Your wildlife questions are answered by Maine Audubon Staff Naturalist Doug Hitchcox.
Outdoors
Hunting: Muzzleloader season presents unique challenges
Using a front-loader can be frustrating for those used to firearms with centerfire ammunition.
Trump administration moves ahead on gutting protections for birds
The wildlife service acknowledges that the rollback would have a ‘negative’ effect on the many bird species covered by the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which range from hawks and eagles to seabirds, storks, songbirds and sparrows.
Big bucks are a badge of honor for Maine deer hunters
The quest of shooting a 200-pound deer is woven into Maine’s hunting culture – and the many big-buck contests are proof.
Hunting: The best laid plans for a hunt seldom play out according to plan
You can never be too prepared for your hunt, but also be ready to react when the unexpected forces a quick alteration.
Hiking: Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary one of a few gems around West Bath
Millicent Hamilton’s hope “that many people in the years to come will find peace and joy there as I have done” is a reality at 86-acre preserve.
Birding: Not every bird is able to stay on course, especially during migration
Some species simply do not belong in Maine – from variegated flycatchers to roseate spoonbills – but somehow are detoured from their original flight plan.
Hunting licenses soar as virus-weary Americans head outdoors
The trend abruptly reverses a steady decline in hunting’s popularity that once appeared permanent, and provides a potential new source of food for families and food banks pressed by the pandemic.
Maine ski resorts prepare for winter season during pandemic
Ski areas are taking measures to enhance social distancing inside and outside, and at least one resort is considering a controversial reservation system to ease crowding.
Maine Nordic centers expect a busy winter
Many are moving sales operations outside or across multiple buildings in an effort to spread out skiers during the pandemic.