Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine, Summer 1995 by Maine State Library

Maine State Library

Maine State Documents Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine

Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

6-1-1995

Maine Fish and Game Magazine, Summer 1995 Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

Follow this and additional works at: http://digitalmaine.com/ifw_magazine Recommended Citation Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, "Maine Fish and Game Magazine, Summer 1995" (1995). Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine. Book 129. http://digitalmaine.com/ifw_magazine/129

This Book is brought to you for free and open access by the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife at Maine State Documents. It has been accepted for inclusion in Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Magazine by an authorized administrator of Maine State Documents. For more information, please contact statedocs@maine.gov.

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EDITORIAL by Ray B. Owen, Jr., Commissioner

Landowners, Sportsmen , and Supersports: Tying it all Together Sometimes it takes a catalyst to get things moving and Representative Gary Reed of Falmouth was just the ticket. Gary has tried for several years to obtain funding for a meaningful landowner relations program in the Department. He proposed a landowner stamp that sportsmen would purchase to enable them to go on private land, the proceeds from which would finance a SUPPORT program for landowners. But the program was simply too expensive, and was not given the green light by the Fish and Wildlife Legislative Committee. However, neither the Department, the Committee, Gary Reed nor the Sportsmen's Alliance of Maine wanted to let go of the overall goal of helping landowners. Enter SAM's legislative bill to adopt the SPORT program. Flanked by George Smith of the Sportsmen 's This stands for, Sportsmen Policing Our Ranks Together, A/liance of Maine (left) and Maine Fish and Wildlife and is modeled after a similar endeavor in Pennsylvania. Commissioner Ray 8. Owen, Jr., Governor Angus SPORT stands for sportsmen who adhere to ethical behavKing signs the Landowner Recognition Day bill. ior, respect landowners, respect our wildlife and fishery resources and are not afraid to confront individuals who are abusing our hunting and fishing privileges. One simply pledges to uphold these values. Now add the Department's SUPERSPORT license program and the chemistry is just right. For years the SUPERSPORT program has continued with about 500 dedicated individuals contributing an extra $10 to the Department's revenues. Without a visible focus only a few participated. Our proposal: turn the SUPERSPORT program into a revenue source for the SUPPORT landowners program and the SPORT program. To be a SPORT you simply sign on as an ethical, law abiding sportsman. To be a SUPERSPORT you contribute $15 which will go primarily to helping and enhancing relations with landowners. Each SUPERSPORT will receive a free subscription to the Maine Fish and Wildlife Magazine as well as other recognition. Our goal is to set up an 800 number for landowners, establish state and regional coordinators to respond to landowner issues, network with local clubs and organizations to provide volunteer response teams, and to join with Operation Game Thief to include landowner complaints in OGT's program. This is an ambitious agenda, but when one considers that 90% of the land we recreate on is privately owned, what choice do we have? It is an effort long overdue. Another part of the picture came to view when Governor Angus King recently signed a bill designating the third Saturday in September as Landowner Recognition Day. We hope that individuals and clubs will single out this day to do something special for local landowners - invite them to a club dinner, sponsor a work day or simply stop in and see if there are any issues you can help them with. And so, Gary Reed, the Legislative Fish and Wildlife Committee, SAM, members of the Governor's Council on Landowner/Sportsmen Relations, and Department employees thank you for helping us pull all these various pieces together and create, what we believe, will be an exciting new program for the Department. Plans are to offer the new SUPERSPORT license for 1996. The success of the program will depend on how many of us participate and I, for one, am ready to go! How about you?

AINE

95-01

VILDLIFE

FISH AND WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

VOL. 37, NO. 2

SPECIAL RALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 year only $9 D Payment enclosed

D 2 years only $15 D Please bill me later

by Skip Lisle '. I of a two-part series

Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

City/State/Zip_ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

FOB FASTER SERVICE, CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-288-8387

AINE

95-01

·-it's his second win!

by V. Paul Reynolds ience, pro and con .

by Tom Carbone

FISH AND WILDLIFE

--and made a lot of contacts

A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

by Patrick F. Devlin lays out the season statistics

SPECIAL RALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 year only $9 D Payment enclosed

by Stuart G. Feeney 1d just hangin ' out!

by Sonja Christiansen

D 2years only$15 D Please bill me later

:ame to be taken

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

by Charles D. Dyke Island-may hit the history books!

City/State/Zip_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

FOB FASTER SERVICE, CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-288-8387

AINE

by Lisa J. Kane 1ter get some new digs

95-01

FISH AND WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

SPECIAL RALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 yearonly$9 D Payment enclosed

by Butch Carey

D 2 years only $15 D Please bill me later

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

1kout-Cougar." •-Lester, 1983. , of the artist.

City/State/Zip_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

OB FASTER SERVICE, CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-288-8387 on recyclable paper

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Plaoe Sta.mp

EDITORIAL

Here

MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 AugusÂˇt a ME 04333

Falmouth was just the ticket. Gary years to obtain funding for a meani tions program in the Department. 1 owner stamp that sportsmen wouk them to go on private land, the pro< finance a SUPPORT program for la1 program was simply too expensive, green light by the Fish and Wildlife However, neither the Department, I Reed nor the Sportsmen's Alliance , go of the overall goal of helping Ian Enter SAM's legislative bill to ad This stands for, Sportsmen Policing and is modeled after a similar ende, SPORT stands for sportsmen who a ior, respect landowners, respect our resources and are not afraid to conf abusing our hunting and fishing pr SUPERSPORT license program and about 500 dedicated individuals co1 few participated. Our proposal: tur program and the SPORT program. To be a SPORT you simply sign c which will go primarily to helping i subscription to the Maine Fish and for landowners, establish state and organizations to provide volunteer complaints in OGT's program. Thii is privately owned, what choice do Another part of the picture came Saturday in September as Landown do something special for local land< there are any issues you can help th And so, Gary Reed, the Legislafr Landowner / Sportsmen Relations, c together and create, what we believ SUPERSPORT license for 1996. ThE am ready to go! How about you?

Plaoe Sta.mp

Here

MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE VOL. 37, NO. 2

SUMMER 1995

Features They're Here To Stay!

by Skip Lisle

Beaver-where have they been in Maine history? Part I of a two-part series

Happy Father's Day!

by Stuart G. Feeney

A son 's gift to his father-a day of fishin ', boatin ', and just hangin ' out!

The 1995 Maine Duck Stamp

Work by Islesford artist Rick Alley is chosen this year-it's his second win!

Are They Here Or Not?

by V. Paul Reynolds

Cougars-do we have 'em? We take a look at the evidence, pro and con .

One On One!

by Tom Carbone

Our travelling displays have covered a lot of ground-and made a lot of contacts

How Can You Help?

by Patrick F. Devlin

Operation Game Thief, Year 6. The new coordinator lays out the season statistics

The Enchanted Lake

by Sonja Christiansen

A picture of a nesting loon-and the story of how it came to be taken

This Place Has A FutureAnd A Past

by Charles D. Dyke

The Steve Powell Wildlife Ma'!agement Area-Swan Island-may hit the history books!

New Bobcat, Lynx Exhibits At Visitor Center

by Lisa J. Kane

Felin e residents of the Department 's Gray Visitor Center get some new digs

Departments THE MARKETPLACE

KID- BITS

FROM THE FLY TYING BENCH:

The Woods Special

FISH AND WILDLIFE BRIEFS

by Butch Carey

The Front Cover: "Winter Lookout-Cougar. " OIi painting by John Seerey- Lester, 1983. Reproduced here courtesy of the artist.

Printed wi th vegetable-based

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\ . • • inks on recyclable paper

Beaver in Maine, Part 1

They're Here To

Stay! by Skip Lisle Photos by the author Beaver, In one form or another, have occupied North America. for a.t lea.st 38 million yea.rs. from bulldlng wetlands to providing warmth and style to our ancestors' wardrobes, beaver have co- existed through the ages with man. In this Issue, we take a. look a.t the ups and downs of that relationship!

odern beaver (Castor

canadensis) first became common

on this continent at the beginning of the Pleistocene epoch two million years ago. In "recent" times, beaver arrived in the area we now call Maine soon after the glaciers retreated 11,000 years ago. Perhaps not coincidentally, humans migrated north into Maine shortly after beaver did. Recent archeological studies of ancient Indian camp sites in central Maine (3600-7500 years The author is a wetlands biologist for the Penobscot Indian Nation in Old Town .

, Ma111e Fish and Wildlife

ago) revealed that beaver remains were more prevalent than those of any other species. Despite helping to sustain Indians and two other top-level predators (mountain lions and wolves), it's likely that beaver were abundant until the second wave of human migrants came to North America-this time from the East. Records left by Europeans indicate that beaver, and many other species, were extremely plentiful in the Northeast in the 16th century. Perhaps, the abundance of wildlife at that time reflects the presence of cultures that were careful not to deplete Âˇ

resources that would be needed by far-distant descendants. The approximately 500 years since Europeans arrived represents only five percent of the total length of human-wildlife interaction in Maine. During this brief period, however, many species were eradicated, and many, including beaver, were pushed to the brink of extinction. Native cultures also were gravely affected . As Indians adjusted to the new market economy, their relationship with the natural world was fundamentally altered. Moving from subsistence use of wildlife, they

In 1626, Pilgrims from the Plymouth Colony ventured northeast to the Kennebec River where they exchanged a boatload of corn with Indians for 700 lbs of beaver skins. Subsequently, the Pilgrims established trading, or trucking, houses on the

became the primary trappers of the Fur Trade (while Europeans were, for the most part, traders). Initially, Europeans were not interested in beaver. During hundreds of voyages to North America in the 1500s, merchants primarily filled their holds with

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codfish. Then, in the 1580s, felt hats became fashionable in Europe. Unfortunately for beaver, their fine, barbed underfurevolved for life in a cold, wet environment-provided ideal fiber for making felt. As a result, beaver became the most desirable commodity in America and the backbone of the Colonial economy. Maine beaver were early principals in the Fur Trade. One of the first chronicles of beaver harvests was wrjtten by a French captain in 1583. After trading with local inhabitants along the coasts of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Maine, Etienne Bellinger returned to Europe with "bevers skynes verie faire as many as made 600 bever hattes."

