CompUSA Offers Reward in Death of Campus Crocodile
October 6, 2008
Two days after University of Miami Police found a headless and tailless, 8- to 9-foot American crocodile carcass in a campus canal, a $5,000 reward is being offered by CompUSA for information that leads to the arrest of the crocodile killer. University Police and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) are working together to catch the perpetrator(s).
American crocodiles are listed as an endangered species in Florida and a threatened species under federal laws. Intentionally killing a crocodile is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine.
“We found a chum bag in the canal, which we believe was used to lure the crocodile in,” FWC investigator Lt. Pat Reynolds said.
Several crocodiles are on the campus, and the University of Miami, in partnership with the FWC, educates students about the animals. Students and faculty are proud and protective of the campus crocodiles.
“The students and staff are worked up about the death of this crocodile,” Reynolds said. “The crocs are a part of their life at the university; they like having them around.”
Gilbert Fiorentino, CEO of CompUSA added, “The students are good customers of ours, and we want them to know our concern over this incident.”
CompUSA is a retailer and reseller of consumer electronics, technology products and computer services.
Campus police and the FWC spent hours gathering evidence and information following the discovery. The carcass was examined to try to determine how the animal was captured and killed. Findings have not been released.
“We are working diligently with the FWC, and we are determined to catch whoever is responsible for this,” said University Police spokesperson John Pepper.
American crocodiles live in South Florida and occur nowhere else in the United States. In 1975, there were fewer than 300 crocodiles in Florida, and they were listed as an endangered species. Today, the FWC estimates 1,400 to 2,000 crocodiles live in southern Florida. They are typically shy and reclusive.
Anyone with information on this case is asked to call the Miami-Dade Crimestoppers at 305-471-TIPS or the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. The reward is being offered through Miami-Dade Crimestoppers, and callers can remain anonymous.
The FWC’s Wildlife Alert Program also is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information in the case. Wildlife Alert callers also may remain anonymous.
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Florida Fish Busters’ Bulletin - Fishing remains a fun, healthy tradition available to everyone
September 29, 2008
Freshwater fishing is one of the many outdoor recreational activities encouraged by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
The FWC views outdoor recreation as a tremendously beneficial opportunity that should be available to all residents and visitors, and it strives to provide quality fishing, hunting and wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Cheryl Charles, president of the Children and Nature Network, points out, “People throughout the world are increasingly connected by a resonance and passion, to create a new common sense for the good health of children today and generations to come.”
Dr. Andrew Lepp, assistant professor of recreation, park and tourism management at Kent State, said the benefits from outdoor recreation are varied and plentiful. Outdoor recreation has psychological benefits, including the prevention or reduction of stress and improved self-esteem, confidence and creativity. Lepp also contends it adds to spiritual growth and leads to an increased sense of exhilaration, adventure and challenge from life. Getting outside provides physical benefits, such as aerobic, cardiovascular and muscular fitness, as well as improved functioning of the immune system.
It even offers benefits for the social life. The great outdoors affords social benefits, such as bonding with like-minded people who also enjoy outdoor activities, and feeling an increased pride in your community and nation.
The economy benefits from all of this activity as well. Outdoor recreation creates job opportunities for others, which leads to economic growth and preservation of the natural areas needed for outdoor recreation increases property values. The workplace wins because people who regularly participate in outdoor recreation tend to be more productive at work, Lepp said.
The list continues with positive outcomes for the environment. People who participate in outdoors activities usually have increased environmental awareness. This awareness translates to increased involvement in environmental issues.
Specific activities such as fishing can add to the enthusiasm and provide a fun challenge to become increasingly skillful. In Florida, the abundance of natural waters (7,700 named lakes, 12,000 miles of fishable rivers and canals) means the opportunity is available to everyone. From digging worms and making your own cane pole, to casting a lure, you develop a connection with nature that comes naturally and has been an American tradition since long before Mark Twain’s tales of the adventurous Huck Finn.
Every year the FWC works with the Florida Disabled Outdoor Association at its Sportsability event, and this year we joined them at the Family Café event in Orlando. These opportunities reinforce the pure fun of experiencing nature, and we redouble our commitment to making fishing accessible for everyone.
Clay Dyer - a professional bass fisherman who was born without lower legs, no arm on the left and a partially developed arm on the right - inspired hundreds of individuals with physical and mental challenges during his motivational presentation at the Family Café event. Clay is a hero and inspiration to virtually everyone he touches with his life story, which he calls “The View from Down Here is Just Fine.” He is also a spokesperson for the C.A.S.T. for kids program.
The FWC is doing its part by teaching kids to fish, sponsoring Becoming an Outdoors-Woman events, helping create bank-fishing access and building accessible boat ramps, courtesy docks and fishing piers. Most importantly, the FWC is dedicated to conserving and enhancing fisheries habitat and fish populations for everyone.
We invite you to get outdoors and take someone with you, so you can enjoy all the benefits of getting back to nature.
