Is the thought of facing holiday shopping crowds unbearable? Are you looking for that really "wild" holiday gift for the hunter, trapper or other conservation-minded person on your list and you just can't seem to find it? Dozens of wildlife-related gifts are just a click away at "The Outdoor Shop" on the Pennsylvania Game Commission's website.

Look for a colorful 2006 calendar filled with scenes of Pennsylvania wildlife and habitats, bird identification tools, special holiday ornaments, a variety of wildlife patches and stamps that support restoration activities, videos on deer, bear and elk and a subscription to PA Game News magazine.

Still haven't found the right gift? Choose from an assortment of wildlife books; bird and mammal charts by the late, famed Ned Smith; Smith's popular field journal, Gone for the Day; fluorescent orange SPORT hats; cookbooks; cooking aprons; waterfowl stamps; and a wildlife viewing guide.

Also, for those interested in making a last minute tax-deductible contribution, "The Outdoor Shop" on Game Commission's website offers that opportunity.

All revenues generated from these items support the Game Commission's wildlife management programs. The Game Commission does not receive any general state tax dollars.

In addition to being available on the agency's website, all items are available by contacting the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Department MS, 2001 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797; or by calling toll free 1-888-888-3459. Many of the items are available for sale over-the-counter at the Harrisburg office and six region offices.

Visit the "The Outdoor Shop" on the Pennsylvania Game Commission's website anytime.

And yes, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has its own online “Fish Outdoor Shop” with items geared to the fishing and boating community.

11/25/2005