Tackling Oklahoma’s Freezing Temperatures
Explanations of wildlife surviving Oklahoma’s fickle winters often feature birds flying south and bears retreating to their hibernation den. But these stories rarely address how Oklahoma’s reptiles and amphibians endure our sometimes bitter cold temperatures. Unlike humans, salamanders, frogs, turtles, lizards and snakes do not generate enough metabolic heat or have enough insulation to maintain their body temperature. Instead, they must rely on the surrounding environment and face a life or death challenge when winter air temperatures drop below freezing.
Most reptiles and amphibians fight back with one of three strategies
Bald Eagle Watches Scheduled Across State
Oklahoma’s bald eagle population soars each winter, offering prime eagle watching opportunities! Nearly two dozen public watches have been scheduled at conservation areas this winter. Take advantage of these tours to see our nation’s symbol at our lakes and rivers and learn more about bald eagle ecology and their recovery story.
Get watch details at travelok.com
Oklahoma's Wildlife to Benefit from 2018 Tax Return
Tax season is just around the corner and this year’s tax return can help our nongame wildlife! Oklahomans receiving a refund in tax year 2018 can contribute all or a part of the refund to the Wildlife Department’s Wildlife Diversity Fund. These donations can nearly triple in value when they are leveraged against federal wildlife funds, allowing biologists to spend more time in the field learning about our wildlife.
The Wildlife Department and it's Wildlife Diversity Program do not receive general state tax appropriates. We are funded by the sale of hunting and fishing license, federal Wildlife and Sportfish Restoration Program grants and private donations.
Look for this donation opportunity on Schedule 511-H or make a year-end, tax-deductible donation at wildlifedepartment.com
Wildlife Friendly Holiday Crafts by the Dozen
Looking for a holiday craft that will reap wildlife rewards? The Habitat Network shared a dozen projects that are great for a nature-loving family … and provide habitat for backyard wildlife! From a simple water dish to wildlife woodworking designs, crafts come with easy to follow instructions and a downloadable tip sheet.
Get crafting with these 12 wildlife-themed creations
Calendar of Events
Project Feeder Watch
Nov. 10 - April 5
Sutton Award Scholarship Program (Grades 10-12)
Submission period for artwork and essay: Dec. 1 - Jan. 10
Christmas Bird Count
Dec. 14, 2018 - Jan. 5, 2019
Duck! Duck! Goose! & Hawks! Tour
Jan. 12, 2019 Hackberry Flat Center
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