CDFW Newshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/NewsCDFW to Conduct Helicopter Surveys to Monitor Big Game Populations, Inform Hunting Regulationshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-to-conduct-helicopter-surveys-to-monitor-big-game-populations-inform-hunting-regulationsWildlife HealthThu, 08 Feb 2024 16:34:52 GMTCDFW is initiating annual helicopter surveys to inventory and monitor mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep populations throughout the state. Flights will be conducted in portions of Solano, Mendocino, Siskiyou, Modoc, Lassen, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties during February and March 2024.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is initiating annual helicopter surveys to inventory and monitor mule deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep populations throughout the state. Flights will be conducted in portions of Solano, Mendocino, Siskiyou, Modoc, Lassen, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties during February and March 2024.</p> <p>CDFW utilizes a variety of survey methods to regularly monitor big game population size, distribution, demographics and trends over time. In more forested environments, CDFW employs the use of trail cameras and fecal DNA. In more open habitats, aerial surveys provide an efficient and rapid method of data collection, affording CDFW biologists the ability to cover larger areas in relatively shorter time periods.</p> <p>CDFW scientists use the survey data in statistical models to estimate the total population size of each species in different hunt zones or management units. This information helps wildlife managers better understand population performance relative to a variety of factors including climate change, habitat quality, human-wildlife conflict and habitat fragmentation, among others. Results are also used to make regulated harvest recommendations to the California Fish and Game Commission, which is the state regulatory authority that adopts tag quotas, hunting seasons and zone boundaries.</p> <p>These efforts are important for managing California’s wildlife populations and are especially critical due to recent harsh winter conditions that may have had negative impacts on population numbers.</p> <p>Big game hunters and other members of the public are encouraged to participate in the commission’s annual regulatory cycles. Information regarding upcoming meetings, including dates, locations, background documents and virtual meeting links are available at the <a href="https://fgc.ca.gov/Meetings/2024" target="_blank">California Fish and Game Commission website</a>.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Thomas.Batter@wildlife.ca.gov">Dr. Tom Batter</a>, Wildlife Branch, (916) 215-5330<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p> California Fish and Game Commission Holds Hybrid Meetinghttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/california-fish-and-game-commission-holds-hybrid-meeting9FGCMon, 18 Dec 2023 18:08:28 GMTAt its December meeting, the California Fish and Game Commission acted on several issues affecting California’s natural resources. The following are just a few items of interest from this month’s meeting held in San Diego, with an option for the public to join via Zoom. The Commission authorized publication of notice of its intent to amend regulations for waterfowl and big game hunting, including bighorn sheep, elk and deer.<p>At its December meeting, the California Fish and Game Commission acted on several issues affecting California’s natural resources. The following are just a few items of interest from this month’s meeting held in San Diego, with an option for the public to join via Zoom.</p> <p>The Commission authorized publication of notice of its intent to amend regulations for waterfowl and big game hunting, including bighorn sheep, elk and deer.</p> <p>The Commission unanimously approved the strategies recommended by its Wildlife Resources Committee (WRC) to address American bullfrog and non-native turtles found in California. Commission staff will work with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) on implementing the eight recommended strategies, including any regulatory proposals.</p> <p>The Commission voted unanimously to adopt proposed amendments to regulations regarding incidental take authorization for work on pre-existing artificial structures within state marine protected areas and marine managed areas.</p> <p>The Commission voted unanimously to adopt the 90-day extension of emergency regulations for California halibut recreational daily bag and possession limits.</p> <p>The Commission authorized publication of notice of its intent to amend recreational fishing regulations for federal groundfish in state waters for consistency with federal rules in 2024, and recreational groundfish seasons, bag and depth limits.</p> <p>Commission President Eric Sklar and Vice President Erika Zavaleta participated in the full meeting, Commissioner Jacque Hostler-Carmesin participated the first day and most of the second day, and Commissioner Samantha Murray participated the second day; all commissioners were in San Diego for the meeting. There is currently one vacancy on the Commission.