. and how many kinds are there? Birds sing Educators and students surveyed after the songs—but how do they produce those website launch found that using birds to sounds, what do they mean, and can you understand biology makes the learning go learn to identify birds by sound alone? down easy. If just knowing the name of a bird isn’t “Awesome job! Your programs make enough, then it’s time to make new discov- teaching children FUN!” one teacher eries at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s wrote. All About Bird Biology website. The new “I thought this was first rate! Very en- site is designed to appeal to anyone who’s gaging, not at all boring plus a lot of infor- even a little bit curious about what makes mation was imparted. Great graphics too! birds tick. You hit a home run here in my opinion!” “All About Bird Biology is all about said a bird enthusiast. inspiring people to find out what’s really “We’re developing the next chapter going on in the lives of birds,” says Cor- right now,” Thompson explains. “It’s nell Lab eLearning specialist Mya Thomp- haviors, along with self-paced interactive called ‘Fancy Males’ and will focus on the son, who says scientists, teachers, artists, lessons, articles, and animations that make ways birds use bright colors, strange orna- designers, and programmers all played an learning a blast!” ments, and even a little song and dance to important role in developing the site and Chapters currently online go in-depth capture a female’s attention!” making it so appealing. “The site contains on feathers and bird song. Playing the Visit the All About Bird Biology a video library of eye-opening bird be- “Bird Song Hero” game allows users to website: http://biology.allaboutbirds.org/

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 41 What does a humpback whale really eat for dinner? From eNature.com