Above: 1656 Dutch map of Maine-17th century Europeans had /:leaver on their minds, obviously! Below: beaver were likely not as plentiful, or humanlike, as is suggested by this 1715 English engraving.

Kennebec, St. George's, and Penobscot Rivers. In 1631, their French rivals ransacked the Penobscot site, stealing 300 lbs of beaver and considerable trading supplies. Between 1631 and 1636, beaver pelts that the Pilgrims managed to retain weighed more than 12,000 lbs. Maine was the greatest source of these furs. The Pilgrims and French were not the only competitors. Many English businessmen also were involved in the Fur Trade. By 1624, at least 40 English ships plied the coastal waters of Maine in search of fur-trading opportunities. In 1630, two London merchants received the Muscongus patent-trading rights to 30 square miles between Muscongus Bay and the Penobscot River. They quickly exported more than 1000 lbs of beaver skins from this area. By 1633, English entrepreneurs had built trading houses at six locations in Maine: two on the Piscataqua River, Saco River, Cape Elizabeth, Casco Bay, and Pemaquid Point. On one particularly busy day, Ambrose Gibbons, the proprietor of a Piscataqua site, hosted approximately 100 Indians who were trading beaver and other furs for European goods.

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The frenetic pursuit of beaver continued through the remainder of the 17th century and into the 18th century. This, combined with the "resource destruction" that accompanied nearly 100 years of French, British, and Indian warfare effectively eliminated beaver from vast tracts of New England. Indians, who still lived closer to the land than Whites, were grievously affected. In 1763, Maine Indians protested that "English hunters kill all the Beaver they find,

Maine Fish and Wildlife

Above: 1760 Italian engraving depicts Indians hunting around highly populated beaver "condo. " Left: The objects of fashion that led to the demise of the beaver. which had not only impoverished many Indian families, but destroyed the breed of Beavers." As further confirmation of this biological and social cataclysm, Ed ward Kendall wrote in 1808 that the local [Maine] fur trade "can scarcely be said to exist; the native animals, like the native inhabitants, are destroyed." Fortu nately, in respect to some native species and some local tribes (i.e. the Maliseet, Micmac, Passama-quoddy, and Penobscot), this proved to be an overstatement. Beaver received a whim-offashion reprieve in the 1830s. At this time, wool, silk, and other materials began to be used for hat-making, thus providing an alternative to beaver fiber. Simultaneously, raccoon overtook beaver as the dominant fur in the American trade. Later in the century, fur seal surpassed both spe- . cies in popularity. Perhaps saved from extinction, beaver neverthe-

less were dangerously few in number as the 20th century approached. By the turn of the century, Maine beaver were eliminated in all but a few remote, northern towns. As a result, the state legislature banned all trapping of beaver indefinitely in 1899. However, a significant black market trade continued until the late 1920s when the State Warden Service and the federal government became effective deterrents. At this time, federal agents working under the auspices of the Lacey Act, which prohibits the interstate shipment of illegally acquired wildlife, fined 30 Maine residents $7500 for unsanctioned fur-trading. Consequently, following 350 years of "market-force management" beaver populations again were protected by cultural constraints. As a result of legal protection, beaver began a remarkable recovery in Maine. Game warden reports from the 1930s revealed a dramatic southwards expansion by the northern, remnant population. Beaver continued to expand their range during the 1940s and 1950s, becoming reestablished in most Maine towns by 1960. In 1955, trapping was reopened statewide for the first time in 56 years. Since that time, beaver populations have gradually increased while also yielding a portion of their number each year to regulated trapping.

Landscape changes Unlike most species, beaver and humans create their own habitats. However, the wetlands, or flowages, that beaver create are more ecologically productive than most landscape alterations attributed to humans. They are also less widespread. I recently

An impediment commonly found at the upstream end of culverts. Doin' a-what comes naturally for a beaver spells extra work for man sometimes! conducted a study of beaver in 41 square miles of watershed that begins at the village of Monroe in south-central Maine. By 1991, it appeared that beaver had, since their return in the 1940s, dammed all possible basins in the watershed. This created seventy-seven flowages (371 total acres) comprising 1.5% of the watershed. That may sound like a lot until one considers that humans, through logging, farming, roads, utility lines, and buildings, have altered most of the other 98.5% of the landscape. In the presence of beaver, flowage sites are intermittently flooded and thus maintained in a primarily herbaceous state (e.g. cattail, blue-joint grass, and sedges). As a result of this relationship, and because beaver had been present for a long time, I suspect there were a great many "beaver meadows" in early New England. In fact, these habitats were instrumental in feeding the livestock of the first pioneers, who existed in an otherwise largely forested environment. During the Fur Trade, however, when beaver were extirpated from most areas of the Northeast for tens or hundreds of years, dams decayed and flowages dried allowing trees to invade the wetland basins. Consequently, by the time beaver returned, most flowage sites had become forested. During this century, beaver have been gradu-

ally reversing that trend by reflooding their old haunts. Therefore, the standing, dead trees that are almost always evident in flowages today are visible reminders of the long-term effect of the Fur Trade. Another developmept took place during the long absence of beaver-human roads and houses sprouted everywhere on the landscape. As a result, the damming, flooding, and chewing that has accompanied the return of beaver seems like an assault on our properties. From the perspective of beaver, however, they are simply reclaiming habitats that are traditionally, and rightfully, theirs. Still, this may be small comfort to the person who loses a road, septic tank, or favorite fruit tree to the creatures Native Americans called "little people." But consider also that the wetlands beaver create are among the richest ecosystems on Earth. They are a bonanza for

Editor's Note: Watch the next issue of MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine for Part II-What Beaver Do For Their Fellow Creatures.

moose, bear, deer, otter, raccoon, muskrat, mink, wading birds, waterfowl, turtles, trout, and scores of other small mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. Consequently, we derive, secondarily, extensive sporting, culinary, and aesthetic benefits from beaver-benefits that far outweigh the economic losses they incur on us. But we still need to manage beaver creatively to minimize their less favorable deeds. We don't have much choice. Beaver are here to stay-permanent reminders of the ecological wealth of Maine. â&#x20AC;˘

Literature Cited Cronon, W. 1983. Changes in the land: Indians, colonists, and the ecology of New England. Hill & Wang, New York. Norton, A.H.1930. Mammals of Portland, Maine & vicinity. Proceedings of the Portland Society of Natural History. 4: part 1. Quinn, D.B. 1962. The voyage of Etienne Bellenger to the Maritimes in 1583: a new document. The Canadian Historical Review 43: 328-343.

S11111111er

1995

THE MARKETPLACE 1940s Posters The original silk-screened versions of these posters measure about 22 by 28 inches. Screened sometime in the mid- l 940s, they were designed to promote conservation efforts. (Editor's note: The series stands at these four, that we know about-if you know of more, let us know!) These handsome 14" by 18" (about half-size) full-color reprints of the originals convey their messages loud and clear-just like their larger ancestors did! The reprints are on sturdy coated poster stock, and are shipped flat and reinforced to avoid damage. To order, send check or money order to: POSTERS! Inland Fisheries and Wildlife 284 State Street, Station #41 Augusta MB 04333 Be sure to specify which poster(s) you want and/or the quantity of each. Please allow four weeks for delivery.

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Watchable Wildlife Guide Available! This new-in-1994 pocket guide contains more than two dozen full-color wildlife photographs and descriptions of 62 great places in Maine to go in search of that ever-remembered glimpse of wildlife in its natural setting. Most of the sites are on publiclyowned land, but all are open for careful public use. The book is organized by geographic regions and describes To order, send check or money each site in detail - how to get order for $5.95 (payable to there, the species you might Maine Fish and Wildlife) to: expect to see, details on the WATCHABLE WILDLIFE availability of restrooms , parking, 284 State St., Station 41 and other facilities, and much Augusta, MB 04333 more, including information on access for persons with disabilities.

Maine Fish and Wildlife

Bring Home A Piece of MaineThree Different Ways! Purchase a loon T-shirt, hat, or tote bag-and help support Maine's state parks, historic sites, and endangered wildlife. All proceeds from sales of these items will be used to protect and preserve some of Maine's most precious natural and cultural resources. The loon and the slogan are the same as those on Maine's special license plates. • The T-shirts100% cotton Haines Beefy Ts, available in white or natural, sizes S-XXL. $15. • The hats-100% cotton, available in light blue or grey. $7. • The totes-natural with navy blue or for est green accents. $15. All prices include sales tax. These items are available from Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and Bureau of Parks and Recreation offices in Augusta, or at these state park campgrounds: Aroostook, Bradbury Mountain, Camden Hills, Cobscook Bay, Lake St. George, Lamoine, Lily Bay, Mt. Blue, PeaksKenny, Rangeley, and Sebago.

Look for new items each year. We hope you enjoy our productsand come visit us soon!

