Field Safety Insights from TPWD's Dustin Windsor That Every Outdoor Professional Should Know
- Amanda Jonas
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
If you missed the recent June chapter meeting, you missed a valuable session with Dustin Windsor, a Natural Resources Specialist and Safety Officer from Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD). Dustin shared practical field safety advice drawn from nearly two decades of experience working in South Texas ranches and brush country. His insights challenge common fears and highlight the real risks outdoor professionals face every day.
This post summarizes key takeaways from Dustin’s talk, focusing on wildlife encounters, common hazards, and how to get expert help when you need it most.
What You Fear Most Is Probably Not the Biggest Danger
Many people who work outdoors worry about dramatic encounters with mountain lions, venomous snakes, or rabid bats. Dustin’s experience shows these fears often don’t match reality.
Mountain Lions Are Rarely a Threat
Dustin has investigated six mountain lion "attacks" in 18 years. In every case, the mountain lion was not the actual predator. These big cats tend to avoid humans, and attacks are extremely rare. While it’s wise to be cautious, mountain lions should not dominate your safety concerns.
Most Snakes You See Are Not Venomous
When Dustin showed a photo of a snake, many assumed it was a rattlesnake. It turned out to be a bullsnake, a non-venomous species that often gets mistaken for a rattler. The key is to slow down, observe carefully, and learn to identify local snakes. This reduces unnecessary panic and helps you respond appropriately.
Bats Are Over Blamed for Rabies Risk
Bats often get a bad reputation, but only about 12% test positive for rabies, and those are usually bats who were already sick or injured. While it’s important to avoid contact with bats, the actual risk of rabies from them is lower than many believe.
The Real Risks Are Smaller and More Common
The animals that cause the most trouble are not the dramatic predators but the tiny, often overlooked hazards.
Mosquitoes carry diseases like West Nile virus and can cause serious illness.
Ticks transmit Lyme disease and other infections.
Poison ivy causes painful rashes and discomfort that can sideline you for days.
These everyday hazards cause more health problems for outdoor workers than mountain lions or snakes. Taking precautions against insects and plants is essential.
Practical Safety Tips for Field Professionals
Dustin’s advice goes beyond identifying risks. He offers actionable steps to stay safe and handle encounters calmly.
Take your time when you see wildlife. Don’t rush or make sudden moves. Observe from a distance.
Learn to identify local snakes and plants. Knowing what is venomous or poisonous helps you avoid unnecessary danger.
Wear protective clothing. Long sleeves, pants, and insect repellent reduce bites and rashes.
Carry a first aid kit. Include supplies for bites, stings, and allergic reactions.
Know your emergency contacts. Have numbers for local medical facilities and wildlife experts.
You Can Call a TPWD Biologist Directly for Help
One of the most valuable resources Dustin shared is the ability to contact TPWD biologists directly if you encounter a wildlife or safety issue in the field.
If you get bitten or stung and are unsure how serious it is, or if you find an animal near your worksite and want advice on how to respond, you can send a photo and ask for guidance. These biologists cover your counties and prefer to help early rather than deal with bigger problems later.
Contact Information for South Texas Counties
Aransas, Jim Wells, Nueces, San Patricio Counties
Dustin Windsor
Phone: 830-570-3795
Email: Dustin.Windsor@tpwd.Texas.gov
Brooks, Kenedy, and surrounding counties
Chico Barrera
Phone: 830-570-8568
Having this direct line to experts can save time, reduce risk, and improve your response to field hazards.
Final Thoughts on Field Safety
Outdoor professionals face many challenges, but fear of dramatic wildlife encounters should not overshadow the real risks. Learning to identify hazards, taking simple precautions, and knowing who to call for help can make your time in the field safer and less stressful.
If you work in South Texas, save Dustin and Chico's contact information. When in doubt, reach out. A quick text or photo could prevent a serious incident.
Stay safe out there, and remember that the best safety tool is knowledge combined with calm action.
Thanks to Dustin Windsor and TPWD for the great presentation!
Come to the Next One!
This is exactly why Chapter 12 meetings are worth your lunch or evening. You get real, practical knowledge from people who actually do the work, not just a webinar, not just a PDF you'll never open, but a room where you can ask questions and walk out with a contact in your phone that might actually save you a trip to the ER someday.
Bring a coworker, bring your questions, and come see what you missed on the next one! Visit Chapter 12 Events page on our website for upcoming presentations.
Stay Safe and Healthy out there my Friends!
Amanda Jonas,
TSPS Chapter 12 President