How to Eat Without Teeth? Humpbacks are baleen whales and have no teeth. They feed by using the large plates of baleen (see photo) in their mouths to filter out shrimp-like krill and other small creatures from the water. Plated grooves in the whale’s mouth allow water that was taken in to easily drain, leaving a mouth full of dinner. But most folks don’t realize that baleen whales such has humpbacks also consume fish— mainly small schooling fish they hunt Whale baleen © NOAA Aerial view of bubble net © NOAA in same fashion as krill. In the video you can clearly see lots of the seabirds following the whales as they small prey fish scattering in all directions feed. These birds know that breaching just before and as the whale breaches. You whales panic fish and make them easy pick- an also see the whale’s baleen plates and the ings for an alert bird. Looking for flocks of water rushing from its mouth as it filters out seabirds working the ocean’s surface is time- its prey. honored way for fisherman to locate schools Blowing Bubbles for Dinner — and for whale watchers to find whales. Humpbacks are energetic hunters, tak- Have you had a chance to see Hump- ing krill and small schooling fish such as backs or other whales? We’d love to hear herring, mackerel, pollock, and haddock. your stories. Send them to info@kswildlife. They’re also quite clever and have been org. known to use a technique called bubble net Surfer Almost Swallowed by Whale feeding. Despite the title of the video above, A whale or group of whales swims in Humpbacks don’t eat surfers! a shrinking circle blowing bubbles below Even so, the video has received lots of Breaching Humpback Whale at a school of prey, encircling and confining attention around the internet when it ap- Stellwagen Bank near Boston, MA the school in an ever-smaller cylinder. The peared— and for good reason. © Whit Welles whales then suddenly swim upward through It shows a surfer’s VERY close encounter the ‘net’ with their mouths open, filtering with a humpback whale off the beaches of up its diet. Double click on the video if you huge quantities of water and capturing thou- Santa Cruz, in Northern California. want to see a bigger version of it. sands of fish in one gulp. But it’s also interesting because it’s a See the video at: http://wild.enature.com/ It’s a pretty amazing thing to observe… great close-up view of how a Humpback blog/what-does-a-humpback-whale-really- And one other fun thing to note is all feeds and the sort of marine life that makes eat-for-dinner#sthash.bEJecSyQ.dpuf Ovenbird named for unique nest The Birding Wire floor, where they forage through the leaf litter for insects, spiders, snails, worms, and The Ovenbird gets its name from its even small lizards. Since they nest on the unique nest, which looks like a domed ground, habitat fragmentation makes them oven. This inconspicuous, ground-nesting especially vulnerable to brood parasites warbler is best-known for its emphatic and such as Brown-headed Cowbirds, and nest distinctive song-a series of progressively predators such as raccoons, chipmunks, louder phrases often described as “teacher, squirrels, and snakes. teacher, teacher.” Neotropical migrants, including Oven- Like the Wood Thrush and Kentucky, birds, face a gauntlet of threats as they Cerulean, and Worm-eating Warblers, migrate; large numbers are killed by colli- Ovenbirds require undisturbed expanses sions with buildings and communications of forest for successful breeding. Although towers, and feral and free-ranging pet cats more flexible in habitat requirements on kill many others. Wintering Ovenbirds find their wintering grounds, Ovenbirds and as well. refuge at Guatemala’s Sierra Caral Reserve other Neotropical migratory species benefit Ovenbirds spend much of their time and Nicaragua’s El Jaguar Reserve, both from habitat conservation in these regions walking (never hopping) along the forest supported by ABC.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 42 Report shows some gains for wetland species A new report from the U.S. Committee very well,” said DU’s Chief Scientist Dr. ern pintail populations have been declining of the North American Bird Conservation Scott Yaich. “We can at least partially at- for several decades and are currently 20 Initiative shows encouraging population tribute this to collective wetland conserva- percent below their long-term average. gains for some wetland-dependent bird tion efforts across the continent. But, two The State of the Birds 2014 is authored species. At the same time, the report’s decades of unprecedented above-average by the U.S. Committee of the North authors warn about the future implications rainfall in many key breeding areas are American Bird Conservation Initiative-a of the continuing loss of ephemeral or in large part responsible for duck popula- 23-member partnership of government temporary wetlands in the prairies of the tion increases that are masking the loss agencies and organizations dedicated to United States and Canada. Some species of wetland habitats documented by other advancing bird conservation. The report is such as northern pintail and black tern, studies. We continue to be very concerned based on extensive reviews of population which rely heavily on ephemeral wetlands, about the accelerating loss of wetlands in data from long-term monitoring. It looks have experienced long-term declines. important areas for birds and what that will to birds as indicators of ecosystem health The State of the Birds 2014 reports that mean when we inevitably enter another by examining population trends of species some wetland-dependent bird populations dry period.” dependent on one of seven habitats: grass- are at or near historic high levels, includ- The report points out that ephem- lands, forests, wetlands, oceans, aridlands, ing mallards, gadwall, blue-winged teal, eral wetlands in the U.S. Prairie Pothole islands and coasts. This year’s report is green-winged teal and northern shovelers, Region declined by 74,340 acres between also a five-year check-in on the indicators according to annual breeding bird sur- 1997 and 