Summer 1995

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! by Stuart G. Feeney Illustrated by Laura Osgood

twas a windy, cold day, and I had second thoughts about going. I had planned this Father's Day for some time so that Dad could get a trophy fish, but it was not the kind of day I pictured. I thought I was all ready by the time he put the canoe on the boat and put the boat in the water at Rock Point. I walked down to the lake to help Dad put our gear in the boat. We pushed out into the lake, where the waves began pounding repetitiously on the side of the boat. Then I remembered. I had left my fly vest at the house, hanging on the coat rack under my school bag. In a worried voice, I informed Dad. He pushed the boat back to shore with an old pole that had a metal point on the end. The 20foot aluminum boat smashed on the slippery rocks on the shore. I ran up to the house and got my

uHe was very happy and talking up a stormnow that he had caught a trout before I had!" vest. To my surprise, I returned to a father who had already caught a foot-long trout! He was very happy and talking up a storm-now that he had caught a trout before I had! I got in the blue boat, got the old, splintery pole, and pushed us out far enough so that he could start the 25-horse motor. It was an older model made in the 1980s. It took him a few cranks to get it started. The waves kissing the boat matched the sound I made smacking the mosquitoes off my arms. We motored up Big Wood Lake to the outlet of a much larger, Attean Lake. I could hear a rumbling noise off in the distance, sounds similar to the trains that thunder through town at night. We continued on up the

Stuart G. Feeney, a freshman at Forest Hills High School in Jackman, is the son of Warden Glen P. Feeney. I

Maine Fish and Wildlife

Moose River that leads to beautiful Attean Lake. The Moose River was very rocky, so we had to be careful not to hit one of those "trouble-makers." On the way to Attean we saw a bull moose wearing his favorite hat, velvet antlers. Once we conquered the windy river, we were in the mouth of Attean. The lake was so wild it reminded me of white, crinkled up paper tossing about. I noticed a storm front moving in toward us. (This was where the noise, that I had heard at Big Wood Lake was coming from; it was thunder.) Looking at the clouds I was reminded of my black, puffy rug I have at the foot of my bed. Sweat was running down my tingling skin. I could see lightning in the distance by a large purple mountain. I grasped the canoe and the side of the boat with my numb hands. The wind

howled while the tall, white waves jerked the boat back and forth. I was soaked from the spray of the waves as they hit the stem of the boat. It was not even raining yet, but it surely felt like it. I could see the sheets of rain on the other side of the lake, next to Plum Mountain. My feet were wet and cold from the water in the bottom of the boat. Our boat and canoe were the only metal objects on this beautiful but fearsome lake. I thought we were going to get struck by lightning, but Dad, running the motor, looked cool as a cucumber. I prayed (in my mind) the silent prayers I had learned at our little white church. I prayed until we got to the river where we were going to fish. It was now five o'clock in the afternoon. We had made it up the inlet of Attean Lake to the first set of rapids. We tied the boat to some flimsy alders. From the cooler, we enjoyed our tasty sandwiches, the only dry thing on board, along with with a mug of steamy hot chocolate. The temperature was dropping and it was sprinkling rain. Soon sheets of rain came down only to be blown sideways by the wind. Trees were bending everywhere. Across the river, I saw a tall spruce tree get hit by lightning. I was so busy watching my back for falling trees my hot chocolate got cold before I drank it. I wished I was in my bed, under my warm, white flannel sheets. I wished my cold feet were on my warm, black, fluffy rug at the foot of my bed. I was so cold and wet that my black pants and shirt hugged me so tight I could hardly move. While we were watching our backs and heads, my not so worried father said, "I came up here one day,

"The lake was so wild it reminded me of white, crinkled up paper tossing about." just like this, and after the storm, it turned out to be beautiful, the best fishing I ever had." The vicious storm was almost over; just over the horizon, at the tree line, the sky had a bright t:mile. By the time I got my fly rod ready, the rain had stopped. Eager to fish, we unloaded the green, lightweight canoe and paddled across the now calmer river. After we put ashore, I skipped over the slippery rocks to get to the best fishing spot before my Dad did. The bugs on the water were more plentiful than the mosquitoes lunching on my wet body. Almost immediately, we each caught a couple of beautiful, red- spotted brook trout. By the time Dad had his limit, I only had three. I would have to catch his gift for him. We went back to the canoe and Dad paddled out to the tail water of the upper rips. Dad held the canoe steady in the strong current while I fished. On

my first cast, I hooked into a large trout. Dad was going to net it for me, but in the process the net rim hit the line and the beast flopped back into the black water. I knew I should have netted it myself, but it was Father's Day. I took the net from my father, poked the canoe's ribs, and snarled. I cast again in the same spot, a V-shape in the current by a rock. Smack, I hooked into a salmon nearly the size of my arm! It seemed forever before I finally held the silvery blackspotted monster in my hands. My jealous Dad, sitting in the back of the canoe, must have wished he did not have his limit. In less than 10 minutes, thump! Another salmon hooked. This beauty made the first one look like a midget. We had our limits, it was time to go. We paddled to the first set of rapids. Feeling braver now, I said, "go through them." Out of S11111111er 1995

" ... a bull moose wearing his favorite hat, velvet antlers.

the river and back on the lake, it was getting dark but at least the water was calm. Back at Rock Point, we loaded the boat, canoe, and gear onto the trailer and went home to the big white house on the corner. As I crawled into the soft, warm, white cloud of a bed, I called out, "Happy Father's Day, Dad, and thanks for letting me give you a â&#x20AC;˘ great gift!"

This colorful insignia of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, long a favorite shoulder patch with collectors, is now available as a full-color silkscreened design on handsome cotton T-shirts! They're available in white, gray, or natural, in medium, large, and extra large sizes-and all proceeds will go to help support Maine Fish and Wildlife Department programs and activities.

Order Yours Today! only

$200

for shipping & handling

while supplies last! To order, send check or money order to: Maine Fish and Wildlife Dept. DrawerT 284 State Street, Station 41 Augusta ME 04333 10

Maine Fish and Wildlife

Be sure to specify quantities, sizes, and colors. Allow four to six weeks for delivery.

Islesford Artist Wins Duck Stamp Competition For Second Time An oil painting of two white-winged scoters by Richard A. Alley, Jr. of Isleford, will appear on the 1995 Maine duck stamp. Alley's original work was judged the winner of the annual contest conducted by the Fish and Wildlife Department. Entering this year were 18 Maine resident artists. The winning artist is a coastal native and lobsterman who has studied fine art. Alley, who won first place in the 1988 Maine duck stamp contest with his painting of a greenwinged teal, is a duck hunter as well as a painter. This year's contest runnerup was Paul Fillion of Durham. Honorable mention placements went to Ed Murdock of Randolph, Brad McFadden of Orr's Island, and Elbert Fowler of Caribou. Contest judges were Susan Knowles Jordan, who won the contest in 1994; C.D. Armstrong, chairman of Maine Ducks Unlimited; Matt Scott, deputy commissioner of the Fish and Wildlife Department; Tom Shoener, retired director of information for the Department; Brad Allen, a wildlife biologist with the Department's Bird Group; and Tom Hennessey,

well-known sporting artist and outdoor columnist for the Bangor Daily News. The winning artists receive a cash award of $1,000 and a sheet of stamps reproduced from their paintings. Maine waterfowl hunters are required to buy the $2.50 state duck stamp in addition to their regular hunting license and federal duck stamp. Each annual stamp features a different species of waterfowl native to the state. The subject for the 1996 duck stamp contest will be a blue-winged teal. Duck stamps are sold not only to waterfowl hunters but also to stamp collectors throughout the world. For more information, call (207) 287-2871.

Summer 1995

Cougars in Maine

by V. Paul Reynolds Photos by Hal Barter

he rain had let up; despite the lingering mist, the breaking dawn held the promise of a weather change. It would be a good day to hunt. Butch Fuscaldo cradled a 12-gauge shotgun in his arms and walked briskly along the path to his treestand near the Great Heath. A serious deer hunter who migrated to Maine to be closer to the alder runs and fir swamps, Fuscaldo took note of the wet leaves underfoot. "Quiet going," he mused to himself, " this is my kind of day." Fuscaldo reached his treestand on the edge of a small

Maine Fish and Wildlife

The inscrutable gaze of a captive cougar at the Department's Gray Game Farm- seemingly soft-eyed, but giving no clue as to what the animal is thinking. hardwood overlooking the heath. After an uneventful three hours watching a deer trail from his elevated perch, the 53-yearold Connecticut native decided it was time to move. The wind was picking up out of the northwest; he climbed down from the stand and decided to still hunt his way back over the ridge. Working his way down the north side of the hill, an unfamiliar sound gave him a start. "A woman screaming?" he asked himself. Heading toward the sound, Fuscaldo soon broke out of the undergrowth on to a skidder road.

Looking down the road, his senses were riveted instantly by a sight and sound like no other he had experienced. He would later describe the sound to Maine wildlife biologists as a "bloodcurdling yowl." He first thought that the confusing furball he saw in the skidder rut was a coyote with a deer down. "What is this?" he wondered. He recounts raising his gun and not knowing whether to shoot it or look at it. He didn't shoot-at first. He moved in for a closer look. What he saw, from a distance of about 15 feet, was a large, brown cat pawing at the

The author is Director of Information for the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and editor of MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine.

underbelly of a smaller cat. The larger cat had the smaller cat's head clamped in its mouth. Fuscaldo recalls that for a split second, the larger cat's attention was drawn to his presence. Their eyes met, just for a moment. The larger cat then returned to its kill, but soon leaped away and bounded down the skidder road a short distance, vanishing into the woods. Left behind in a skidder rut was a large, badly wounded bobcat writhing on the ground. Fuscaldo ended the bobcat's suffering with a charge of buckshot. After a brief look around for signs of the tracks in the road, Fuscaldo concealed the dispatched bobcat behind a stump and headed for home, all the while wondering about the larger cat. Another bobcat? A lynx? A mountain lion? He wasn't sure. Later that day, he contacted the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The next morning, Butch Fuscaldo, in the company of wildlife biologists Ken Elowe and Craig McLaughlin, returned to the skidder road and the location of the cat encounter. As is the case with many "possible cougar or mountain lion sightings," the two biologists carefully questioned Fuscaldo about what he saw or didn't see. They collected a great deal of hair, as well as the bobcat carcass, for further study. The Fuscaldo sighting, while hardly typi.cal, is nonetheless one of dozens of vastly differing cougar sightings reported each year to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. In fact, cougar or mountain lion sightings in Maine- often by

experienced outdoor people, including veteran trappers, guides and game wardenshave persisted over the years, even though this most fascinating of wilderness felids had been officially listed as extirpated from the Maine wilds. Records indicate that the last confirmed eastern cougar was killed in Maine in 1938. A survey of files from the various regional offices of Fish and Wildlife reveal well over 100 reports of cougar sightings. Some appear more credible than others. Maine Wildlife Biologist

Gene Dumont wrote about one of the most credible sightings; it occurred in Waldoboro in July of 1984. In an article in MAINE FISH AND WILDLIFE Magazine (Winter 1984-85), Dumont recounted the sighting in which two women watched a large catlike creature whose description matched that of a mountain lion. Laboratory tests of the hairs recovered by Dumont were identified as "belly hairs of either bobcat or cougar." Dumont wrote: "This particular episode was my first encounter with hard evidence to suggest

COUGAR SIGHTINGS BY COUNTY NUMBER AND LOCATIONS

Summer 1995

that Maine may be harboring an animal (Eastern cougar, or felis

concolor dougar)." That was 10 years ago. Since then, Maine reports of cougar sightings continue to multiply, and the plot thickens. Vermont and New Brunswick claim recently to have confirmed the existence of cougars in their respective woodlands. Vermont has gone so far as to say that "catamounts (cougars or mountain lions) of unknown origin may be breeding in Vermont." This winter in northern Maine, a federally funded and carefully

Plaster cast of a track (about 4 " square, actual size) and photo of a cougar skull give clues to a cougar's size and armament.

