Orphaned Squirrels Need Nuts

Local organization asking for donations

A local organization, Nature Nurses Wildlife Rescue, is asking for donations of shelled nuts. They're for the anticipated 500 orphaned squirrels that they may be feeding in 2020. The organization says each squirrel goes through a minimum of one pound of nuts in the shell for their stay so they’ve set a goal of 500 pounds. They're asking residents to pick up a bag of shelled nuts the next time they're at the grocery store.

Earlier this year, there was a power outage at the Hamilton County Justice Center due to a squirrel. The squirrel got into the electrical equipment, which tripped the fire control system and shut down power partially to the building. Duke energy says it was a transmission outage at a substation which controls the justice center.

For information on squirrel removal, contact Critter Detective.

Wildlife rescue seeking donations of shelled nuts for orphaned squirrels

Nature Nurses Wildlife Rescue is holding a nut drive to feed their anticipated 500 orphaned squirrels in 2020.

According to a Facebook post, the rescue is in need of nuts in the shell (unsalted) for the hundreds of orphaned, displaced or injured squirrels.

Nature Nurses says each squirrel goes through a minimum of one pound of nuts in the shell for their stay so they’ve set a goal of 500 pounds. Read more

Summary: A local organization, Nature Nurses Wildlife Rescue, is asking for donations of shelled nuts. They're for the estimated 500 orphaned squirrels that they may be feeding in 2020.

Got nuts? Wildlife rescue seeking donations of shelled nuts for orphaned squirrels #wildlife #squirrel https://t.co/39eA0jtFxI

— Squirrel Beebz 🐿 and Dan (@SquirrelBeebz) October 23, 2019

Squirrel in equipment caused power outage at Justice Center

Power is back on at the Hamilton County Justice Center, Duke Energy officials say.

A squirrel got into a piece of electrical equipment, which tripped the fire control system and shut down power partially throughout the building, they say. The squirrel did not survive.

Duke Energy said it was a transmission outage at a substation which feeds the justice center. That went out and impacted the transformer near the justice center which shut down to protect the building from damage.

Officials say situations with squirrels getting into electrical equipment is fairly common. Learn more

Summary: A squirrel caused a power outage at the Hamilton County Justice Center earlier this year. Squirrels and other animals are often the cause of power outages.

See Website Here: Orphaned Squirrels Need Nuts

source https://critterdetective.com/orphaned-squirrels-need-nuts/

Coyote Populations Increasing In Ohio Cities

Why you may be seeing more of the furry creatures

Wildlife officials in Ohio are warning residents as there has been increased reports of coyotes sightings in and around cities. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources issued a statement saying the increase at this time of year is not unusual as the animals are currently in their breeding season. Coyotes can pose threats to pets, especially smaller ones.

The breeding season for coyotes in this region is from December to March. Ohio officials have said that residents will see more and more of these animals throughout those months as they are more active. They are usually not a threat to people, only to small animals. However, to control populations, officials say that hunting of the animals is allowed year-round.

For more information on wildlife control, visit Critter Detective.

Coyote Population Growing Around Ohio Cities

Wildlife officials are warning Ohio residents following an increase in the number of reported coyote sightings in urban areas.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has issued a statement saying the increase at this time of year is not unusual as the animals are in the middle of a breeding season which lasts from late December until early March. Learn more

Summary: Coyotes are becoming more of a presence in urban areas. Thanks to increased urbanization, the animals have had to adapt their habitats and move closer to humans.

Year-round hunting is permitted for coyote in Ohio...https://t.co/1AknAPFy3Y

— 94 Country WKKJ (@94CountryWKKJ) December 18, 2019

You might see more coyotes the next few months

It's a sight that will become more common the next few months.

A Grandview Heights woman snapped a photo Sunday afternoon that shows a coyote sitting in her neighbor's driveway.

The Ohio Division of Natural Resources said you might be spotting more this time of year for several reasons.

Read more

Summary: Ohio residents may be spotting more and more coyotes in the coming months. This is due to the animals being more active because their mating season falls in the winter months.

It's a sight that will become more common the next few months! A Grandview Heights woman snapped a photo that shows a coyote sitting in her neighbor's driveway.https://t.co/1wh9sjGcHG

— Alexis Moberger (@alexiswsyx6) December 18, 2019

Original Site Here: Coyote Populations Increasing In Ohio Cities

source https://critterdetective.com/coyote-populations-increasing-in-ohio-cities/

Coyotes: Are They In Your Area?

Be vigilant for the nuisance animal

A local Ohio woman says her small dog was attacked by two coyotes in her own backyard recently. A wildlife expert from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources says that coyotes in this area are not uncommon but an attack on pets is pretty rare. Coyotes are most active during dusk and dawn, but there are things that will help keep them away, such as not leaving pet food in your yard. Local officials have offered tips on what to do should you encounter a coyote.

There have also been several coyote sightings in other Ohio neighborhoods. Although, there have been no reported issues due to the animal. All 88 Ohio counties have coyotes and that includes every city, suburb and rural area. Coyotes pose a very small threat to humans, but there are things you can do to make them feel uncomfortable and not want to come back into your yard or street.

For information on coyote control and removal, visit Critter Detective.

Coyotes attack small dog in Beavercreek

A woman said two coyotes went after her small dog in their yard in Beavercreek.

The Yorkshire terrier survived, but now Meeko is recovering from deep cuts and missing patches of fur after the incident.

