News and Announcements

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News

The legacy of a log

1/06/2025 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Fallen trees provide animals food and shelter, and sometimes a convenient walkway. Trail camera video reveals the surprising variety of wildlife that make use of a single fallen log.

News

Teaming up for New England cottontail conservation

1/06/2025 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Private landowners play a vital role in creating young forest habitat for declining native wildlife.

Press Release

Reindeer Cleared for Takeoff Over Massachusetts

12/24/2024 Governor Maura Healey and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll

MassWildlife grants Santa special permit for Christmas Eve flyover

News

What happens to wildlife during a fire?

12/05/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Plants and animals have evolved to coexist with the natural process of fire. Learn about what animals do during and after fires and how periodic fire can actually benefit wildlife habitats in the long run.

News

'Tis the season to see snowy owls

12/03/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Seeing a snowy owl is a stunning and memorable experience. Before you go looking for these birds, learn why they visit Massachusetts, where you may see them, and how to view them safely.

News

Updates to the Massachusetts Endangered Species List

12/02/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Recent updates added 22 new plants and animals to the list, delisted 1 plant, and changed the status for 2 plants following a review and public comment on the list change proposals.

News

Wildfire notice for outdoor users

11/14/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Massachusetts is experiencing many wildfires statewide. Take precautions when venturing into the woods.

News

Lake trout surveys underway

11/04/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Each fall, MassWildlife samples the Quabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs to monitor lake trout populations.

News

High-tech backpacks are for the birds

11/04/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Employing the latest radio tracking technology, MassWildlife has launched a study that will track wood thrush survival and migration paths to inform conservation efforts to help forest nesting birds.

News

Acorns abound

11/04/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

The natural cycle of oak tree seed production can lead to an abundance of acorns and a welcome source of nutrition for local wildlife.

News

Gobbling up the spotlight: The conservation comeback of wild turkeys

11/04/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Wild turkeys have made a remarkable comeback through dedicated reintroduction efforts that began in the 1970s. Now thriving statewide, turkeys have become a common sight with a population of around 30,000–35,000.

News

Not-so-spooky spiders you may see in your backyard

10/07/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Spiders are often associated with Halloween, but most of these arachnids are nothing to be scared of. Learn about three harmless spider species and how they benefit our ecosystems.

News

Mussel movers: Prepping for dam removal

10/04/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

MassWildlife worked with partners to safeguard freshwater mussels at the site of a dam removal project on the Quinapoxet River by relocating them to upstream habitats.

News

Wildlife-friendly fall clean-up tips

10/03/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Autumn is here, bringing cooler temperatures, falling leaves, and shorter days. As you prepare your yard for winter, help your local wildlife with a few simple steps.

News

5 ways to get outside this fall

10/02/2024 Division of Fisheries and Wildlife

Want to have some fun in nature this fall but don’t know where to start? Grab your binoculars and enjoy the outdoors with these five autumn activities.