Lehigh Valley Wild

Pennsylvania's second spring gobbler tag available now

Pennsylvania hunters who would like the opportunity to harvest a second spring gobbler can purchase a second spring gobbler tag until

midnight on April 20, according to Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe. In fact, thanks to the Pennsylvania Automated License System (PALS), hunters can purchase a second spring gobbler tag at any issuing agent or through the agency’s website.

Roe cautioned that those who plan to purchase the second spring gobbler tag through the agency’s website should expect to wait seven to 10 days for shipping, depending on the volume of other online purchases. Also, all sales of the second spring gobbler tag will cease at midnight on April 20, which is the day before the one-day season for junior license holders and those participating in the Mentored Youth Hunting Program.

“Prior to the implementation of PALS, hunters had to wait until Jan. 1 before submitting a license application for the second spring gobbler tag, and then wait for the agency to mail the license back to them,” Roe said. “The old process was necessary to enable the agency to spread out the administrative workload of processing and handling licenses for the fall hunting seasons.

“However, thanks to PALS, hunters can now purchase the second spring gobbler tag at any issuing agent and walk out of the store with the license in hand, or they can purchase it online and wait for it to be mailed to them within 10 days.”

Roe noted that all general hunting license holders are able to take one spring gobbler as part of their general hunting privileges; the second spring gobbler tag license affords those hunters interested in this additional opportunity to take a second spring gobbler. Hunters may only purchase one second spring gobbler license during a license year, as the season limit remains two spring gobblers, and the daily harvest is one bird per day.

“So, if you are looking for that application in your digest or online to mail in, you won’t find it,” Roe said. “You can just purchase the special spring gobbler license either through the Game Commission’s website or visit your local license issuing agent.”

Fees set by state law for the special license are $21.70 for residents and $41.70 for nonresidents. For online orders, there are additional shipping and handling costs.

The 2012 spring gobbler season is set to run from April 28-May 31. Legal hunting hours for the opening day of the spring gobbler season through the third Saturday (April 28-May 12) will be one-half hour before sunrise until noon; the remainder of the season (May 14-31) will have legal shooting hours of one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset.

The one-day Spring Gobbler Youth Hunt will be held on April 21, and will run from one-half hour before sunrise until noon.

To Connect with Wildlife, visit the Game Commission at the following:
Website: www.pgc.state.pa.us
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PAGameComm
YouTube: www.youtube.com/pagamecommission
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PennsylvaniaGameCommission

Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show starts Feb. 4, corrections to proposed seasons and bag limits

Due to an editing error, the wrong starting date for the 2012 Eastern Sports and Outdoors Show at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg was listed in the newspaper on Tuesday. The correct start date is Saturday, Feb. 4. The show runs through Sunday, Feb. 12.

In addition, dates for some of the 20-12-13 seasons and bag limits proposed by the Pa. Game Commission were incorrect in the original online post. The correct proposed seasons and bag limits for the 2012-13 hunting and trapping seasons are as follows:

Game Commission proposes seasons, bag limits; permanent use of crossbows

Bear hunters in local WIldlife Management Unit 5C, which includes the majority of Lehigh and Northampton counties, got good news from the Pennsylvania Game Commission's board of commission's quarterly meeting on Tuesday.

The board gave preliminary approval to

extend bear season in 5C to include all deer seasons from September through early November.

"Pennsylvania’s black bear population is larger and more widely distributed than ever, and bear-human incidents are becoming commonplace, especially in more developed areas,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Continued expansion of residential development into areas occupied by black bears has resulted in more frequent sightings and encounters between people and bears.

“In WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D, all with relatively high human population densities, there currently are low bear densities. The Game Commission wants to continue to have a minimum number of bears, and the agency wants hunters to have an opportunity to play an important role in bear population management in these urban/suburban areas.”

The preliminary approval took place during the agency's first quarterly meeting of the season, which took place at the PGC headquarters on Elmerton Ave. in Harrisburg.

If the proposal is approved in April, bear hunters will be able to participate in an archery bear season in WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D from Sept. 15-28; in WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D from Sept. 29 until Nov. 10; a muzzleloader bear season in WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D from Oct. 13-20; a firearms bear season in WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D, from Nov. 26-Dec. 8. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

The board also elected Ralph Martone of New Castle, Lawrence County, as the president for the next year, Robert Schlemmer of Export, Westmoreland County as vice president, and retianed Dave Putnam of Centre Hall, Centre County as secretary.

Crossbows have been proposed to become permanent weapons for use in bear and deer seasons.
Also, in an effort to help farmers whose crops are being decimated by deer, the board has given preliminary approval for the use of "baiting" during all deer hunting seasons in WMUs 5C and 5D on approved properties enrolled in the agency’s Agricultural Damage Depredation Program, commonly referred to as the “Red Tag” program.

“If adopted in April, this new regulation will allow the focused use of bait on those farms most in need of deer control assistance through their enrollment in the ‘Red Tag’ program,” said Carl G. Roe, agency executive director. “Presently, farmers applying to enroll in the Red Tag program need to include in their application justification for the need to use bait. What this regulatory change would do is allow hunters on these properties to use bait during any legal deer season in addition to the ‘Red Tag’ seasons for antlerless deer, which are from Feb. 1 to May 15, and July 1 to Sept. 28.”

Farmers enrolled in the “Red Tag” program are provided with a specific number of antlerless deer permits, which are red in color. Farmers then give these permits to hunters to harvest antlerless deer from Feb. 1 to Sept. 28 each calendar year, excluding Sundays, during the hours of dawn to dusk only. The permits are not valid from May 16 to June 30, and can’t be used to take bucks.

Fall turkey season will once again be closed in WMU 5C under the proposals, but spring turkey season will be allowed.

The complete list of proposed seasons and bag limits is as follows:

PROPOSED 2012-13 HUNTING SEASONS AND BAG LIMITS

SQUIRRELS, Red, Gray, Black and Fox (Combined): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with or without required license, and mentored youth – Oct. 6-12 (6 daily, 12 in possession limit after first day).

SQUIRRELS, Red, Gray, Black and Fox (Combined): Oct. 13-Nov. 24; Dec. 10-24 and Dec. 26-Feb. 23 (6 daily, 12 possession).

RUFFED GROUSE: Oct. 13–Nov. 24, Dec. 10-24 and Dec. 26-Jan. 26 (2 daily, 4 possession).

RABBIT (Cottontail): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with or without required license: Oct. 6-13 (4 daily, 8 possession).

RABBIT (Cottontail): Oct. 20-Nov. 24, Dec. 10-24 and Dec. 26-Feb. 23 (4 daily, 8 possession).