“All we did was turn around for 60 seconds and the next thing we knew Meeko had just come sprinting up the back patio and slammed into the back door and was just crying,” her owner Meghan McKinney said. “She has two bite marks, one on the front half of her, one on the back half of her” in addition to a scratch on her back. Read more

Summary: A local woman in Beavercreek said two coyotes attacked her small dog recently. The dog was in her backyard when the coyotes approached it and started attacking.

Coyote spottings reported

There have been several coyote spottings in the Grandview Heights, Marble Cliff area recently.

There have been no reported issues with the coyote(s), and wildlife experts say this is normal.

“All 88 counties in Ohio have [coyotes], and pretty much every city, suburb, all those particular places have coyotes in them as well,” explained Franklin County State Wildlife Officer Brad Kiger. Learn more

Summary: Coyotes have been spotted recently in a few Ohio neighborhoods. No reported issues have come from the animal but officials urge residents to be vigilant and protect their pets.

Original Website Here: Coyotes: Are They In Your Area?

source https://critterdetective.com/coyotes-are-they-in-your-area/

Living With Urban Coyotes

City attempts to calm fears of residents

Over the last few months, there have been increased sightings of coyotes in Hamilton County. Earlier this year, the Great Parks organization made it their mission to educate residents about the furry creatures. They put on a presentation called "How to Coexist with Urban Coyotes." The presentation went over the behavior and habits of coyotes in an effort to debunk myths and minimize public concern. Nature interpreters detailed ways people can coexist with these predators so that their presence benefits the ecosystem instead of causing issues with humans.

County officials were trying to calm fears of local residents through this initiative, stating that coyotes do not want to be around people just as much as we don't want them around. Although coyotes are noted as the top predator in the state of Ohio, they are reminding people that there are a few easy ways to minimize the risk to their pets and to their homes ands yards.

For information on safe coyote removal, visit Critter Detective.

Myths and misconceptions about urban coyotes

Increased coyote sightings throughout Hamilton County and a rising mixture of concern and curiosity inspired Great Parks' presentation called “How to Coexist with Urban Coyotes.”

Great Parks nature interpreters will present information and answer questions in four parks through the month of February, just in time for the coyote breeding season.

The presentations outline the behavior and habits of coyotes in an effort to debunk myths and ideally minimize public concern. Read more

Summary: Over the last few months, there have been increased sightings of coyotes in Hamilton County. Earlier this year, the Great Parks organization made it their mission to educate residents about the furry creatures.

How To Coexist With Urban Coyotes

When coyotes start howling, their cacophonous calls may sound alarming to some people. However, the sporadic-sounding yelps are generally just canine chitchat.

The park district is on a mission to inform people coyotes aren't the threat some may believe.

"They don't want to be around people. They don't want to be in close proximity to people. Their natural instinct is to stay as far away from us as possible," Marczi says.

Coyotes are considered the top predator in Ohio, and they fall into what Marczi calls a "golden window" where they're just the right size to prey on smaller animals and some bigger animals like sick or injured deer. Learn more

Summary: Coyote sightings in urban areas have increased over the past year. Officials have been attempting to calm concerns of local residents.

Original Site Here: Living With Urban Coyotes

source https://critterdetective.com/living-with-urban-coyotes/

Skunks: What To Do During an Encounter

Facts and information about skunks

Skunks are one of the most abundant animals throughout the United States. They can be found in every county in Ohio, however, they are mostly located in rural areas. They are rarely seen in urban locations, so run-ins with the furry little creatures are fairly rare. Skunks are known for the ability to release a foul-smelling odor if they feel threatened and can spray with amazing accuracy from up to 15 feet away.

The Humane Society of America release information on what to do should you run into a skunk in the wild or in your back yard. Getting sprayed by a skunk is rare, however, if you do get sprayed the smell can be overpowering and cause discomfort if the substance should get into your eyes. Skunks use their powerful defense only when they or their young are threatened and cannot escape. Even then, they give ample warning signs, stamping front feet, a raised tail, hissing, short forward charges and twisting their backside around towards you.

For more information on skunk control services, contact Critter Detective.

Skunk Information

Skunks are known to everyone by sight, smell, and reputation. They are found in every county of Ohio as well as throughout the United States. Pioneers found the striped skunk when they came to Ohio, although skunk numbers are far greater now. Skunks are most abundant in rural Ohio where there are farms with fencerows, forest edges and old fields. They are also found in urban areas. Skunks are known for their ability to spray musk when threatened. They can spray with great accuracy up to 15 feet. Read more..

Summary: Skunks are an abundant species throughout the United States. They are found in every county in Ohio, however, they are most abundant in rural areas and are rarely seen in urban areas. Skunks are generally harmless but will use their pungent spray as a defense if they feel threatened.

What to do about skunks

Skunks, easily identifiable by their characteristic black and white striping, are infamous for producing a foul odor when frightened. Although a skunk’s spray is known mostly for its robust smell, it can also cause intense discomfort if it gets into a person or animal’s eyes.

Fortunately, these mild-mannered creatures rarely use this potent defense, and provide quite a few benefits to the areas they inhabit.

In cases where eviction is necessary, a few mild harassment and deterrence techniques can help you humanely remove skunks while escaping smell-free. See more..

Summary: Run-ins with skunks are, thankfully, fairly rare. You are more likely to smell a skunk than to actually see one. If you should happen to encounter one, if they feel threatened, they may hit you with their odorous spray, which can cause discomfort if it gets into your eyes.

 

See Source Here: Skunks: What To Do During an Encounter

source https://critterdetective.com/skunks-what-to-do-during-an-encounter/

Rabid Raccoon In Ohio County

Police officer ran over animal with cruiser intentionally

A police officer in Ohio was under investigation last month for an incident involving a possible rabid raccoon. A video emerged showing the officer running over the raccoon with his police cruiser intentionally. The officer made a judgment call, officials said, running over the animal instead of shooting it. The video also shows the cruiser coming back a second time to run the animal over again.