2009. This region is North presented in the inaugural 2009 State of veys conducted in the United States and America’s most important breeding area the Birds report. Canada. for waterfowl and is a top conservation More information is available at www. “Many wetland bird species are doing priority area for Ducks Unlimited. North- stateofthebirds.org. The John Wooden approach to deer hunting By Mark Kenyon that one little thing I didn’t do, makes a There are a thousand different ways Wired To Hunt.com difference between success and a thrilling things can go wrong during a hunt, so take encounter that ends up with me still holding control of all that you can. By crossing Former UCLA basketball coach John onto my tag.” your t’s and dotting your i’s, you can at Wooden, arguably the greatest sports coach Deer hunting, in my opinion, is a game least minimize the potential for failure and that ever lived, is a deer hunting genius. of inches and this is especially true when it maximize opportunity for success. Influ- Please, let me explain. comes to hunting mature bucks. ence every piece of the puzzle that you can, In Pat Williams’ book “Coach Wooden’s You might pick the right tree stand, and avoid laziness, sweat the small things. And Greatest Secret”, Pat described a conversa- be there on the right day, and use all the right while your focus on each tiny item may not tion during which he asked John to pinpoint techniques at the right time to call in a big immediately make a noticeable difference, what he believed was his one greatest secret buck. But one small overlooked detail could in the long run it will pay off. to success in life. Wooden’s answer? bring it all to a crashing halt. For example, During my conversation with Steve Bar- “The closest I can come to one secret maybe you walked into your stand not wear- tylla, he elaborated on this topic by explain- of success is this: a lot of little things done ing gloves and touched a tree trunk. Now ing the following, “It’s not going to change well.” when that buck comes strolling in towards the world for a person. But, let’s say over Little things. your call, he passes by this tree and catches the next ten years you end up killing one This was Coach Wooden’s great “Aha”, a whiff of your scent. Game over. One little more buck because every time you set up the secret to success, the magic pill, the thing. One small detail. A single “inch” in in a telephone pole like tree, you add extra cure-all, the key. Something as simple as the big picture made the greatest difference. cover. And over the next ten years you kill doing a lot of little things well. Surprising? This is but one example of an infinite one more buck because in those areas with- Maybe to some, but to me it makes perfect number of situations where the tiniest of out really defined buck traffic you end up sense. And I believe this simple truth also details can change your entire hunt. A single cutting and planting a scrape tree to draw applies 100% to deer hunting. misplaced piece of gear, a flinch during a them over. And over the next ten years you In fact, I believe that this mindset, when shot, one small limb in the way, a slight kill one more buck because of odor control. applied in the whitetail woods, can be the swirl of wind, one task ignored or over- Well all of a sudden that’s three more bucks single greatest difference maker in your suc- looked because of your rush. Or on the other that you’ve killed over ten years, that you cess this deer season. I’m not the only one end of the spectrum, maybe it’s the fact you wouldn’t have killed otherwise, and that’s thinking this either. greased the joints on your treestand, or the not bad.” When interviewing well known whitetail extra care you took walking into your stand, No, not bad at all. writer Steve Bartylla for our Rules of the or the additional time you took practicing So this deer hunting season, keep Coach Rut 2.0 Podcasts, he described a similar shooting your bow at odd angles that led to John Wooden’s advice close to heart. Pay thought. your success. attention to the details. Sweat the small stuff. “My entire approach to hunting is to For this reason, it is my belief that it’s And do a lot of little things well. stack as many little things in my favor as this attention to detail and focus on the little I’m confident the results, eventually, I ethically and reasonably can. It’s amaz- things that separates the great deer hunters will be much bigger than you could ever ing how often that one little thing I did, or from the average. imagine.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 43 Your Duck Stamp dollars at work There were four National Wildlife life Refuge, Louisiana. Price approval appraised value and recommended price Refuge acquisition projects that got ap- for the fee title acquisition of 804 acres, of $455,000 or $1,502 per acre. proved by the Migratory Bird Conserva- for the appraised value and recom- In summary, there were 1,736.53 tion Commission (MBCC) on September mended price of $2,010,350, or $2,500 acres acquired for these refuges, with 11, 2014. The projects for valuable wet- per acre. a total expenditure of $3,562,150. The land-associated habitats are as follows: 3. Blackwater National Wildlife money comes out of the Migratory Bird 1. Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge, Maryland. Price approval for Conservation Fund (MBCF), where Mi- Refuge, Texas. Boundary addition and the fee title acquisition of 153.6 acres, gratory Bird Hunting and Conservation price approval for the fee title acquisi- for the appraised value and recommend- [Duck] Stamp dollars are deposited. tion of 475.93 acres, for the appraised ed price of $490,000, or $3,190 per acre. Remember, if you bought a stamp last value and recommended price of 4. Turnbull National Wildlife Ref- year, you helped make these vital acqui- $606,800 or $1,275 per acre. uge, Washington. Price approval for the sitions possible! 2. Black Bayou Lake National Wild- fee title acquisition of 303 acres, for the New artwork chosen for 2015-16 Duck Stamp From WINGTIPS Friends of the Migratory Bird/Duck Stamp

