Bobolinks are a ground nesting species threatened by legislation like AB-512/SB-545. *Photo by Carolyn Byers*

Wisconsin’s wildlife needs you today

A dangerous bill came before the Wisconsin State Senate on Tuesday, February 13. Unfortunately, the bill, which endangers the lives of bears, bobcats, foxes, raccoons, cranes, deer, and other wildlife, passed both houses and is headed for Governor Evers’ desk.

AB-512/SB-545 will repeal all the regulations that currently prohibit hunting dogs from pursuing wild animals in northern Wisconsin in late spring and early summer. This will wreak havoc with many wildlife species but we are especially concerned with the effects on nesting and young birds.

ACT NOW: Please use the “Voice an Opinion” portal from the Governor’s website and ask Governor Evers to veto these bills.

We cannot allow this activity to expand into both May and June. Resident and migratory ground-nesting species like the Bobolink, Golden-winged Warbler, Sharp-tailed Grouse, and Eastern Whip-poor-will—all Species of Greatest Conservation Need—are already in serious decline in northern Wisconsin. Ground-nesting birds lay their eggs and raise their young in the critical time period of May and June, and will no doubt be severely impacted by this legislation and that need our help!

Tree nesting birds are also not exempt from the stress and noise caused by packs of hounds. This disturbance creates a rampage, pushing birds off their nests, making them too frightened to return. During spring, bears exit their dens in already poor condition. Nearly all mammals are giving birth and nursing their young at this time, while suffering from a shortage of food.

Forcing these vulnerable animals to flee from packs of hounds in the name of "recreation" is not only unethical but also unsportsmanlike.

We need to act now before it's too late. If this bill passes, it will wreak havoc on wildlife and the environment.

Together,

Topf Wells, Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance advocacy committee