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31st: This is what the main pond can look like after many days of cold weather and some snow. Notice the tracks of animals who ventured out onto the snow-covered frozen surface. The lens flare created by the sun is an added bonus.
28th: Hawaii has become the second US state to ban wild animal circus acts
We are delighted to report that Hawaii has become the second US state to ban wild animal circus acts after Governor David Ige signed an amendment to legislation, prohibiting the import of dangerous, wild animals for exhibition in circuses and carnivals. These include lions, tigers, bears, wolves, elephants, gorillas and chimpanzees.
The Hawaii ban comes just a week after New Jersey became the first US state to introduce a ban on wild animal circus acts. A number of other states have similar measures under consideration, including Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Read more.
27th: Demand that beavers no longer be trapped in NJ:
Governor's office: https://twitter.com/GovMurphy
NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife: https://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/contactform.htm
NJ Fish & Game Council: njfishandwildlife@dep.nj.gov
Your state legislators: https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/members/legsearch.asp
27th: Throwback to December of 2016 and this photo of a tree that had been used as a 'sign post' (so-called deer rub) by male white-tailed deer. While these animals are on Refuge land, their biggest worry is competition with other males. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
24th: We are fortunate to have belted kingfishers at the Refuge and it is always a pleasure to see them flying around the main pond. This one had just captured a fish (we care about the fish, too, but recognize this is just part of the natural cycle of life).
20th: Throwback to 1990 and this photo of a male wood duck (also called Carolina duck) swimming in the main pond, taken by Bernie Hall. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
17th: This eastern painted turtle was sunning herself on a log in the main pond on a particularly lovely sunny fall day.
15th: Breaking and great news for wildlife, Nosey's Law is a law!
New Jersey becomes first state to ban elephants and other wild or exotic animals from traveling circuses and animal acts. We are delighted to report that Governor Murphy has signed legislation making it illegal to use wild and exotic animals in traveling circuses and other acts. Known as Nosey's Law, named after a 36-year-old African elephant used in traveling circuses across the country, the Bill passed the New Jersey Assembly in October.
In a statement, Governor Phil Murphy said: "I am proud to sign 'Nosey's Law' and ensure that New Jersey will not allow wild and exotic animals to be exploited and cruelly treated within our state. This law would not have been possible without the years of hard work and advocacy by Senator Ray Lesniak, whose legacy on issues of animal rights is second to none. These animals belong in their natural habitats or in wildlife sanctuaries, not in performances where their safety and the safety of others is at risk."
Thank you to everyone who contacted their New Jersey Assembly members and Governor Murphy urging support for this important bill.
15th: A river otter broke through the ice on the main pond as our manager was walking by with his mobile phone. Although a bit difficult to discern, you can see the otter looking around and then disappearing back into the water. We have always had resident otter families and it was great to see them again. (The photo to the right is presumably a different otter from a little over a year ago, photoed by one of our trail cameras.)
Link to video: https://youtu.be/znUK-BT3cBA
14th: Please take action against beaver killing in Framingham
Unexpected Wildlife Refuge is shocked that Framingham City Council (Massachusetts) has been trapping and killing beavers following claims that the beavers' dams are contributing to rising waters. Permission was given by the local Board of Health and Conservation Commission to hire a contractor to set traps, including the controversial and particularly cruel Conibear traps, including allowing underwater 'sets' so that the beavers drowned (it takes as much as 16 minutes for a beaver to drown).
We are calling on the City Council to -- in the future, if too late for now -- adopt humane methods to resolve wildlife conflicts without resorting to the cruel trapping and killing of this iconic keystone species; one whose important role in the world's ecosystem is increasingly being recognized.
Please join us in writing to the Mayor, Dr. Yvonne M. Spicer (mayor@framinghamma.gov), voicing your objections to the killing of beavers in Framingham and urging the City Council to employ non-lethal methods that will allow for peaceful co-existence with this important species.
13th: Throwback to 1982 and this photo of a blue-gray gnatcatcher family, taken by Ray Davis. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
10th: This spider had built her web amongst the plants bordering the shore of the main pond.
6th: Throwback to 1964 and this photo of a baby northern water snake, taken by Al Francesconi. Although we discourage people picking up wildlife, the hand emphasizes the diminutive nature of this individual. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
3rd: This brown thrasher was seen exploring the forest floor earlier this year.
29th: Throwback to 1975 when Diane Barry Harrell and Bruce Barry helped us by patrolling the Refuge during so-called deer season (note that mobile phones have largely done away with the need for those bulky 'walkie talkies'). We welcome and need volunteers to help us with patrolling the Refuge this 'season', too. Contact us at 856.697.3541 or manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org and we will get you scheduled. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
28th: Bear call to New Jersey residents
Governor Murphy has failed to deliver on his campaign promise to end New Jersey's bear hunt. Bears can still be hunted on private land. In October, 140 of these iconic animals critical to a healthy ecosystem were hunted and killed.
Please continue to call (609-292-6000) and Tweet Governor Murphy urging him to end bear hunting on ALL lands in New Jersey (@GovMurphy promised to cancel the #bearhunt).
Please also support the Animal Protection of New Jersey protest for the bears at Whittingham Wildlife Management Area, 150 Fredon Springdale Road, Fredon, NJ:
For more information, contact Animal Protection of New Jersey: 973-513-3219 or info@savenjbears.com; https://www.facebook.com/SaveNJBears
26th: While visiting the Refuge, Dave Sauder, one of our Trustees, happened upon this group of delicate spindle-shaped yellow coral fungi.
22nd: Throwback to 1994 and this common snapping turtle lured by apples for a photo by Lorraine Marozzi. Although we no longer provide any supplemental food to wildlife (for their own protection), we still enjoy images like this. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #snappingturtles
20th: U.S. House votes to remove gray wolf from Endangered Species Act
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill that would remove federal protection for the gray wolf. The House voted 196-180 to drop Endangered Species Act protections from gray wolves in the lower 48 states and open them to state hunting and trapping seasons. The vote was mostly along party lines with nine Democrats joining 187 Republicans in voting to advance the legislation. Twelve members of the GOP voted against the bill. The legislation still needs Senate approval.
Gray wolves were once common throughout all of North America, but were exterminated in most areas by the mid-20th century. In 1973, Congress gave gray wolves protection under the Endangered Species Act. The Fish and Wildlife Service is now reviewing the wolf's status and is expected to declare they have recovered sufficiently to be removed from protection under the Endangered Species Act.