</p> <p>The agenda for this meeting, along with supporting information, is available on the <a href="https://fgc.ca.gov/Meetings/2023" target="_blank">Commission website</a>. Archived <a href="https://cal-span.org/search/?q=fish+and+game+commission" target="_blank">video of past Commission meetings</a> is available online. The next meeting of the full Commission is scheduled for February 14-15, 2024, at the Natural Resources Headquarters Building in Sacramento and via Zoom.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:jordan.traverso@wildlife.ca.gov">Jordan Traverso</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 212-7352</em></p> CDFW Chooses Prominent Wildlife Species for its 2024 Warden Stamp Serieshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/cdfw-chooses-prominent-wildlife-species-for-its-2024-warden-stamp-seriesWarden StampThu, 14 Dec 2023 14:24:21 GMTFor the past 13 years CDFW has used the Warden Stamp Program to help enhance resources for its Law Enforcement Division. The stamp has become a collectors’ item for people of all walks of life, and a way for the public to show support for CDFW wardens and their continued work to maintain the balance of the state’s many plants and animal species. Since the Program’s inception in 2010, the Warden Stamp has featured species like black bear, tule elk, sturgeon, spiny lobster and a bald eagle, just to name a few. For 2024, the Warden Stamp will feature one of the state’s most visible and widespread wildlife species: the mule deer.<p>For the past 13 years the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has used the Warden Stamp Program to help enhance resources for its Law Enforcement Division. The stamp has become a collectors’ item for people of all walks of life, and a way for the public to show support for CDFW wardens and their continued work to maintain the balance of the state’s many plants and animal species. Since the Program’s inception in 2010, the Warden Stamp has featured species like black bear, tule elk, sturgeon, spiny lobster and a bald eagle, just to name a few. For 2024, the Warden Stamp will feature one of the state’s most visible and widespread wildlife species: the mule deer.</p> <p>“Species are selected for the Warden Stamp Program to represent California’s fish and wildlife populations and the people who support their conservation and management,” said Nathaniel Arnold, Acting Chief of the CDFW Law Enforcement Division. “The 2024 mule deer stamp symbolizes the important role this species plays in California’s wilderness landscape and their longstanding popularity with hunting and non-hunting Californians. The mule deer is the perfect addition to the Warden Stamp Program and its mission to support CDFW wildlife officers and their work.”</p> <p>The 2024 stamp can be purchased for $5 and features a digital rendition of a tan and white buck (male deer) created by CDFW staff member, Sarah Guerere. The stamp is its usual warden shield shape, with a deep forest green background featuring the official warden shield and year. To view an image of the 2024 Warden Stamp, please visit <a href="/warden-stamp">wildlife.ca.gov/warden-stamp</a>.</p> <p>The mule deer stamp, along with past stamps, are <a href="https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/internetsales/" target="_blank">available to purchase online</a>, for $5. To purchase the stamp, scroll to bottom of the page and click “Continue as Guest.” Then click on “2023 Warden Stamps” under the Menu tab. To add the mule deer stamp to your cart, click on the line that reads “Warden Stamp Decal - 2024 Edition” and follow prompts to check out.</p> <p>After you make your purchase, CDFW’s outreach team wants to hear and highlight the stories of the people who make this program a success. If you have a unique stamp story or want to share how or why you purchase a Warden Stamp each year, email <a href="mailto:Leticia.Palamidessi@wildlife.ca.gov">Leticia.Palamidessi@wildlife.ca.gov</a> for a chance to be highlighted in a future outreach campaign.</p> <p>Since 1871, CDFW’s wildlife officers (wardens) have been dedicated to being the department’s “boots on the ground” when it comes to protecting California’s valuable natural resources like the mule deer. The Warden Stamp Program was created to address the need for better equipment and training for wardens.</p> <p>Wildlife officers patrol on foot, by plane, boats, horseback and in a variety of vehicles. Although their objective of protecting California’s plants and animals remains the same, threats to native species are always evolving. From the growing threat of wildfires, drought and internet wildlife traffickers – CDFW’s wildlife officers continue their commitment to being stewards of the Golden State’s natural resources. Please continue to support wildlife officers and their mission by purchasing the 2024 Warden Stamp.</p> <p>Thank you for your support!</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong></em><br /> <em><a href="mailto:Patrick.Foy@wildlife.ca.gov">Capt. Patrick Foy</a>, CDFW Law Enforcement Division, (916) 508-7095<br /> <a href="mailto:Leticia.Palamidessi@wildlife.ca.gov">Leticia Palamidessi,</a> CDFW Outreach, (916) 708-8517</em></p> California Drivers Reminded to be Aware of Wildlife on Our Roadshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/california-drivers-reminded-to-be-aware-of-wildlife-on-our-roadsWildlifeFri, 03 Nov 2023 11:42:15 GMTIt’s that time of year when CDFW reminds drivers to be aware of wildlife on state roads and highways.