The local residents are calling for some sort of action to be taken against the officer as it was seen as inhumane and not his place to take the animal out. The Shelby Police Department will use the incident as an opportunity for the department to grow and learn, said thew police chief.

For information on rabid raccoon removal, visit Critter Detective.

Police officer under investigation for euthanizing raccoon with vehicle

An investigation into possible wrong-doing has been opened at an Ohio police department after social media video shows an officer running over a raccoon in a police cruiser.

The Shelby Police Department said the incident is under investigation and vehicles will not be used to euthanize animals, effective immediately.

Video of the encounter is reportedly going around social media. Learn more

Summary: A police officer in Ohio was under investigation last month for an incident involving a possible rabid raccoon. Some are calling for the police officer to be fired for this "inhumane act."

Police chief says department will learn, change following raccoon incident

The Shelby Police Department will use the destruction of a raccoon as an opportunity for the department to grow and learn, Chief Lance Combs said at a mid-day press conference Friday.

A video recorded by a private citizen began floating around social media, showing a Shelby police officer driving his vehicle over an injured or potentially rabid raccoon. Read more

Summary: The police department where an officer ran over a rabid raccoon with his police cruiser is using the incident as a learning experience. Videos circulated showing the incident causing some concern amongst citizens.

 

See Website Here: Rabid Raccoon In Ohio County

source https://critterdetective.com/rabid-raccoon-in-ohio-county/

Endangered Species In Ohio

Protecting the states most vulnerable

A bill that is advancing in Congress this week could help Ohio's endangered species. The Recovering America's Wildlife Act would provide more than $1.3 billion a year to implement federally approved wildlife conservation efforts. Ohio's portion of the bill could be up to $28 million per year. This would go to help protect a plethora of endangered species in the state, including the Indiana Bat, which plays an important role in our environment.

The Indiana Bat has been listed as endangered since 1967 across the United States. Like other little brown bats, Indiana bats migrate to caves in southern Ohio and neighboring states to hibernate. These bats are nocturnal and only feed one or two hours before or after sunset. They are important to our ecosystem as they help control pests by feeding on various bugs.

For information on bat removal, visit Critter Detective.

Bill Would Provide $28 Million to Protect Ohio's Endangered Species

More than a third of America's fish and wildlife species are at increased risk of extinction, but a bill advancing in Congress this week could help.

The Recovering America's Wildlife Act is scheduled for markup in the House Natural Resources Committee Thursday.

Ohio's portion of the fund would be approximately $28 million each year.

There are 94 species listed as endangered in the Buckeye State, including the black bear, Indiana bat and Allegheny woodrat. Read more

Summary: A bill that is advancing in Congress this week could help Ohio's endangered species. The Recovering America's Wildlife Act would provide more than $1.3 billion a year to help protect wild animals.

There are 94 species listed as endangered in the Buckeye State, including the black bear, Indiana bat and Allegheny woodrat. But Congress is considering a bill that could help. https://t.co/fbTPvl3Wxs

— Cincinnati CityBeat (@CityBeatCincy) December 5, 2019

Indiana Bat Information

The Indiana bat has been listed federally under the Endangered Species Act since 1967. They have been declining over the years due to reductions in available habitat. It was not until 1974 that the first maternity colony was discovered in Indiana.

Like little brown bats (to which they bear a close resemblance), Indiana bats migrate to caves in southern Ohio and neighboring states to hibernate. Learn more

Summary: The Indiana Bat has been listed as endangered since 1967 across the United States. Like other little brown bats, Indiana bats migrate to caves in southern Ohio and neighboring states to hibernate.

More Information Here: Endangered Species In Ohio

source https://critterdetective.com/endangered-species-in-ohio/

Ohio State Reports On Vampire Bats

The little creatures may make lifelong bonds

Vampire bats were the center of a study recently in which they were observed in captivity for an extended period of time. The lead co-author of the study is an Ohio State assistant professor. The study found that the vampire bats formed social bonds during captivity that they then maintained once they were released back into the wild. Vampire bat "friendship" is unusual in that individuals pay a cost to help others: They regurgitate food, their ingested blood meals, to feed non-relatives.

For a long time, dogs and dog bites were the primary suspect when a human contracted the rabies virus. However, thanks to a large-scale vaccination campaign started in 1947, deaths from rabies transmitted from dogs have plummeted. A few Americans still get rabies each year and the disease is more likely to come from wild animals, especially bats. In 2015, CDC noticed that in the United States, bats were surpassing raccoons among animals that tested positive for rabies.

For more information on bats and removal, visit Critter Detective.

Vampire bats give a little help to “friends”

In a new study, scientists documented vampire bats developing social bonds during captivity that they maintained once they returned to the wild – a sign that the relationships weren’t borne only of convenience while they lived together in a cage.

Vampire bat cooperation is rare in that individuals pay a cost to help others: They regurgitate food, their ingested blood meals, to feed non-relatives.

“What’s quite common in animal cooperation is doing something where we both benefit simultaneously: Let’s live together, let’s hunt together. I’m benefiting, you’re benefiting,” said the study’s co-lead author Gerald Carter, assistant professor of evolution, ecology and organismal biology at The Ohio State University. via Ohio State News

Summary: Vampire bats were the center of a study recently in which they were observed in captivity for an extended period of time. The lead co-author of the study is an Ohio State assistant professor.