Unexpected wildlife Refuge maintains that gray wolves should continue to be protected and not subjected to the cruelty and inhumanity of shooting, trophy hunting and commercial trapping. The gray wolf is one of America's most majestic and iconic species and plays a key role in helping to maintain a balanced ecosystem.
Please contact your U.S. Senator and urge them to vote against this legislation and to maintain federal protection for the gray wolf: https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials
19th: This colorful pearl crescent butterfly was seen visiting plants along the dike bordering the main pond.
18th: Some Good News for a Change: Portugal has banned the use of wild animals in circuses
The law passed by the Portuguese Parliament means that wild animals, including lions, elephants and rhinos will no longer be allowed in circuses by the year 2024. Within the next six months, circus owners must declare their wild animals on a register. Circuses will then be granted provisional licenses but the animals will eventually be placed in wildlife sanctuaries. As an incentive, individuals that free their animals before 2024 could apparently become eligible for aid that will assist them in changing their profession.
Portugal joins many other countries across Europe working to end the suffering of wild animals in circuses.
We have the opportunity to introduce similar protection for wild animals in NJ. After passing the New Jersey Assembly, Nosey's Law (A1923/S1093), is now waiting for Governor Murphy's signature to prohibit the use of wild or exotic animals in traveling circuses and other animal acts in New Jersey.
If you have not already done so, please contact Governor Murphy and ask him to sign the bill:
15th: Throwback to 2012 and this barred owl looking with seeming muted curiosity at the photographer. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #barredowls
12th: In case you did not see our latest newsletter, here is one of the images we used to show the kinds of dragonflies we see regularly, especially around the main pond.
9th: The vital role that beavers play in the world's ecosystem continues to be recognized. In recent years, the Eurasian beaver -- the 'cousin' of the North American beaver, native to Europe -- has been reintroduced into parts of the United Kingdom. The most recent introduction is part of a pioneering natural flood management scheme for East Anglia. Eurasian beavers were previously hunted to extinction for food, fur and scent glands, and were last seen in this region during the 17th century. It is hoped the beavers will improve biodiversity and help to reduce local flood risk.
8th: Throwback to 1967 and this wonderful photo of a juvenile great horned owl in a pine tree, taken by Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, Refuge co-founder. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #greathornedowls
7th: Breaking News! One step closer to saving wild animals from traveling circuses in NJ
We are delighted to report that Nosey's Law has passed the New Jersey Assembly! It will now go to Governor Murphy for his signature. Thank you to everyone who contacted their Assembly members urging them to vote YES on this important piece of legislation (A1923/S1093). This would make New Jersey the first state to ban the use of elephants and other wild or exotic animals in traveling circuses and other animal acts.
Almost there: Please now contact Governor Murphy and ask him to sign the bill:
Animals, including elephants, tigers and bears are forced to perform in circuses and traveling shows. Kept in confinement in conditions that fail to meet their physical, social and psychological needs, they are routinely subjected to the threat of punishment through the use of bullhooks, sticks, whips and electric prods. The legislation, known as 'Nosey's Law' is named in honor of Nosey, a 35 year old African elephant who was eventually rescued after decades of being abused and exploited for human entertainment.
6th: Thank you to Jake Bornyasz, a local Boy Scout seeking Eagle Scout status (on right in photo; Trustee Dave Sauder on left), who together with a group of his friends recently spent a day volunteering at the Refuge. We are always in need of volunteers to help with keeping our trails cleared and posted so that visitors can enjoy the Refuge. If you would like to volunteer, whether you are a Boy Scout looking for a community service project or just want to help the Refuge, please call us at 856.697.3541) or E-mail us: manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org.
We are delighted to report that Jake has achieved his Eagle Scout status. Well done Jake!
5th: For reasons unclear to us, mud and musk turtles seem to like to come to the cabin and find their way into the basement. Dave Sauder, one of our Trustees, happened across this eastern mud turtle as she was making her way across the concrete entryway. We regularly check the basement to be sure that no one is trapped there.
4th: Listen to this BBC World Service Discover Nature short radio clip extolling the importance of the beaver, calling the species an ecological engineer, and unsung steward of streams: http://www.kbia.org/post/discover-nature-beavers-prepare-winter#stream/0
3rd: We once again need the help of volunteers to patrol the Refuge to keep wildlife safe during hunting 'season'. We will be patrolling six days a week from now through at least the end of January 2019, generally all day from dawn until dusk. This is particularly the case during the firearm deer 'season', 3 - 8 December. You can commit to an hour or, preferably, more. Even if you have not yet helped with patrolling, we welcome your involvement.
We provide volunteers with trail maps and orange safety vests. Refreshments including coffee, tea and water will be available. Just let me know which days and times you can patrol and I will add you to the calendar. Call me at 856.697.3541 (if you get the answering machine, please leave a call-back number) or E-mail me at manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org. For the wildlife, Michael
1st: Throwback to an original sketch of a rabbit by Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, our co-founder and outstanding artist. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
29th: This Fowler's toad was being attacked by a snake. Of course, we would never interfere with nature, but the situation was almost comical. The snake in question was a small garter snake, surely too small to be a real threat...just overambitious. The toad hopped away, apparently unperturbed.
26th: Urgent action needed TODAY to protect captive wildlife (Nosey's Law)
New Jersey residents, Please contact your two New Jersey Assembly members urging them to vote YES on "Nosey's Law" (A1923/S1093) to prohibit the use of elephants and other wild or exotic animals in circuses and traveling animal acts in New Jersey (https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2018/Bills/A2000/1923_I1.HTM).
The bill has already passed the NJ Senate and is to be heard in the Assembly on Monday 29th October. If it passes, it will then go to Governor Murphy for his signature. You can find your legislators here: https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/districts/municipalities.asp
The legislation, known as 'Nosey's Law' is named in honor of Nosey, a 35 year old African elephant who was eventually rescued after decades of being abused and exploited for human entertainment. She is now living at the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee.
Animals, including bears, elephants, lions and tigers, are forced to perform in circuses and traveling shows. Kept in confinement in conditions that fail to meet their physical, social and psychological needs, they are routinely subjected to the threat of punishment through the use of bullhooks, sticks, whips, electric prods and starvation.
Please help end this cruel exploitation. Let your New Jersey Assembly members know how important this bill is to the residents of NJ.
