The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 4 is inviting the public to participate in ‘Wildlife Day’ on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Albany County.
Wildlife Day is an event focused on wildlife conservation service projects and educational workshops. It aims to celebrate New York’s wildlife and habitats. The event is organized in partnership with Parks and Trails New York and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. It is part of the Love Our New York Lands Stewardship Days Campaign, which encourages year-round stewardship and highlights outdoor recreation assets by hosting themed events throughout the year.
Registration for Wildlife Day is currently open. Residents are encouraged to take part in cleanups, enhancement activities, or educational events within their communities.
At Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, programming will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.:
– From 10 a.m. to noon, Joellen Lampman from Cornell Cooperative Extension will lead “Tick Talk,” an indoor presentation about protecting oneself from ticks while outdoors. Registration is not required for this session.
– From 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., DEC Wildlife Biologist Sophia Brown will present “Lunchtime Learning—Living Responsibly with Wildlife.” She will discuss how to coexist with wildlife such as black bears, coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and others commonly found in New York. Attendees can bring their own lunch; registration is not required.
– From 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., participants can join hands-on habitat improvement activities along Nature’s Accessible Backyard Trail. These may include mulching gardens or removing invasive plants. All ages are welcome but space is limited; registration for this portion can be completed online at Parks and Trails NY.
Those traveling from Albany can use the CDTA Nature Bus (Route 8722), which will operate its final service day of the season on October 4.
“Ticks may be encountered any time of year, but don’t let that stop you from spending time outdoors. Joellen Lampman from Cornell Cooperative Extension will share her expertise on the best ways to protect yourself and your family from ticks, whether in the woods or in your own yard. Indoor presentation followed by questions and answers. Registration is not required.”
“Meet DEC Wildlife Biologist Sophia Brown who will share insights about living responsibly with wildlife and the best practices for preventing and addressing common nuisance wildlife concerns. She will discuss the biology and behavior of black bears, coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, and other common New York wildlife. Bring your own lunch to enjoy during the presentation. Registration is not required.”
“Join DEC and participants working in and around the gardens along Nature’s Accessible Backyard Trail to improve habitat for wildlife at Five Rivers. Activities may include mulching the gardens, removing invasive plants, and more. Please bring garden gloves and wear sturdy close-toed shoes or boots. Bring your own refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat. All ages welcome! Space is limited. Register online at Parks and Trails NY.”
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