<p>It’s that time of year when the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) reminds drivers to be aware of wildlife on state roads and highways.</p> <p>Every autumn, as Daylight Saving Time concludes, the number of vehicle-wildlife collisions on California roadways increases. As drivers adjust to less daylight during the evening commute during the first week of November, please understand this is also the time of year that deer, elk, bears and other animals are typically on the move for migration, mating or foraging.</p> <p>Collisions with wildlife can be dangerous and costly for drivers. Nearly 400 people were injured in more than two thousand collisions in 2019 involving wildlife, according to the California Highway Patrol. Also, the UC Davis Road Ecology Center estimates the total annual cost of animal-vehicle conflicts in California to be about $250 million.</p> <p>“Wildlife-vehicle collisions pose an increasingly significant threat to both people and wildlife and can result in serious injury or death. This time of year, large native species such as deer and elk are more likely to cross highways or roads during their mating season (rut), and black bears are on the search for food,” said Human-Wildlife Conflict Program Coordinator Vicky Monroe. “We ask drivers to remain cautious, vigilant, and aware of their surroundings while driving to help reduce this conflict."</p> <p>Learn more about CDFW’s efforts to <a href="/News/Archive/california-prioritizes-key-locations-to-improve-wildlife-connectivity?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery#gsc.tab=0">improve wildlife connectivity.</a></p> <p>Standard driving safety tips that also benefit wildlife include:</p> <ul> <li>Be extra alert when driving near areas wildlife frequent, such as streams and rivers, and reduce your speed especially around curves.</li> <li>Don't text and drive! Leave your phone alone; it can wait.</li> <li>Pay extra attention driving during the morning and evening hours when wildlife are often most active.</li> <li>If you see an animal on or near the road, know that others may be following.</li> <li>Don't litter. Trash and food odors can attract animals to roadways.</li> <li>Pay attention to road shoulders. Look for movement or reflecting eyes. Slow down and honk your horn if you see an animal on or near the road.</li> <li>Respect wildlife. California is their home too.</li> </ul> <p>CDFW thanks drivers for recognizing the importance of safe driving as daylight hours are reduced.</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contact:</strong></em><br /> <em><a href="mailto:tim.daly@wildlife.ca.gov">Tim Daly</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 201-2958</em></p> Nonprofits Encouraged to Apply for Fundraising Hunting Tagshttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/nonprofits-encouraged-to-apply-for-fundraising-hunting-tags1HuntingMon, 09 Oct 2023 14:22:45 GMTCDFW invites nonprofit organizations to help fundraise for wildlife conservation and research by auctioning big game hunting license tags for the 2024-25 hunt season.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) invites nonprofit organizations to help fundraise for wildlife conservation and research by auctioning big game hunting license tags for the 2024-25 hunt season.</p> <p>Proceeds from the sale of these tags are returned to CDFW to fund projects that benefit bighorn sheep, deer, elk and pronghorn antelope. Last year’s auctions raised more than $900,000 for the conservation and management of big game species. Past projects funded by the sale of these and other hunting tags have included crucial habitat conservation, post-wildfire forest restoration, wildlife population studies and the installation of artificial watering devices to support wildlife during drought conditions.</p> <p>Up to 18 tags will be reserved for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations to sell or auction. Nonprofit organizations compete through an application process for a chance to auction these special tags, which can only be purchased by members of the public through these auctions. The tags offer special hunting opportunities for deer, elk, pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep. The application process is designed to ensure maximum proceeds are received from the tags to benefit wildlife.</p> <p>The availability of these tags for auction often boosts attendance and participation at nonprofit events, which can benefit a nonprofit’s own fundraising efforts.</p> <p>A call for applications and the required application form are available at <a href="/Licensing/Hunting/Fundraising">CDFW’s Fundraising with Big Game License Tags web page</a>. Applications must be received by 3 p.m. on Oct. 16, 2023.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Regina.Vu@wildlife.ca.gov">Regina Vu</a>, CDFW Wildlife Branch, (916) 516-2132<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p> Applications Now Available for Fall Apprentice Deer Hunt in San Luis Obispo County for Junior License Holdershttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/fall-2023-apprentice-deer-hunt-san-luis-obispo-countyHuntingTue, 01 Aug 2023 15:19:00 GMTCDFW is offering a drawing for an apprentice deer hunt for junior license holders on the Chimineas Unit of the Carrizo Plains Ecological Reserve.