25th: We wax nostalgic when we throwback to 1976 and this classic photo of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, Refuge co-founder, walking along one of the boardwalks. Hope spent much of each day patrolling the Refuge or just spending time among the animals and plants living there. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
24th: Unexpected Wildlife Refuge now on Twitter. Please follow us: https://twitter.com/UWRefuge
22nd: A great egret stands in the shallows of the main pond. These striking birds are frequent visitors.
20th: Another elephant in dire straits. No elephant should be in captivity. Given that it is not feasible to send Billy to his rightful home in Asia, he should at least be released to a sanctuary where his needs for companionship with other elephants and space can be provided. Please sign and share this petition urging L.A. Zoo Director John R. Lewis, Mayor of Los Angeles Eric Garcetti, and the Los Angeles City Council to do the right thing for Billy: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/900/414/840/?z00m=30968745&redirectID=2760584629
18th: Throwback to 1965 and this photo of a screech owl sitting on a fence post. This was taken by Al Francesconi, photographer and frequent visitor to the Refuge. Al was successful in getting many great photos. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #ScreechOwls
17th: There is no way to differentiate between 'legal' and illegal ivory. The lives and survival of elephants are worth far more to the world than ivory is to the few selfish, self-absorbed people who want it. ALL ivory should be summarily banned. Please sign and share this petition urging : https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/332/378/403/?z00m=30959308&redirectID=2758567492
15th: This butterfly was exploring the area near the edge of the main pond. He or she landed on this leaf and remained stationary long enough to get a good photo.
14th: No elephants should be in captivity. Their physical and emotional needs cannot be met. Not only should Oregon Zoo stop producing more elephants (it is inconceivable that any would be returned to their rightful home), they should release those they have to a sanctuary. Although not ideal, the situation would be better for the elephants than remaining at the Zoo. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/620/105/152/?z00m=30938706&redirectID=2756786280
11th: Urgent to New Jersey residents
The New Jersey bear hunt started on Monday 8th October. Shockingly, within just two days, 59 of these majestic and sentient animals were killed by bow hunters.
Governor Murphy has failed to deliver on his campaign promise to end New Jersey's bear hunt.
Please continue to call (609-292-6000) and tweet Governor Murphy. (@GovMurphy promised to cancel the #bearhunt).
Please support the Animal Protection of New Jersey protest for the bears. To be held this Saturday, October 13, 2018, 11 AM - 1 PM at Whittingham Wildlife Management Area, 150 Fredon Springdale Road, Fredon, New Jersey
11th: Throwback to the unknown past. Here is a sketch of a chat made many years ago by Edmund J. Sawyer, the renowned naturalist and artist and father of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, our co-founder. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
10th: Another elephant suffering at the hands of people. Elephants require others of their kind in order to thrive. Although she cannot be released to her rightful home, Himeko should at least be moved to a sanctuary where she can have friends and opportunities for a better life. (We must not 'rest' until no more elephants are kept in captivity.) Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/487/573/289/?z00m=30936005&redirectID=2754371209
9th: More elephant abuse. Regardless whether the elephants in question are in captivity, in a sanctuary or free living, people should not be exploiting them in this way. The elephants are not 'posing', they are tolerating this behavior by people. Furthermore, the people are placing themselves at extreme risk of being harmed or killed by an elephant who has 'had enough' of this abuse and lashes out, thus placing themselves (the elephant) in danger of being killed despite being provoked. Please sign and share this petition urging Tinder, Bumble and Match.com (parent company of OkCupid) to stop using elephants in their promotions: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/391/822/658/?z00m=30933719&redirectID=2753743976
8th: During one of his many visits to the Refuge, Trustee Dave Sauder took this photo of ferns emerging from the soil.
7th: Another elephant suffering at the hands of people, not only by being imprisoned, but also by physical abuse. Although a sanctuary is not a proper home for an elephant, it is the best option for Beulah. Please sign and share this petition urging the zoo and the USDA to move Beulah to a sanctuary: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/121/041/026/?z00m=30931089&redirectID=2752549821
6th: We are pleased to announce that we have hired Michael Puleo as our onsite manager for the Refuge. Michael is an avid naturalist, backpacker and forager. He is a long time animal and environmental activist and holds a B.S. in Environmental Science. He is a vegan. Raised in the New Jersey Pinelands region, his experience and knowledge of indigenous animals and plants will be a welcome part of our public outreach and education efforts. You can contact Michael through our office telephone (856.697.3541) or E-mail (manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org).
5th: Elephants do not belong in captivity for the 'entertainment' of people. Given it is unlikely that Chendra can be returned to her natural home, she should at least be in a sanctuary where she can have the companionship of other elephants and opportunities not available to her in a zoo. Please sign and share this petition urging The Metro Council and Oregon Zoo Director, Donald E. Moore, Ph.D, Oregon, to release Chendra to a sanctuary: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/987/870/042/?z00m=30918832&redirectID=2751321458
4th: Throwback to 1986. Refuge founders Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci and Cavit Buyukmihci -- shown here alongside 'Betsy Beaver', an icon for the move to ban the trap -- worked diligently more than 30 years ago to help ban leghold traps in New Jersey. See our Home page for an alert concerning the need for YOUR help to put a stop to efforts to circumvent this ban. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #legholdtraps
1st: This male ring-necked duck was, temporarily, all alone swimming in the main pond.
29th: Our unquenchable quest for adventure or recreation must not put others' lives in danger. This is the hammerhead shark's home; if we are not safe in it, then we have no business being in it. This planet does not belong to human beings; we only share it with others for a limited period. Please sign and share this petition urging the Queensland government to put an end to the killing of hammerhead sharks: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/444/436/210/?z00m=30908330&redirectID=2747815774
28th: Imprisoning wildlife so that they can be killed, skinned and provide selfish and vain people with something unnecessary to wear is the height of immorality. Even if one does not care about the animals, using their skins is, ultimately, more damaging to the environment than using modern synthetic materials. Furs are only luxurious and glamorous when they are worn by the original, rightful owners: the animals. Please sign and share this petition urging Prada to stop contributing to animal cruelty: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/998/275/242/?z00m=30904586&redirectID=2747197787
27th: Throwback to the summer of 2016, when this mother white-tailed deer and her fawn ventured into the main pond to browse on lily pads. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #whitetaileddeer
26th: NJ.com has published a nice article about the Refuge and its important role in protecting wildlife and habitat: https://https://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/2018/09/nearly-800_acre_habitat_in_the_nj_pinelands_is_a_r.html
25th: No wildlife should be imprisoned in zoos. This is particularly the case with elephants, who need expansive habitat and extended family. Cora and Tembo should at least go to a sanctuary given that release to their rightful home is unlikely. Please sign and share this petition urging the Topeka Zoo to do right by these individuals: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/529/336/449/?z00m=30900865&redirectID=2745049223
24th: We never get tired of seeing the Canada geese who spend time at the Refuge. We hope you will enjoy this closeup photo of these two swimming in the main pond.
