In the beginning of my wildlife journey, I remember watching a video of a biologist enter a clover trap to subdue a deer. It was exciting and frightening at the same time. With enthusiasm, I was proud to say, “that could be me one day!” The time has come to tackle a deer. Continue reading “My First Deer”
Author: Michael Antonishak
I’m Allergic to Deer
Seriously? After all these years of hunting, you would think that I would have known by now. Apparently, field dressing a deer was never enough to really get my allergies going but working with them is terrible. Just my luck, I’m allergic to deer! Continue reading “I’m Allergic to Deer”
First Trapping Night
We combined forces. Our first trapping night was to be shared between the two crews. Many of us were green. Out of a dozen, maybe two or three had experience working with deer. We would perform under the supervision of our section leaders. Hopefully, their presence would provide guidance and not intimidation. We were nervous but excited to trap deer for the first time! Continue reading “First Trapping Night”
The Purpose of Trapping Deer
Originally, when I applied for a position to trap deer this winter, I thought that I would be working on the other half of the Deer-Forest Study. If you recall, I spent two seasons sampling herbs and woody species as a Forest Field Technician. The supervisor for the deer and elk section had other plans for me, however. During my job offer, he asked if I was interested in working on the Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) study in South Central Pennsylvania. He added that I would make a good fit to the crew that he was assembling. I still don’t know what that means but I could not pass the opportunity to assist a new study. After all, wildlife disease is fascinating! I accepted a position on the Blair County CWD deer trapping crew. That is why I am here in Martinsburg this winter. Continue reading “The Purpose of Trapping Deer”
The House of Flies
I know you are curious about my living arrangements this winter. There is always something quirky about the places I stay and this time is no exception. Let tell you about the House of Flies. Continue reading “The House of Flies”
Anticipation
The first paragraph of a new chapter is neither here nor there. In the time between where I’ve been to where I’m going, there is much anticipation of what the future holds. I’d like to say that I’m used to changing things up every several months; the truth is, I know very little going into the next gig. Here I go again! Continue reading “Anticipation”
Why Deer?
I often said I’m not interested in working with deer. This winter however, I find myself working as a Deer Biologist Aid. It goes to show that you never know where you will end up. So, why did I take a job working with deer? Continue reading “Why Deer?”
Making Ends Meet
One of the more difficult aspects of a career in wildlife is the temporary nature of our work. Thus far, I found myself here and there in each job for several months at a time. The problem is the unemployment between jobs. Sure, I love to be home but the financial hardship is stressful. Although I attended a public school, I still graduated with a large amount of debt. I often describe it as a small mortgage. Of course, in addition to that financial woe, we have the normal bills that must be paid — house, car, utilities, and the like. So, what do I do to make ends meet? This time, I tried driving for Uber. Continue reading “Making Ends Meet”
Our Western Adventure
I left Yellowstone that day. That chapter concluded somewhere on the long drive between Gardiner and Bozeman. I escaped the snow by losing elevation. The road through Paradise Valley was only wet and the drive was not difficult. As I pushed towards my new destination, the moody sky would open and reveal snowy mountaintops. The view was spectacular. At that moment, I realized what I was leaving behind. Change may be bittersweet but I had great joy in my heart knowing that I would soon see Jill and begin our western adventure. Continue reading “Our Western Adventure”
Seasons Change
Snow was on the ground when I arrived in Yellowstone. Before I left, snow fell and winter began her embrace on the landscape. The summer concluded abruptly and although I was forewarned, my tenure at Yellowstone had done the same. Now I have the pleasure of looking back upon my time. I was here long enough to see the seasons change. Continue reading “Seasons Change”