<p>CDFW is offering a drawing for an apprentice deer hunt for junior license holders on the Chimineas Unit of the Carrizo Plains Ecological Reserve.</p> <p>The two-day buck hunt will be held Sept. 16 and 17 on the 30,000-acre reserve in San Luis Obispo County. The hunt is co-organized by the Avenales Sportmen’s Club (ASC) and Chimineas Ranch Foundation (CRF).</p> <p>Mandatory hunter orientation will take place in the evening on Friday, Sept. 15. Overnight lodging will be available at the ranch house on the ecological reserve on both Friday and Saturday nights.</p> <p>Three junior license holders will be chosen by lottery. Selected youth must possess an A zone deer tag and must be accompanied by an adult. Participants will receive classroom, range and field training in gun handling techniques and safety, deer hunting and game care. Hunts will be led by ASC volunteers. ASC and CRF will provide breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday, as well as breakfast and lunch on Sunday.</p> <p>Junior license holders may apply online using their GO ID number through the <a href="https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/InternetSales?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery" target="_blank"><strong>Automated License Data System</strong> (ALDS)</a>. The hunt application is titled “Carrizo Plain ER - Chimineas Unit Apprentice Deer Hunt.”</p> <p>The application deadline is Tuesday, Aug. 22. Successful applicants will be notified by phone and will receive additional information, including maps and special regulations, prior to the hunt.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:<br /> <a href="mailto:Ken.Paglia@Wildlife.ca.gov">Ken Paglia</a>, </strong>CDFW Communications, (916) 825-7120<br /> <strong><a href="mailto:Brandon.Swanson@Wildlife.ca.gov">Brandon Swanson</a>, </strong>CDFW Environmental Scientist, (805) 305-8291</em></p> CDFW Now Accepting Applications for Expanded Deer Hunting Opportunities at Cosumnes River Ecological Reservehttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/expanded-deer-hunting-cosumnes-river-erHuntingWed, 12 Jul 2023 11:38:00 GMTCDFW is now accepting applications for expanded deer hunting opportunities at the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve in Sacramento County for the 2023 A Zone and D5 Zone archery and general seasons.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is now accepting applications for expanded deer hunting opportunities at the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve in Sacramento County for the 2023 A Zone and D5 Zone archery and general seasons.</p> <p>CDFW initiated a limited deer hunting program within the ecological reserve in 2021. The program proved safe and popular with hunters and was expanded in 2022, doubling the number of access permits offered. New for 2023, archery season opportunities have been added for both hunt zones.</p> <p>For 2023, permits will be issued for eight separate one-week hunting periods – four permits for the A Zone and four for the D5 Zone seasons that fall within the reserve’s boundaries. Each permit will accommodate up to two hunters. Only archery equipment may be used during the A Zone and D5 Zone archery seasons. Only archery equipment or shotguns with nonlead slugs may be used during the general season hunt dates. Rifles, pistols or muzzleloaders will not be allowed due to safety concerns. Harvest is limited to one legal buck per hunter per access period.</p> <p>The A Zone hunts take place in July through September within the reserve’s Arno Unit, located west of Highway 99. The D5 Zone hunts are offered in late August through October within the reserve’s Dillard Unit, east of Highway 99.</p> <p>Hunters can download the applications online at the <a href="/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Cosumnes-River-ER">Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve web page</a>. Hunters can also request an access permit application by calling CDFW’s Rancho Cordova office at (916) 358-2900 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. Applications may be submitted via e-mail to <a href="mailto:rylee.owen@wildlife.ca.gov">Rylee.Owen@Wildlife.ca.gov</a> or mailed to CDFW’s Rancho Cordova office at 1701 Nimbus Road, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670.</p> <p>For the A Zone, Arno Unit archery hunt, applications must be received by 2 p.m. on July 18, 2023. For the A Zone Arno Unit general hunts, applications must be received by 2 p.m. on July 28, 2023. For the D5 Zone Dillard Unit archery and general hunts, applications must be received by 2 p.m. on Aug. 4, 2023. Permits will be awarded by a computerized, random drawing. Successful applicants will be notified by e-mail or phone call/text message within two working days of the drawing, and will receive additional information, including maps and special instructions, prior to the hunt. Results will not be given over the phone.