21st: Beavers are being trapped and killed at Stanley Park Marsh in Canada, including the use of water sets which cause the animals to slowly drown. Beavers are an important keystone species. The Belleville administration needs to stop killing them, not only for the beavers' sake, but for the good of the local ecosystem. There are many ways to balance the needs of the beavers with the concerns of the people. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/351/132/854/?z00m=30881017&redirectID=2742922009
20th: Throwback to 1974 and this photo of a young Ramon Sewall feeding apples to a beaver along one of the boardwalks. Although we treasure these moments, we now realize that feeding wildlife is not ultimately in their best interests. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
19th: Utah is allowing the killing of more than 600 mountain lions. Have we not yet learned that killing large predators always has unintended consequences that are detrimental to our own desires? Even if the Utah legislators do not care about the inhumanity of slaughtering mountain lions, they should at least care about themselves and their constituents and put an end to this. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/564/087/325/?z00m=30877587&redirectID=2741607605
17th: An eastern painted turtle hauls out onto a protruding stump in the main pond. It is not unusual for us to see several turtles on a single stump, basking in the sunshine.
14th: Elephants are an important part of a healthy and diverse environment. Botswana has a responsibility to ensure their protection and preservation as a species. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/150/382/232/?z00m=30862346&redirectID=2738966541
13th: Throwback to 1973 and this delightful sketch of what is probably a bluebird family, by Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, Refuge co-founder. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
11th: This situation, once again, exemplifies the tragedy when wildlife can be imprisoned and treated as a source of 'entertainment' and financial gain. Surely the morally correct thing to do for these individuals is to release them to a free-living state; that cannot be worse than their current fate. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/306/313/318/?z00m=30835404&redirectID=2737058385
10th: We have numerous swallows at the Refuge. These individuals were photographed while they were flying over the main pond in search of food.
7th: Zoos are prisons for wildlife. The Prime Minister should not only institute measures to protect the existing animals at this zoo, he should begin proceedings to move the animals to sanctuaries and shut the place down permanently. Zoos should be anathema to human society. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/466/407/375/?z00m=30832452&redirectID=2735005653
6th: Throwback to 1990 when Ed Abbot took this great photo of a gray tree frog perched on the side of a tree. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #graytreefrogs
5th:
New Jersey residents: Help keep cruel traps out of our state!
Although the steel-jaw leghold trap was outlawed in NJ in 1984, other types of inhumane traps continue to be legal, including the notorious Conibear and the 'enclosed foothold trap' brought into use by the New Jersey Fish and Game Council (FGC). Urge your legislators to support Senate Bill S179, sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal, and Assembly Bill A3110, sponsored by Assemblypersons Daniel Benson and Raj Mukherji. These critical bills have the potential for substantially reducing suffering of wildlife at the hands of people, by doing the following:
would ban the manufacture, sale, offer for sale, possession, importation, or transportation of a trap that is a spring-loaded device that restrains an animal by capturing the foot, leg, or other body part, including an enclosed foothold type trap or any other type trap that uses a jaw, arm, bar, cable, or wire to grasp or pin the animal's foot, leg, or other body part. The bill would also prohibit a person from trapping or attempting to trap an animal using such a trap.
If you do not know who your legislators are or how to contact them, click here for the legislative contact Web page.
When the FGC declared in 2015 that the 'enclosed foothold' trap was 'humane' and not prohibited by the 1984 law, Unexpected Wildlife Refuge joined a coalition of 32 other organizations, including the Animal Protection League of NJ and the Animal Welfare Institute, in the campaign to block this decision. A lawsuit against the FGC was filed. Incredibly, the following year, a state appellate court ruled that the modified trap was deemed not cruel and inhumane, and could continue to be used in NJ.
The steel-jaw leghold trap and its ilk cause appalling suffering not only due to the pain and damage from the jaws closing in a vice-like grip on the animal's foot, leg, or other part of the body, but also from the efforts of the animal to escape this. They have already been outlawed in many countries.
4th: Hunters and the agencies that support them usually claim that hunting 'helps' wild populations and is necessary because of 'overpopulation'. Breeding wildlife in captivity to be released as targets puts paid to this overt lie. Aside from the hypocrisy involved, the practice should end simply because it is unquestionably inhumane and immoral. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.change.org/p/wisconsin-department-of-natural-resources-end-barbaric-pheasant-breeding-program-in-wisconsin
3rd: Our manager happened to be in the vicinity when this juvenile hog-nosed snake was being threatened by a large snake of another species. When she could not scare off the other by flattening her head (see photo) and other 'aggressive' behavior, she then did what hog-nosed snakes do well: rolled over on her back, opened her mouth to allow her tongue to loll out and lay without movement; a convincing portrayal of 'death'. Once the danger (including the presence of our manager) had passed, she 'miraculously' came alive and slithered off into the undergrowth.
1st: Just one more reason why it should be illegal to keep wildlife in captivity. This person must be punished in the same manner as if he did these things to a person; our sense of morality and fairness demands no less. The fact that the tortoise was of an endangered species is irrelevant; it is the individual who suffers and we need to do all we can to prevent these types of things happening again. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/865/207/525/?z00m=30818631&redirectID=2731718076
31st: Please sign and share, even if you do not live in New Jersey. The foxes do not understand state boundaries and cruelty to animals should be protested by all regardless of where you live. Foxes are an important part of the ecosystem. Their population, like with all wildlife, will wax and wane depending on the availability of food and other necessities. Killing them is not only inhumane, it is contrary to 'proper wildlife management'. And, as a veterinarian experienced with all types of traps, I know that the 'foot encapsulating' ones can be just as inhumane as other types. Here is the link to the petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/795/470/504/demand-an-end-to-killing-brigantine-foxes-now/ – NCB
30th: Throwback to 1967 and this lovely photo of a Carolina chickadee. It was taken by Al Francesconi, who provided the Refuge with many excellent photographs. #tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #chickadees
29th: Any human activity that is suspected as creating distress in this population of orcas should be stopped. Governor Inslee has promised to take action and should do so now to at least implement what is suspected as the cause of the problem. Waiting for more 'research' before taking action will only ensure the demise of these animals. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/595/758/511/?z00m=30815548&redirectID=2729758964
27th: This eastern box turtle was photographed recently by our new manager. This species is struggling to exist in a world of narrowing opportunities and we are fortunate to be able to provide excellent habitat for them.
