A Column Promoting a More Earth-Friendly Lifestyle
By John L. Turner
John Turner
Over the past several weeks and continuing now in a diminished fashion, hundreds of millions of birds have been migrating north to their breeding grounds to raise the next generation. Colorful songbirds like warblers, tanagers, thrushes, grosbeaks, vireos, and many other groups are winging their way through the night to reach their desired destinations, using, remarkably, the celestial constellations and the Earth’s magnetic fields to orient themselves and stay on course until they arrive at their breeding grounds.
On their travels these birds face a gauntlet of challenges so the question is: would you like to take a simple step to help ensure they successfully complete their remarkable journeys? Shut off unneeded interior lights or pull down blinds to prevent the light from bleeding outward. Also, and more importantly, turn off exterior lights. A number of studies have documented that lighting confuses and disorients birds just as it does to moths, drawing them into unfriendly environments like developed areas where feral and free roaming pet cats and glass windows are abundant. By reducing the amount of ambient light we can help migrating birds safely reach their nesting sites. Plus, you’ll save a little in energy costs.
A resident of Setauket, author John L. Turner is a naturalist, conservation co-chair of the Four Harbors Audubon Society, and Conservation Policy Advocate for the Seatuck Environmental Association.
This week’s shelter pet is Riley, a gorgeous, highly intelligent, well-trained, three-year-old, female black shepherd mix at the Smithtown Animal Shelter. She was brought to the animal shelter due to a change in her family’s circumstances. As a result of her broken heart, Riley takes a little extra time to trust new people. However, once she opens up, you will discover what an endearing little charmer she is.
Meeting Riley is an unforgettable experience—her natural beauty is captivating. Winning her endless love, loyalty, and devotion only requires a gentle approach, patience, and understanding. Once she feels safe and cherished, Riley will return that love a hundredfold. When you’ve earned her trust, she reveals her playful “tweenager” side, showing off her ability to perform tricks and commands that are sure to bring endless laughter and joy. Riley is truly a diamond in the rough, just waiting to shine in the right home.
Beautiful Riley is young, healthy, and has a lifetime of cherished memories to share. She would be best suited in a home with no other pets and older children.
If you are interested in meeting Reilly, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with him in a domestic setting, which includes our Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs, and our Dog Walk trail
The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575.
Two Ptilothrix chiracahua resting in their host plant, Kallstroemia grandiflora, the Arizona poppy. Chihuahua desert, southern Arizona. The water will be used to soften the rocky ground to allow the bee to dig her burrow. Photo from Clay Bolt
May 20 is World Bee Day, an opportunity to celebrate not only the beloved honey bee, but North America’s 4,000 species of native bees, many of which are busy right now.
“Throughout spring and summer, these insects dutifully pollinate crops and wildflowers, playing a vital role in fostering healthy ecosystems,” says Clay Bolt, manager of Pollinator Conservation and Great Plains communications, World Wildlife Fund.
According to Bolt, native bee species are beautifully varied in their appearance, behaviors, feeding habits and habitats.
They can be striped, metallic, fuzzy, thin and rotund, in a spectrum of colors. The world’s smallest species—the Euphorb mini-fairy bee—is only found in southern deserts. At 2 millimeters, it is about as long as a U.S. nickel is thick.
Different bee species fly at different times—early morning, daytime or night. Many emerge seasonally in spring or summer, while others remain hidden underground for years awaiting summer monsoons. Bees inhabit diverse environments, from cold mountain peaks to beaches. Generalist species visit many flower types, while specialists pollinate only specific flowers. And unlike bumble bees and other hive-dwelling bee species, such as honey bees and stingless bees, over 70% of the world’s bee species are in fact solitary, hardworking moms who quietly nest in overlooked places like decomposing logs and alongside garden paths.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “what is a bee?” you might be surprised to learn that they are vegetarian wasps. However, unlike their wasp relatives, which often feed their young protein in the form of paralyzed insects and the hamburger they might steal from your picnic table, most bees provide their offspring with protein made from pollen mixed with nectar. The mother bee compacts these materials into a pellet and places it within her nest cavity, lays a single egg atop the mixture, then seals the chamber where the young bee will develop entirely without maternal assistance.
How can you help bees?
Sadly, bees face threats to their survival, but there are steps you can take to help protect them.