Instant licenses are available at MyFWC.com/License or by calling 1-888-FISH-FLORIDA (347-4356). Report violators by calling *FWC or #FWC on your cell, or 1-888-404-3922. Visit MyFWC.com/Fishing/Updates for more Fish Busters’ columns.
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Rare Antelope Shot; Its Calf Dies Later
September 24, 2008
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Wildlife Alert program and the owner of a rare desert antelope are offering a combined reward of $750 for information leading to the arrest of whoever shot and killed the addax antelope at Pheenix Farm in Putnam County.
The farm owners found the antelope’s body inside a fenced pasture the morning of Sept. 14. It had been shot to death. Its young calf was found that afternoon in a nearby building, but it died shortly afterwards.
The addax antelope is one of the world’s rarest mammals. It is listed as a critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and some scientists estimate there are fewer than 500 left in the wild. It is well-adapted to its native African desert habitat and rarely needs water, because it can get most of its water needs from the vegetation it eats.
Pheenix Farm is a game farm located on County Road 315 and Hewitt Lake Road near Orange Springs.
Anyone with information about this incident should call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922. Callers may remain anonymous.
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Still Time to Sign Up for Tallahassee Outdoors-woman Workshop
September 24, 2008
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) still has openings for its Tallahassee Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) workshop for women who want to spend a weekend learning a variety of outdoor activities.
The three-day workshop will take place Oct. 10-12 at Camp Wallwood on the Gadsden County side of Lake Talquin. The program will begin Friday at 10 a.m. and end Sunday with lunch.
Although designed with women in mind, the workshop is open to everyone 18 and older who wants to improve their outdoor skills and enjoy a few recreational activities. During four, three-and-one-half-hour sessions, the workshop will teach skills associated with fishing, hunting and other forms of outdoor recreation, at all levels of physical activity.
The BOW Program offers a fun and supportive atmosphere for participants wishing to try new things and enjoy the camaraderie of others who want to learn about Florida’s great outdoors.
The cost for the program is $175, and there are a few discounted slots available for low-income participants, single parents and college students.
For more information on the BOW workshop and how you can register, visit MyFWC.com/BOW or call 850-413-0085.
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FWC Takes Applications For Wildlife Grants
September 24, 2008
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Wildlife Legacy Initiative is now accepting grant applications for the State Wildlife Grants program for the 2009-2010 fiscal year.
This program is a federally-funded matching grants program, providing financial support for projects that address conservation needs as identified in Florida’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy.
Submission deadline is Nov. 3 at 5 p.m.
Visit MyFWC.com/wildlifelegacy for more information on the Florida’s State Wildlife Grants Program, including detailed criteria, application and submission instructions.
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Domestic Trophy Buck Killed on Game Farm in Florida; Owner Offers Substantial Reward For Information
September 16, 2008
captive, domestic, trophy, 12-point buck was killed illegally and stolen from a Lake Butler game farm Sept. 6, and the owner is offering a substantial reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) investigator Lt. David Lee, the suspects trespassed onto Shadd’s Game Farm, which is an FWC-licensed private facility, on State Road 100, west of Lake Butler.
The white-tailed deer, named “Peabody,” was killed, and the animal’s head was removed.
“Some of the meat was also taken,” Lee said.
Peabody was a stud deer and had an extensive lineage.
“The antlers are unique because of a drop tine behind each ear. The deer was tagged with a pinkish tag in the left ear with the #23 on it,” Lee said. “The left ear will have a hole or tear mark where the tag was.”
The owner of the trophy buck, John Shadd, has offered a reward of $20,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the culprit(s).
Anyone with information about this crime should call Lee at 386-623-1522 or Maj. Gary Seay, Union County Sheriff’s Office, at 386-867-2935.
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Hunter safety Internet Completion Course Offered in Franklin County, FL
September 15, 2008
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is offering a free hunter safety Internet completion course in Franklin County.
The course will be at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, 270 North State Road 65 in Eastpoint. Instruction will take place 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 27 and will include the mandatory firing range portion of the course.
Individuals must bring a copy of the final report from the computer portion of the course to be admitted.
Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Students are encouraged to bring a pencil and paper with them to take notes.
The hunter safety course is required for anyone born on or after June 1, 1975, to purchase a Florida hunting license. The FWC course satisfies hunter safety training requirements for all other states and Canadian provinces.
People interested in attending this course can register online and obtain information about future hunter safety classes at MyFWC.com/huntered or by calling the FWC’s regional office in Panama City at 850-265-3676.
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Hunter Safety Course Offered in Jackson County, FL
September 15, 2008
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is offering a free hunter safety course in Jackson County.
The course will be at the Lily Pad Ranch and Hunting Club, 2224 Kent Cemetery Road in Alford. Instruction will take place 6-9 p.m. Sept. 23 and 26, and 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 27.
Individuals who have taken the Internet course and wish to complete the classroom portion must bring the online completion report and attend only the Sept. 27 class from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Students are encouraged to bring a pencil and paper with them to take notes.