</p> <p>Up to two people may apply for the hunt as one party by including all required information on the application form. Junior hunting license holders who are 12 years of age or older may also apply if accompanied by an adult hunter. Applicants may apply for one access permit on one area only. An individual’s name may appear in the drawing only once. Any additional or duplicate applications will be disqualified from the drawing.</p> <p>Hunters selected for an access permit for the Arno Unit (A Zone) or Dillard Unit (D5 Zone) must possess the necessary A Zone, D3-5 Zones or Archery Only deer tag for the 2023 season. All hunters selected for a permit must also possess a 2023-24 California hunting license.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Shelly.Blair@wildlife.ca.gov">Shelly Blair</a>, CDFW North Central Region, (916) 201-7349<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira,</a> CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p> Applications Now Being Accepted for Opening Weekend Deer and Pig Hunting Permits in Merced Countyhttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/applications-now-being-accepted-for-opening-weekend-deer-and-pig-hunting-permits-in-merced-county1R3Fri, 26 May 2023 12:36:53 GMTThe California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is now accepting applications for a limited number of deer and pig hunting permits for opening weekend of the A Zone general season, Aug. 12-13.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is now accepting applications for a limited number of deer and pig hunting permits for opening weekend of the A Zone general season, Aug. 12-13. This is not a special hunt, but rather a drawing to control the number of hunters on popular public land during opening weekend.</p> <p>Locations for this hunt include Upper and Lower Cottonwood Creek and the San Luis Reservoir wildlife areas, both in western Merced County. Reservations are required to access the wildlife areas during opening weekend and only 30 permits will be issued for each day, Saturday, Aug. 12 and Sunday, Aug. 13.</p> <p>Hunters can download the application online at <a href="/lands/places-to-visit/cottonwood-creek-wa">wildlife.ca.gov/lands/places-to-visit/cottonwood-creek-wa</a>. Hunters may also request an access permit application by calling CDFW’s Los Banos office at (209) 826-0463 between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Applications may be submitted via email to Logan Brooks at <a href="mailto:Logan.Brooks@wildlife.ca.gov">Logan.Brooks@wildlife.ca.gov</a> or mailed to CDFW’s Los Banos office at 18110 W. Henry Miller Avenue, Los Banos, CA 93635.</p> <p>Only official applications will be accepted and must be received before 4 p.m. on July 7, 2023. Reservations will be selected by a computerized drawing at 11 a.m. on July 10. The drawing will be open to the public. Successful applicants will be notified by mail within five working days of the drawing. Results will not be given over the phone.</p> <p>Up to three people may apply for the hunt as one party by including all required information on the A Zone application form. Junior license holders who are 12 years of age or older may also apply if accompanied by an adult hunter.</p> <p>Applicants may apply for a one-day hunt on one area only. An individual’s name may appear in the drawing only once and additional or duplicate applications will be disqualified from the drawing.</p> <p>All hunters are required to use non-lead ammunition when hunting with a firearm anywhere in California.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media contact</strong>:<br /> <a href="mailto:Ken.Paglia@Wildlife.ca.gov">Ken Paglia</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 825-7120<br /> <a href="mailto:Sean.Allen@wildlife.ca.gov">Sean Allen</a>, CDFW Los Banos Wildlife Area, (209) 826-0463</em></p> First Case of SARS-CoV-2 in California Wildlife Confirmed in a Mule Deerhttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/first-case-of-sars-cov-2-in-california-wildlife-confirmed-in-a-mule-deerWildlife HealthWed, 26 Apr 2023 15:33:34 GMTSARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been detected for the first time in free-ranging California wildlife.<p>SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been detected for the first time in free-ranging California wildlife.</p> <p>One hunter-harvested mule deer, a buck from El Dorado County, was confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2. The deer was harvested in 2021 and sampled by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for chronic wasting disease (CWD) surveillance. It was negative for CWD and did not show any outward signs of illness.</p> <p>In California, SARS-CoV-2 has been confirmed in pets and zoo animals, but never in free-ranging wildlife. Following reports of SARS-CoV-2 detections in free-ranging white-tailed deer and mule deer in other states and Canadian provinces, CDFW tested archived deer samples for SARS-CoV-2. The samples consisted of lymph nodes collected as part of CDFW’s CWD surveillance efforts. CWD has never been detected in California’s deer or elk populations.</p> <p>CDFW submitted archived samples from 170 black-tailed and mule deer collected in 2020 and 209 black-tailed and mule deer collected in 2021. Initial testing for SARS-CoV-2 was conducted at the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory at UC Davis, and confirmatory testing was conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS) National Veterinary Services Laboratories in Ames, Iowa.