Bees need healthy, pesticide-free foods throughout their lives. This is one of the greatest gifts you can offer these pollinators, especially because parks and gardens often grow flowers that only bloom during peak summer. By planting a variety of plants that flower from early spring through autumn, the number of native bees and other pollinators visiting your garden will increase exponentially.
“Through small acts of kindness, you can transform the lives of these remarkable creatures, while filling your heart with profound hope and wonder as you witness their delicate yet ongoing care of our shared world,” says Bolt.
World Bee Day also kicks off World Wildlife Fund’s new “Stories of Hope and Wonder,” an ongoing series that connects people to the wonder of nature and offers hope for a future benefiting both people and wildlife. Each month, “Stories of Hope and Wonder” will feature a different species overcoming some of nature’s toughest obstacles to ensure its survival. To access these stories, visit www.worldwildlife.org/hopeandwonder.
Bees are industrious creatures that are essential to vital food systems and healthy ecosystems. While bees are at risk, individuals can make all the difference in their own backyards this World Bee Day and beyond.
Welcome to the 41st edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home
Penny
Meet Penny
“Penny Lane is in my ears and in my eyes, there beneath the blue suburban skies.” A song that captures the beauty in the ordinary and turns it into something extraordinary is a fitting tribute for this nine year old Shepherd mix.
Penny first arrived at Little Shelter via the Passage to Freedom Program from far away Azerbaijan. Adopted soon after, she was living a happy life until she suddenly lost her family and found herself back at the beginning. Enjoying long walks, ear scratches, and good conversation, this bright, shiny Penny is hoping to get a second chance. Finding a Penny brings good luck…this one is as close as your nearest shelter! 631-368-8770
Roo
Meet Roo
“Good morning from me — Roo!
I’m just sitting here in the sunshine, waiting and wishing for my forever home. I’m Roo, a 1-year-old mixed breed girl with big ears, a happy heart, and the sweetest soul you’ll ever meet. I weigh about 40 pounds, which means I’m the perfect size for cuddling, car rides, and couch time (if you’re into that—because I sure am!).
I love going on walks, making new friends, and showing off my good leash manners. I may be young, but I’ve got a calm, gentle way about me that makes people smile. Just look into my eyes—you’ll see!
If you think we might be a perfect match, call Kent Animal Shelter for more information. I’m here patiently waiting, hoping today is the day someone chooses me.” 631-727-5731
Sally
Meet Sally
Sally is a 5-year-old goldendoodle mix who came to the Brookhaven Animal Shelter as a stray, but she hasn’t let her past dim her bright and loving spirit. This sweet girl is bursting with energy and affection! Sally thrives on activity and would love a family who enjoys walks, playtime, and plenty of outdoor adventures. She seems to be very dog friendly, but further testing will be done once she is spayed.
Sally hasn’t had much training in her life, so she’s still learning not to jump up and is working on her leash manners—she can be strong! She’ll need a family who’s patient and committed to helping her grow with some basic obedience training.
Because of her energy and strength, Sally would do best in a home with children aged 14 and up. She’s the kind of pup who’ll match your enthusiasm for life, and she’s ready to be your loyal sidekick for all the fun ahead. Fill out a Matchmaker Application at https://www.brookhavenny.gov/152/Animal-Shelter to meet her in person! 631-451-6955
Bronco
Meet Bronco
This sweet boy was abandoned at a local park last August and is still waiting at the Smithtown Animal Shelter for his forever home. Estimated to be around 5 years old, this brindle and white bully mix weighs in at 65 pounds. A true gentleman, Bronco’s favorite pastimes include carrying around his stuffies and going for car rides that end with pup cups! He enjoys kids and alladults and is indifferent to other animals.Bronco deserves his happily ever after. Will that be with you? 631-360-7575
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Free rabies vaccination clinic
Save the date! The Suffolk County Department of Health Services in conjunction with the Town of Brookhaven will offer free rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats and ferrets on Saturday, May 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter located at 300 Horseblock Road in Brookhaven. Although the clinic is available to all county residents, the quantity of vaccine is limited and available only while supplies last. All dogs must be on leashes and all cats and ferrets must be in carriers.