Maine Fish and Wildlife

structured search was undertaken by Fish and Wildlife Department biologists in an attempt to find compelling evidence of the presence of wolves or mountain lions in the Pine Tree State. During a period of eight weeks, using a grid search pattern, track surveys were conducted extensively in 16 townships and in part of 29 others. Track searchers covered more than 1,000 square miles of survey transects west of Moosehead Lake and north of Clayton Lake. Close to 600 miles of similar transects were conducted in other less remote regions of the state. Bottom line? No wolves. No cougars. "No" meaning no sightings, no tracks, no droppings, no hair, no indication of predation by either large canids

or felids in the North Woods. And yet. ..

In St. Pamphile in northwestern Maine in the winter of 1994, a coyote hunter leveled his telescopic sight on what he described as an adult mountain lion and two kittens. Game wardens photographed the tracks in the windblown snow. Wildlife biologist Rich Hoppe is convinced by the size of the six-inch cat track and the depth of the imprint that the coyote hunter did, indeed, see an Eastern cougar. Hoppe's boss, Ken Elowe, who worked with mountain lions a lot in the West, isn't so sure. Elowe believes them to be lynx tracks . Where do IF&W wildlife biologists stand on the central question "Are there big cats out there?" Ken Elowe, who was recently promoted to Director of the Wildlife Division for IF&W, answers the question this way: "There might be one or two roamers around, but I don't think that we have a remnant population." He is quick to point out that cougars travel great distances, and that they are skillful, voracious predators who would probably hang close to deer yards in the winter." We're just not seeing any cougar signs at all near deer yards," he observes. Elowe is also quick to point out that bobcat hunters in Maine are not seeing cougar signs, nor are their hounds running these large cats. Most of the other regional biologists, including Gene Dumont in Sidney and Rich Hoppe in Ashland, concur with Elowe's view. If there are differing views among the professional wildlife people,

Above: Joan Hotchkiss of Bridgton points to the spot down the road (circled) where she saw her cougar in May 1990. Left: Butch Fuscaldo claims to have interrupted a cougar in the midst of its attack on a bobcat.

they seem to revolve around the question of origin. That is, if there are a few cougars wandering in and out of Maine, are they native animals or escaped pets? Alan Hutchinson, who heads up the Department's program for endangered and threatened species, says that "circumstantial evidence suggests that there are cougars in the Northeast." Hutchinson tends to believe that these cougars are probably native animals. His belief is supported by his observation that Maine cougar sightings since the 1940s have been rela-

tively constant over the decades. He reasons that if the cougars being sighted are escaped pets, there likely would have been a much higher level of sightings corresponding with the "wildanimals-for-pets" craze of the late 80s and 90s. Although the database is expanding in the quest for a conclusive answer to the Maine mountain lion mystery, we are still without solid support evidence. Each promising sighting seems plagued by loose ends which leave nagging doubts. Tracks are never quite clear

enough. Fur analyses wind up being lynx or bobcat-or possibly cougar! With the exception of the highly controversial Caratunk photograph of the cougar and the hounds by Wayne Perri (which pushes the envelope in the credibility department), there are no convincing photos of any clarity. Amid the gathering evidence of sightings, which are becoming formidable by virtue of sheer numbers, there remain incongruities and inconsistencies.

continued on page 26 Summer 1995

Our "On-The-Road" Display Reaches People...

One On One! by Tom Carbane, Display Coordinator Q. What in our Depart,Vent has travelled nearly 250,000

miles in 16 years, distributed more than 40 tons of printed material, and provided thousands of man-hours of personal contact to more than three million sportsmen in Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, as well as in our own state?

â&#x20AC;˘

A. The Public Information Division's display program!

An overview of any exhibition hall along the winter show circuit quickly shows the appeal of the "little log cabin." Its distinctive roof line, and the warm glow if its lights, draw the eyes of show goers everywhere!

Setting up-in all its moods and tensesreally refers to luggin' and tuggin' on display parts, boxes of publications, dollies, blankets, toolboxes, etc. When this phase of each show is complete, it's time to get ready to greet the first day's customers and their many, many questions.

The Maine Fish and Wildlife Department started its display program in 1979 under Commissioner Glenn H. Manuel. A log-cabin style display was designed and built under the supervision of Warden John Caron; the author lent a second pair of hands to the project. In Caron's garage, only one piece could be manufactured at a time. Finished pieces were taken to the Warden Service airplane hangar at Eagle Lake to be assembled and finished . (The garage did not have enough room for the completed display, and John would have to holler "duck!" when a seven-foot piece was to be moved about!) John also worked many nights hand-hewing the pine boards to create a "log cabin" look. The display is made of Maine pine, wood shingles, and other woods, has been modified many times in its life (after16 years of use, it is still in service as of this writing.) It was first used in Aroostook County at a show in the Forum Building in Presque Isle. After that first show was over, the display was fitted by late retired warden Norman Gilbert with blankets to help keep the pieces in good condition during transport. The display traveled in an F100 Ford pickup for the first few years of its use; a used 1981 GMC van became available for use in the mid-1980s, and was modified by the garage unit of the Maine Department of Transportation with protection screens for the driver and passenger, racks to hold the display in position , and plenty of room for publications. This cleverly designed handsome display has traveled to Boston, Worcester, & Springfield MA; Long Island , Suffern , & Syracuse NY; Harrisburg, Allentown , & Fort Washington PA; Hartford CT; and Providence RI- and to the four corners of Maine . The display has been staffed in these locations by volunteer from the Fish and Wildlife Department staff from all divisions and levels. A great variety of publication material is available at these shows-Maine highway maps, camping guides, fishing and hunting guides, material from the Maine Professional Guides Association and the Maine Sporting

Camp Owners Association, and much donated material from the Maine Publicity Bureau. And many thanks to the Delorme Mapping Company for all the Maine highway maps they have donated to the display program. The display was stored in many locations in its early years , and was tuned up and repaired for each show season. In 1982, the department built a new storage building and allotted space for the display program, allowing the display its first safe home. The building also houses a small shop in which repairs and maintenance can be accomplished. More than 30,000 moose lottery applications are distributed through the display effort each year. The staff also uses pre-printed mailing labels for many other Maine agencies and organizations, handing them out to show goers who want more information. And questions which can't be answered at the show are brought back to Maine and answered by mail. In the beginning, the display attended seven or eight out-of-state shows each season; sometime, these shows were back-to-back, requiring careful scheduling and trip planning. And two would sometimes occur on the same dates, so we purchased a commercially built display as a backup. We now have three table-top displays as well ; these are used by department staff for instate events such as Operation Game Thief and Operation Respect. During the budget crunch of the early '90s, the display program was cut to only in-state shows-and those in moderation . We sell all types of licenses to the nonresident sportsmen at out-of-state shows. This magazine and other department publications are also on sale; this year we have added a T-shirt (see page 10!). Display staffers have made contact with more than three million sportsman and showgoers The author would like to thank everyone who has worked to help this program present a professional face to the public. They have truly represented the people of Maine in a professional manner.

Above: The log cabin display really makes a good impression, we're told! Below: Crowds vary at these shows from light to heavy-but nearly everyone has questions!

Note: During the season just ended, we surveyed a total of 345 attendees at four different shows, asking them five basic questions. Here are the results:

1. How were you treated by the Maine Fish and Wildlife Department display staff? 71 % excellent, 25% very good, 4% good (no fair or poor) 2. Did the display appear well-designed, clean, etc.? 100% yes 3. Did you receive adequate information to answer your needs (printed or oral)? 99.8% yes (one said no) 4. How would you have obtained this information if we hadn't been at the show?Don't know; very difficult; impossible; phone or letter, etc. 5. Should we continue to participate in these shows?99.6% should (two said shouldn't) ~

It's Oet. 3-2:30 a.m. You're awakened from a sound sleep by a loud gunshot. Looking out, you see two people dragging a deer through the field across the road, lit only by headlights.

an OU

elp? by Patrick F. Devlin

Due

to the outstanding cooperative effort of the Maine Warden Service and concerned citizens, Operation Game Thief (OCT) made 45 major apprehensions in 1994. These are wildlife crimes of a serious nature, resulting in minimum $1000 fines and three days in jail. The following is a breakdown of those apprehensions.

Illegal possession of moose Illegal hunting of moose Illegal possession of deer Hunting deer after having killed one Night hunting Exceeding the bag limit on deer Killing moose in closed season Killing deer in closed season

Total

Mai11e Fish a11d Wildlife

2 3

2 17

4 3

This doe was shot during deer season and left to waste. More often than not, waste is a consequence of poaching.

Answer: Do not turn on a light. Call Operation Game · Thief. Give the dispatcher as mueh of the following information as possible: I. v ehicle make, type, eolor, license number 2. unusual vehicle eharaete1•isties ( a light out, loud exhaust, ete.) 3. direction of travel 4. number of suspects, dese1•iptions, suspects' names, if known ( often the ease)

:;;

t::

I >.0

.9 0

.c Q.