The hunter safety course is required for anyone born on or after June 1, 1975, to purchase a Florida hunting license. The FWC course satisfies hunter safety training requirements for all other states and Canadian provinces.
People interested in attending this course can register online and obtain information about future hunter safety classes at MyFWC.com/huntered or by calling the FWC’s regional office in Panama City at 850-265-3676.
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Sturgeon Injures Two Live Oak Residents in Florida
September 8, 2008
Two Live Oak residents were injured when a sturgeon jumped into a boat cruising down the Suwannee River Sunday afternoon, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Chandler Brant Howard, 4, and his father, Christopher W. Howard, 32, sustained lacerations when the fish hit them. Chandler also suffered a broken arm.
Chandler’s mother, Laura Howard, 29, and brother, Christopher, 7, were also in the boat but were uninjured during the encounter near the Dowling Park boat ramp in Suwannee County.
FWC officers investigating the encounter said a 3- to 4-foot sturgeon jumped in front of the Howards’ boat. The vessel was on plane and traveling approximately 30 miles per hour. The family was traveling about two miles north of the Dowling Park boat ramp.
“The sturgeon jumped up, shattering the boat’s windshield,” said Capt. Roy Brown, with FWC law enforcement. “Mr. Howard was struck and then Chandler got hit.”
The sturgeon jumped back into the river.
This strike is the most northern encounter reported to the FWC, Brown said. There have been two other encounters in 2008. The first one occurred May 23 near Branford, when a man was slightly injured when a sturgeon jumped in his boat. The second reported encounter was July 4 near Rock Bluff, when a sturgeon jumped into a boat. No one was injured except for the fish.
Boaters can take measures to protect themselves while on the water.
“We recommend boaters reduce their speed to reduce the risk of impact and to give people more time to react if they do encounter a jumping sturgeon,” Brown said. “Pay attention to your surroundings. And always wear your life jacket, even if you’re a good swimmer. It’s hard to swim if you’re unconscious.”
Children 6 years old and younger are required to wear a life jacket while on a vessel.
The Suwannee River appears to support the largest viable population of Gulf sturgeon. Biologists estimate the population at 6,500 to 7,500 fish, each averaging approximately 40 pounds. Adult fish spend eight to nine months each year in the river spawning and three to four of the coolest months in Gulf waters. Sturgeon tend to congregate in deeper and cooler waters with moderate currents and sandy and rocky bottoms.
Biologists are unsure why sturgeon jump.
“Scientists are still attempting to figure that out,” said Allen Martin, regional freshwater fisheries biologist at Lake City. “Some of the theories include that the fish jump to communicate, or it may be a dominance display. We don’t know for sure.”
These encounters are not attacks, Martin said.
“I have seen these collisions referred to as ‘attacks.’ However, these fish are in no way ‘attacking’ when they jump. They are simply doing what they have been doing for millions of years … jumping. They aren’t targeting the boaters,” Martin said.
However, Gulf sturgeon can get quite big, exceeding 8 feet and 200 pounds.
“They have five rows of rock-hard ‘scutes’ along their sides and back. When sturgeon and boaters collide, the results can be devastating,” Martin said.
Sturgeon are a protected species and may not be harvested.
“Sturgeon are protected by state and federal law, just like bald eagles, panthers and sea turtles,” Brown said.
To report sturgeon collisions, call 1-888-404-FWCC (3922).
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Florida Watches For Fay’s Next Move As She Parks Off the Florida Coast
August 21, 2008
Last Updated on 8/25/2008
Here is a list to all Fay related stories and posts from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Emergency idle/no-wake & no-vessel zones in effect now on St. Johns
Roads closed on some WMAs in Orange, Osceola counties
Idle-speed, no-wake zones may take effect on the St. Johns River
Idle-speed, no-wake zones may take effect on the Withlacoochee River
FWC warns Floridians not to attempt wildlife rescues amid flooding
FWC warns of hidden hazards below water’s surface
High water prompts temporary restrictions for Everglades WMA
Roads closed on FWC-managed areas in Indian River, Brevard and Osceola counties
FWC will deal with lost and damaged boats after the storm
FWC urges boaters to be careful after flooding due to Fay
FWC wildlife management areas close in North Central Region
Roads closed on some WMAs in Orange, Osceola counties
Boat owners are required to secure their vessels during storms
SW Fla. offices now operational; Babcock/Webb reopens Thursday
More storm-related closings in Northeast Region
Storm-related closings in Northeast Region
FWC reschedules climate change summit
More storm-related closings in South Region
FWC offices, Babcock/Webb WMA close in Southwest Florida
Take precautions and be careful before and during storm
FWC cancels workshop, climate change summit
Fay has hovered over Florida and its coasts for nearly four days now and has caused torrential downpours and flooding throughout the state. Precautions are still needed at every venture. Travel is limited and damage is evident throughout the south and southeastern portions of the state.
The Outdoor Central News Network, in cooperation with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, as always will keep you informed to any and all update regarding fishing, hunting, and recreational opportunities in Florida.
Please be advised of storm related closures, and always think safety first.
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