Vampire bats cooperate in some ways that are similar to humans, and new @OhioState research shows they form friendship-like social bonds in captivity that continue in the wild. #SpookySZN | @OhioStateNews https://t.co/bgDGH1dlAc

— Ohio State News (@OhioStateNews) October 31, 2019

Bats now the primary source of U.S. rabies deaths

For centuries, dog bites had been a leading source of transmitting the rabies virus. Starting in 1947, though, that began to change as the United States launched a massive campaign to have pet owners vaccinate their dogs. Since then, human rabies deaths due to dog bites and scratches have nosedived. A few Americans still get rabies each year. But these cases are now more likely to come from wild animals, a new study finds — especially bats. Read more

Summary: A few Americans still get rabies each year and the disease is more likely to come from wild animals, especially bats. The primary culprit before a massive vaccination campaign in 1947 was dogs.

Original Website Here: Ohio State Reports On Vampire Bats

source https://critterdetective.com/ohio-state-reports-on-vampire-bats/

Winter Weather Brings Unwanted Home Intruders

How to keep wildlife from invading your space

As temperatures drop for the winter months, various species of wildlife will be looking for a place to seek shelter. They can cause unwanted problems if allowed to nest in your home. Raccoons, opossums, squirrels and bats have all become nuisances during the colder months of the year. They find easy entry into homes, garages or sheds and if you live in a rural area or your home is near woodlands or a park, you have a higher risk of encountering nuisance wildlife. There are plenty of steps you can take to reduce the risk that animals will set up camp in your territory.

Another cause for concern is the continued growth of the raccoon population in Ohio and the possibility of more disease-ridden animals because of it. The Ohio Department of Wildlife believes raccoons have become more tolerant of people as we encroach further into their habitat. This has forced the animals to find shelter in places like under porches and homes and in sheds and attics.

Curious about how to control raccoons? Visit Critter Detective.

Control wildlife to prevent home damage

As winter quickly approaches, there is a variety of wildlife looking for a warm place to wait out the cold. The same creatures we consider cute and cuddly during the spring can become a nightmare if they nest in our home in the winter.

Rodents are one of the most common types of nuisance wildlife we encounter in our homes during the Ohio winter. As we continue to encroach on their natural habitat a larger group of wildlife has quickly become a problem. Raccoon, opossum, squirrel and bats have all become uninvited winter residents that found easy entry into a home, garage or shed. The damage these types of wildlife can do to your home can be expensive to repair.

See more...

Summary: Raccoons, opossums, squirrels and bats have all become nuisances during the colder months of the year. They find easy entry into homes, garages or sheds and if you live in a rural area, you have a higher risk of encountering nuisance wildlife.

The raccoons that Geri Clever and her family started feeding? They got used to that arrangement and eventually started entering her home. https://t.co/J03LBBEGKO

— CBC Archives (@cbc_archives) September 10, 2019

Rabies concerns increase as raccoon population grows

The population of raccoons in the urban and suburban areas of Cuyahoga and Summit Counties seem to be increasing and along with that comes growing concerns about the diseases the animals can transmit.

Nuisance trappers across Summit County say they are very busy keeping up with calls to remove raccoons from homes.

The department believes raccoons have become more tolerant of human beings as construction continues to eliminate some of their natural habitat and forces them to live under porches, under homes, in attics and in sheds. Read more

Summary: The raccoon population in Ohio has continued to grow causing concern for the possibility of more disease-ridden animals in the area. The Ohio Department of Wildlife believes raccoons have become more tolerant of people as we encroach further into their habitat.

See Source Here: Winter Weather Brings Unwanted Home Intruders

source https://critterdetective.com/winter-weather-brings-unwanted-home-intruders/

Coyote Populations Increasing In Ohio Cities

Why you may be seeing more of the furry creatures

Wildlife officials in Ohio are warning residents as there has been increased reports of coyotes sightings in and around cities. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources issued a statement saying the increase at this time of year is not unusual as the animals are currently in their breeding season. Coyotes can pose threats to pets, especially smaller ones.

The breeding season for coyotes in this region is from December to March. Ohio officials have said that residents will see more and more of these animals throughout those months as they are more active. They are usually not a threat to people, only to small animals. However, to control populations, officials say that hunting of the animals is allowed year-round.

For more information on wildlife control, visit Critter Detective.

Coyote Population Growing Around Ohio Cities

Wildlife officials are warning Ohio residents following an increase in the number of reported coyote sightings in urban areas.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has issued a statement saying the increase at this time of year is not unusual as the animals are in the middle of a breeding season which lasts from late December until early March. Learn more

Summary: Coyotes are becoming more of a presence in urban areas. Thanks to increased urbanization, the animals have had to adapt their habitats and move closer to humans.

Year-round hunting is permitted for coyote in Ohio...https://t.co/1AknAPFy3Y

— 94 Country WKKJ (@94CountryWKKJ) December 18, 2019

You might see more coyotes the next few months

It's a sight that will become more common the next few months.

A Grandview Heights woman snapped a photo Sunday afternoon that shows a coyote sitting in her neighbor's driveway.

The Ohio Division of Natural Resources said you might be spotting more this time of year for several reasons.

Read more

Summary: Ohio residents may be spotting more and more coyotes in the coming months. This is due to the animals being more active because their mating season falls in the winter months.

It's a sight that will become more common the next few months! A Grandview Heights woman snapped a photo that shows a coyote sitting in her neighbor's driveway.https://t.co/1wh9sjGcHG

— Alexis Moberger (@alexiswsyx6) December 18, 2019

Read More Here: Coyote Populations Increasing In Ohio Cities

source https://critterdetective.com/coyote-populations-increasing-in-ohio-cities/

Coyotes: Are They In Your Area?