25th: Killing elephants is biologically and morally wrong. Allowing them to be killed as 'trophies' is an abomination. We owe it to these animals to protest Botswana's plan to make this legal. Please sign and share this petition to the Botswana president: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/692/504/627/?z00m=30804607&redirectID=2727585541
23rd: Throwback to spring of 2010 and this photo of bird eggs in a nest box. Although we no longer replace nest boxes as they deteriorate (to encourage natural nesting), we treasure some of the photos involving them.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
22nd: New Jersey's Governor Phil Murphy has banned bear hunts on state land, but only through 2018 (see Murphy bans bear hunts in N.J. on state land). Although encouraging, this is not enough. This will provide only temporary and limited relief for bears in NJ. Please continue to pressure Governor Murphy and the state legislators to do something permanently to protect these critical predators.
Even if you have done so before, please take three actions today:
21st: Regardless of any 'benign' intentions by the people involved, this is overt animal cruelty that must not be allowed. Such handling of these animals causes considerable fear and stress. Please sign and share this petition to let the Mayor of Wausau, FL, know that he should not allow this inhumanity to continue: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/655/176/615/?src=ar_facebook_ads&campaign=sign_655176615-23842969448230463
20th: Here is a nice photo of an eastern towhee, taken late last year (2017) at the Refuge.
18th: We have a moral obligation to discontinue practices that result in the endangerment of species who share this planet with us. This is especially the case with lemurs whose only home is Madagascar; they have no other options for survival. All activity that is contrary to their continued existence must stop. Please sign and share this petition asking the president of Madagascar to protect lemurs: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/543/353/808/95-of-lemur-species-could-disappear-from-this-earth-if-madagascar-doesnt-take-action-to-save-them./?taf_id=58484558&cid=fb_na#bbfb=100754654
16th: Throwback to 2016 to this evening photo of a beaver swimming in the main pond (notice the wake) with Venus just visible as a bright point in the sky above.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
15th: Almost every day we learn of another situation in which wild animals are being held captive at the whim of people. The latest involves crocodiles in Thailand. Even if the safety of the people involved could be ensured, the most important issue is that the crocodiles are not being allowed to live a normal, natural life (unlike the human observers). No wild animals -- not just crocodiles -- should be kept in captivity, especially to provide 'entertainment' for people. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/159/600/830/?z00m=30775077&redirectID=2721127640
13th: Because of the conducive conditions, some of the trees at the Refuge provide homes for fungi, as seen in this early spring photo by Dave Sauder, one of the Refuge Trustees.
12th: Even if it was morally correct to incarcerate marine mammals against their will (it is not), it is practically impossible to provide them conditions that would be natural and attend to their physical and emotional needs. Furthermore, watching these hapless individuals 'perform' is not being entertained, it is debasing one's character. Please voice your strong objection to Marineland by signing and sharing this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/898/348/219/?z00m=30765137&redirectID=2719320350
10th: Whether beautiful or 'ugly', no species should become extinct at the hands of people. Our interests do not supersede the interests of others. We are intelligent and resourceful enough to find ways of limiting our negative impact. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/794/736/717/?z00m=30756245&redirectID=2718258373
9th: Throwback to 1969 for this poignant poem by Elma Dean, superimposed on a pen-and-ink wildlife sketch by Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, Refuge co-founder.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
8th: Even enlightened self-interest dictates that we not do something that will destroy the very thing we are trying to enjoy. Of course, we should not be polluting regardless of whether we benefit; we have an obligation to the wildlife with whom we share this planet. Please sign and share this petition (and use non-toxic sunscreens regardless of your location): https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/751/229/834/?z00m=30753489&redirectID=2716871690
7th: When we invade the homes of others and put ourselves at risk, we have no right to then kill those others. Let Hapag-Lloyd Cruises know that their killing of this polar bear was morally outrageous by signing and sharing this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/684/489/834/?z00m=30746747&redirectID=2716189202
6th: A great egret and a belted kingfisher share an area of the main pond. The pond contains many protruding stumps of trees that have long ago died and fallen away, providing much-used resting places for birds and others.
4th: Environmental pollution by plastic is a serious and global wildlife issue. We need to summarily stop producing plastic that is not rapidly biodegradable or conveniently and realistically recyclable. The latter requires a strong, financially-driven incentive program for recycling. It matters not which country is involved; all countries have a moral obligation to stop contributing to the pollution. Please sign and share this petition to urge Bali to be part of the solution: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/913/038/074/?z00m=30744071&redirectID=2714957676.
2nd: Throwback to July 2017, to this photo of a beaver placidly eating a water lily in the main pond.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
31st: The interests of people, particularly for monetary gain, must not negatively impact on the interests of species that are in danger of becoming extinct due to human activity. Because the Maui dolphins cannot change their lifestyle, it is the mining company that has to be prevented from endangering the dolphins. Please sign and share this petition: https://www.thepetitionsite.com/860/667/359/?z00m=30723929&redirectID=2712427675.
30th: Beavers are prolific 'chewers', but with a purpose. These trees are intended to become food or building materials. Some may view this and misinterpret it as 'damage'. The truth is that the gnawing and cutting down of trees not only helps the beavers, but also provides for new plant growth and other changes that are important for all.
26th: Throwback to 1972. This lovely photo of a cottontail rabbit was taken by Bob Repenning.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #cottontailrabbits
25th: Some more recent literature on beavers:
|
Goldfarb, Ben. 2018. "Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter." White River Junction, Vermont: Chelsea Green Publishing. |
|
Turrentine, Jeff. 2018. "Beavers are the working-class heroes of their ecosystems -- America should appreciate them more." Natural Resources Defense Council. |
23rd: A nice close-up photo of a colorful dragonfly.