PHEASANT: Special season for eligible junior hunters, with or without required license – Oct. 6-13 (2 daily, 4 in possession). Male pheasants only in WMUs 2A, 2C, 4C, 4E, 5A and 5B. Male and female pheasants may be taken in all other WMUs. There is no open season for the taking of pheasants in any Wild Pheasant Recovery Areas in any WMU.

PHEASANT: Male only in WMUs 2A, 2C, 4C, 4E, 5A and 5B – Oct. 20-Nov. 24. Male and female may be taken in all other WMUs – Oct. 20-Nov. 24, Dec. 10-24 and Dec. 26-Feb. 2 (2 daily, 4 in possession). There is no open season for the taking of pheasants in any Wild Pheasant Recovery Areas in any WMU.

BOBWHITE QUAIL: Oct. 20-Nov. 24 (4 daily, 8 possession). (Closed in WMUs 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D.)

HARES (SNOWSHOE RABBITS) OR VARYING HARES: Dec. 26–Jan. 1 (1 daily, 2 possession).

WOODCHUCKS (GROUNDHOGS): No closed season, except: Sundays; during the regular firearms deer seasons. No limit.

PORCUPINES: Sept. 1-March 31, except during overlap with the regular firearms deer season. Daily limit of three, season limit of 10.

CROWS: July 1-April 7, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday only. No limit.

STARLINGS AND ENGLISH SPARROWS: No closed season, except during the antlered and antlerless deer season. No limit.

WILD TURKEY (Male or Female): WMU 2B (Shotgun and bow and arrow) – Oct. 27-Nov. 16 and Nov. 22-24; WMUs 1A, 1B, 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, 4A, 4B and 4D – Oct. 27-Nov. 10 and Nov. 22-24; WMUs 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4C and 4E – Oct. 27-Nov. 16 and Nov. 22-24; WMU 5A – Oct. 30-Nov. 1; WMUs 5B, 5C and 5D – CLOSED TO FALL TURKEY HUNTING.

SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with required license, and mentored youth – April 20, 2013. Only 1 spring gobbler may be taken during this hunt.

SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): April 27-May 31, 2013. Daily limit 1, season limit 2. (Second spring gobbler may be only taken by persons who possess a valid special wild turkey license.) From April 27-May 11, legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until noon; from May 13-31, legal hunting hours are one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset.

BLACK BEAR (Statewide) Archery: Nov. 12-16. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

BLACK BEAR (Statewide): Nov. 17, and Nov. 19-21. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

BLACK BEAR (WMUs 3D, 4C, 4D and 4E): Nov. 28-Dec. 1. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

BLACK BEAR (Designated Areas): Nov. 26-Dec. 1. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.
- WMUs 3A and 3C;
- Portions of WMU 3B, East of Rt. 14 from Troy to Canton, East of Rt. 154 from Canton to Rt. 220 at Laporte and East of Rt. 42 from Laporte to Rt. 118 and that portion of 4E, East of Rt. 42; and
- Portions of WMUs 2G in Lycoming and Clinton counties and 3B in Lycoming County that lie North of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River from the Rt. 405 Bridge, West to Rt. 15 at Williamsport, Rt. 15 to Rt. 220, and North of Rt. 220 to the Mill Hall exit, North of SR 2015 to Rt. 150; East of Rt. 150 to Lusk Run Rd. and South of Lusk Run Rd. to Rt. 120, Rt. 120 to Veterans Street Bridge to SR 1001; East of SR 1001 to Croak Hollow Rd., South of Croak Hollow Rd. to Rt. 664 (at Swissdale), South of Rt. 664 to Little Plum Rd. (the intersection of SR 1003), South of SR 1003 to SR 1006, South of SR 1006 to Sulphur Run Rd., South of Sulphur Run Rd. to Rt. 44, East of Rt. 44 to Rt. 973, South of Rt. 973 to Rt. 87, West of Rt. 87 to Rt. 864, South of Rt. 864 to Rt. 220 and West of Rt. 220 to Rt. 405 and West of Rt. 405 to the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.

BLACK BEAR (WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D) archery: Sept. 15-Sept. 28. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

BLACK BEAR (WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D) archery: Sept. 29-Nov. 10. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

BLACK BEAR (WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D) muzzleloader: Oct. 13-20. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

BLACK BEAR (WMUs 1A, 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D): Nov. 26-Dec. 8. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.

ELK (Antlered or Antlerless): Nov. 5-10. Only one elk may be taken during the license year.

ELK, EXTENDED (Antlered and Antlerless): Nov. 12-17. Only one elk may be taken during the license year. Eligible elk license recipients who haven’t harvested an elk by Nov. 6, in designated areas.

Elk, Special Conservation Tag (Antlered or Antlerless): Sept. 1-Nov. 10. One elk tag for one antlered or antlerless elk will be auctioned at the Safari Club International Banquet.

DEER, ARCHERY (Antlerless Only) WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D: Sept. 15-28, and Nov. 12-24. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ARCHERY (Antlered and Antlerless) WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D: Jan. 14-26. One antlered deer per hunting license year. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ARCHERY (Antlered and Antlerless) Statewide: Sept. 29-Nov. 10 and Dec. 26-Jan. 12. One antlered deer per hunting license year. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER (Antlered and Antlerless) WMUs 1A, 1B, 2B, 3A, 3D, 4A, 4C, 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D: Nov. 26-Dec. 8. One antlered deer per hunting license year. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER (Antlered Only) WMUs 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3B, 3C, 4B, 4D and 4E: Nov. 26-30. One antlered deer per hunting license year. (Holders of valid DMAP antlerless deer permits may harvest antlerless deer on DMAP properties during this period.)

DEER (Antlered and Antlerless) WMUs 2A, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3B, 3C, 4B, 4D and 4E: Dec. 1-8. One antlered deer per hunting license year. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ANTLERLESS (Statewide): Oct. 18-20. Junior and Senior License Holders, Disabled Person Permit (to use a vehicle) Holders, and Pennsylvania residents serving on active duty in U.S. Armed Services or in the U.S. Coast Guard only, with required antlerless license. Also included are persons who have reached or will reach their 65th birthday in the year of the application for a license and hold a valid adult license, or qualify for license and fee exemptions under section 2706. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ANTLERLESS MUZZLELOADER (Statewide): Oct. 13-20. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ANTLERED OR ANTLERLESS FLINTLOCK (Statewide): Dec. 26-Jan. 12. One antlered deer per hunting license year, or one antlerless deer and an additional antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ANTLERED OR ANTLERLESS FLINTLOCK (WMUs 2B, 5C, 5D): Dec. 26-Jan. 26. One antlered deer per hunting license year, or one antlerless deer and an additional antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, Antlerless (WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D): Dec. 26-Jan. 26. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

DEER, ANTLERLESS (Military Bases): Hunting permitted on days established by the U.S. Department of the Army at Letterkenny Army Depot, Franklin County; New Cumberland Army Depot, York County; and Fort Detrick, Raven Rock Site, Adams County. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

PROPOSED 2012-13 FURBEARER HUNTING SEASONS
COYOTES: No closed season. Unlimited. Outside of any big game season (deer, bear, elk and turkey), coyotes may be taken with a hunting license or a furtaker license, and without wearing orange. During any big game season, coyotes may be taken while lawfully hunting big game or with a furtakers license.