</p> <p>“Others have shown that deer can be infected with SARS-CoV-2 and that they can pass it to other deer but do not get sick,” said Dr. Brandon Munk, senior wildlife veterinarian with CDFW. “We do not see SARS-CoV-2 as a threat to our deer populations but we continue to work with partners to better understand what, if any, significance SARS-CoV-2 infections in wildlife may pose to wildlife and people. This is certainly another reminder not to intentionally feed deer. Artificially congregating deer increases the likelihood of spreading disease and may be a source of SARS-CoV-2 exposure for deer.”</p> <p>There is no evidence that people can contract COVID-19 by eating meat from an infected animal. Nonetheless, hunters are encouraged to take appropriate precautions when handling and dressing game and practice good food hygiene when processing their animals.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html" target="_blank">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> states that although people can spread SARS-CoV-2 to animals, especially during close contact, the risk of animals spreading SARS-CoV-2 to people is considered low. The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies developed <a href="https://www.fishwildlife.org//application/files/9916/4365/1181/Guidance_on_SARS-CoV-2_and_Free-Ranging_White-Tailed_Deer_January_2022.pdf" target="_blank">guidance (PDF)</a> pertaining to SARS-CoV-2 in white-tailed deer.</p> <p>USDA APHIS reports <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/onehealth/one-health-sarscov2-in-animals" target="_blank">confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 in animals across the United States</a>. Since 2021, APHIS has been <a href="https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/one_health/downloads/qa-covid-white-tailed-deer-study.pdf" target="_blank">monitoring SARS-CoV-2 infections in free-ranging deer (PDF)</a>. CDFW is collaborating with USDA APHIS and others to sample and test more California deer for SARS-CoV-2.</p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Brandon.Munk@wildlife.ca.gov">Dr. Brandon Munk</a>, CDFW Wildlife Health Lab, (916) 358-1194<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p> Capture and Collar Efforts Underway for Wolves, Elk and Deer in Northeastern Californiahttps://wildlife.ca.gov/News/Archive/capture-and-collar-efforts-underway-for-wolves-elk-and-deer-in-northeastern-californiaWolvesTue, 21 Feb 2023 12:05:55 GMTCDFW this week initiated efforts to capture wolves, elk and deer by helicopter in northeastern California and outfit the animals with GPS collars. The capturing and collaring will continue through the end of the month as weather allows.<p>The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) this week initiated efforts to capture wolves, elk and deer by helicopter in northeastern California and outfit the animals with GPS collars. The capturing and collaring will continue through the end of the month as weather allows.</p> <p>CDFW has contracted with Leading Edge Aviation to conduct the helicopter captures in Lassen, Modoc, Plumas and Siskiyou counties. CDFW environmental scientists and veterinary staff will provide direction and support on the ground. It is the first time CDFW has used helicopters to capture and collar gray wolves.</p> <p>Capture teams will target wolves in the Whaleback Pack in Siskiyou County and the Lassen Pack, which roams portions of Lassen and Plumas counties. Neither pack has wolves with functioning GPS collars. The collars can transmit data to CDFW scientists twice a day for up to two years and provide detailed information about movements, habitat preferences and location. In the case of wolves, the collars provide information that CDFW can share with cattle and sheep ranchers about nearby wolf activity to help reduce conflicts though the collars are not reliable sources for real-time data.</p> <p>Recent attempts to capture and collar California wolves from the ground have been unsuccessful. Helicopter captures are an added effort while ongoing ground captures will be adapted to increase success. Other Western states, including Oregon and Washington, routinely use helicopters to capture and monitor their wolf populations.</p> <p>Captured and collared mule deer and Rocky Mountain elk will enhance CDFW’s knowledge of distribution, abundance, migration patterns, recruitment, survival and habitat use.</p> <p>The captures will take place on lands managed by the USDA Forest Service as well as on private properties with permission from landowners. CDFW is grateful to the USDA Forest Service, timberland owners and other private landowners that are providing access to their lands for the capture.</p> <p><em>CDFW photo of a gray wolf in northeastern California, part of the Lassen Pack.</em></p> <p>###</p> <p><em><strong>Media Contacts:</strong><br /> <a href="mailto:Jeffrey.Stoddard@wildlife.ca.gov">Jeffrey Stoddard</a>, CDFW Northern Region, (530) 768-7146<br /> <a href="mailto:Peter.Tira@wildlife.ca.gov">Peter Tira</a>, CDFW Communications, (916) 215-3858</em></p>