The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) implemented a short-term study on local bobcats last year. The goal of the project was to further understand how wild bobcat populations interact with their environment and how they are adapting to human populations.

In the fall of last year, teams tagged 50 different bobcats with GPS tracking devices throughout Connecticut, and they marked their ears with yellow tags. Field experts collected information about each bobcat including their estimated age, sex and weight.

These cats are crucial for the environment, and researchers believe that about 1,000 live in the state. Experts confirm that bobcats have more of an effect on smaller animal species than any other predator in the area.

In Connecticut, bobcats are an apex predator that consumes raccoons, chickens, rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, skunks and other small animals. Their preference for squirrels oftentimes leads them to suburban neighborhoods, so it’s important for residents to be on the lookout for these animals.

Soon, the first 50 collars will fall off the animals, and biologists are expected to reattach at least 20. Their data project will continue until at least 2020.

How You Can Help

This study has collected important data that researchers will continue to analyze. The GPS tracking units attached to these cats are pre-programmed to fall off the animals on August 1, 2018.

 This measure was implemented to ensure the animals were not harmed by the collar over time.

 Researchers are asking everyone who locates one of these collars to contact the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3045. Individuals who find the collars can also email using deep.ctwildlife@ct.gov, and they will make arrangements to retrieve it.

These collars will still be transmitting their location, so authorities will be attempting to retrieve them over the coming months.

DEEP is additionally attempting to research the diet of modern-day bobcats. Biologists are asking anyone who comes across a road-killed bobcat to call the Wildlife Division at 860-424-3011. Biologists will then collect the animal and examine its stomach contents.

DEEP gives their sincerest thanks to Connecticut residents who have continued to help with their continued studies. Witness reports are crucial to the program, and the research would be impossible without hard-working volunteers.

Technology is evolving fast. Faster than some people would like. However, it’s evolving in a way that makes life easier for many, including those who are aging.

Today’s aging population is very active and seeks to maintain independence as long as possible. Technology can help. Especially if you take advantage of some of these technologies that are particularly useful for seniors.

Remote Patient Monitoring Systems

These systems are transforming healthcare as we know it. They allow patients to monitor certain health aspects from home with digital reporting, daily, to the patient’s doctor. This includes things like weight, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, heart rate, international normalized ratio (INR), etc. Home monitoring systems test these things at home and send the information to physicians via wireless or cellular networks.

Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) Tracking

Perhaps one of the most essential technologies available in a world that is constantly changing, GPS allows people of all ages to find their away around growing towns and new cities alike. Whether you travel for fun or you’re visiting friends and family in far off locations, GPS can be instrumental in helping you find your way around in unfamiliar territory.

Not only that, but GPS tracking for elderly people provides great peace of mind for loved ones who worry that their senior family member may wander off or get lost due to memory difficulties.

Skype

The quintessential communication tool of the new millennium, Skype allows you to keep up with friends and family near and far. It’s quite versatile, useful on computers, laptops, tablets, iPads, iPhones, iPods, and Android devices alike, you can keep up with what is happening with all your loved ones with the video communication service we know as Skype.

Smart Watches

Smart Watches replace a variety of older technologies in one sleek, impressive device. Your smart watch can operate as a medicine reminder, helping you keep track of all the pills you need to take at different times of the day, a fitness tractor, and, soon, will be able to detect falls. They sync with your mobile phone, allowing you to call for help if you ever do find that you’ve fallen and need assistance or during any other medical emergency – without having to find your phone.

As you can see, there are many ways technology can help you not only maintain your independence, but also enhance your quality of life. These technological tools are designed to improve your health, facilitate communication with friends and family, and allow you to remain mobile and independent for a long, healthy, and rich social life. Put them to use today and see what a difference they can make in your life and your lifestyle as you age.

Each year, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) compiles a report about motor vehicle theft statistics. This information is detailed by locale, so it’s easy to identify hotspot locations that suffer from the greatest number of auto thefts. Car owners need to remain vigilant about their cars to ensure they don’t become a victim of vehicular theft.

On July 12, 2018, the NICB released the 2017 annual theft Hot Spots Report. The 2017’s Top Ten Car Theft Hot Spots are as follows:

1. Albuquerque, New Mexico (9,989 motor vehicle thefts)
2. Anchorage, Alaska (3,274)
3. Pueblo, Colorado (1,353)
4. Redding, California (1,352)
5. St. Joseph, Missouri (952)
6. Bakersfield, California (6,560)
7. Modesto, California (3,870)
8. Stockton-Lodi, California (4,575)
9. Yuba City, California (1,050)
10. Springfield, Missouri (2,686)

Insights from the 2017 Report

All data compiled is population-based, so the areas with fewer car thefts that rank higher on the list also have a smaller population. Both St. Joseph and Springfield, Missouri, are new to the top ten hot spot list this year.

Albuquerque, New Mexico, has maintained the top spot for the second year in a row. Five of the top ten hot spots are in the state of California. This newest data from 2017 indicates an overall drop in the prevalence of vehicle theft which has been decreasing since 1991.

Proactive Measures to Prevent Car Theft

The NICB attributes much of the reduction to an increase in the use of safety tips and security devices that prevent theft. The agency believes vehicular theft could be drastically reduced if more vehicle owners took heed of safety advice.

One significant advancement has been the introduction of “smart keys” that prevent drivers from leaving their keys inside the vehicle. It also deters drivers from leaving their car running, but these efforts are only relevant when the car driver practices mindfulness about their keys.

Another important measure that can help protect your vehicle is a GPS car tracking device / GPS vehicle tracker. While a GPS tracker won’t stop an ongoing theft, it can assist authorities in promptly locating your vehicle in the event it is stolen.

If you interested in getting a GPS tracking device for your vehicle, take a look at our GPS tracking product line, and give us a call here at LiveViewGPS if you have any questions on which one would best suit your needs. 1-888-544-0494