RACCOON and FOXES: Oct. 20–Feb. 16, unlimited.

OPOSSUM, SKUNKS and WEASELS: No closed season, except Sundays. No limits.

BOBCAT (WMUs 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4A, 4C, 4D and 4E): Jan. 15-Feb. 5. One bobcat per license year, but all licensed furtakers may obtain one permit.

PROPOSED 2012-13 TRAPPING SEASONS
MINK and MUSKRAT: Nov. 17–Jan. 6. Unlimited.

COYOTE, FOXES, OPOSSUM, RACCOON, SKUNKS and WEASELS: Oct. 21–Feb. 17. No limit.

COYOTE and FOXES (Statewide) Cable Restraints: Dec. 26-Feb. 17. No limit. Participants must pass cable restraint certification course.

BEAVER (Statewide): Dec. 26–March 31 (Limits vary depending on WMU).

BOBCAT (WMUs 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4A, 4C, 4D and 4E): Dec. 15-Jan. 6. One bobcat per license year, and all licensed furtakers may obtain one permit.

FISHER (WMUs 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G and 4D): Dec. 15-20. One fisher per license year, and all licensed furtakers may obtain one permit.

PROPOSED 2012-13 FALCONRY SEASONS
SQUIRRELS (combined), BOBWHITE QUAIL, RUFFED GROUSE, COTTONTAIL RABBITS, SNOWSHOE OR VARYING HARE, RINGNECK PHEASANT (Male or Female combined): Sept. 1-March 31. Daily and Field Possession limits vary. (Migratory game bird seasons and bag limits for falconers will be set in accordance with federal regulations in August.)

No open season on other wild birds or mammals. Waterfowl and Migratory Game Bird seasons will be established in accordance with Federal Regulations this summer.

NHL looks to preserve rivers with new program

The 2012 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic in Philadelphia marked the first-ever water-balanced Winter Classic in League history. Last season, the NHL restored the water

footprint associated with the 2011 Stanley Cup Final by tracking consumption at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena and Boston’s TD Garden throughout the seven-game series. The League replenished over one million gallons of water to dewatered sections of the Deschutes River.

As part of its commitment to maintaining healthy ecosystems that foster recreation and youth participation in sport, NHL Green™ has introduced Gallons for Goals™, a season-long commitment focusing on the issue of freshwater scarcity. The National Hockey League Foundation (NHLF) has pledged to restore 1,000 gallons of water to a critically dewatered river for every goal scored during the 2011-12 regular season.

The Foundation will support the Bonneville Environmental Foundation’s
(BEF) Water Restoration Certificate Program to help restore streamflow to Oregon’s Deschutes River. The watercourse is a scenic gem with the potential to support world-class recreation and functioning aquatic ecosystems. Today, however, the region is plagued by disruptions in stream flow which have degraded habitats, resulting in poor water quality and a decline in the overall health of the river.

"Water is in the DNA of the NHL," said Bernadette Mansur, Senior Vice President NHL Green and Executive Director of the NHL Foundation. "Many of our players grow up skating on frozen ponds. Freshwater scarcity affects their opportunity to learn and play the game outdoors."

The NHL Foundation expects Gallons for Goals to raise consciousness about water scarcity issues and encourage water conservation by fans, players and its teams across North America. Fans can track the initiative’s progress on NHL.com/green.

"The NHL is taking an extraordinary step to raise awareness among its enormous fan base about the freshwater crisis," said Todd Reeve, Chief Executive Officer at BEF. "This presents an unprecedented opportunity to engage fans, encourage conservation and make a meaningful difference to a critically dewatered ecosystem."

The NHL also is working to actively reduce water consumption in team facilities. The League has developed and implemented NHL Metrics, an online tool designed for all 30 teams’ venues to track and analyze data specific to waste output, energy usage and water consumption. NHL Metrics encourages a behavioral change in NHL venues across North America, reducing hockey’s environmental impact by increasing awareness of the resources used and the financial costs incurred.

After Feb. 13, Pa.hunters will no longer have to display hunting license

Pa. Gov. Tom Corbett signed into law today a bill that removes the requirements for hunters and trappers to display their license on an outer garment.

House Bill 735 unanimously passed in the

House on June 15, and passed in the senate by a 46-3 vote. Corbett signed the bill into law today, and it will take effect in 60 days, which is Feb. 13. the bill was sponsored byu sponsored by Rep. Keith Gillespie (R-York).

“Since 2003, the Game Commission has been supporting various drafts of legislation sponsored by Rep. Gillespie and Rep. Neal Goodman (D-Schuylkill) to remove this antiquated requirement,” Pa. Game Commission executive director Carl G. Roe said. “With today’s new license format, this change in law will make hunting less complicated, improve license management by hunters and trappers, and limit the inconveniences and troubles associated with lost or misplaced licenses.

“While we are pleased with the change in law, it is important to remember that the new law doesn’t take effect for 60 days. So, hunters and trappers will need to continue to wear their licenses on an outer garment until Feb. 13.”

2011 Holiday Gift Guide for Snow Sports

With Blue Mountain Ski Area in Palmerton (www.skibluemountain.com) opening up for the season this morning, active outdoor enthusiasts like skiers and snowboarders are all revved up for snow.

While Mother Nature hasn’t obliged us with the white stuff since her Halloween trick earlier this year, snowmaking and grooming has been taking place at Blue Mountain since last week.

Camelback Ski Area in Tannersville (www.skicamelback.com) is

also scheduled to open Friday morning
Bear Creek is making snow and doesn’t have an opening date set just yet, but is encouraging everyone to check its website at www.bcmountainresort.com for up-to-date information.

Jack Frost (www.jfbb.com) is opening Saturday (Big Boulder has been open since last Saturday), and Sno Mountain near Moosic (www.snomtn.com) plans to open Saturday. Elk Mountain in Union Dale (www.elsksier.com) has been open.

Getting out on the slopes before Hanukkah and Christmas is a great way to think about what to buy the snow sports enthusiast on your gift list this month.