Be vigilant for the nuisance animal

A local Ohio woman says her small dog was attacked by two coyotes in her own backyard recently. A wildlife expert from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources says that coyotes in this area are not uncommon but an attack on pets is pretty rare. Coyotes are most active during dusk and dawn, but there are things that will help keep them away, such as not leaving pet food in your yard. Local officials have offered tips on what to do should you encounter a coyote.

There have also been several coyote sightings in other Ohio neighborhoods. Although, there have been no reported issues due to the animal. All 88 Ohio counties have coyotes and that includes every city, suburb and rural area. Coyotes pose a very small threat to humans, but there are things you can do to make them feel uncomfortable and not want to come back into your yard or street.

For information on coyote control and removal, visit Critter Detective.

Coyotes attack small dog in Beavercreek

A woman said two coyotes went after her small dog in their yard in Beavercreek.

The Yorkshire terrier survived, but now Meeko is recovering from deep cuts and missing patches of fur after the incident.

“All we did was turn around for 60 seconds and the next thing we knew Meeko had just come sprinting up the back patio and slammed into the back door and was just crying,” her owner Meghan McKinney said. “She has two bite marks, one on the front half of her, one on the back half of her” in addition to a scratch on her back. Read more

Summary: A local woman in Beavercreek said two coyotes attacked her small dog recently. The dog was in her backyard when the coyotes approached it and started attacking.

Coyote spottings reported

There have been several coyote spottings in the Grandview Heights, Marble Cliff area recently.

There have been no reported issues with the coyote(s), and wildlife experts say this is normal.

“All 88 counties in Ohio have [coyotes], and pretty much every city, suburb, all those particular places have coyotes in them as well,” explained Franklin County State Wildlife Officer Brad Kiger. Learn more

Summary: Coyotes have been spotted recently in a few Ohio neighborhoods. No reported issues have come from the animal but officials urge residents to be vigilant and protect their pets.

Original Source Here: Coyotes: Are They In Your Area?

source https://critterdetective.com/coyotes-are-they-in-your-area/

Skunks: What To Do During an Encounter

Facts and information about skunks

Skunks are one of the most abundant animals throughout the United States. They can be found in every county in Ohio, however, they are mostly located in rural areas. They are rarely seen in urban locations, so run-ins with the furry little creatures are fairly rare. Skunks are known for the ability to release a foul-smelling odor if they feel threatened and can spray with amazing accuracy from up to 15 feet away.

The Humane Society of America release information on what to do should you run into a skunk in the wild or in your back yard. Getting sprayed by a skunk is rare, however, if you do get sprayed the smell can be overpowering and cause discomfort if the substance should get into your eyes. Skunks use their powerful defense only when they or their young are threatened and cannot escape. Even then, they give ample warning signs, stamping front feet, a raised tail, hissing, short forward charges and twisting their backside around towards you.

For more information on skunk control services, contact Critter Detective.

Skunk Information

Skunks are known to everyone by sight, smell, and reputation. They are found in every county of Ohio as well as throughout the United States. Pioneers found the striped skunk when they came to Ohio, although skunk numbers are far greater now. Skunks are most abundant in rural Ohio where there are farms with fencerows, forest edges and old fields. They are also found in urban areas. Skunks are known for their ability to spray musk when threatened. They can spray with great accuracy up to 15 feet. Read more..

Summary: Skunks are an abundant species throughout the United States. They are found in every county in Ohio, however, they are most abundant in rural areas and are rarely seen in urban areas. Skunks are generally harmless but will use their pungent spray as a defense if they feel threatened.

What to do about skunks

Skunks, easily identifiable by their characteristic black and white striping, are infamous for producing a foul odor when frightened. Although a skunk’s spray is known mostly for its robust smell, it can also cause intense discomfort if it gets into a person or animal’s eyes.

Fortunately, these mild-mannered creatures rarely use this potent defense, and provide quite a few benefits to the areas they inhabit.

In cases where eviction is necessary, a few mild harassment and deterrence techniques can help you humanely remove skunks while escaping smell-free. See more..

Summary: Run-ins with skunks are, thankfully, fairly rare. You are more likely to smell a skunk than to actually see one. If you should happen to encounter one, if they feel threatened, they may hit you with their odorous spray, which can cause discomfort if it gets into your eyes.

 

More Information Here: Skunks: What To Do During an Encounter

source https://critterdetective.com/skunks-what-to-do-during-an-encounter/

Living With Urban Coyotes

City attempts to calm fears of residents

Over the last few months, there have been increased sightings of coyotes in Hamilton County. Earlier this year, the Great Parks organization made it their mission to educate residents about the furry creatures. They put on a presentation called "How to Coexist with Urban Coyotes." The presentation went over the behavior and habits of coyotes in an effort to debunk myths and minimize public concern. Nature interpreters detailed ways people can coexist with these predators so that their presence benefits the ecosystem instead of causing issues with humans.

County officials were trying to calm fears of local residents through this initiative, stating that coyotes do not want to be around people just as much as we don't want them around. Although coyotes are noted as the top predator in the state of Ohio, they are reminding people that there are a few easy ways to minimize the risk to their pets and to their homes ands yards.

For information on safe coyote removal, visit Critter Detective.

Myths and misconceptions about urban coyotes

Increased coyote sightings throughout Hamilton County and a rising mixture of concern and curiosity inspired Great Parks' presentation called “How to Coexist with Urban Coyotes.”

