Sussex County, Delaware — Sussex County is experiencing more wildlife sightings as weather shifts and development expands across the region. Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) monitors many species, while agencies like the Department of Agriculture manage pest populations, such as the damaging spotted lanternfly. Anthony Gonzon, DNREC’s biodiversity program manager, explains that state protections focus primarily on preventing possession, trade, or sale of rare and endangered animals, not directly restricting development projects.
However, environmental review processes like the Preliminary Land Use System and wetlands permitting address potential impacts on wildlife. Residents are encouraged to report rare animal sightings to DNREC but are not required to do so. Gonzon highlights some species of interest, including the state mammal – the gray fox, known for its tree-climbing abilities and distinctive black tail stripe. Bird watchers have a limited window to observe endangered red knots near Slaughter Beach and Mispillion Harbor before their Arctic migration. The elusive Bethany Beach firefly, proposed for federal protection, is another species unique to coastal dune wetlands south of Rehoboth. Delaware is updating its Wildlife Action Plan this year and invites public input on protected species at dnrec.delaware.gov/fish-wildlife.
