The state Department of Natural Resources is asking for the public’s help with its annual wildlife survey. For the next few months, the public can report wildlife sightings made around the state to the DNR.
Wildlife Technician Jessica Rees says they want to gather information on a wide variety of animals, such as deer, porcupines, bears and even turkeys. Rees says the data helps give the DNR an idea of how often certain animals are seen in the wild and how frequently they appear in areas of the state.
A list of the information the DNR is looking for is available on the agency’s website. The survey period runs through January 2013. Over the past three years, the agency has received more than 37,000 reports on more than 218,000 hours spent out in the wild.
Rees says the DNR is also asking for trail camera photos. While they are mainly interested in animals that are rarely seen, she says all photos will be posted on the agency’s website.
AUDIO: Andrew Beckett reports (:56)