TPWD News Releases

Displaced Wildlife May be Found in Unlikely Places as Flooding Recedes

AUSTIN — As flood waters begin to recede across much of Central and East Texas, property owners may encounter wildlife in unexpected places. Floods can temporarily displace wildlife like snakes, armadillos, skunks and raccoons into some people’s yards and houses as they seek cover or higher ground.

Public Comment Sought for Proposed Deer Carcass Disposal Regulations

AUSTIN — Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is seeking public comment until May 22 on proposed deer carcass disposal regulations and movement restrictions.

Lights Out Initiative Asks for Action During Spring Migration

AUSTIN — Spring is the peak time for bird migration through Texas, and the bright lights of cities and towns can confuse birds as they fly to their northern breeding grounds. Texans are encouraged to help our winged friends on their journey by turning “Lights Out” at night across the state from March 1- June 15, with peak migration occurring April 22 through May 12.

Official Media Statement: Alligators in Waco

Dove Mortality Occurring Across Texas due to Trichomoniasis

AUSTIN –The National Wildlife Health Center (NWHC) has confirmed several doves collected across Texas, including the Trans Pecos and Rolling Plains, tested positive for Trichomoniasis.

USFWS, East Foundation Sign Safe Harbor Agreement to Aid Ocelot Recovery in Texas

AUSTIN – During an event on March 19, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and East Foundation officially approved a Programmatic Safe Harbor Agreement to aid in the recovery and reintroduction of the secretive ocelot to south Texas.

Leaving Wildlife Alone is Best Practice

AUSTIN — It is the time of year when people are outdoors enjoying warmer weather, beautiful flowers and emerging wildlife. As you spend time outdoors, you may start to notice more wildlife in your backyard, neighborhood or surrounding areas. Species including birds, deer and snakes are active this time of year and their young can be mistaken as abandoned.

TPWD Urges Caution Around Rookery Islands to Protect Waterbird Nesting Grounds

AUSTIN — As spring weather transitions to summer and outdoor enthusiasts begin to flock to the coast, boaters will begin to see islands covered with large congregations of nesting birds. These islands, known as rookery islands, provide breeding homes (and nurseries) for thousands of iconic coastal birds such as brown pelicans, roseate spoonbills, black skimmers, reddish egrets and other species in Texas bays.

Official Media Statement: Gene Howe Wildlife Management Area

National Invasive Species Awareness Week Feb. 26 – March 3 Promotes Initiatives to Prevent Harmful, Non-Native Plants and Wildlife

AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) encourages Texans to take action against invasive species that negatively impact the state’s natural resources and economy. National Invasive Species Awareness Week (NISAW), scheduled for Feb. 26 – March 3, is an initiative to raise awareness of the threats and provide solutions on how to prevent the spread of invasive species.