Great Parks nature interpreters will present information and answer questions in four parks through the month of February, just in time for the coyote breeding season.

The presentations outline the behavior and habits of coyotes in an effort to debunk myths and ideally minimize public concern. Read more

Summary: Over the last few months, there have been increased sightings of coyotes in Hamilton County. Earlier this year, the Great Parks organization made it their mission to educate residents about the furry creatures.

How To Coexist With Urban Coyotes

When coyotes start howling, their cacophonous calls may sound alarming to some people. However, the sporadic-sounding yelps are generally just canine chitchat.

The park district is on a mission to inform people coyotes aren't the threat some may believe.

"They don't want to be around people. They don't want to be in close proximity to people. Their natural instinct is to stay as far away from us as possible," Marczi says.

Coyotes are considered the top predator in Ohio, and they fall into what Marczi calls a "golden window" where they're just the right size to prey on smaller animals and some bigger animals like sick or injured deer. Learn more

Summary: Coyote sightings in urban areas have increased over the past year. Officials have been attempting to calm concerns of local residents.

See More Here: Living With Urban Coyotes

source https://critterdetective.com/living-with-urban-coyotes/

Rabid Raccoon In Ohio County

Police officer ran over animal with cruiser intentionally

A police officer in Ohio was under investigation last month for an incident involving a possible rabid raccoon. A video emerged showing the officer running over the raccoon with his police cruiser intentionally. The officer made a judgment call, officials said, running over the animal instead of shooting it. The video also shows the cruiser coming back a second time to run the animal over again.

The local residents are calling for some sort of action to be taken against the officer as it was seen as inhumane and not his place to take the animal out. The Shelby Police Department will use the incident as an opportunity for the department to grow and learn, said thew police chief.

For information on rabid raccoon removal, visit Critter Detective.

Police officer under investigation for euthanizing raccoon with vehicle

An investigation into possible wrong-doing has been opened at an Ohio police department after social media video shows an officer running over a raccoon in a police cruiser.

The Shelby Police Department said the incident is under investigation and vehicles will not be used to euthanize animals, effective immediately.

Video of the encounter is reportedly going around social media. Learn more

Summary: A police officer in Ohio was under investigation last month for an incident involving a possible rabid raccoon. Some are calling for the police officer to be fired for this "inhumane act."

Police chief says department will learn, change following raccoon incident

The Shelby Police Department will use the destruction of a raccoon as an opportunity for the department to grow and learn, Chief Lance Combs said at a mid-day press conference Friday.

A video recorded by a private citizen began floating around social media, showing a Shelby police officer driving his vehicle over an injured or potentially rabid raccoon. Read more

Summary: The police department where an officer ran over a rabid raccoon with his police cruiser is using the incident as a learning experience. Videos circulated showing the incident causing some concern amongst citizens.

 

Read More Here: Rabid Raccoon In Ohio County

source https://critterdetective.com/rabid-raccoon-in-ohio-county/

Endangered Species In Ohio

Protecting the states most vulnerable

A bill that is advancing in Congress this week could help Ohio's endangered species. The Recovering America's Wildlife Act would provide more than $1.3 billion a year to implement federally approved wildlife conservation efforts. Ohio's portion of the bill could be up to $28 million per year. This would go to help protect a plethora of endangered species in the state, including the Indiana Bat, which plays an important role in our environment.

The Indiana Bat has been listed as endangered since 1967 across the United States. Like other little brown bats, Indiana bats migrate to caves in southern Ohio and neighboring states to hibernate. These bats are nocturnal and only feed one or two hours before or after sunset. They are important to our ecosystem as they help control pests by feeding on various bugs.

For information on bat removal, visit Critter Detective.

Bill Would Provide $28 Million to Protect Ohio's Endangered Species

More than a third of America's fish and wildlife species are at increased risk of extinction, but a bill advancing in Congress this week could help.

The Recovering America's Wildlife Act is scheduled for markup in the House Natural Resources Committee Thursday.

Ohio's portion of the fund would be approximately $28 million each year.

There are 94 species listed as endangered in the Buckeye State, including the black bear, Indiana bat and Allegheny woodrat. Read more

Summary: A bill that is advancing in Congress this week could help Ohio's endangered species. The Recovering America's Wildlife Act would provide more than $1.3 billion a year to help protect wild animals.

There are 94 species listed as endangered in the Buckeye State, including the black bear, Indiana bat and Allegheny woodrat. But Congress is considering a bill that could help. https://t.co/fbTPvl3Wxs

— Cincinnati CityBeat (@CityBeatCincy) December 5, 2019

Indiana Bat Information

The Indiana bat has been listed federally under the Endangered Species Act since 1967. They have been declining over the years due to reductions in available habitat. It was not until 1974 that the first maternity colony was discovered in Indiana.

Like little brown bats (to which they bear a close resemblance), Indiana bats migrate to caves in southern Ohio and neighboring states to hibernate. Learn more

Summary: The Indiana Bat has been listed as endangered since 1967 across the United States. Like other little brown bats, Indiana bats migrate to caves in southern Ohio and neighboring states to hibernate.

More Information Here: Endangered Species In Ohio

source https://critterdetective.com/endangered-species-in-ohio/

Ohio State Reports On Vampire Bats

The little creatures may make lifelong bonds

Vampire bats were the center of a study recently in which they were observed in captivity for an extended period of time. The lead co-author of the study is an Ohio State assistant professor. The study found that the vampire bats formed social bonds during captivity that they then maintained once they were released back into the wild. Vampire bat "friendship" is unusual in that individuals pay a cost to help others: They regurgitate food, their ingested blood meals, to feed non-relatives.