New York State and Suffolk County laws require that all dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies. Vaccinating pets not only provides protection for the animals but also acts as a barrier to keep the rabies virus from spreading between wild animals and people.
“Take the time to protect your beloved pets against rabies. They give us so much joy and love and deserve to be kept safe,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. For more information, call 631-451-6950.
Rescue is a lifestyle. Adopt, don’t shop.
Check out the next Paw Prints in the issue of June 12.
Paw Prints is generously sponsored by Mark T. Freeley, Esq.
Detectives from the Suffolk County SPCA have charged a Central Islip man with animal cruelty, animal neglect and endangering the welfare of a child charges.
Roy Gross, Chief of the Suffolk SPCA, said in a press release that its Detectives charged Steven Bartolomey, 37, with misdemeanor animal cruelty charges; alleging that he failed to maintain a safe and sanitary environment for his one year old male Pitbull named “Snoopy.”
Detectives found the dog living in filthy, unsanitary conditions inside a cage, wet with urine and feces, garbage, debris without access to food and water. The interior of the home was found to be in poor condition with garbage, debris, flies, feces, and urine strewn about. The air quality was so poor it caused officers to cough, gag, and become nauseous while inside. The canine was surrendered to Almost Home Animal Rescue in Patchogue where he will soon be available for adoption.
SPCA Detectives discovered that five children, ages three to eleven, had been living in the poor conditions as well for months.
With the cooperation of the Suffolk County Police Department, Suffolk County Probation Department, Town of Islip Code Enforcement and Fire Marshal’s Office, a thorough investigation resulted in an arrest.
On May 8, SPCA Detectives arrested Bartolomey at his residence where he was then transported to Suffolk County Police Department’s Third Precinct for booking. Bartolomey was charged with Animal Cruelty, Animal Neglect, and five counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child under the Age of 17.
Bartolomey was held at SCPD’s Third Precinct for arraignment at Suffolk County First District Court on May 9. The children have been relocated to a safe location.
“Adopting Local Law No. -2025, A Local Law to Further Protect Animals from Persons Convicted of an Animal Abuse Crime" is signed into law on May 7.
Legislator Stephanie Bontempi with Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Chief Roy Gross of the Suffolk
County SPCA, Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney’s BEAST UNIT, Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin
Catalina, and legislative colleagues at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge.
From left, Suffolk County Leg. Stephanie Bontempi, Suffolk County SPCA Chief Roy Gross, and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine.
Suffolk County Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R – 18th L.D.) joined Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, the Suffolk County SPCA, Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney’s BEAST Unit, Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina, and legislative colleagues to officially sign into law “Adopting Local Law No. -2025, A Local Law to Further Protect Animals from Persons Convicted of an Animal Abuse Crime” on May 7.
This legislation was unanimously passed at the Suffolk County Legislature’s General Meeting on April 8th at the Legislature.
This local law amends the Suffolk County Code to establish a misdemeanor penalty for individuals on the convicted animal abuser registry who are found to be owning animals in violation of Suffolk County Code Sec. 229-28(F).
In 2010, the Suffolk County Legislature enacted legislation to create the animal abuse registry, one of the first of its kind in the United States. Any Suffolk County resident aged 18 or older who is convicted of animal abuse is required to register their name, address, and photo with the registry. The registry is maintained on the Suffolk County Police website. Individuals must remain on the registry for 10 years and are prohibited from owning animals during this period.
The Suffolk County SPCA approached Legislator Bontempi to request this code amendment, highlighting a loophole in the current County code. The code did not impose any penalties on individuals listed on the Animal Abuse Registry, who were found to possess animals in violation of the County code. By passing this local law to strengthen the code, any individual who is required to register and is found to possess an animal in violation of section 229-28(F) will be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor and will face penalties associated with that class of crime.
“I would like to thank Suffolk County SPCA Chief Roy Gross and his entire staff of volunteers for bringing this important issue to our attention, as well as County Executive Ed Romaine, my colleagues at the Legislature, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney, and Police Commissioner Catalina for their unwavering support. Together, we are finally able to close this loophole and further protect our animals,” stated Legislator Bontempi. “In Suffolk County, we will not tolerate the abuse or neglect of animals. By closing this loophole, we will ensure that those offenders who disregard the will law face consequences.”