While helmets, goggles, thermal underwear and new outerwear are certainly great gift ideas, there is an initiative to buy local and buy U.S. this season in order to help the ailing jobs market, so finding U.S. made items should be a priority, although that is getting more difficult to do in the wake of the global economy.

One way to spend local would be to purchase lift passes for that special someone on your list, either for the season or for single use. The big discount season pass purchase period ended a while ago, but it’s still a gift that will keep on giving through January and February, and hopefully until at least early March. You can even book a family day trip or family ski weekend as the gift.

Also, check out joining a local ski club like Mack Ski Club (www.mackskiclub.com) or Ptarmigan Ski Club (www.ptarmiganskiclub.org). The inexpensive memberships for individuals and families provide deep discounts to some of the local ski areas, group trips, second-hand sales. Membership activities continue year-round, not just in the winter. You will also find some great camaraderie as a member of club.

And, if you’re giving that gift to someone who has never skied or boarded, January is National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, so there will be plenty of deals and incentives to take a lesson on the slopes next month.

You’ll want to stay dry on the slopes, and the new Compound Neoshell Weatherproof Pant from Nonetheless Garments (www.nonethelessgarments.com) are trouser styled with a Polartec® NeoShell that features twice the air flow as other waterproof materials. Slim cut with a gusseted crotch for more freedom of movement, these five-pocket must-haves cost $258.

Of course, base layer thermal wear is also a great, and the moisture-wicking properties of the various fabrics keep getting better and better each year.

A lot of people like to wear backpacks while on the slopes or Nordic skiing to hold lunch, snacks, drinks and extra garments while on the go. The Mission Workshop Waxed canvas – Limited Edition Weatherproof Rucksack is a throwback to the days when waxed canvas was all the rage for waterproofing. This lightweight daypack has large zippered pockets and is capable of carrying a laptop on the go. Best of all, it’s made in the USA, and costs $219, which is a small price to pay for true waterproof efficiency when trekking about in the snow and cold.

Of course, you’ll want to remember those special snowy memories that you create on the slopes, and the SeaLife Mini II (www.sealife-cameras.com) is an ideal camera to take out on the slopes or in the snow because it’s made for underwater use and is considered adventure proof because it is both waterproof (operates to depths of 130 feet below the surface) and shockproof (six foot drop tested).

It’s got rubber coating for a great grip in gloves, an external flash mode, 2.4-inch LCD screen and a 30-frames-per-second video mode with sound, and runs on two AAA batteries. It lists at $259.95 and has additional accessories including a mini wide angle lens.

On the slopes, or even snowshoeing and cross country skiing, more and more people tuning out their surroundings by tuning in to their music.

The Armpocket (www.ampocket.com) is a weatherproof, sweat-proof armband that has three pockets holds your mobile phone, MP3 player plus keys, credit cards, IDs, energy bars and a host of necessities so that you don’t have to keep reaching into your jacket or pants pockets. Best of all, the see-through front window acts as a touch screen for your mobile or music device, and it costs less than $35.

It’s made from eco-friendly material, comes in two strap sizes to fit any arm, and comes in six colors with reflective piping to make sure you’ve got some visibility to others in the dark.

Instead of a traditional corded headphone, most people are switching to hands-free, wireless Bluetooth listening devices.

The Jabra SPORT (www.jabra.com) wrap around your ears and include different size ear gels for a custom fit. For $99, you get not only crystal-clear sound and definitive bass reproduction, but the unit includes an FM radio. It’s made of military grade material so it’s rain, dust and shook resistant.

Another cool, customizable fit set of Bluetooth enabled headphones is JayBird’s Freedom Bluetooth earbuds (www.jaybirdgear.com), also at $99. These come with several different sets of ear cushions for a secure fit if you don’t like that wrap-around the ears feeling, and also offer great musical response.
Both sets of headphones also include a microphone in the ear sets so that you can seamlessly go from listening to music to answering your phone.

To operate your touch-screen phone or music player in the cold, you made need a set of touch Screen Gloves from STbands (STbands.com). These gloves cost just $29.95 and have contact points on the fingers that mimic human touch to control the touch screen on your electronic device, all while keeping your fingers comfy cozy warm.

In addition to skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there is also sledding. I plugged this item last year and it’s such a cool ride, I’m mentioning the Zipfy (pronounced zipfee) again (www.zipfy.com). Designed to hold people up to 250 pounds, it’s lightweight and perfect for sledders of all ages, and costs in the $30 range, so you don’t have to break the bank to have fun. You sit on it with legs slightly raised, and use your heels to slow down, or pull back on the steering stick and dig the back end in for quicker breaking ability.

There are plenty of other gift ideas like goggles, sun glasses, helmets and hats that will be welcome by the snow sports lover on your list. Have fun choosing, and have fun in the snow and the cold this season!

2011 Holiday Gift Guide for the Outdoors

Welcome to the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide for the Outdoors. Some of these items will be repeated on Friday for the 2011 Snow Sports Gift Guide, but check out some of the items below and you may just find the perfect gift for the outdoors lover on your holiday gift list.

Inside the tent or outside on the trail, campers have been switching from traditional sleeping bags to

Selk’bags (www.selkbagusa.com). The 4G Lite Selk’Bag looks like a sleek abominable snowman suit complete with hood and slitted mitts for the hands. The reinforced nylon soles make it ideal for walking. It is made of ripstop water resistant fabric for use indoors or out, and is ideal for camping, car travel, tailgating and even indoors.

I've used this while hunting to warm up after the cooldown from walking to my stand on frigid mornings, wearing my orange vest of course. I've only used it in drier hunting conditions, so I can't attest to its waterproof properties, but it definitely helps take the chill off and is rugged enough for sitting on stand or in the bleachers during a football game, or say, the 2012 NHL Winter Classic in Philadelphia on Jan. 2. At $99, it's a keep-warm bargain.

Keeping your head warm and path lighted has been solved by those LED brim lights and headlamps, but Ergodyne (www.ergodyne.com) has a rugged solution. The N-Ferno® Warming Product Line includes the new 6850LED and 6852LED 2-Layer Winter Liners with LED Lighted Brim.
Exclusive to Ergodyne, these new liners with state-of-the-art LEDs, offer
hands-free lighting all while keeping you warm duriung winter hunting and ice fishing, or even winter stream fishing, especially in low light conditions when you don't have an extra hand for a flashlight.The winter liners feature a 2-layer cotton/fleece liner.

The problem with most outdoor gloves is that they're not designed for movement, so if your hands get sweaty, sometimes the gloves make it worse than wearing no gloves at all. The new ProFlex® 813 Fleece Utility Gloves ( www.ergodyne.com) are designed for work, and they're equally up to the challenge of keeping your hands wamr and draw whether you;re grasping ski poles or out on a winter hike. They're also abrasion resistant, which every outdoors-person covets.

