The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 4 is inviting residents to take part in ‘Wildlife Day’ on Saturday, October 4, 2025. The event will be held at the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Albany County.
Wildlife Day aims to involve participants in wildlife conservation service projects and educational workshops that highlight the variety of wildlife and habitats across New York. The initiative is organized with Parks and Trails New York and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation as part of the Love Our New York Lands Stewardship Days Campaign. This campaign promotes year-round stewardship by hosting themed events throughout the year.
Registration for Wildlife Day is now open. Residents are encouraged to join community activities such as cleanups, habitat enhancement projects, or educational sessions near them.
The schedule at Five Rivers Environmental Education Center includes several programs:
– From 10 a.m. to noon, Joellen Lampman from Cornell Cooperative Extension will lead “Tick Talk,” an indoor session on how to protect against ticks while spending time outdoors. Registration is not required.
– At 12:30 p.m., DEC Wildlife Biologist Sophia Brown will present “Lunchtime Learning—Living Responsibly with Wildlife.” She will discuss best practices for coexisting with animals like black bears, coyotes, bobcats, and raccoons. Attendees can bring their own lunch; registration is not required.
– From 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., participants can join DEC staff for “Hands-On Habitat,” working along Nature’s Accessible Backyard Trail to improve local habitats by mulching gardens or removing invasive plants. All ages are welcome but space is limited; online registration is available through Parks and Trails NY.
For those traveling from Albany, the CDTA Nature Bus (Route 8722) offers transportation options; October 4 marks its last day of service for the season.
“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.”
