Field officers for the state Game Commission's Northeast region filed the following reports on Feb. 1, according to the agency's website:
Sullivan County Wildlife Conservation Officer Rick Finnegan reports that a joint investigation with a WCO from Tioga County led to the finding that a Canton man had killed numerous turkeys illegally in Maryland over the past few years. Citations have been filed for possessing these birds in Bradford County. Many other charges were filed in Tioga County relating to the investigation but involving many illegally taken deer.
Wayne County WCO James P. McCarthy reports that a search warrant was served and a young Capuchin monkey has been seized from a Lakeville couple. The investigation is ongoing. Importing or possessing exotic wildlife in Pennsylvania without the proper permits is a crime.
Northwest Region Office
Olexsak also reports that during recent snowfalls, snowmobiles have been illegally operating in areas that are closed to such activities, and many complaints from other outdoor enthusiasts, such as trappers, hunters and birdwatchers have been received. Multiple citations have been issued to those snowmobile operators who fail to follow posted signs and who failed to maintain the required registration on their machines.
Jefferson County WCO Roger A. Hartless reports he recently came across a number of old Game News issues, several going back to the 1950s and '60s. Reading through some of the old Field Notes, it was funny how many of the "notes" could have been penned by a WCO today. Especially common were reports of the general public picking up supposed abandoned wildlife and dropping the bird or animal off at the local officer's residence to be taken care of. The message of "leave it where you found it" has been out there for at least 50 years and still often goes unheard.
Mercer County WCO Lawrence R. Hergenroeder reports a Sandy Lake trapper reported seeing evidence of an otter taking up residence on State Game Land 130 along Sandy Creek.
Southwest Region Office
Southeast Region Office
Lancaster County WCO Dennis R. Warfel reports that one of the nesting pairs of bald eagles in southern Lancaster County has already set up house keeping and is incubating their eggs; others have paired up and are getting ready. "Hopefully the weather for the nesting season will cooperate," he said.
"Typically, the peak of the migration occurs during the end of February or early March," he said. "During this period, updated numbers will be posted on the Game Commission website.
"Also, keep in mind, weather permitting, the Tour Roads will reopen March 1. So, for those who want to come to Middle Creek to enjoy the annual spring migration, early March can be the best time to visit for best access," he said.