Another way to keep your hands warm is with a muff like the Pro-text (TM) TextPac (TM) (www.textpac.com) that
allows hunters to keep their hands warm while using smart phones, iPods and GPS devices. Hunters can drop down the clear screen flap to use their enclosed electronic devices.

Yet another way to stay warm is buy starting a campfire or standing next to a cooking fire. Start it with the new Looftlighter (R) (www.looftusa.com) which can flameup fire materialmade of wood or charcoal in under a minute. At $79.95, it's a bit pricey, but super dependable.

If you're camping, cross country skiing or just plain hanging out in the outdoors, Jetboil (www.jetboil) has a variety of products to fast boil things like coffee, hot chocolate or cook Winter is in the air and warm food is top of mind. Flash™ ($99.95), like all of Jetboil’s innovative systems, is an all-in-one design, combining burner and cooking vessel in one compact unit. Everything you need is stacked and stored inside the 1.0 liter cooking cup. The system lights with the click of a button and within two minutes provides two cups of boiling water for cocoa, coffee, instant soup or a gourmet freeze-dried meal. The newly designed burner secures the igniter, protecting it from bumps along the road.
Helios ($149.95) is the most efficient high capacity system available for outdoor cooking. Helioslights quickly and reliably with the click of a button,and heats consistentlydown to the last drop of fuel. Helios is an all-in-one cooking system that covers the gamut, from melting snow to prepping robust meals for you and your crew.

If you're camping, winter or summer, damp ground and sandy ground can be a pain in your joints and abrasive on your gear. Even though you are supposed to be roughing it when you are camping, hunting, fishing and enjoying the outdoors, storing your gear in the sand or sleeping in a tent at night with a layer of dirt on the floor does not have to be part of the experience any more. CGear’s Sand-Free Rug (www.cgear-sandfree.com) is the modern world’s technological replacement for the standard tent footprint or groundcover tarp. The unique patented construction of the Sand-Free Rug allows sand and dirt to fall through the mesh without coming back up, creating a sand, dirt and dust-free environment even in the toughest conditions

For ice fishing 2011-12, Frabill (www.frabill.com) is putting the ‘Arctic’ back in fleece with the FXE Windproof Fleece Jacket. It stands next to the outwear industry’s other pioneers and elite quality advocates like Marmot, Patagonia and The North Face, but does so in angling fashion. , Frabill’s new jacket is fully windproof, treated with a special laminate to cut crisp winter crosswinds. An extended height collar keeps that same frosty air off your neck. Under rigorous testing, the FXE Windproof Fleece Jacket provided enough warmth and wind protection in most conditions to perform as standalone outerwear, even without an outer shell parka.$129.95, a bit more for 2XL and 3XL. There's also a Frabill Suit which is a combination bib and jacket set that is lighter than last year's rave hit Icesuit.

Staying dry is equally important, and even though today's fabrics have all kinds of weatherporoofing built in, they weather-worthiness wears down over time. Enter the KIWI® system (www.kiwistaydry.com) to keep things weatherproof. KIWI® Camp Dry® Heavy Duty Water Repellent
creates a tough waterproof barrier that keeps you dry – even in the harshest conditions. Use it on your favorite outdoor boots. KIWI® Camp Dry®Performance Fabric Protector
allows you to make the most of your outdoor adventures without worrying about the elements. Its non-silicone formula repels water, dirt, and oil stains without discoloring your fabrics – and restores durable water repellency to ensure you stay dry. It's ideal for jackets, hats, scarves and gloves. KIWI® Saddle Soap is specially formulated with a fine soap toap thoroughly cleans, softens and preserves smooth leather. It also contains a quality wax for added protection as it cleans. KIWI® Outdoor Laces keep your outdoor boots adventure-ready. They're braided for extra durability.

Every angler, and even a hunter or hiker, can benefit from "The Snip” – Boomerang Tool Company’s (www.boomerangtool.com) innovative new retractable line-cutting device. Bassmaster Magazine named it as one of the “50 Best Products for 2012.” In addition to delivering precision performance and unsurpassed durability, The Snip is priced to fit any angler’s budget. Boomerang offers a model with a built-in LED light ($14.95) or a non-lighted version ($11.95). The Snip makes a perfect “stocking stuffer.”

Now that I'm in my 50s, the simple things in life like tying knots and reading fine print are no longer simple. I wear contact lenses and can't wear one weaker than the other because my left eye is dominant, and the weaker lens in the right eye limits my peripheral vision on that side while I'm driving, especially at night. I've grown accustomed to wearing readers, but they can literally be a pain (talking sunburn below the eyes) when you're fishing. Enter the Ernest Hemingay Waloon polarized add power (reader) sunglasses (www.onos.com), named after a lake in Michigan where the Hemingways had a vacation home. The tortoise colored TR-90 memory-flex frame features Italiian spring flex hinges, rubber non-slip nose pads and a rubber brow for shock absorption.The amber color is ideal for almost every condition. The reader powers come in 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5, and there is alos a single vision version available. I've found the full covering of the eyes particualrly helpful, with a plentiful yet non-obstrusive reader area that doesn't mess you up when driving. They retail for 189.99.

As long as we're talking fishing, check out the Lunkerhunt Education Fishing Kits (www.lunkerhunt.com), a smart idea that helps beginners and experts to catch the most sought after fish. The trilingual kits contain Pro-Knowledge Handbooks to learn species specific instructions/tips, rigging instructions/tips and fishing instructions/tips. Users can choose between 24 different Educational kits that are available in 4 categories; Bass, Panfish & Trout, Predator Fish and Multi-Species. Kits start at just $6.49.

Energizer (www.energizer.com) has new lights this year that can literally light up the night -- or early morning -- for you. The Energizer Brilliant Beam LED Headlight ($32.49) features spot, flood and red night vision modes with a top output of 70 lumens. the head lamp pivots to 90 degrees.

The Energizer High Intensity LED Flashlight ($37.99) IS A 130-lumen white LED light that casts a beam 90 meters ling. The Energizer Carabine LED Area Light is a light stick-type design that clips onto a back pack for hands-free use. The Energizer LED Safety Flasher ($7.49) has an 80-per-minute flash mode with a 50-hour life on two 2032 lithium button cell batteries and clips to clothing backpacks and more.

