TPWD asks public to report wildlife deaths

There is no HEB for birds and wildlife. Throughout the year, wild creatures spend every waking hour foraging for food for themselves and their young. When there is not enough food, animals die. Winter storm Uri created such perilous conditions for wildlife in Central Texas that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is asking community members to report “any animal mortality events they observe on their property, ranches, or in their neighborhoods” in an effort to help wildlife biologists who are studying the impacts of the storm on natural resources. Submit your reports to iNaturalist. According to TPWD, “The prolonged period of subfreezing temperatures, coupled with a limited availability of food resources due to snow and ice, has had some impact on wildlife resources; however, given the secretive nature of most wildlife species, the full extent of the impact cannot yet be determined.” Many dead or downed bats have been found as well as dead songbirds, waterfowl and woodpeckers. The department is most concerned about native deer who rely on vegetation that has lost foliage due to the freeze. According to the news release, “TPWD is hopeful that, despite the cold temperatures, the moisture from the snow and ice was able to be absorbed by the soil and as temperatures warm up, the usual spring green-up will take place statewide.” Travis County residents who find downed bats, birds or other wildlife in need of assistance can find a list of wildlife rescue and rehab groups here.