After a thorough investigation, Detectives from the Suffolk County SPCA have charged a Bohemia man with animal cruelty and neglect charges. SPCA Detectives responded to a Bohemia residence after a complaint of dozens of cats living in poor, squalid conditions as well as many deceased cats in a freezer.
Roy Gross, Chief of the Suffolk SPCA, said that its detectives charged Stephen Glantz, 75, with eighteen misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals and animal neglect; alleging that he neglected over sixty living cats in his care.
On May 3, SPCA Detectives found dozens of cats, and their owner, living in alarming conditions with wet urine, smeared feces, grime, and filth covering the floors, walls, and stairs. The overpowering foul odors of feces, rot, grime, and ammonia were so severe SPCA Detectives requested the Town of Islip Fire Marshal’s Hazmat Team and Bohemia Fire Department Response Team. Islip Fire Marshals conducted an evaluation of the air and structure, high readings of ammonia gas were detected in the interior of the residence. Due to the air quality and other code violations, the residence was placarded as unfit for human occupancy. SPCA Detectives found multiple wrapped items in a freezer containing over twenty deceased kittens.
SPCA Detectives contacted John Debacker, Vice President of Long Island Cat & Kitten Solution, to respond to the residence Saturday night to organize the removal of the cats. Debacker’s Team and SPCA officers worked alongside in trapping sixty-one cats over the coming hours and day, some of which were later found to be pregnant. The cats were brought to the Islip Town Animal Shelter to be housed and provided veterinary care at the SPCA Mobile Animal & Surgical Hospital, “M.A.S.H.” Unit.
Doctor Jason Heller, President of the Long Island Veterinary Medical Association and SPCA Veterinarian, treated the cats on the MASH Unit beginning Saturday night after removal from the scene into the early morning hours of Sunday. Doctor Heller spearheaded and organized a massive push from the veterinary community to spay, neuter, medically evaluate, treat, medicate, and care for sixty nine cats in the Islip Shelter and MASH Unit.
Many cats presented with medical conditions including upper respiratory infections, urine scalding, eye disease, dental disease, missing teeth, and ear discharge; three cats were in such severe physical condition they required humane euthansia. The cats are recovering at the Islip Animal Shelter and once medically stable will be available for adoption through the shelter.
On May 6, Glantz surrendered to SPCA Detectives at the Suffolk County Police Department’s Fifth Precinct where he was arrested and booked. Glantz was charged with nine counts of cruelty to animals and nine counts of animal neglect. Glantz is due to be arraigned in Suffolk County First District Court on May 23. Sixteen cats will be transferred to the Columbia County SPCA and ten to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter for a hopeful speedy adoption into forever homes upstate New York.
This week’s featured shelter pet is Cola at the Smithtown Animal Shelter, a one-year-old black Lab/Bully mix with a sparkling personality and a smile that lights up the room! Cola is the total package—charming, playful, and ready to fill your life with laughter, adventure, and unconditional love.
Whether he’s chasing a ball, going on a neighborhood stroll, or romping around the yard, Cola is always up for fun. And when the day winds down, he’s more than happy to curl up beside you for some well-earned snuggles. He’s young, healthy, and would thrive in a home that matches his joyful spirit—especially one with an active family that loves to play and cuddle as much as he does. Cola is friendly with kids, gets along with other dogs, and may even be cat-compatible! He’s already showing great manners and is eager to learn—especially if treats and belly rubs are involved. If you are ready to add a lovable companion to your family, Cola is waiting to meet you!
To schedule a visit, please fill out an adoption application and book a Meet & Greet in the cozy indoor room, dog runs, or on the shelter’s scenic Dog Walk trail. Let Cola show you just how sweet life can be with a loyal pup by your side!
The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575.
Yogi and Richie. Photo courtesy of Smithtown Animal Shelter
Richie
Yogi
MEET YOGI AND RICHIE!
This week’s featured shelter pets are Yogi and Richie at the Smithtown Animal Shelter, an inseparable and heart-melting duo with a bond built on love, loyalty, and pure joy. These charming boys—Yogi, a handsome blue Chow mix, and Richie, a silver and tan Yorkie mix—were brought to the shelter on April 14, 2025, after their owner sadly became too ill to care for them. Estimated to be born in 2022, Yogi and Richie are approximately three years old and looking for a forever home where they can stay side by side.