Once again, the most reported complaints involved deer. Following is a breakdown of the year's deerrelated complaints. #of Calls

Type of Call

183 62

Night hunting Dead deer found Illegal hunting/deer Tagging violations Driving Deer Exceeding bag limit/deer Killing doe w/o permit Illegal possession/deer Baiting Deer Dog Chasing deer Twilight hunting Selling Deer

55 42 36 34

16 14 13 13 7 1 476 (69.7% of all calls)

Total

TOT AL OGT CALLS, 1989-1994

#ofCalls

Note: In 1994, for only the second time in the history of Operation Game Thief, a $1000 reward was presented. The caller provided information which, after a lengthy investigation by several wardens, led to the arrest of two suspects who had poached seven deer during nighttime hours. If these suspects are convicted, they will pay a total of$14,000 in fines and will each spend at least 21 days in jail. Apprehending poachers such as these goes a long way toward protecting the resources.

1994

1993

1992

1991

1990

1989 Total

683

770

773

618

615

8 11 4 ,270

Annual average over the six-year period-711.6

The author, a warden sergeant in Greenville, is statewide coordinator for Operation Game Thief.

•Several sportsmen observed a hunter shoot and kill a wild turkey during deer season. The concerned citizens immediately called OGT. The dispatcher told them he would get a warden there as soon as possible, but he advised, that it may take a while due to it being deer season. The concerned sportsmen then went back to the scene and apprehended the poacher. This was one instance when a poacher was glad to see a warden. While I do not recommend attempting to apprehend an armed poacher, it was refreshing to see sportsmen get involved to this extent. • A concerned citizen was responsible for providing information that led to the arrest of a suspect who was in possession of 47 grouse over the limit-the epitome of a game hog! • A dedicated sportsman supplied information to OGT that led to the apprehension of two deer hunters Su mmer I995

After killing and butchering this animal, two poachers loaded selected portions in to their vehicle and fled, only to dispose of the meat soon after in a river! It really makes you wonder, doesn 't it?

who killed a moose in central Maine. After shooting the moose, the pair removed the forequarters and loin and loaded them into their vehicle. But realizing the potential consequences of their actions, and fearing apprehension, they disposed of the meat in a river. 4, 269 Total calls to O.G.T 878 Total arrests made 351 Number of $1,000 arrests 1,504 Those requesting rewards Callers wishing to remain anonymous 2.892 Total rewards approved $30,640

Operation Game Thief is supported solely by donations. Your tax deductible donations are gratefully accepted. Send them to: Operation Game Thief, Inc. P. 0 . Box 2684 Augusta ME 04338

Your contributions are vitally important to the continued operation of this effective deterrent to the theft of Maine's fish and wildlife resources. Please give us your contribution-or your call! â&#x20AC;˘

Another Cougar-This One's An Urban Feline! Of the many investigations of cougar sighting conducted by the Maine Fish and Wildlife Department, the strongest support evidence so far of a cougar's existence in Maine came this spring. And guess where? St. Pamph ile on the Quebec border? Coburn Gore? Nope. Cape Elizabeth. That's right. Not far from Maine's largest city. One day in mid-March, Game Wardens Scott Colter and Kevin Prodzinski responded to a cal l from Rosemary Townsenr.J of Cape Elizabeth, who reported seeing a big long-tailed cat while walking off the Spurwink Road. The wardens fo und some cat tracks in the melting roadside snow. They were immediately labeled as probable cougar tracks by Prodzinski, who has had three years of experience in cougar country as a Florida conservation officer. The track, which took the wardens through an obvious deer wintering area, traversed a big brushpile, leaving behind a few hair samples on the twigs and snow. Those hair samples were sent for analysis to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Oregon. Just prior to presstime, DIF&W received the examination resu lts:" ... fine hai rs that confo rm in size, shape and medullary characteristics to hairs of cougar." Department Wildlife Ch ief Ken Elowe, points out that this evidence, while reliable, does not mean that Maine has a remnant cougar population. (For more about cougars in Maine, see story beginning on page 12.)

Maine Fish and Wildlife

The Enchanted Lake by Sonja A. Christiansen I have always loved being on the lake early in the morning. The human world is still quiet, the lake glasslike without a ripple, the morning sun casting chilly shadows over the rising dragonflies, the light scent of a few morning wood fires wafting in the still air ... peace. I quietly dipped the oars of my old wooden rowboat into the still lake, hoping that the plop-splash they made as they skimmed the morning water would not awaken another human, implanting the idea to join me. At the other end of the lake was a narrow causeway between one part of the lake and another. Overhanging to form a tangled cathedral ceiling of leaves stood large overgrown maples, birches, oaks, and willows. Some, by virtue of their great age, stood as topless, ragged , moss-covered sentinels. The deep edges of the channel were thick with marsh grass, cattails, and pond lilies. The entire area formed a sanctuary for a multitude of birds and small animals. As I maneuvered my boat toward the other end of this channel around ancient fallen logs and large snapping turtles lurking in the shadows, I saw what appeared to be a dried grassy mound of some sort near the edge of the marsh grass with something on it resembling an old tire. I found it hard to imagine anyone throwing trash in this pristine lake. As I watched in amazement, the tire started to move! I sat almost without breathing. Dare I reach for my camera? What if I dropped it and startled whatever this creature was? Carefully sliding the oars into the oarlocks, trying not to make a sound, I reached under the seat for my camera. So far, so goodnow the long lens. With shaking fingers, I changed the lens, raised the viewfinder to my eye, and . .. It looked like a loon on a nest! I had never seen a loon setting on a nest before, so I didn't know what to expect. I didn't dare go any closer for fear I would frighten her. But I just couldn't leave yet-I was mesmerized by the sight. I must have sat, not moving, in that old wooden boat for nearly four hours, making no sound other than the click of my camera. Dragonflies practiced landing and taking off on various parts of my little boat and my body! Periodically, a fish would jump for a bite of breakfast, but I sat still. My legs fell asleep, but I sat still. A hungry mosquito lunched on my big toe, but I sat still. FINALLY, the payoff! The loon started to move! She sat up and looked right at me!! With stately banded neck, alert red eyes , and protective speckled back, she turned her head this way and that as if to ask what I wanted so near her home. We watched each other for some time, then quite suddenly she got up and slid into the cool water of the lake with hardly a ripple. Gone. I couldn't believe she would just get up and go with me so close by. I waited , holding my breath. I scanned the marshy edges around the channel and the lake as far as I see . I had heard that loons could stay under water for up to 20 minutes. Was she trying to get me to follow her? Or perhaps she just didn't see me as a threat. Stretching my cramped legs and arms to get the circulation back, I carefully picked up my nearly empty camera. Looking through the viewfinder for one last farewell, I saw a solitary egg, the beginning of the next generation of loons on this lake. What a surprise! It never occurred to me that she was sitting on the nest to hatch her family! I was so enchanted by her stately beauty and the peaceful morning lake that I just didn't think of anything else. As the sun moved continuously along its appointed route, the Signed & numbered 11" x 14"prints of "Nesting spell was broken. The lake was coming alive with children splashing Loon" are available from Sonja Christiansen, on the shore, motorboats, and parents loudly cautioning children not 22 Colonial Way, Auburn ME 04210. Please to go out too far. enclose $30 (check or VISA/MC) plus $1.30 tax It was time for me to be on my way with my special secret. I think and $2.00 shipping & handling for each print we had an understanding, she and I, and I didn 't want to breach her confidence by drawing attention to her home. Exhilarated and filled ordered. "Nesting Loon" may also be seen at with awe, I headed home, my oars and oarlocks making a load The Maine State Museum in Augusta, Deck The squeak-squawk-splash as the wooden paddles dug deeply into the Walls at the Maine Mall, & Cherishables in now active waters of the enchanted lake. â&#x20AC;˘

The pl1otographer spent many hours as a youngster writing nature stories and taking pictures with her Kodak Brownie. Tl1is picture was taken on a pond near Auburn.

Ogunquit. "Nesting Loon" is printed on recycled paper, and each print is accompanied by a copy of this story, The Enchanted Lake.

Summer 1995

STEVE POWELL WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA

THIS PLACE HASA FUTURE-

AND A PAST! Swan Island, known officially as the Steve Powell Wildlife Management Area, has been owned and managed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife as a wildlife management area and public use facility since the early 1950s. The island management area, about 1,755 acres in size, is located in the Kennebec River between

Maine Fish and Wildlife

the towns of Richmond and Dresden. It includes Swan Island, Little Swan Island, and several hundred acres of tidal flats. Swan Island, known for its abundant and often quite visible wildlife (especially nesting bald eagles and white-tailed deer), is actually an abandoned 18th and 19th century town called Perkins Township, and has long been recognized for its

varied and interesting history. It was used by Native American tribes, early explorers, and settlers, and was reportedly visited by American historical figures such as Aaron Burr and Benedict Arnold. Although Swan Island's historical significance has long been identified, the island has never before had any official recognition or been nominated to any state or federal historical lists. That is now changing! The Maine Historic Preservation Commission, with cooperation from the Maine Fish and Wildlife Department, has embarked on an exciting journey to have Swan Island officially nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. The process, which began last year with initial site visits by state archaeologists, will end this summer with submission of formal nomination papers-complete with supporting historical documentation and evidence. Future archeological survey work will concentrate on locating an early 18th century trading post and prehistoric Indian sites. This nomination of Swan Island to the National Register of Historic Places will, at last, bestow on the island the cultural recognition it so richly deserves. â&#x20AC;˘

Facing page, top: aerial of Swan Island and Little Swan Island (left}, looking south to Merrymeeting Bay, Richmond at lower right. Facing page, bottom: a very pleasant group site at water's edge. This page, top: "the barge" gets people across from Richmond landing; middle: one of the island's many silent sentinels-a whitetail watches our passage; bottom: Adirondack leantos are located at many sites across the island to shelter overnight visitors.