19th: Throwback to 1967. Immortalized as Nipper by Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, our co-founder, this beaver was determined to make the small tree her or his next meal.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
18th: Not that we need convincing, but here are two more articles on why beavers are a keystone species, making the world a better place for all:
16th: One of the challenges with which the Refuge deals regularly is maintaining trails in a way that causes minimal disruption for wildlife. We need access to certain parts of the habitat in order to protect from unwanted human intrusion and to provide visitors with an opportunity to see, enjoy and be educated by the rich biodiversity present. Nature, of course, cares not and quickly 'tries' to subsume our trails into what is normal. Here, a portion of one major trail has become flooded and partially obstructed by a large pine tree that has fallen. Photo courtesy Dave Sauder, one of our Trustees.
13th: Unexpected Wildlife Refuge supports an end to hunting bears in New Jersey. During his campaign, Governor Phil Murphy made a promise to impose a moratorium on bear hunting when he took office in January 2018, and to commit to exploring non-lethal means of controlling the bear population. This has not happened. We join the Animal Protection League of New Jersey (APLNJ) in its call to Governor Murphy to honor his promise as well as asking the NJ legislature to adopt a bill sponsored by Sen. Raymond Lesniak, D-Union, that would impose a five-year moratorium on bear hunting. The bill also requires bear-proof containers and stops hunters from baiting for deer in bear habitat.
Bears are a critical part of our ecosystem, the only large predator in the state of New Jersey. Further, hunting them inflicts substantial suffering on these sentient animals. Currently, hunters can bait and shoot all bears including mothers and their cubs; incredibly, even bows and arrows are allowed. Not only is this brutal treatment of bears unacceptable, there are alternative, humane and effective methods that can be adopted to address human-bear conflicts, the purported reason for the hunt. For example, the Bear Smart program (managed by APLNJ) includes public education, appropriate garbage containment, enforcement of feeding ban laws and training for police officers and wildlife personnel.
Please take three actions today:
12th: Throwback to February 2017, and this food 'raft' created by some of the beavers who live at the Refuge. These collections of branches provide a safe and convenient source of food until spring.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
9th: We are fortunate that many species of birds choose the Refuge as their home or an important 'pit stop' on their way elsewhere. Here, swallows fly over the main pond in search of insects.
5th: Throwback to late last spring (2017). We often see hooded mergansers on the main pond. These individuals were on the far side, swimming near one of the beaver lodges.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
2nd: With the warm weather and precipitation, the main pond has become an oasis of lily pads. Here, a white-tailed deer cools off and browses at the same time.
28th: Throwback to June of eight years ago, to this picturesque photo of Miller pond, one of the many important wetlands at the Refuge. Protecting these areas from untoward human intrusion is our goal and passion.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
25th: One of our trail cameras took a great photo of this alert gray squirrel. Although these squirrels are 'common', it is always a treat to see them.
24th: We are pleased to announce that we have hired Jared White as the new onsite manager for the Refuge! Jared, shown here with Jack, one of his canine companions, is a long-time vegan and animal advocate. He comes to us with years of experience working with and caring for rescued non-human animals. His "love of the outdoors and co-existing in nature with wildlife" fit in with Unexpected's mission and core philosophy. In addition to looking forward to the physical challenges of managing the Refuge, Jared is eager to apply his skills in public relations and volunteer organizing to ensure that the wildlife continue to have a safe place to thrive consistent with their needs. You can reach him by telephone at 856.697.3541 or E-mail manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org.
21st: Throwback to 2009, during a November winter storm. These Canada geese seem unperturbed by the falling snow and freezing water in the main pond.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
18th: Fungi and other 'parasitic' plants make up an important -- and visually pleasing -- part of the rich biodiversity at the Refuge. Here are some amber jelly roll and lichen getting their sustenance from an old branch in a swampy part of the Refuge.
14th: Here is a sketch of a canvasback duck made many years ago by Edmund J. Sawyer, the renowned naturalist and artist and father of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, our co-founder.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
11th: During a recent visit to the Refuge, Dave Sauder, one of our Trustees, took these photos of a muskrat lodge far out in the wetlands known as Miller pond.
7th: We never get tired of seeing the artwork of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, our co-founder. This is another of her hundreds of sketches from many years ago, illustrating her favorite, the beaver. She, of course, had reverence and respect for all wildlife and 'walked her talk' through many personal sacrifices.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
4th: This great egret perched serenely on a branch rising out of the main pond. A moment later, he or she was preening, a never ending 'job' for birds.
31st: Throwback to this photo of a black snake taken in 1966 by Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, Refuge co-founder. Hope was not only an accomplished artist and author, her patience while observing wildlife, often despite swarms of deer flies or mosquitoes, allowed her to capture stunning images on film.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #blacksnakes
28th: This Canada goose swimming in the main pond seemed to be interested in the fuss we made getting this picture. A hooded merganser couple in the background appeared to be trying to quickly get into or out of the frame.
24th: Throwback to winter of 1966, in the early years of the Refuge, when Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci took this photo of one of the beaver lodges in the snow and ice. We remember fondly Hope's excitement when she and her husband Cavit Buyukmihci, saw evidence of beavers on the original 80 acres of habitat that began the Refuge.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
21st: As summer approaches and we leave the snow and cold weather behind us for another season, it is good to remember that the snow often reveals the presence of individuals we may never see. We are not sure who made these tracks on this fallen tree, but are grateful to Mike McCormick for sharing this photo with us.
17th: Throwback to October of 1974, when Bee Simpson took this photo of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, Refuge co-founder, providing nourishment to Chopper, an orphaned beaver. Chopper's sad story, which can be found on our Web site (under the section Beavers), is a reminder that we need to consider carefully how we deal with orphaned wild animals and what 'befriending' them may mean for their future.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #beavers
16th: As some of you may know, beavers are classified as a keystone species. A new study that has just been accepted for publication emphasizes the universally beneficial aspect of beavers to the environment and other animals (including human beings). You can access this article, by Alan Puttock et al, on our beaver literature page.
14th: One of our trail cameras took this photo of two beavers meeting in the water.
10th: As many of you may know, Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, our co-founder, was a naturalist and talented writer and artist. This is one of her hundreds of sketches from many years ago. Although beavers were her favorite animal to sketch, bats, like this one, and other species made up her portfolio.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
7th: Some lovely, delicate English ivy flowers just before last winter set in. Thanks to Eric Baratta and Susan Schoeler McKenna for help in identifying this plant.
3rd: Throwback to... well, we do not really know when because we cannot find a date nor photographer for this striking image of a wood duck standing on a stump in the main pond. We hope you will enjoy anyway.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
30th: The Refuge is home to numerous species of flowering plants, like this swamp loosestrife.
