City officials in the Riverside neighborhood of Chicago have announced warnings of distemper outbreak in the area’s raccoon population - and the hazards posed to residents, as well as non-vaccinated pets.
We built the cities, but we don't necessarily rule them.
I’ve always been personally fascinated with the adaptability of fur bearers such as skunks and raccoons. In the aftermath of the raccoon’s “great migration” to man’s urban meccas, it’s almost hard to believe they ever inhabited the wildernesses of rural America at all - man was once a rural beast as well.
The Sharks of Suburbia: An urban coyote diet
Collectively, we don’t seem to be shocked by the presence of other wild species such as raccoons, skunks, and opossums roaming the back alleys of concrete and brick - but the coyote’s presence seems to catch the attention of the public and professionals in far greater numbers; and far greater curiosity.
The Wily Coyote: Leading the next fur renaissance?
Fur-trim coats, new recruits in the hunting community, and the coyote’s adaptability to urban existence have led to increased interest in the country’s most resilient wild canid. The trapping community heard undertones of coyote fur being in demand early on this season, but it wasn’t until the past few months that the mainstream media really started to catch on.
Roadkill salvage: when to hold ‘em, and when to fold ‘em
Trappers are known to be a resourceful bunch - making good use of pretty much anything lying around. Occasionally, that includes what’s found while cruising the local roadways! Picking up car-struck critters, a term I’ve dubbed “roadkill salvage”, can have its benefits. It’s not just for trappers and fur handlers either…