Each year, more than 4000 people visit Swan Island. The Island's public visitation season runs from May 1st through Labor Day. All access, both for day use and camping, is by reservation and written permit only. Interpretive tours and environmental programs are offered to schoolchildren and the public by Department employees. Reservations can be obtained by calling Swan Island's reservation clerk at 547-4167 or by writing to: Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife Swan Island Reservations RFD#l, Box 6378 Waterville, Maine 04901

Spring 1995

Common loons (gavia immery display specific behaviors associated with many aspects of their breeding and wintering lives. Here are the primary behaviors exhibited during the breeding, nesting, and brood-rearing seasons -- from May through August in Maine. You can probably watch many of these loon behaviors on lots of lakes in Maine; but be aware that getting too close to loons makes them nervous, especially when they are incubating eggs on their nests or in family groups with chicks. Remember to WATCH ALL WILDLIFE FROM A DISTANCE!!! SWIMMING CALMLY An undisturbed loon will position its body fairly high on the water's surface, showing several inches of its white breast and holding its head and neck upright and its bill horizontally.

PEERING Looking below the water's surface is a comfort behavior generally associated with locating prey or watching submerged chicks.

FOOT WAGGLE This action may appear awkward, but is a comfort behavior associated with stretching and settling down.

WING FLAP A comfort movement or settling down behavior where the loon rises out of the water and vigorously flaps its wings (perhaps shaking them free of water) before settling down again.

4alllli=::::::::~~

BELLY PREENING All birds clean, oil and maintain their feathers with an action called preening. This occurs when the loon rolls over on its side or back in order to reach and preen the belly feathers. This behavior is noteworthy because of the awkward position the loon is in. Observers often mistake a preening loon for a loon in distress. SLEEPING

LYING LOW When a loon feels threatened it may choose to become inconspicuous or less -â&#x20AC;˘111i. noticeable to the threat. By expelling air from between its feathers, a loon may sink quite low in the water, hiding its bright white breast and lowing its neck and head. A loon will also exhibit this behavior when disturbed on its nest.

ANXIETY UPRIGHT This bohavior is associated with threats or disturbance. An anxious bird may react to a threat by stretching its neck, head and bill up in an alert position.

AGGRESSIVE UPRIGHT A defense behavior, exhibited as a preliminary action when protecting a territory or chicks. The loon rises high in the water displaying its bright white breast as a highly visible defense signal. RUSHING This behavior is associated with territorial defense and theorized to be involved with courtship; and involves running, belly down and neck extended, along the water's surface, as if in a chase. This behavior often results in the intruding loon being chased from a territory. When involved in courtship, a loon pair may rush side by side or one in front of the other, ending the rush by settling down in the water together.

PENGUIN DANCE This behavior is both spectacular and alarming to see! Highly visual and often accompanied by a loud distress call (usually a tremolo), this dance is a display of the loon's most intense anxiety. This may occur when loons feel their territory, nest, or chicks are being threatened - by other loons, humar.s, boats, canoes, etc. Please avoid causing this behavior! If you are too close to a loon or a loon family, back off and allow the birds to calm down.

ACROSS 6. Getting too close to loons, especially when they are nesting, makes them feel very _ _ _ __ 7. Volunteers trained to monitor loons in Maine are called "loon 8. Maine has sold over 60,000 plates with loon artwork on them. 12. The - - -colored eye of the loon may improve its underwater vision. 13. The biggest threat to loons today. 14. Loon nests are made of and nearby vegetation. 16. Acronym (initials) for North American Loon Fund. 18. The _ _ of a loon are set far back on its body, making it difficult to walk on land. 20. A favorite saltwater food of loons. 21. Loons incubate these while sitting on their nests. 22. The primary food of loons.

DOWN 1. sinkers can poison loons if eaten. 2. wildlife from a distance! 3. Warnings have been posted about eating fish containing too much of this. 4. Artificial _ _ are constructed for loons to nest on. 5. Chicks often climb on a loon parent's - - - for a tree ride. 6. The average adult loon weighs about - - pounds .• 9. The turtle is a predator of loon chicks. 10. Another word to describe the well-known laughing call of the loon. 11. This litter discarded from fishing trips can be deadly to a loon that gets tangled in it. 15. A favorite freshwater food for loons-yellow _ _ . 17. Wing _ _ behavior makes a loon more comfortable. immer. 19. The Latin name of the loon is

For more Information about loons In Maine, contact the Maine Audubon Society, 118 US Route 1, Box 6009, Falmouth, ME 04105 or North American Loon Fund, 6 LIiy Pond Road, GIiford, New Hampshire 03246

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•

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·,.

continued from page 15 Of all North American wild creatures, the cougar is among the most elusive and ghostlike. Consider: a California cougar hunter who had killed, captured, or treed 700 cougars in his lifetime, and covered 40,000 miles through good cougar country, had in that same lifetime actually seen only one cougar that his hounds hadn't first found. Given this fact, how is it, then, that Maine is tallying up a dozen or so cougar sightings each year? This inconsistency might be explained one of two ways: either the cougars sighted are escaped or released pets, or they are fisher or lynx-not cougars at all. A group of enterprising students from Lawrence and Waterville high schools recently completed a cougar study as a class project. Their goal, as explained by Katie Taylor, a participant in the project, was not to prove or disprove the cougar's existence in Maine, but simply to help scientific inquiry by collecting interview data. The students wound up with 72 accounts of sightings, which resulted in 52 secondary indepth surveys of what they considered to be the most credible of the batch. These were plotted on a map of Maine (see page 13). According to Taylor, a pattern was suggested by the map plot of Maine cougar sightings. A band emerged that indicated a higher frequency of sightings in Maine's easternmost counties. As biologist Dumont observed 10 years ago, reports of strange or unusual wildlife sightings are standard stuff for a regional fish

Mame Fish and Wildlife

and wildlife office, and "many are not worth the time involved to investigate." Looking through the regional files labeled cougar sightings, however, one cannot easily dismiss the sincerity and plausible ring of some careful recollections from those who claim to have seen these big cats in the wild. A Bridgton woman, who has walked the same road almost daily for 40 years, recalls having seen on a May morning in 1990 what she describes as "a huge doglike animal of sandy beige color." Upon moving closer, she recalled "a startled recognition (of seeing) the unmistakable heart-shaped face of a huge cat, the cheeks tensed and eyes fastened on me in a fixed, unreadable gaze." To herself she intoned, "My God, that is a lion, a real African lion that got loose from a circus somehow!" Meanwhile, Butch Fuscaldo says he has had a lot of time to think back to that November day when he was led to his rare encounter by the "blood curdling yowl." What was the cat he saw-a cougar, a lynx or a record bobcat? "Since that day, I've looked at a lot of pictures (of different felids) and I'm convinced that what I saw from 15 feet did not have the face of either a bobcat or a lynx," said Fuscaldo. He insists that the face of this animal was very different, that it had a "slick look and a square, pronounced jaw and large almondshaped eyes." Lab tests were inconclusive. At the kill site, Ken Elowe and Craig McLaughlin collected lots of hair. In a hair analysis, Unity College concluded "Our evidence then points to bobcat, but only because we failed to find

any match with lynx or mountain lion." In an examination of the bobcat carcass, there were two different sets of teeth marks, one on a shoulder muscle and the other in the foreskull. McLaughlin indicated that the size of the shoulder bite was more in line with a lynx, while the skull punctures, curiously, seemed more in keeping with a cougar bite. Flowe's hunch that Fuscaldo saw a lynx seems to be supported by the fact that the deer hunter has no recollection of seeing a long tail. Fuscaldo believes that the position of the cat may have obscured his view if there had been a long tail. We may never know whether Fuscaldo's big, snarling cat was, indeed, a Maine mountain lion. But as the pile of circumstantial evidence grows, the probability is that one day we will have a specimen, or a collection of support evidence without loose ends. That day seems closer than ever, with confirmed cougar sightings in Vermont and New Brunswick. As one of the students involved in the study quipped, " ... mountain lions are big travellers, and they don't honor boundaries or feel compelled to clear U.S. Customs. Why wouldn't they be here?" We'll see. Meantime, if you see, or even think you see, such a cat, we urge you to take photos, collect hair or droppings, and contact a local district warden or regional fish and wildlife headquarters office as soon as possible. â&#x20AC;˘ Editor's Note: See page 20 for a late-breaking addition to this stonJ (maybe this is that evidence we're seeking-without the loose ends)!

WOODS SPECIAL by Butch Carey rom the Fly Tying Bench

THE PATTERN Hook: #9672, sizes 6 & 8 THREAD: Black monocord TAIL: Golden pheasant tippet feather, small RIBBING: Oval silver tinsel BODY: Fluorescent red chenille, medium WING: Lemon wood duck flank feather CHEEK: Jungle cock (optional) HACKLE: Dry grizzly, collar style HEAD: Black monocord NOTE: This is not the original Woods Special tied by Joe Sterling; it is a variation. Although not a true pattern, it works very well on a 10- or 12-inch leader behind a small dodger.

r:.1 Cast on black thread above the barb L!J of the hook, then tie in tail.

Tie in ribbing and chenille in front of tail. Move thread to front of hook in close even turns, stopping about 1/6" from eye.Cement.

l'il Wind chenille in even turns to front of ~ hook; tie down.

Summer 1995

!Al:Bring ribbing up front in evenly

~ spaced turns over body; tie down.

Tie wood duck feather on top for wing at point where thread ended; wing should be no longer than end of tail. Tie down.

~ Tie dry grizzly in near eye; wind in ~ dry fly style.

Finish head, cement, and your Woods [ ] Special variation is complete! Note the7 optional jungle cock eye, which can be added before Step 6 if desired. i.

