Here's a job you'll either think is super cute... or it will gross you out!

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
loading...

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has partnered with The Natural Heritage Program, SUNY ESF in Syracuse, and the Central Pine Barrens to conduct a small mammal variation and distribution research project.

This specific study is taking place this summer throughout the Long Island region, but has been an ongoing effort all over New York State since 2019. It's the DEC's first attempt at trapping in the Long Island region, which will continue at 20 different sites over the next two years in Nassau and Suffolk County.

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
loading...

The DEC and their partners have baited live traps (drop buckets and Sherman traps) to capture the small mammals. Drop buckets are a small container that has been dug into the ground. Sherman traps are a small, box-like trap made to capture live animals.

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
loading...

What small mammals are they looking for? This survey includes mice, voles, moles, shrews and so many more. Analysts will record the animal's weight, sex, and habitat before hole punching their ear and taking it for species confirmation.

This will also help researchers keep track on whether or not the animal has been previously captured or not.

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
loading...

The Department of Environmental Conservation hopes this effort will help increase the knowledge of the New York's small mammal population. They are one of the most abundant animals in the state, but also the most overlooked as well.

DEC Rescues 7 Animals in 20 Days

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation rescues humans lost or hurt while hiking, boating or just enjoying the great outdoors. But they also rescue the animals that call the outdoors home. Officers have rescued 7 animals in the last 20 days alone.

Five Exotic Pets That You Can Own in Upstate New York

If the thought of owning a dog or a cat or a parakeet sounds nice and all but you’re looking for an animal that’s a little more exotic, there are five super cute exotic animals that appear to be completely legal to own in Upstate New York, although you might want to check your local ordinance laws to be absolutely sure. 

Stunning Photos Of Powerful Northern Lights In The Adirondacks

A solar storm hit Earth and brought with it a spectacular light show visible as far south as New York. In the Adirondacks, one photographer captured all of the magic. 

Meet Patrick Bly. He's the man responsible for these amazing photos of the Northern Lights in the Adirondacks. 

PHOTOS: Road Trip Through New York's Ice Cream Trail

Hop aboard the New York Ice Cream Trail!

16 Things Central New Yorkers Wish Would Make a Comeback

With the announcement of Toys R Us making a comeback in Macy's department stores, we wanted to know what else you wish would make a comeback. Here's what you wanted most....

More From Lite 98.7