People communicate in the outdoors mostly through cell phones today, but portable walkie talkies are perfect for when the cell reception is poor. The Motorola Talkabout MS350R Radios (www.motorola.com) are ideal for use when out of cell phone range at the cabin, on the trail, hunting, camping, skiing, paddling and fishing. These just launched in August and feature reliable two-way communications, up to a 35 mile range, flashlight, 8 repeater channels, hands-free capability, seven NOAA weather channels and are not just completely waterproof, but float, which is a first for Motorola and a perfect gift for the outdoor lovers on the list this holiday. They list at $99.99 for a pair, which includes the charger.

Dozens of “wild” holiday gifts for that hunter, trapper or wildlife fan on your list are just a click away at “The Outdoor Shop” on the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us).

All revenues generated from these items support the Game Commission’s wildlife management programs. Created in 1895 to restore Pennsylvania’s wildlife, the Game Commission is responsible for managing all wild birds and mammals, as well as the 1.4 million acres of State Game Lands it has purchased over the years with hunting and furtaking license dollars to safeguard wildlife habitat. The Game Commission does not receive any general state tax dollars.

One gift that’s always in demand is the agency’s full-color calendar, which sells for $8.95. The 2012 calendar features a year’s worth of dramatic wildlife photos taken by current and retired agency employees.

For the hunter on your list, check out the Stoney Point V-Yoke Rapid Pivot Bipod and Tripod systems(www.stoneypoint.com) to steady a shooter's aim. The pivot tilts up to 45 degrees and circles a full 360, and th elegs feature a posi-lock adjustment to keep your aim true.

Do you like carrying a Smart Phone in your pocket but can't tell your phone from your wallet when you reach down? Try the Callet (phone case + wallet = personal item organization) (www.callet.com). From running errands to biking or outdoor recreation, the Callet has compartments to securely hold personal ID, keys, credit cards and money without the added bulk of a traditional wallet. They cost $19.99 and are compatible with iPhone, BlackBerry and Android.

Abu Garcia Revo MGX
Fishing's lightest reel is the hottest item on anglers' holiday wish lists this year. The new 5.4-ounce Revo MGX from Abu Garcia (AbuGarcia.com) is the lightest low-profile baitcast reel on the market, featuring a sleek and compact design, one-piece X-Mag magnesium alloy frame and C-6 carbon-infused sideplates. Available in 7.1:1 or 7.9:1 gear ratios, the MGX can also be externally adjusted to match bait sizes with its Infinitely Variable Centrifugal Brake system. (800-228-4272, $349.95)

Coleman Instant Tents
Save valuable recreation time for the camper in your life with one of the acclaimed Instant Tents from Coleman (Coleman.com). Available in 4-, 6- and 8-person sizes, the cabin-style Coleman Instant Tents are durable and spacious yet set up or tear down in a minute or less. Featuring pre-attached poles secured to ultra-durable 150D tent fabric, the Instant Tent needs only to be removed from its bag, unfolded and have its poles clicked into place. (800-835-3278, $135.99-$239.99)

Smith & Wesson M&P22
Whether training or just spending a day at the range, the new Smith & Wesson (Smith-Wesson.com) M&P22 pistol will give you centerfire training at inexpensive rimfire prices. The new addition to the popular line of semi-auto pistols was developed by the .22 experts at Walther, Germany, and combines the look, feel and familiar operating features of the trusted M&P Pistol Series. It is designed to accommodate left and right-handed shooters with its ambidextrous manual safety, slide stop and reversible magazine release. (800-331-0852, $419.00)

Smith and Wesson M&P15 Sport
Who says you can't own an M&P15 and save money too? During this holiday season fulfill your AR-15 enthusiast's dreams with the new Smith & Wesson (Smith-Wesson.com) M&P15 Sport. An extension to the popular M&P 15 tactical rifle line, the M&P15 Sport has accurate 5R rifling, a durable Melonite barrel, adjustable sights, single-stage trigger and is chambered for the 5.56 NATO. Backed by Smith & Wesson's reputation for high quality components and consistent reliability, the M&P15 Sport's price tag is a bargain. (800-331-0852, $739.00)

EoTech XPS3 Holographic Weapon Sight
This is EoTech's shortest holographic model yet! Using a single 123 battery, this sight has a longer battery life than N-cell styles. The EOTech XPS3 (eotech.com) is always fast with three reticle options plus is smaller and lighter to allow more rail space than ever for rear iron sights or NV mount. State-of-the-art digital electronics design with twenty brightness levels ensures a proper brightness control in either low light or very bright sunlight. All electronics are fully encapsulated in shock absorbing resin compound. (888-EOT-HOLO, starting at $559)

Berkley Classics Mini Line Spooler
Give the angler in your life the gift of more time on the water with the Mini Line Spooler from Berkley (Berkley-Fishing.com). The Mini Line Spooler allows anglers to spool line onto reels without the hassles of line twists and unwanted loops or the need for a second person. Compact enough to store in a tackle box, the Mini Line Spooler attaches to any rod and can be adjusted to the desired tension to keep line tight. (800-237-5539, $4.99)

Encore & Thousand Trails Ready Camp Go! Plus Card

Get the outdoor enthusiast in your life the gift of experiencing some of the nation's premier outdoor destinations with the Ready Camp Go! Plus Card from Encore and Thousand Trails. Available for $49 for a 12-month term, the Ready Camp Go! Plus Card offers 15 nights of camping at $25 per night, and will make your camping experience easier and more affordable than ever. (See website for terms and conditions at www.ReadyCampGo.com or call 877-877-0703).

Coleman Portable Propane Coffeemaker with Stainless Steel Carafe

The outdoor enthusiast in your life will savor the flavor of camp coffee for years to come with the new Portable Propane Coffeemaker with Stainless Steel Carafe from Coleman (Coleman.com). Using a standard 16.4-oz. propane cylinder, this easy-to-use coffeemaker generates 4,500 BTU, delivering 10 cups of coffee in 18 minutes. Featuring the InstaStart auto ignition button and removable filter basket for easy cleaning, eliminates the need for cords, percolators and stoves to keep campers caffeinated. (800-835-3278, $89.99).

Sharp knives are a must for the outdoors. Here's how to keep those fine edges honed.

Under $50:
Stocking Stuffers For The Sporting Enthusiast:
Whether your favorite outdoor enthusiast is looking to sharpen knives at a 20 degree angle (ideal for European/Western knives) or a 15 degree angle (best for Asian knives and to restore the 15 degree factory edge applied to many sports knives), the Chef’sChoice easy to use Pronto™ sharpeners are the fastest manual sharpeners on the market. They’ll put an extremely sharp and long-lasting edge with lots of bite on straight and serrated edge knives. Perfect to store in the drawer and easy to pack.$39.99.