Maine Fish and Wildlife

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New Bobcat, Lynx Exhibits At Visitor Center by Lisa J. Kane The resident pairs of bobcats and lynx at the Game Farm and Visitor Center in Gray are living in their spacious new quarters! On a sunny day this past November, the new enclosures were completed and the big cats relocated to these permanent homes. The large, 16' x 20' oval pen house the bobcats; two connected 16' round pens are the lynx's new quarters. The bobcats were somewhat apprehensive about their new home, retreating to their dens to observe their new surroundings with suspicion, but the lynx immediately started moving through all the space available to them. All three pens have natural sand floors, constructed to function as miniature septic systems. There are several levels the cats can move around and through,

with snug housing for protection from the elements. Final grading and landscaping around the new cat exhibit will be completed this spri;ng and summer. In 1993, the Cumberland County Chapter of the United Bikers of Maine donated $4000 to the Friends of the Game Farm by organizing a raffle for a brand new Harley Davidson motorcycle. The Friends organization added to this already large sum an extra $2000, and the balance of the bill for the three pre-fab cat pens was paid by Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. The Bikers, as well as the Game Farm staff and Friends organization, have had a strong commitment to improving the wildlife exhibits at the Game Farm. Our next project, currently

in the design phase, is a new home for the black bears. The 10,000 square foot exhibit will replicate the bears' natural habitat, complete with swimming pool! The Friends of the Game Farm and FOX 51 television have been raising funds since last fall to put towards the black bear exhibit. We hope to start construction on this exciting new project in late summer or early fall. The Game Farm and Visitors Center, located just three miles north of Gray village on Route 26, is a great place to bring your family and a picnic for a day. • KID-BITS PUZZLE ANSWER -

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Summer 1995

FISH AND WILDLIFE BRIEFS Deer Update Applications are now available for 1995 any-deer permits, which give hunters the option of taking a deer of either sex in a selected deer management district (DMD). The department will issue about 29,450 permits this year, as compared with 33,018 in 1994. This represents an overall 11 percent decrease. According to deer biologist Gerry Lavigne, the reduction in any-deer permits is a planned second-year response to winter deer losses that resulted from severe weather conditions in 1993. For the second year, Lavigne has recommended that no any-deer permits be allocated to northern DMDs 1, 2, and 3, or in DMD 17 (Washington County). Lavigne, whose 1994 deer harvest prediction was extremely close, forecasts a total deer kill of 24, 655 in 1995, compared with a 1994 harvest of 24,683. Lavigne is expecting improved herd recovery and growth as a result of the reduced doe and fawn quota; he likewise expects the buck harvest to increase by roughly 650 in 1995 to about 16,000. In March, Lavigne estimated the post-hunt Maine deer population at 210,000. Statewide deer population objectives for the department are between 250,000 and 300,000. All hunters who applied for any-deer permits last year should automatically receive applications in the mail before the end of June. Application forms are available also at town offices, license agents, deer tagging stations and offices of the Fish and Wildlife Department. The application deadline is August 15. Hunters without permits, and those hunting outside their assigned districts, are limited to bucks only. The 1995 deer season for bow hunters runs from September 28 to October 27. The regular firearms season is October 30 to November 25. Maine residentsonly day is October 27. The muzzleloader season is Nov. 27 to Dec. 2 in all zones, with a special week extension to December 9 in DMDs 7,8,10,11,12, 13, 14, 15, and 18.

Bear Update Maine's 1994 black bear season included 3 hunting seasons and a trapping season. The early general hunting sea-

â&#x20AC;˘

Maine Fish and Wildlife

son opened August 29 and closed September 24. Bears could be hunted over bait or natural food sources, or by stalking/ still hunting during this period. The 1994 harvest of 2,243 bears was 187 bears more than the 1993 harvest. Shortened bear seasons have met the department's objective of reducing the harvest below 2,300 bears to permit the bear population to expand. Bears were harvested in 12 of the state's 16 counties. The greatest number of bears (626) were registered in Aroostook County, followed by Penobscot County with 343 bears. Maine residents killed 849 bears, or 38 percent of the total. Nonresident hunters from 33 states, as well as Quebec, Germany and Greece registered the remaining 1,394 bears. Looking ahead to fall, the bear season will remain similar to last season, with one exception. Beginning in 1995, trappers will have an additional week of opportunity to take bears. The 1995 trapping season will open on September 24, immediately following the closure of the baiting period. The general season on bears runs from August 28 to November 25. A bear hunting permit is required in addition to a regular hunting license from August 28 to Oct. 27.

Moose Auction Nets $41,202 Thanks to five moose hunters from Maine, New York, Illinois and Pennsylvania, 200 Maine youngsters will receive scholarships this summer to Maine Conservation Camp. The 1995 Maine Moose Auction, which was a pr.roved last year by the Maine Legislature, allows the Fish and Wildlife Department to publicly offer five moose hunting permits to the highest bidder - with all proceeds going to fund conservation education for Maine boys and girls ages 12 to 14. According to Vesta Billing, the Department's director of licensing and registration who oversees the bidding process, 124 bids were received from all over the country. The five top bids total $41, 202. The highest bid for a 1995 moose hunting permit was $13,500; the lowest among the top five bidders was $6,000. The average bid was in the neighborhood of $1,500.

The five successful bidders will be contacted by certified mail and will have until May 3 to select their hunting zones, name their subpermittees and submit their donations. The winning bids were submitted by Albert Corbelli of Mahopac, New York; Harry Crooker of Brunswick, Maine; Terry Luetgert of Geneva, Illinois; Stephen Mitchell of Pottstown, Pennsylvania and Richard St. Hilairre, Jr. of Turner, Maine. One of the winning bidders, Harry C10oker of Brunswick, who has hunted moose in both Alaska and Newfoundland, said he was looking forward to hunting a Maine moose with his boys. Commenting that this may be one of his last moose hunts, Crooker mused "We're not gonna take it with us, so we might as well give it to the kids." Another high bidder, Albert Corbelli of Mahopac, New York has been hunting bear and fishing in Maine for years. Corbelli said that, although his bid amount would have bought him a moose hunting package to Alaska, he'd rather hunt in Maine. "For my money, Maine is by far the friendliest state, and you've got lots of big moose. I see them bear hunting," said Corbelli. He plans to name his 15 year-old son as his subpermittee and retain his Maine bear guide for his October moose hunt. The Maine Conservation Camp is located at two sites, one on Lake Christopher at Bryant Pond in Western Maine and one at Greenland Point Center on Long Lake near Machias. Throughout the summer 200 boys and girls will attend one of the four weekly sessions. Each youngster is provided with basics in being woods-wise and safety conscious, as well as an awareness and appreciation of Maine's natural resources and outdoor traditions. Interested youngsters may obtain an application for a scholarship to attend the Conservation Camp by calling or writing the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Deputy Chief Warden Named Warden Lieutenant Daniel E. Tourtelotte of Guilford has been promoted to deputy chief of the Maine Warden Service. Tourtelotte, who was formerly a warden sergeant in Greenville and pro-

Governor King Supports St. John Decision

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Major Daniel E. Tourtelotte moted to head up the Greenville Division D headquarters this past winter, will be second-in-command to Col. Parker Tripp, who became chief warden in March. A Bowdoinham native, Tourtelotte has been a game warden since 1978. During his career, he has been actively involved in training, search and rescue, patrol techniques, and the decoy deer program. In making the announcement of Tourtelotte's promotion, Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Ray "Bucky" Owen said, "We are proud and pleased to name Dan to this important post. He has shown himself to be a dedicated and able game warden, a strong leader, and a capable administrator." In 1991, Tourtelotte received the Meritorious Service Award for rescuing a flood victim.

In the face of heavy opposition from Northern Maine political leaders, Governor Angus King recently announced his support of Commissioner Ray "Bucky" Owen's decision to disallow the introduction of Atlantic Salmon to the Upper St. John River. Calling it one of the most difficult decisions he has had to make since taking office, King said the potential impact that the introduction of salmon would have on native brook trout outweighed the possible economic benefits. Proponents of the project, which include Aroostook County residents as well as New Brunswick residents, sought to place hatchery-raised Atlantic salmon in the St. John above Grand Falls, waters in which Atlantic salmon have never existed historically. DIFW opposed the introduction out of concern that the native brook trout population would be jeopardized. In his letter, the governor stressed that, although any project with the potential for economic enhancement held

great appeal for him, the burden of proof in a tough issue such as this m ust "rest upon the advocates for change, especially when the effects are irreversible." The governor concluded his letter by reiterating his concern for the economic well-being of Northern Maine and the difficulty of his decision. He pledged a strong commitment to working with the Aroostook County delegation and its people to explore opportunity for economic development based on the natural resources of the region.

Department Launches New Phone Services In an effort to upgrade the telecommunications system at the Augusta office of the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, a new automated dialing system is being phased into operation. Callers are encouraged to jot down the new telephone numbers and use them for more efficient communications with DIF&W. The new numbers, which will be listed in new phone directories, are as follows:

Game Farm Open For Season The Maine Game Farm and Visitors Center in Gray is now open for the season. The popular attraction, which is operated by the Information & Education Division of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, provides visitors with the opportunity to view bears, mountain lions, lynx, deer, coyote, bobcats and many smaller Maine animals, as well as birds and fish. Last year more than 50,000 people were attracted to tour the center. The Game Farm, which is located on Route 26 in Gray, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through November. Children 4 or younger arc admitted free. Those age 5-12 pay $1.50. Adults pay $2.50. For more information, call 657-4977.

Early togue (lake trout) fishing at Sebago Lake proved satisfying for a number of April anglers, including Ted Reny of Westbrook. Reny and his fishing partner, Peter Pizzo, boated this lunker lake trout April 11, not long after ice out. This fish weighed in at 24 pounds, 1O ounces. The state record is a 31-pound, 8-ounce togue caught in 1958 at Beech Hill Pond by Hollis Grindle of Ellsworth. Summer 1995

287-8000

Information & Education Licensing & Registration Commissioners Office Business Office

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Wildlife Fisheries & Hatcheries Warden Service ATV & Hunter Safety

287-8003

Recorded Seasonal Information

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Carmel Warden Promoted District Warden Patrick F. Devlin has been promoted to warden sergeant, and assigned to Division D with headquarters in Greenville. A nine-year veteran of the Maine Warden Service, Devlin began his career in conservation law enforcement as a deputy warden in the Carmel area in 1983. In 1987, Devlin was promoted to district warden and assigned to Waterboro. In1988, Devlin took over the Carmel district, which also includes Hermon, Etna, Dixmont, Levant, Plymouth and Newburgh.

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Members of the warden dive team, Roland Tilton, Dennis McIntosh and Rick Stone coordinate the underwater search in Belgrade Stream for a missing Belgrade man. The department's air boat was used as a diving platform. An underwater search of Belgrade Stream March 12 and 13 by Warden Divers Roland Tilton, Dennis Mcintosh

and Rick Stone, as well as divers from the Kennebec Sheriff's Office, failed to turn up any sign of the missing man.