For a long time, dogs and dog bites were the primary suspect when a human contracted the rabies virus. However, thanks to a large-scale vaccination campaign started in 1947, deaths from rabies transmitted from dogs have plummeted. A few Americans still get rabies each year and the disease is more likely to come from wild animals, especially bats. In 2015, CDC noticed that in the United States, bats were surpassing raccoons among animals that tested positive for rabies.

For more information on bats and removal, visit Critter Detective.

Vampire bats give a little help to “friends”

In a new study, scientists documented vampire bats developing social bonds during captivity that they maintained once they returned to the wild – a sign that the relationships weren’t borne only of convenience while they lived together in a cage.

Vampire bat cooperation is rare in that individuals pay a cost to help others: They regurgitate food, their ingested blood meals, to feed non-relatives.

“What’s quite common in animal cooperation is doing something where we both benefit simultaneously: Let’s live together, let’s hunt together. I’m benefiting, you’re benefiting,” said the study’s co-lead author Gerald Carter, assistant professor of evolution, ecology and organismal biology at The Ohio State University. via Ohio State News

Summary: Vampire bats were the center of a study recently in which they were observed in captivity for an extended period of time. The lead co-author of the study is an Ohio State assistant professor.

Vampire bats cooperate in some ways that are similar to humans, and new @OhioState research shows they form friendship-like social bonds in captivity that continue in the wild. #SpookySZN | @OhioStateNews https://t.co/bgDGH1dlAc

— Ohio State News (@OhioStateNews) October 31, 2019

Bats now the primary source of U.S. rabies deaths

For centuries, dog bites had been a leading source of transmitting the rabies virus. Starting in 1947, though, that began to change as the United States launched a massive campaign to have pet owners vaccinate their dogs. Since then, human rabies deaths due to dog bites and scratches have nosedived. A few Americans still get rabies each year. But these cases are now more likely to come from wild animals, a new study finds — especially bats. Read more

Summary: A few Americans still get rabies each year and the disease is more likely to come from wild animals, especially bats. The primary culprit before a massive vaccination campaign in 1947 was dogs.

More Information Here: Ohio State Reports On Vampire Bats

source https://critterdetective.com/ohio-state-reports-on-vampire-bats/

Squirrel Born Disease Detected in Ohio County

The disease that is passed from squirrels to mosquitos

The disease known as encephalitis has been detected in an Ohio county last month. The disease is typically found in those under the age of 16. It is often contracted via a mosquito bite after the mosquito has fed off of other mammals. The most common host for these mosquitos are squirrels, such as the gray squirrel or fox squirrels. The county issued signs and symptoms that residents should be on the look out for and tips on how to reduce their risk.

One Ohio family go a little surprise a few weeks ago. A squirrel had crawled into their chimney and had become encased in the fireplace behind the glass screen. The family shared a video of the removing the little invader and it went viral. Squirrels are a common occurrence in places like fireplaces where they can easily crawl in from the outside to escape the weather.

For information on squirrel removal, visit Critter Detective.

Ohio Department of Health confirms first case of encephalitis since 2014

The Ohio Department of Health has notified the Lake County General Health District that a resident in that county has a confirmed case of La Crosse encephalitis.

La Crosse encephalitis is a viral disease spread to people by the bite of an infected Aedes triseriatus (Eastern tree hole) mosquito. Tree hole mosquitoes are generally found in woodland/forested environments, including suburban areas, and are rare in open areas. The females most often feed on the blood of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Main hosts for this mosquito are the eastern chipmunk, the gray squirrel, and fox squirrels. Read more

Summary: The disease known as encephalitis has been detected in an Ohio county last month. The disease is typically found in those under the age of 16. It is often contracted via a mosquito bite after the mosquito has fed off of other mammals.

Ohio Department of Health confirms first Lake County case of La Crosse encephalitis since 2014 https://t.co/DJ68WXhyE7

— WKYC 3News (@wkyc) December 9, 2019

Video shows couple trying to get squirrel out of their Canton home

Haylie Ferguson and her husband, Mitch, were watching television in their living room on Friday when she says she started hearing noises from her fireplace.

"I just heard a band against the glass and I thought it was a bird," she said.

Upon further inspection, they found a squirrel had made its way in through their chimney and was now encased in the fireplace behind the glass screen. See more

Summary: A squirrel had crawled into an Ohio family's chimney and had become encased in the fireplace behind the glass screen. The family shared a video of the removing the little invader and it went viral.

Original Site Here: Squirrel Born Disease Detected in Ohio County

source https://critterdetective.com/squirrel-born-disease-detected-in-ohio-county/

Orphaned Squirrels Need Nuts

Local organization asking for donations

A local organization, Nature Nurses Wildlife Rescue, is asking for donations of shelled nuts. They're for the anticipated 500 orphaned squirrels that they may be feeding in 2020. The organization says each squirrel goes through a minimum of one pound of nuts in the shell for their stay so they’ve set a goal of 500 pounds. They're asking residents to pick up a bag of shelled nuts the next time they're at the grocery store.

Earlier this year, there was a power outage at the Hamilton County Justice Center due to a squirrel. The squirrel got into the electrical equipment, which tripped the fire control system and shut down power partially to the building. Duke energy says it was a transmission outage at a substation which controls the justice center.

For information on squirrel removal, contact Critter Detective.

Wildlife rescue seeking donations of shelled nuts for orphaned squirrels

Nature Nurses Wildlife Rescue is holding a nut drive to feed their anticipated 500 orphaned squirrels in 2020.