Yogi is mostly blind and relies on Richie as his guide. Their companionship is not just touching—it’s a true testament to the healing power of animal friendship. Richie confidently helps his best friend navigate the world, and together, they bring smiles to everyone they meet.
These boys are bursting with affection for people and each other. They are good with other dogs and cats, and would thrive in a home with children aged 12 and up, given Yogi’s visual impairment. Despite his blindness, Yogi is full of spirit and thrives with Richie at his side.
If you’re ready to open your heart and home to a pair of joyful, bonded brothers who will return your love tenfold, Yogi and Richie are ready to meet you!
If you are interested in meetingYogi and Richie, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with them in the shelter’s Meet and Greet room.
The Town of Smithtown Animal & Adoption Shelter, 410 Middle Country Road, Smithtown is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Sundays and Wednesday evenings by appointment only). For more information, call 631-360-7575.
Join the Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville in celebrating their 55th anniversary year with day long festivities on Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m.
Led by Master of Ceremonies Doug Geed, the event will kick off with a ribbon cutting ceremony of the Woodland Trail, a universal access trail suitable for wheelchairs. The trail renovation was made possible with funds from Suffolk County Jumpsmart program. The ribbon cutting will open Woodland Trail for the start of the Trail Trot & Animal Antics, a non-competitive run/walk through the trail followed by animal inspired challenges (antics) for the children.
In addition, the day will include:
— An Open House where guests will meet the Game Farm Team, Camp Counselors, and partners to learn about what’s new at the Game Farm this year including a summer music series and the Re-Photo Project.
— Kids craft activities by Macaroni Kid. Refreshments will be served.
— Performances by local songwriters and the Eastport South Manor Junior High Orchestra on the new Susan M. Novak Stage.
—Game Farm Director Greg Drossel will lead groups on a Woodland Trail Walk while he shares the Game Farm vision for the Trail.
— Artist Tonito Valderrama will invite attendees to participate in the creation of The Great Nest of Life Installation Project, an interactive nature sculpture celebrating birds of Long Island.
— Boy Scout Sam Zvolensky will show his Eagle Award Project, a sensory garden at the Game Farm whileScouts Adalia Haas and Summer Realander will talk about the Gold Award projects they are each working on.
— Nick Jacinto will talk about his animals and his upcoming Weekends with Nature Nick at the Game Farm.
—Anthony Graziano, Long Island Landscape Photographer and conservation advocate will talk about his work and upcoming photo and IPhone photography classes at the Game Farm.
— Dr. Heidi MacALpine and Noelle Grogan, community collaborators promoting health and wellbeing through the creative arts, will demonstrate and talk about their work and upcoming program.
— And of course visit with the many unique animals that call the Game Farm home.
“The Long Island Game Farm was one of our Island’s first tourist attractions and it remains one of our most treasured landmarks. It’s brought pleasure and joy to the Geeds and thousands of other families through the decades and I’m excited about this new chapter for the Game Farm and the Novak Family,” said Geed.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been 55 years since my family moved into the Manorville site and created the Long Island Game Farm. I’m happy to be honoring my parents by sharing this accomplishment with the people of Long Island. I am grateful to Suffolk County for making our Trail and new stage possible through Jumpsmart funds,” said Long Island Game Farm President Melinda Novak.
Discounted admission for the day is $15 per person,children under age 2 are free.
Registration for the Trail Trot for youth, ages 3-12 years is in advance and includes admission to the Game Farm and a commemorative t-shirt. To register and for further information, visit https://www.longislandgamefarm.com/trailtrot.
ABOUT LONG ISLAND GAME FARM
Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park and Children’s Zoo was founded in 1970 by Stanley and Diane Novak. As the largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on LongIsland, they offer families a natural environment where they can learn about wildlife and animals through education and entertainment. A member of American Association of Zookeepers and Zoological Association of America, the farm is located at 489 Chapman Boulevard, Manorville, New York 11949. For more information, visit longislandgamefarm.com, email [email protected], or call 631-878-6644. Find Long Island Game Farm on Instagram and Facebook at @longislandgamefarm.
Welcome to the 41st edition of Paw Prints, a monthly column for animal lovers dedicated to helping shelter pets find their furever home
