News and Announcements

Annabelle Xu’s American wigeon drawing was named Best of Show in the 2025 art competition. Learn more about JDS winners and the judging process.

Avian flu was detected in Massachusetts this winter and cases in wild birds are declining. While humans are rarely impacted, hunters are advised to take precautions.

Turtle conservation is a big job and relies on the work of many individuals. Journey through the seasons with one of MassWildlife’s field biologists for an inside look at what it takes to research and protect our rare turtles.

Spring turkey hunting season is April 28–May 24. Get ready for the start of season by purchasing your license and turkey permit then review regulations, hunting tips, and safety information.

In most cases, the best thing to do if you find a young wild animal is leave it alone.

Wild turkey breeding season is here and that can mean an increase in aggressive behavior. To reduce wildlife conflict, avoid feeding turkeys.

A public hearing will be held April 29 to establish rules and regulations for the 2025–2026 migratory game bird hunting seasons.

Each year, MassWildlife recognizes anglers who catch exceptional freshwater fish in Massachusetts. The 2024 winners have been announced.

The public is invited to help MassWildlife stock trout during school vacation week. Join stocking events in Barnstable, Chicopee, Haverhill, Leominster, Pittsfield, Plymouth, Shutesbury, Westfield, and Worcester.

This spring, MassWildlife will stock trout in over 450 waterbodies in 264 towns across Massachusetts! Find out where and get daily updates at Mass.gov/trout.

This spring, be mindful of amphibians as they emerge from their winter retreats and travel to breeding sites. Use caution while driving on rainy spring nights.

This year's cold winter created more ice cover on ponds, decreasing oxygen levels and potentially causing natural fish kills. Make sure to report fish kills as the temperatures rise.

The public comment period for proposed bear hunting regulations has been extended. All comments must be received by 4 p.m. on March 17, 2025.

If you have bird feeders or if you keep chickens, bee hives, or livestock, act now to keep bears wild and out of neighborhoods.

As winter loosens its grip, American woodcock males get ready to carry out one of nature’s most mesmerizing performances. Learn more about these interesting birds and find out how you can observe their dramatic mating flight.