26th: Edmund J. Sawyer was a renowned naturalist and artist who spent much of his life observing and making sketches and portraits of the wildlife he encountered. He was also the father of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci, the co-founder of Unexpected Wildlife Refuge, and inspired her to become a naturalist and artist in her own right. Although Edmund died many years ago, he did get a chance to visit the Refuge to see the wonderful work his daughter was doing. We will pay tribute to this remarkable and talented man by occasionally sharing some of his artwork with you, like this lovely watercolor of chickadees.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
23rd: With spring here and summer not far away, we expect to see an abundant resurgence of insects such as this grasshopper perched on wool grass.
19th: Throwback to this 2009 photo showing our access lane after a snow fall that blanketed the Refuge. Although it was beautiful to behold back then, we - and the wildlife? - are looking forward to no snow for at least the next many months.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
16th: We thought you might enjoy seeing this male red-winged blackbird, singing in pursuit of a mate.
12th: Our first thought was that these individuals were lesser scaups, but a pair of binoculars showed them to be ring-necked ducks. Although not a rare species, this may be only the second time they have been spotted at the Refuge in several years. Ring-necked ducks generally breed farther north, mostly in Canada. Their visit was apparently just a stopover on their way to breeding areas and they were gone after several days.
9th: We came across these puffball mushrooms on a log by the edge of the swamp on the boundary trail.
7th: A yellow-rumped warbler perches in a tree close to the Refuge trailheads.
5th: Throwback to this 2016 photo of a northern cricket frog singing from a lily pad, late at night, on the main pond. It was taken by Cliff Compton, Refuge guest and photographer.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
4th: Our manager was able to get a nice close-up of this beaver swimming in the main pond. The rust-colored appearance of the water was due to light reflection near sunset.
2nd: A rare visitor to the Refuge, a male green-winged teal was seen swimming in the main pond.
31st: This white-breasted nuthatch had just cracked open a nut in a tree along the trails at the Refuge.
24th: A juvenile bald eagle sits ruffled by strong winds on a branch partially submerged in the main pond.
22nd: Throwback to spring of 2017 for one of our favorite trail camera images. A squirrel gathers soft grasses for nesting materials near one of the wetlands.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
21st: A drop of rain clings to the fruiting body of a small translucent amber jelly fungus known as wood ear, tree ear or jelly ear as well as other colloquial names.
20th: We are seeking a new manager. If you or someone you know is interested in rewarding and challenging service to wildlife, please send the following by E-mail only, to Nedim C. Buyukmihci, president, info@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org: 1) letter explaining why you would be the ideal candidate; 2) full curriculum vitae (an expanded résumé); and 3) at least three references, one of whom must provide a critical assessment of your abilities.
19th: A thin fog hangs at the end of the walkway through one of the wetlands at the Refuge after a recent rain.
17th: There are a multitude of lichens at the Refuge. We think this might be the species known as the brown-eyed rim.
15th: Throwback to this 2016 photo of a northern water snake on the trail along the main pond.
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
14th: A downy woodpecker along the trails near the white cedar swamp at the Refuge.
8th: Throwback to our 2016 annual Earth Day Cleanup event at the Refuge. It rained all day, but our volunteers made the best of it! Join us this year on April 14 at 11:00 AM. E-mail us at manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org for more information and to confirm you will be able to attend or call 856.697.3541. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #EarthDay
7th: This tree located on one of the tiny islands of earth in the wetlands was found cut down during a recent warm day. We know this was the work of at least one beaver, 'harvesting' food. Whether he or she had help is speculation. Maybe some day we will be lucky enough to get video footage to share. – VVH
5th: These Canada geese were standing on the frozen surface of the main pond in early morning fog. Two of the geese were holding a foot close to their bodies, protected by lower plumage. An alternating pattern of lifting feet up to the body is a method many birds use to warm their extremities. – VVH
3rd: A fox sparrow in a tall tree along one of the Refuge trails. She tilted her head in response to the click of the camera shutter. – VVH
1st: Throwback to 2016 and this photo of a red-winged blackbird exercising his vocal abilities. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
28th: Two hooded merganser couples paddle companionably in the main pond at the Refuge. – VVH
26th: Brown thrashers are difficult to photograph. They are shy and spend most of their time in dense cover. A species of "special concern", their numbers have declined over the years due to habitat loss, making this sighting particularly delightful. – VVH
24th: A selection of beautiful photographs taken at the Refuge by Jeff Hrusko, who volunteered during the final weekend of our 2017-2018 deer patrol season. One shows the beaver lodges in the main pond, another the pond as it appears through shoreline reeds and the third a dead pine trunk which makes a wonderful home for many of the creatures (and plants) who live at the Refuge. – VVH
22nd: Throwback to this fortuitously well-framed photo of a wood duck taken by one of the Refuge trail cameras last year. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
21st: Some reindeer lichen covered with the icy remains of a recent, light snowfall. It is sometimes misleadingly referred to as reindeer moss. – VVH
19th: The holes amongst the pine needles and other leaves are from a gray squirrel digging up acorns and other food. Whether the same squirrel hid the 'treasure' in the first place is open to speculation. – VVH
17th: Often, our only awareness of the presence of some Refuge residents is right after a snowfall. Here, a rabbit has made her or his way across the snow. – VVH
16th: As you may recall, we learned that Amazon cares more about profit than it does about treating non-human animals humanely. We warned Amazon that we would close our account unless they had a change in policy and stopped selling live animals through the mail as if they were a pair of socks. Amazon refused to listen to us and many others, even those who were experts on animal welfare. As a result we closed our account and will not accept any donations of items purchased from them.
We are sharing with you our current wish list in case you can help us with these items. Click here to see the list and how to send the items to us. Our only caveat is that you not purchase any from Amazon or from any business which similarly is more interested in money than morals. Questions? Please E-mail us at manager@unexpectedwildliferefuge.org or telephone us at 856.697.3541. – VVH
15th: Throwback to a photo of this long-legged visitor to a trail camera on the boardwalks at the Refuge. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #greatblueheron
14th: During a recent stretch of below-freezing days, I was able for the first time to walk across the frozen main pond to examine the beaver lodges up-close. In the second photo, you can see a ruffled shelf fungus attached to one of the boughs the beavers used for home fortification. – VVH
12th: A tufted titmouse sitting high in a tree at the Refuge during a bright, cloudless day. – VVH
11th: Two anti-wildlife bills will be up for a vote before New Jersey's legislators soon. The hearings on both bills will be held on Monday, 12 February. The bills could go for a vote as early as Thursday, 15 February.