According to a Facebook post, the rescue is in need of nuts in the shell (unsalted) for the hundreds of orphaned, displaced or injured squirrels.

Nature Nurses says each squirrel goes through a minimum of one pound of nuts in the shell for their stay so they’ve set a goal of 500 pounds. Read more

Summary: A local organization, Nature Nurses Wildlife Rescue, is asking for donations of shelled nuts. They're for the estimated 500 orphaned squirrels that they may be feeding in 2020.

Got nuts? Wildlife rescue seeking donations of shelled nuts for orphaned squirrels #wildlife #squirrel https://t.co/39eA0jtFxI

— Squirrel Beebz 🐿 and Dan (@SquirrelBeebz) October 23, 2019

Squirrel in equipment caused power outage at Justice Center

Power is back on at the Hamilton County Justice Center, Duke Energy officials say.

A squirrel got into a piece of electrical equipment, which tripped the fire control system and shut down power partially throughout the building, they say. The squirrel did not survive.

Duke Energy said it was a transmission outage at a substation which feeds the justice center. That went out and impacted the transformer near the justice center which shut down to protect the building from damage.

Officials say situations with squirrels getting into electrical equipment is fairly common. Learn more

Summary: A squirrel caused a power outage at the Hamilton County Justice Center earlier this year. Squirrels and other animals are often the cause of power outages.

More Information Here: Orphaned Squirrels Need Nuts

source https://critterdetective.com/orphaned-squirrels-need-nuts/

Coyote Populations Increasing In Ohio Cities

Why you may be seeing more of the furry creatures

Wildlife officials in Ohio are warning residents as there has been increased reports of coyotes sightings in and around cities. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources issued a statement saying the increase at this time of year is not unusual as the animals are currently in their breeding season. Coyotes can pose threats to pets, especially smaller ones.

The breeding season for coyotes in this region is from December to March. Ohio officials have said that residents will see more and more of these animals throughout those months as they are more active. They are usually not a threat to people, only to small animals. However, to control populations, officials say that hunting of the animals is allowed year-round.

For more information on wildlife control, visit Critter Detective.

Coyote Population Growing Around Ohio Cities

Wildlife officials are warning Ohio residents following an increase in the number of reported coyote sightings in urban areas.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has issued a statement saying the increase at this time of year is not unusual as the animals are in the middle of a breeding season which lasts from late December until early March. Learn more

Summary: Coyotes are becoming more of a presence in urban areas. Thanks to increased urbanization, the animals have had to adapt their habitats and move closer to humans.

Year-round hunting is permitted for coyote in Ohio...https://t.co/1AknAPFy3Y

— 94 Country WKKJ (@94CountryWKKJ) December 18, 2019

You might see more coyotes the next few months

It's a sight that will become more common the next few months.

A Grandview Heights woman snapped a photo Sunday afternoon that shows a coyote sitting in her neighbor's driveway.

The Ohio Division of Natural Resources said you might be spotting more this time of year for several reasons.

Read more

Summary: Ohio residents may be spotting more and more coyotes in the coming months. This is due to the animals being more active because their mating season falls in the winter months.

It's a sight that will become more common the next few months! A Grandview Heights woman snapped a photo that shows a coyote sitting in her neighbor's driveway.https://t.co/1wh9sjGcHG

— Alexis Moberger (@alexiswsyx6) December 18, 2019

See Source Here: Coyote Populations Increasing In Ohio Cities

source https://critterdetective.com/coyote-populations-increasing-in-ohio-cities/

Coyotes: Are They In Your Area?

Be vigilant for the nuisance animal

A local Ohio woman says her small dog was attacked by two coyotes in her own backyard recently. A wildlife expert from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources says that coyotes in this area are not uncommon but an attack on pets is pretty rare. Coyotes are most active during dusk and dawn, but there are things that will help keep them away, such as not leaving pet food in your yard. Local officials have offered tips on what to do should you encounter a coyote.

There have also been several coyote sightings in other Ohio neighborhoods. Although, there have been no reported issues due to the animal. All 88 Ohio counties have coyotes and that includes every city, suburb and rural area. Coyotes pose a very small threat to humans, but there are things you can do to make them feel uncomfortable and not want to come back into your yard or street.

For information on coyote control and removal, visit Critter Detective.

Coyotes attack small dog in Beavercreek

A woman said two coyotes went after her small dog in their yard in Beavercreek.

The Yorkshire terrier survived, but now Meeko is recovering from deep cuts and missing patches of fur after the incident.

“All we did was turn around for 60 seconds and the next thing we knew Meeko had just come sprinting up the back patio and slammed into the back door and was just crying,” her owner Meghan McKinney said. “She has two bite marks, one on the front half of her, one on the back half of her” in addition to a scratch on her back. Read more

Summary: A local woman in Beavercreek said two coyotes attacked her small dog recently. The dog was in her backyard when the coyotes approached it and started attacking.

Coyote spottings reported

There have been several coyote spottings in the Grandview Heights, Marble Cliff area recently.

There have been no reported issues with the coyote(s), and wildlife experts say this is normal.

“All 88 counties in Ohio have [coyotes], and pretty much every city, suburb, all those particular places have coyotes in them as well,” explained Franklin County State Wildlife Officer Brad Kiger. Learn more

Summary: Coyotes have been spotted recently in a few Ohio neighborhoods. No reported issues have come from the animal but officials urge residents to be vigilant and protect their pets.

Learn More Here: Coyotes: Are They In Your Area?

source https://critterdetective.com/coyotes-are-they-in-your-area/