Animals

Apr 21 2023, ANDREA RIDOUT

Wild bird expert was leader in local rehab community

Wildlife expert Kathy Rogers, founder of Rogers Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, passed away at 73. Renowned in the DFW area, her center became a premier facility treating around 5,000 birds annually. Known for never refusing a bird, Kathy inspired many, leaving a lasting legacy in wildlife rehabilitation.

Jan 10 2023, MICHAEL SMITH

Alligator sightings stir up neighbors near Lake Worth

Alligator sightings near Lake Worth led to a meeting among local residents, city officials, and wildlife experts. Concerns about safety were discussed, but experts reassured attendees about alligators' typically unaggressive nature. Increased sightings might be due to changing environments, while experts discourage feeding alligators to prevent aggression.

Sep 20 2022, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Mountain lion stakeholder group to be formed

Despite a recent setback, big cat advocates say mountain lions in Texas may be closer than ever to finally being granted minimal protections. Most land in Texas is privately owned, so anywhere that mountain lions live is likely on private property.

Sep 09 2022, AMY MARTIN

Ned Fritz Scholarship winner inspired by Arlington nature center

Heather van Waasbergen, inspired by River Legacy Nature Center, plans to become a wildlife veterinarian. She received the Ned Fritz Scholarship, celebrating her environmental commitment and Unitarian values. Van Waasbergen aims to address global warming impacts on wildlife, studying at the University of California, Davis.

Jul 06 2022, MARSHALL HINSLEY

Endangered Texas bird visits Dallas suburb

A golden-cheeked warbler, an endangered bird that nests only in Texas’ Hill Country, appeared at Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center in Cedar Hill, near Dallas. This sighting excited birdwatchers but worried experts, suggesting possible habitat disturbance and highlighting the importance of preserving natural spaces amid climate change impacts.

Jun 17 2022, AMY MARTIN

Protections being proposed for Texas mountain lions

June 17, 2022

In Texas, it's open season on mountain lions (Puma concolor), also called pumas and cougars.

These iconic big cats can be shot or trapped in cages or leghold traps at any time of year. There are no limits on take and no requirement to report the number killed, referred to as harvesting, as long as the individual holds a valid Texas hunting or trapping license. Puma cubs can also be killed or trapped.

Apr 08 2022, MARSHALL HINSLEY

'Lights Out' campaign is gaining momentum, say organizers

For its third year, the 'Lights Out' campaign urges Texans to turn off outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. during peak bird migration (April 22-May 12) to prevent distractions and collisions. The initiative is growing, with increased city participation and surveys to reduce bird casualties.

Feb 11 2022, JULIE THIBODEAUX

Dallas Zoo animal waste to be recycled into retail compost

The Dallas Zoo has partnered with Silver Creek Materials to recycle animal manure into retail compost called Zoo Poo. This initiative supports sustainability goals, with a portion of sales funding wildlife conservation. Silver Creek, a seasoned recycler, handles the zoo's herbivore waste, sold in stores and the zoo's gift shop.

Feb 04 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Critter-related phobias can keep us from enjoying nature

Critter-related phobias, such as fear of spiders, often stem from personal experiences, observations of others, or inherent sensitivity. Effective management involves exposure and cognitive behavioral therapy. Awareness and understanding can help reduce fears and enable enjoyment of nature. Michael Smith will discuss these phobias on March 15 at Sheri Capehart Nature Preserve.

Jan 12 2022, MICHAEL SMITH

Can the horny toad bounce back?

The Texas horned lizard, a rare reptile, has been disappearing from its native regions due to habitat changes and reduced prey availability. Efforts by zoos and conservationists focus on captive breeding and reintroduction, with successful releases showing promise but requiring suitable habitat and significant effort for broader reintroduction.