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Saturday, Nov 21, 2009 08:13:18 PM |
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      King Of The Stream 
"In their habitat, they're at the top of the food chain." Hellbenders are king of the stream. No matter what stream they are in. But you won't find a lot of these large salamanders in West Virginia.
"They're rare throughout the range. They're a rare species here and they're also a rare species in other states that have Hellbenders." West Virginia Division of Natural Resources biologists say Hellbenders are hard to find because, despite their size, these rare reptiles are actually very fragile. If streams aren't just right, Hellbenders won't survive. Jennifer Wykle/DNR Biologist "They're a good indicator of stream health. If you have a Hellbender, that means the stream is in good shape. But mainly, they're on the decline." Finding Hellbenders in a stream is good, not only for the DNR, but also for fishermen. If this stream is healthy enough to support a Hellbender, it's healthy enough to support a lot of fish. Jennifer Wykle/DNR Biologist "He's half in half out of that rock-cool!" We got lucky today. After flipping dozens of rocks, finally, a Hellbender.
"It's very exciting. Hellbenders, you may occassionally run across one, a fisherman may occassionally snag one on his line but they're just such elusive animals." Research efforts are being conducted by the dnr to assure the survival of this unique animal. The DNR is monitoring Hellbender populations throughout West Virginia, but needs your help in locating new areas. Links to learn more From the Environmental News Network, The hellbender's swaggering name belies its delicate nature. About The 1st Hellbender Conservation Symposium An excellent Hellbender home page. The French Creek Project The Hellbender's scientific name is Cryptobranchus allegeniensis More about West Virginia reptiles and amphibians. Meet Patrick McMurtry. Get your Fishing license online: W.Va. Fish WCHS-TV8 Online brings you the current Fishing Conditions Report updated every week. |
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GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA'S WILDLIFE  
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