Best of Both Worlds…The Hybrid! Easily apply razor-sharp edges with advanced Hybrid™ technology from Chef’sChoice. This new and efficient Hybrid™220 sharpener effectively combines electric and manual Criss-Cross™ advanced sharpening technology for an extremely sharp, burr-free edge with lots of bite. It’s easy to use, featuring two sharpening stages that provide an arch-shaped edge that is strong and durable. Using Chef’sChoice signature 100% diamond abrasives in both stages, Stage 1 is electric for sharpening and Stage 2 is manual for honing and resharpening without power! Fast and easy to use, with no guesswork, the Hybrid™220 features elegant and durable brushed stainless steel knife guides. It sharpens straight and serrated edge knives, kitchen and household knives, sports knives and pocket knives. Assembled in the USA. MSRP of $39.99 www.chefschoice.com

Early to rise to engage in your favorite sport? Save time by quickly heating water for breakfast cereals and hot beverages with the Chef’sChoice M673. The kettle is lighter weight and ideal for smaller households and individual use. The one-quart capacity is combined with advanced functionality and a charming design. Handsomely crafted with a brushed stainless steel construction kettle body, the Model 673 is designed to quickly provide freshly boiled water for tea, coffee, hot chocolate, oatmeal, instant soup and blanching vegetables. Using 1500 watts of power, it will boil water faster than a stove or microwave. Available for $39.99.

Under $150:
From Field to Table Assistant! Give the gift of from field to table with the Chef’sChoice professional and budget-friendly Model 615 electric meat slicer. It’s the perfect solution for outdoor enthusiasts who want to slice their own game, make homemade jerky or slice a wide variety of foods including vegetables, breads and cheese. $149.99. www.chefschoice.com

Easily Sharpen Sports Knives With A Fine Edge For Skinning and Filleting and Steeled Edge For Removing Bone And Gristle! Model 130 Sharpening Station, now available in black and hunter green. Ranked as the number one electric knife sharpener by leading consumer publications. Getting the right edge is no longer as difficult as trying to bag that prize buck or land the elusive fish. With a few strokes, the Model 130 will easily and professionally sharpen, steel or strop all brands and types of knives; straight edge or serrated, kitchen, Asian style, sports and pocket knives. Built-in, high precision angle guides eliminate all guesswork to ensure hair splitting sharpness every time. The steeled edge is ideal for cutting around gristle and other fibrous foods as well as for deboning meat. The fine edge works best for filleting, skinning and precision slicing. $149.99
The Chef’sChoice M1520 was recently field tested by an outdoor columnist interested in its versatility and 15 degree application for outdoor sporting use. The 15-degree edge was ideal for field dressing and skinning wild game as well as filleting fish, both because of its sharpness and durability.

Chef’sChoice® Diamond Hone® AngleSelect™ Model 1520 is the world’s most versatile sharpener designed to sharpen Asian, European and American style knives. Engineered to provide astonishingly sharp edges, it uses highly precise knife guides that automatically position the knife. Multi-stage sharpening system features 100% diamond abrasives and patented flexible stropping polishing discs that create a “gothic arch” edge structure recognized for incredible sharpness and durability. This advanced technology electric sharpener can restore and recreate both, a 20 degree edge for European and American style knives and a 15 degree edge for Asian style knives. Ideal for a sporting good edge! MSRP of $199.99 for cast brushed metal covering or $169.99 for plastic molded cover. www.chefschoice.com

Call 800-342-3255 for the nearest retailer.

FOR THE PUP ON YOUR LIST

With the sun rising later and setting earlier, it's hard for day shift workers to get the family dog out for a walk or a run safely in the dark. Enter Nite ize (www.niteize.cm), a company that also has zipper pull and keychain light clips.Nite Ize has a Dawg Light-Up Collar, a light-up leash and other canine-oriented products for your best friend, human, canine or otherwise. Clip Lit's are perfect for on-person use.

With the holiday season all but here, there's still time to get some great affordable gifts for the angler on your holiday list. Today, we're offering up a few we've used this year and found to be "as advertised". We're also not knocking the many advantages of the tried-and-true holiday gift cards and/or a fishing license. If you're looking for something a bit more personal, these might fit the bill.

Wright & McGill's Hopper Dropper. It's small, lightweight, floats and holds multiple fly rigs and individual flies. OWDN photo.
If there's a fly fisherman on your list, the Wright & McGill Hopper Dropper might be a gift that has your angler thinking fondly of you each time he or she opens the Hopper Dropper.

It's a small (13"Hx5"Wx 2"D) case that has an adjustable push-pin system for storing pre-tied, multiple fly rigs of almost any length, along with removable fly boxes for big -or small- flies. It's a molded construction that's pretty darned durable and, as we learned fishing a trout stream in the Smokies this fall, floats when dropped.

The internal elements can be moved or adjusted to fit your particular needs at the time. We've found it to be about the only box we need when we're traveling light. And the pre-tied rigs save a lot of frustration while standing on a slick river bottom. Being able to store pre-tied rigs after fishing also saves on a lot of expensive tippet material. At $24.99 it's a gift your favorite fly fishing friend will use and appreciate. It's available at a variety of online sites including Cabelas, Sierra Trading Post and the Wright & McGill website.

Here's another small item that has a big value when you're out on the water... when we first saw Boomerang Tool company's "Snip" at the 2011 ICAST Show in Las Vegas, we thought it had potential. After all, a retractable line-cutting device that could quickly and easily cut all kinds of line - including braid- looked like something virtually any angler could use.

The Snip...the name tells the story, the lanyard keeps it handy and the carabiner keeps it on your vest, belt or wherever you find it most handy. OWDN photo.
Apparently, most of the rest of the industry has agreed. The Snip was selected as a hot product at ICAST, and in today's news section you'll see that Bassmaster Magazine has just named The Snip one of the 50 Best Products for 2012.

It comes in a couple of versions. Lighted ($14.95 MSRP) or unlighted ($11.95 MSRP) and is a very cool stocking stuffer for an avid angler. It'll keep your angler from biting the knots off baits, and you'd be surprised how many things need "snipping" when you have the little tool around (http://www.boomerangtool.com/Fishing/The-SNIP/flypage.tpl.html).

The Knotbone Adjustable Bungee..why didn't we think of this? OWDN photo.
This next suggestion isn't just for anglers. If you have a boat, camper, or just move lots of stuff around in the back of your vehicle, this is one of those "head slapper" ideas that'll have you wondering why you didn't think of it first.

Take the elastic cord of a bungee, combine it with a carabiner-looking end that's combined with a sort of remedial tool for knot tying, and you have a Knotbone. I've been using one for the past few weeks and have used it for securing a flapping tarpaulin over a woodpile in a rain, holding a potted plant in place in the back of my SUV, and making an emergency repair on a golf car to keep a set of clubs in place. That's nearly four feet of varying lengths.