Sgt. Patrick F. Devlin A Pennsylvania native who is married with two children, Devlin studied forestry at the University of Maine. In his spare time he enjoys hunting and fishing. The 41-year-old warden, who recently assumed responsibility for Operation Game Thief, says that he is excited about his new assignment in Greenville and looks forward to the challenge.

Belgrade Search The Maine Warden Service conducted an exhaustive, week-long search early in March for a missing Belgrade man who was presumed drowned in Belgrade Stream.

Maine Fish and Wildlife

Warden of the Year Thomas Ward, with wife Shari and son Isaac, at award ceremonies during the 51 st Annual Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference in Ocean City MD April 11.

Place

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;pouse was. I would like to know went through their minds. If they ed, which we know they are ca~ of doing, was it luck or downright lessness? G. L. Sproul E. Bridgewater, MA

MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

Place

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MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

Place

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MAINE

FISH AND WILDLIFE 284 State St., Sta. #41 Augusta ME 04333

IE EDITOR

Âˇ Editor: would like to comment on Richard ~an's letter (Spring 1995) regarding ing the top 50 coyote hunters in 1e a moose permit. Sometimes it ns as if I am the only one in the : who is sick and tired of every idual, club, or organization wanting se permits because of what they ,pecial interest groups are slowly ;urely whittling away the chance of tverage citizen to obtain a moose 1it in Maine. here seems to be the perception the moose permit system was Jned as a reward for every group in ;tate that is outdoor related. First, .re offering five (5) for an auction to I children to camp . I realize that this ber is above the 1400 to be issued ,ummer but I believe that it still sets ~cedent. Then , there was a legislajocument under consideration to -t 50 permits to former POW's {LD . I foresee the day when there will ne (1) permit set aside for a Maine lent, one (I) permit for a nonresi' and 1498 for special interest ps. s a resident of Maine, I annually hase a hunting license, fishing se, duck stamps (state and ral), muzzle loading permits, and ribute to the non-game fund. This, 1e, is a considerable portion of my ial salary which I gladly pay for the ege of being able to hunt and fish aine . It is my sincere hope the 1d Fisheries and Wildlife realizes the average resident of the state ;n't belong to many groups, may not ble to hunt as often as he/she Id like, and pays their fair share in 1se fees each year. am not saying that coyote hunters, ling children to camp, or former V's are not worthy causes. I would, ever, like to think that I at least have ance at drawing a moose permit Jut having to kill a 100 coyotes or nging to some group that can either a lot of money or lobby hard in

usta . hank you for allowing me to voice >pinion. Jay Kamm Caribou

287-8000

287-8002

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Information & Educatic Licensing & Registratio Commissioners Office Business Office Wildlife Fisheries & Hatcheries Warden Service ATV & Hunter Safety Recorded Seasonal Information

Carmel Warden Promoted District Warden Patrick F. Devlin has been promoted to warden sergea and assigned to Division D with heac quarters in Greenville. A nine-year veteran of the Maine Warden Service, Devlin began his ecu in conservation law enforcement as a deputy warden in the Carmel area in 1983. In 1987, Devlin was promoted t district warden and assigned to Waterboro. ln1988, Devlin took over Carmel district, which also includes Hermon, Etna, Dixmont, Levant, Plymouth and Newburgh.

AINE

95-01

FISH AND WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

SPECIAL HALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 year only $9 D Payment enclosed

D 2years only $15 D Please bill me later

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l'OB l'ASTEB. SERVICE, CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-288-8387

AINE

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SPECIAL HALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 year only $9 D Payment enclosed

D 2 years only $15 D Please bill me later

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FOB FASTER SERVICE, CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-288-8387

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A Pennsylvania native who is mar with two children, Devlin studied for estry at the University of Maine. In hi spare time he enjoys hunting and fisb The 41-year-old warden, who rece assumed responsibility for Operation Game Thief, says that he is excited ab his new assignment in Greenville anc looks forward to the challenge.

Belgrade Search The Maine Warden Service conducted an exhaustive, week-long sear early in March for a missing Belgrade man who was presumed drowned in Belgrade Stream.

Maine Fish and W,ldlife

AINE

95-01

FISH AND WILDLIFE A quarterly full-color magazine about hunting, fishing, or just plain recreating in Maine's outdoors

SPECIAL HALF-PRICE OFFER! D 1 year only $9 D Payment enclosed

D 2years only$15 D Please bill me later

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~ -

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FOB FASTED. SEB.VICE, CALL TOLL-FD.EE 1-800-288-8387

Later in the week, a ground search, and an aerial search by a helicopter from the Brunswick Naval Air Station, also came up empty-handed. The next day, in a last-ditch effort to find some clue to the missing man's whereabouts, Search and Rescue dogs trained in locating missing persons were brought in. Warden Specialist Deborah Palman, along with Search and Rescue volunteers Michelle Fleury and Sarah Robinson, worked their scent dogs from boats along the stream on both sides of the bridge throughout the day. The body of 64-year-old Joseph Plourd was eventually spotted from the air later in the spring by Warden Pilot Dana Toothaker.

Ward Wins Warden of the Year A Greenville game warden who figured prominently in the rescue of two lost skiers from the frozen darkness of Gulf Hagas has been named Warden of the Year. During a March ceremony at the Penobscot Conservation Association, Warden Thomas Ward was named Warden of the Year, an honor bestowed annually to a Maine game warden who is selected by his peers. Last years recipient was Warden Sgt. Tim Peabody.

Elowe Promoted Wildlife Biologist Ken Elowe of Dover-Foxcroft has been promoted to Wildlife Division Director of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. E!owe will fill the post vacated earlier this spring by Gary Donovan, who retired. Elowe, a graduate of Bowdoin who also holds advanced degrees in wildlife biology from the University of Massachusetts, has been with the department since 1987. He served as mammal program coordinator for the Utah Division of Wildlife from 1986 to 1987 before heading up the Mammal Group for IFW. A native of Andover, MA, Elowe envisions one his major division goals to be "working cooperatively with landowners on wildlife habitat issues in a way to continue building public trust." He believes that the department's species planning efforts and species management systems will continue to have a high priority in the years ahead. In his spare time, Elowe enjoys hunting, fishing, and building boats. The 39year-old wildlife biologist is married with three children.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor: I agree with the moose hunt. Every year I apply for a permit in hopes that I will get picked. I don't mind donating $5.00 to the cause, but to auction off the moose to the highest bidder is the worst thing that has been done yet. Not everyone is able to participate-only the rich, and that's wrong. If you have enough money, then you can buy a moose! What's happening down there in Augusta? Pamela Nadeau Jay * The 1995 Maine Moose Auction has raised $41,200 for youth conservation education in Maine.

Dear Editor: I suppose by this time you have been inundated with remarks from those of us in the fire service as to the remark made in the article "Bears In The Backyard" (Winter 1994/1995) by Barry Burgason and Craig McLaughlin. But anyway ... On page 3, a comment at the end of a paragraph states: "Grills should be stored in a closed garage or shed." This potentially could be disastrous if the grill harbors a leaking propane cylinder and the storage area is virtually airtight. I would suggest that your readers who might take this advice should either store the propane cylinder separately (like outdoors but under some sort of tarp to keep weather off) or be sure the cylinder is empty first. Have enjoyed your magazine for many years. My wife and I love your state. We keep coming back several times a year. Have for the past 45 years. Wish we had a piece of real estate of our own there! David T. Steele, 1st Engineer Hazardville Fire Dept. Enfield, CT Dear Editor: I am an avid reader of your magazine and have been a deer hunter for approximately 35 years. I have hunted in Gouldsboro when driving deer was legal and blaze orange was not in effect. In all those years, I never pointed a gun at a fellow hunter. Since those years, safety measures have been improved, which is as it should be. Now, please correct me if I am wrong, but in the moose article concerning Mr. and Mrs. Brochu, the couple both missed a reasonable, easy shot on Tuesday. On Wednesday, in the so called heat of battle, both put arrows in both sides of a moose knowing where

the spouse was. I would like to know what went through their minds. If they missed, which we know they are capable of doing, was it luck or downright carelessness? G. L. Sproul E. Bridgewater, MA Dear Editor: I would like to comment on Richard Sabean's letter (Spring 1995) regarding offering the top 50 coyote hunters in Maine a moose permit. Sometimes it seems as if I am the only one in the state who is sick and tired of every individual, club, or organization wanting moose permits because of what they do. Special interest groups are slowly but surely whittling away the chance of the average citizen to obtain a moose permit in Maine. There seems to be the perception that the moose permit system was designed as a reward for every group in the state that is outdoor related. First, we are offering five (5) for an auction to send children to camp. I realize that this number is above the 1400 to be issued this summer but I believe that it still sets a precedent. Then, there was a legislative document under consideration to offer -t 50 permits to former POW's (LO 357). I foresee the day when there will be one (1) permit set aside for a Maine resident, one (1) permit for a nonresident, and 1498 for special interest groups. As a resident of Maine, I annually purchase a hunting license, fishing license, duck stamps (state and federal), muzzle loading permits, and contribute to the non-game fund. This, for me, is a considerable portion of my annual salary which I gladly pay for the privilege of being able to hunt and fish in Maine. It is my sincere hope the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife realizes that the average resident of the state doesn't belong to many groups, may not be able to hunt as often as he/she would like, and pays their fair share in license fees each year. I am not saying that coyote hunters, sending children to camp, or former POW's are not worthy causes. I would, however, like to think that I at least have a chance at drawing a moose permit without having to kill a 100 coyotes or belonging to some group that can either pay a lot of money or lobby hard in Augusta. Thank you for allowing me to voice my opinion. Jay Kamm Caribou

Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife â&#x20AC;˘ 284 State Street â&#x20AC;˘ Augusta ME 04333

"Steep Bank Pool." From a painting by David A. Footer. Prints may be ordered by writing ' to the artist at 151 Golder Rd., Lewiston ME 04240, or by calling (207) 783-3501.