The first bill is A3242, the Poaching Bill. It would allow the killing of deer as part of forest 'stewardship' and on commercially logged lands. Bait piles could be used at any time of day or night and deer could be killed from vehicles including at night through the use of strong lights to immobilize them.
The second bill is A2731, the Beaver Bill. This would eliminate the 20-animals-per-permit trapping limit and expand the use of body-crushing (Conibear) traps. Many of the animals caught in these traps die a prolonged, agonizing death.
Please write NOW to your Assemblypersons and politely express your outrage concerning these bills. Use the following Web site to find your representative and contact information: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/members/legsearch.asp. Please also contact Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin at 732.855.7441 or via his contact information on his Web page: http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/members/BIO.asp?Leg=319. Tell him of your opposition to these bills.
For more information, please visit the following link:
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?ca=94aacd4a-4706-4264-b5ed-e1f9693eeba2&preview=true&m=1112167101597&id=preview. – VVH
10th: URGENT UPDATE: I have been in contact with senior representatives at Amazon. Unfortunately, Amazon is refusing to listen to experts who are telling them that shipping live lobsters through the mail is inhumane. Instead, they are obstinately defending this immoral practice by claiming that they are not in violation of the law, as if that was the issue. They are clearly more interested in the (minimal) profits made through the abuse of animals than they are in being compassionate and humane.
As a result, we have closed our account with Amazon and will no longer do business with them. Nor will we accept any donated items purchased through them. I am urging you to help us in this matter by doing the following, if you have not already done so:
– NCB
9th: A frozen, snow-covered main pond at night under a waxing moon. Note the pinpoint lights from some stars in the dark sky. – VVH
8th: Throwback to May 2017 and one of my favorite "unexpected" trail camera images -- a raccoon swimming gracefully at the Refuge late one night. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #raccoons
5th: URGENT: This is a follow up to our post on why we are boycotting Amazon.com and asking you to do so, too. At least in the UK, the provider of the live lobsters Amazon is shipping (or allowing to be shipped under their name) is Fine Food Specialist in London. In defense of this despicable practice, the founder, Drogo Montagu, is quoted in the Times (4 Feb 2018) as stating there is no evidence that lobsters feel pain. This is biological nonsense. There is now ample evidence to prove that lobsters and other crustaceans not only can feel pain in ways similar to mammals, they can also suffer (which goes beyond just the ability to feel pain). We will be glad to provide you with copies of the scientific literature as evidence.
We are asking you to write to Mr Montagu (wholesale@finefoodspecialist.co.uk) and set him straight on the issue of lobsters being able to feel pain and suffer and that his actions and callousness have caused you to boycott Amazon in general. Ask him to stop selling live lobsters, especially through the mail. Be sure to copy your message to Jeff Bezos, Amazon CEO, at jeff@amazon.com. – NCB
4th: We just learned that Amazon is selling live lobsters through the mail! As a result, we are not going to use their services until they put a stop to this despicable practice. We ask that you WRITE Amazon, now, at jeff@amazon.com, and voice your strong objection to their selling of live animals and tell them you will boycott them until they stop. – NCB
1st: Throwback to 1965 for this photo of Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci doing what she liked best, spending time studying the natural world around her. For those of you who are not aware, Hope and her husband, Cavit (pronounced like 'javit' with a soft 'a') Buyukmihci, founded the Refuge through donating their home and land in 1961. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
31st: A juvenile bald eagle soars high above the Refuge on a cloudless day. – VVH
30th: We have a new color leaflet summarizing what the Refuge is. We plan to use it at various events we sponsor or attend. You can help us by downloading, printing and distributing the leaflet elsewhere. The leaflet fits on a legal size sheet of paper (8.5 x 14 inches or 216 x 356 mm), printed double-sided in landscape orientation and folded twice so that the panel with our name in green is at front. Click here to see and obtain the file (about 2 MB). – NCB
29th: The main pond with snow covering its frozen surface, at sunset, looking somewhat like a desert landscape. – VVH
27th: A white-throated sparrow perches on a branch next to the Refuge trails. – VVH
25th: Throwback to this sunset photo taken on the boundary trail in December of 2015. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRhistory
24th: Two American black ducks swim in the main pond through a thick, early morning fog that hung over the Refuge. – VVH
22nd: One or more Refuge residents took a long walk across the snow-covered and frozen main pond one evening or early morning. The tracks started at a trail head and ended on the opposite end of the pond. Notice the lens flare caused by the bright sunlight in one of the photos. – VVH
20th: The main pond, surface frozen, at sunset one recent evening at the Refuge. The brightness of the sun created a stunning pink-purple lens flare. – VVH
18th: Throwback to the Refuge as it was in 1971. Nancy Jonap, a long-time friend of the Refuge, was kind enough to share these photos with us from her time here more than 40 years ago. The main pond and a visitor walking the boardwalks are pictured. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
17th: For your enjoyment, here are some of the beautiful photos taken by Mike McCormick, founder of South Jersey Trails, during one of his visits to the Refuge in December 2017. – VVH
13th: I was fortunate to have a camera with me when a flock of grackles, red-winged blackbirds and a few starlings entered the sky above the Refuge. The birds took a full minute to pass by me and many landed in neighboring trees. – VVH
11th: Throwback to this beautiful image of flowering dogwood trees in bloom at the Refuge. This photo was taken in the spring of 2017 by Mike McCormick, founder of South Jersey Trails, a local New Jersey hiking group. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory #SouthJerseyTrails #warmerdays
10th: A sprig of goldenrod backlit by the setting sun on the trails at the Refuge. – VVH
8th: A tufted titmouse perches in a tree next to the trailheads on a cold day at the Refuge. Tufted titmice are among the few species of birds who store food for the winter months. – VVH
6th: A crescent moon over the reeds at the Refuge. – VVH
4th: Throwback to this serene panorama of the main pond at sunset taken two years ago by Cliff Compton, Refuge guest and photographer. – VVH
#tbt #ThrowbackThursday #UWRHistory
3rd: Fog hangs over the frost-covered flora surrounding the main pond. – VVH
1st: A bald eagle perches astride two forks of an old log in the middle of the main pond. – VVH
Our current manager is leaving due to unforeseen circumstances unrelated to the Refuge.
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