The combination carabiner "knot thing" is the secret to the Knotbone. OWDN photo.
In each instance, I've used the same Knotbone-because the length of the bungee cord is adjustable because of the simple to use and nearly impossible to explain knot thing (my technical term) on each end.

It's available in one color - gray- but two sizes the small ($4.99) and the large ($9.99) from Nite Ize- the same company that makes the Inova Microlights that you see on many of today's keyrings (http://www.niteize.com/ products/knotbone-adjustable-bungee).

Pennsylvania's 2011 preliminary bear harvest by WMU and county

According to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the preliminary bear harvests by Wildlife Management Unit (with 2010 figures in parentheses) were: WMU 1A, 13 (11); WMU 1B, 60 (42); WMU 2A, 2 (1); WMU 2B, 1 (0): WMU 2C, 223 (307); WMU 2D, 150 (145); WMU 2E, 69 (93); WMU 2F, 344 (199); WMU 2G, 1,070 (892); WMU 3A, 464 (198); WMU 3B, 453 (232); WMU 3C, 170 (108); WMU 3D, 331 (256); WMU 4A, 75 (135); WMU 4B, 70 (53); WMU 4C, 139 (90); WMU 4D, 259 (244); WMU 4E, 72 (31); WMU 5A, 1 (0); WMU 5B, 1 (0); and WMU 5C, 1 (2). The only WMU not to record a harvest was WMU 5D, comprised of Philadelphia, and portions of Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties.

Bears were harvested in 54 of the state’s 67 counties. The top five bear harvest counties this year, once again, all come from the Northcentral Region. The top county was Tioga, with 343 (183 in 2010); followed by Potter, 327 (148); Lycoming, 291 (228); McKean, 246 (92); and Clinton 198 (248).

Preliminary county harvests by region (with 2010 figures in parentheses) are:

Northwest: Warren, 119 (54); Forest, 90 (47); Venango, 54 (56); Clarion, 45 (47); Jefferson, 45 (33); Crawford, 16 (10); Butler, 9 (12); Erie, 7 (3); and Mercer, 6 (2).

Southwest: Somerset, 75 (83); Fayette, 67 (101); Armstrong, 66 (56); Indiana, 33 (42); Cambria, 30 (18); Westmoreland, 24 (62); and Allegheny, 1 (0).

Northcentral: Tioga, 343 (183); Potter 327 (148); Lycoming, 291 (228); McKean, 246 (92); Clinton, 198 (248); Elk, 150 (89); Clearfield, 143 (182); Centre, 110 (118); Cameron, 95 (138); and Union, 40 (46).

Southcentral: Huntingdon, 65 (95); Bedford, 54 (84); Mifflin, 47 (41); Juniata, 32 (19); Blair, 29 (31); Snyder, 26 (19); Fulton, 15 (11); Franklin, 13 (8); Perry, 13 (17); Cumberland, 4 (1).

Northeast: Sullivan, 177 (57); Wayne, 139 (82); Bradford, 122 (38); Pike, 116 (122); Luzerne, 95 (58); Monroe, 87 (57); Wyoming, 55 (22); Susquehanna, 51 (41); Carbon, 43 (35); Columbia, 24 (20); Lackawanna, 22 (16); and Northumberland, 7 (3).

Southeast: Dauphin, 46 (20); Schuylkill, 34 (27); Lebanon, 13 (7); Northampton, 4 (7); Lehigh 3 (0); and Berks, 2 (2).

According to preliminary reports, 81 bears weighing 500 pounds or more were legally harvested during the three seasons. The top 10 bears processed at check stations all had estimated live weights that exceeded 678 pounds.

Joseph C. Colyer, of Pocono Lake, harvested the largest bear, a male that weighed 767 pounds (estimated live weight). The bear was taken in Tobyhanna, Monroe County, at 6:50 a.m. on Nov. 16, with a crossbow during the archery bear season.

Other large bears (all estimated live weights) included: a 746-pound male, taken by Jonathan E. Byler, of Ulysses, in Ulysses, Potter County, on Nov. 19; a 734-pound male, taken by Steven Camasta, of Lakeview, in Salem Township, Wayne County, on Nov. 19; a 733-pound male, taken by John J. Hennick, of Cambria, in Bell Township, Clearfield County, on Nov. 19; a 733-pound male, taken by Robert Christian, of East Stroudsburg, in Stroud, Monroe County, on Nov. 30; a 729-pound male, taken by William Simpson, of East Brady Township, in Highland Township, Elk County on Nov. 21; a 714-pound male, taken by Timothy Kiser, of Karns City, in Bradys Bend Township, Armstrong County on Nov. 19; a 706-pound male, taken by Paul Hoyt, of Levittown, in Lehigh Township, Wayne County on Nov. 19; a 682-pound male, taken by Robert M. Serfass, of Saylorsburg, in Lehman, Pike County, on Nov. 23; and a 678-pound male, taken by Matthew Romano, of Conshohocken, in Fox Township, Sullivan County, on Nov. 19.

New Whitetail Underdogs Webisode on Dec. 7

Craig Boushell, our friend from Whitetail Underdogs out of Bucks County, shot this buck on Nov. 10 in the Poconos. The entire adventure will air

as a webisode Wed., Dec. 7 of “The Drive” on whitetailunderdogs.com or huntvids.com.
     Hunting fans can view some pretty exciting local hunts on The Drive, which airs new episodes every two weeks. Boushell’s successful hunt was filmed by Phil Litchfield, one of his partners, who also took this photo.
     The Drive is one of the first shows to film hunts that are more true-to-life than some of the shows on major outdoor network television, although many of those shows are now attempting to give a more accurate portrayal of real hunting.
    If you’re a hunting fan, make sure to check out The Drive.

Rufous #hummingbird confirmed and banded in #Allentown

A Rufous hummingbird was banded in Allentown earlier this fall by federally licensed bander Sandy Lockerman and is still visiting the backyard feeders in the yard where it was trapped and released. Bird enthusiasts are invited to come view the rare sighting.

Rufous hummingbirds have been confirmed in

Northampton county, including two having been banded by Scott Weidensaul. The most recent sightings there have been at the office building at Jacobsurg State Park.

The Rufous hummingbird in Allentown is still being spotted in the yard at 15 South Muhlenberg Street, just south of Lake Muhlenberg. The bird has been visiting three feeders in that backyard since mid-September. Bird watchers interested in catching a glimpse of the western hummingbird can view it from the alley next to the yard. Visitors are asked to use the alleyway and not the yard in order to respect privacy and the bird's territory.