The 2014 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest was held on Friday and Satur- day, September 19 and 20, at the Na- tional Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. The five eligible species for the artwork for the 2015-2016 stamp were: Brant, Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Red-breasted Merganser, and Ruddy Duck. There were 186 pieces of waterfowl artwork that were eligible for the two-day contest. This is how the artwork was distrib- uted by species: Brant (4.3%) Canada Goose (28.5%) Northern Shoveler (32.3%) Red-breasted Merganser (15.1%) Ruddy Duck (19.9%) Starting Saturday morning, the five- member team of judges went through the 186 submissions to vote on which ones would be “in” or “out” for subsequent rounds of judging. To see all 186 submis- sions go to https://www.flickr.com/pho- tos/usfwshq/sets/72157646589354930/ Saturday’s rounds of voting were intended to reduce the number to the top three winners, with the first place artwork to appear on the 2015-2016 stamp. For the first time ever, there was a three-way tie in the voting, and extra rounds had to be run to pick the final top three in order. The winning artwork was of a pair of Ruddy Ducks painted in acrylic by Jennifer Miller of Olean, New York. (See her reproduced artwork above.) Com- ing in second was a flying Red-breasted

Continued on Page 45

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 44 works, jewelry, masks, and sculpture as Miller’s artwork with her pair of STAMP well. Ruddy Ducks will appear on to the Describing her outdoor as well as 2015-2016 Migratory Bird Hunting and Continued from Page 44 artistic interests, Miller says, “I grew Conservation [Duck] Stamp. Individual Merganser by Ron Louque of Charlot- up with a very vivid imagination, and stamps, of course, will be sold for $15 tesville, Virginia, and third was a Canada couldn’t stop drawing birds and dragons. each, with almost all the proceeds - add- Goose by Frank Mittelstadt of Beaver I am mostly self-taught, with no formal ing up to about $24 million per year Dam, Wisconsin. art education, and studied under the - going directly to the Migratory Bird You can find more on the results of guidance of the natural world... I draw Conservation Fund (MBCF). This fund- the contest at the Federal Duck Stamp a lot of inspiration from the land around ing secures vital breeding, stopover, and Office website http://www.fws.gov/duck- me! I have what others have referred to wintering habitats for waterfowl, other stamps/ as an ‘explosive’ passion for nature and bird species, and other wildlife across Above is a photo of the judges and wildlife, and indeed I go out of my way the National Wildlife Refuge System. U.S. Fish and Wildlife leaders with all daily to study, observe, and learn about Today, parts of 252 National Wildlife three top-winning images. From left to my interests. I am equally happy exam- Refuges (accounting for 2.37 million right: Jerome Ford, Assistant Director, ining a wild bird through binoculars as acres) and over 200 Waterfowl Produc- Migratory Birds; Pete Anastasi, judge; I am examining bits of moss growing tion Areas (with over 3.0 million acres George Petrides, judge; Delwin Ben- across a fallen tree.” secured) owe their existence to the stamp son, judge (holding third-place Canada You can find out more about Miller investments made through the MBCF. Goose); Deb Hahn, alternate judge (hold- and her work on her website http://www. We in the Friends Group can think of ing second-place Red-breasted Mergan- featherdust.com/jen.html. no better - and more efficient - way to ser); Gloria Erickson and Terry Miller, Curiously, the gender of the art- support wildlife habitat than the act of judges (holding the winning Ruddy ists making submissions to this contest buying a federal stamp. Buy this year’s Ducks), and Rowan Gould, Deputy Di- was just over 80 percent male, and just stamp, and when next year’s stamp rector of the USFWS. under 20 percent female. Only two other showing the two Ruddy Ducks becomes Jennifer Miller, the artist for the win- women have come in first in the contest available (at the end of June 2015) buy ning image with the Ruddy Ducks has previously: Nancy Howe in 1990 (King that one, too! been known for her fantasy artwork, yet Eider) and Sherrie Russell Meline in It’s simple. It’s inexpensive. It’s she is currently creating wildlife art- 2005 (Ross’s Goose). proven.

Kansas Wildlife Federation • Page 45 Kansas Wildlife Federation P.O. Box 771282 Wichita, KS 67277-1282

The Kansas Wildlife Federation is Working to Preserve a Way of Life for Kansas! Conservation of the state’s natural resources means . . . • Public awareness of our state’s wonderfully diverse advantages and a determination to keep and improve them for wise use now and in future years. • Proper safeguards—within the bounds of wise use—for the state’s soil, water, forests and wildlife, to assure proper balance, use and advancement of our state’s entire economy!

How You Can Help:

* Basic Membership: As a Basic member, for $30 you’ll receive 6 issues of the KWF newsletter packed with the latest information on wildlife resources, events and issues around the state. You also have voting privileges at the KWF Annual Meeting.

* Expanded Membership: When you send in your Expanded member dues of $75, you receive the basic membership ben- efits and a complimentary ticket to the KWF Annual Meeting and CAP banquet.

* Kansan: For an annual fee of $150, you receive all the benefits listed above plus an additional complimentary ticket to the KWF Annual Meeting and CAP banquet.

Hereʼs How to Join: Complete the form on Page 12 and mail with your membership fee to: Kansas Wildlife Federation, P.O. Box 771282, Wichita, KS 67277-1282