gmane.recreation.nys.dec.nybiggame

2012 Black Bear Harvest Report is Available

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2013-03-19T20:19:51

NY Big Game,
 
The 2012 black bear harvest summary is now available on our website at
www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/42232.html.  Check out the PDF version for a full
series of tables and charts of the 2012 bear take.
 
Earlier today, DEC issued the following press release.

 

 
DEC: 2012 IS ONE OF THE HIGHEST BEAR HARVESTS ON 
RECORD IN NEW YORK 
 
New York bear hunters took 1,337 black bears during the 2012 hunting
seasons, making last year the third highest bear harvest on record in
New York, state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
Commissioner Joe Martens announced today.  Only the 2003 harvest (1,864)
and 2009 harvest (1,487) surpassed last year’s take.   
 
“New York has excellent bear habitat and vast, accessible public lands
that offer exciting opportunities for bear hunting,” said Commissioner
Martens. “Black bears are thriving in New York, and they represent a
great resource for all New Yorkers. Through the NY’s Open for Hunting
and Fishing Initiative, Governor Cuomo is improving opportunities for
hunting in New York State.”
 

2012 Black Bear Harvest Comparison

 
2012 Total
2011 Total
Recent 
5-year Average (2007-2011)

Statewide
1,337
1,2581,244

Adirondack
606
275
547

Central-Western
289
353
197

Southeastern
442
630
500

Regionally, bear harvest increased in the Adirondacks but decreased in
the Southeastern and Central-Western bear hunting areas.  Though overall
population size plays a large role in harvest totals, annual variations
in take are also strongly influenced by environmental factors such as
natural food availability and snow fall that affect bear activity and
hunting pressure.  These environmental influences were very apparent in
the harvest totals of the past few years.
 
In the Adirondacks, hunters took 606 bears in 2012, returning to a more
normal harvest level after an exceptionally low harvest in 2011.  This
past season, hunters found greatest success during the early season (386
bears; mid-September until mid-October) compared to the regular season
(132 bears; late October to early December).  This pattern was expected
after a summer of low natural food availability.  The early season
harvest is always high in such years because bears are moving more in
search of food and many are closer to human food sources, which in both
cases makes them more vulnerable to harvest.  In fact, towns along the
western and southern fringe of the Adirondacks saw some of the highest
harvests as bears were found feeding in corn fields during the early
season.  Bears also tend to den early when natural foods are scarce, so
fewer bears were available to hunters during the regular season.
 
In the Southeastern bear hunting area, bear take dropped from the
record 630 taken in 2011 to 442 taken in 2012.  Similarly, take in the
Central-Western bear hunting area dropped from the record 353 in 2011 to
289 in 2012.  In both areas, take during bow season contributed
substantially to the overall take (51 percent Southeastern, 37 percent
Central-Western) and increased from 2011, reflecting the longer bow
season initiated in 2012 and greater availability of bears during this
period.  Notably, take during the regular season dropped in both areas. 
The drop was most pronounced in Southeastern New York where biologists
anticipated a potential reduced harvest due to early denning behavior
associated with the general lack of soft and hard mast (apples, acorns
and beechnuts).
 
Since 2005, DEC has expanded the area open to bear hunting in
Southeastern and Central-Western New York and increased season length,
aligning bear seasons with deer seasons.  These actions were implemented
to reduce bear population growth and range expansion.  Most recently, in
2011, DEC expanded bear hunting into eastern New York from Rockland and
Westchester to Washington counties.  Hunters took 22 bears from these
newly opened areas, with eight bears coming from each of Washington and
Rensselaer counties.
 
Governor Cuomo’s Open for Hunting and Fishing Initiative is an effort
to improve recreational activities for in-state and out-of-state
sportsmen and sportswomen and to boost tourism opportunities throughout
the state.  This initiative includes the streamlining of hunting and
fishing licensing and reducing license fees, improved access for fishing
at various sites across the state, stocking as much as 900,000 pounds of
fish, expanding fishing clinics and increasing hunting opportunities in
various regions.
 
A complete summary of the 2012 bear harvest with breakdown by county,
town, and Wildlife Management Unit is available at
www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/42232.html on the DEC website.

 
NYS Black Bear Cooperator Patch Program
Hunters play a pivotal role in bear management through reporting their
bear harvests. Hunters also are asked to submit a tooth sample from
their bear for DEC to determine the age of harvested bears. Typically,
for all hunters who reported their harvest and submitted a tooth, DEC
issues a NYS Black Bear Cooperator Patch and a letter informing them of
their bear’s age.  DEC is still processing tooth submissions from 2011
and 2012.  DEC anticipates that eligible hunters from 2011 and 2012 will
receive their patch(es) in late summer 2013.
 

 
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2012 Sets a New Record for Hunting Safety in New York

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2013-02-11T20:54:20

NY Big Game,

DEC distributed the following news announcement earlier today.

 







2012 SETS A NEW RECORD FOR HUNTING SAFETY IN NEW YORK

Continued Improvement Shows Success of New York’s Hunter Education
Program

 

The 2012 New York hunting season had the lowest number of
hunting-related shooting incidents on record, New York State Department
of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens announced
today. As the tradition of hunting continues, with numerous and
expanding opportunities for sportsmen and sportswomen to go afield,
hunting in New York continues to be safely enjoyed.  

 

“Governor Cuomo recognizes all the benefits the sporting community
brings to New York’s economy and commends sportsmen and women for
setting a record in hunting safety,” said Commissioner Martens. “The
Governor and DEC are working to expand hunting opportunities in New York
state and hunter safety is part and parcel to these efforts. These
declining statistics prove that New York does have a safety-conscious
generation of hunters, in great thanks to the committed efforts of more
than 2,500 volunteer Sportsman Education Instructors.” 

 

DEC Environmental Conservation Officers conduct professional
investigations of each hunting-related shooting incident.  The 2012
season included 24 personal incidents with just over half being
self-inflicted.   Most unfortunate were two fatalities that occurred
during the deer season where the individuals were shot by members of
their own hunting group. Incidents involving two or more individuals
stress the importance of one of hunting’s basic tenets:  identifying
your target and what lies beyond. There were no hunting-related shooting
incidents reported during the first youth hunt for deer that took place
this past Columbus Day weekend.

 

Though the number of hunters is declining in the state, the hunting
incident rate (incidents per 100,000 hunters) is falling much faster.
Since the 1960s, the number of hunters has declined about 20 percent,
while the incident rate has plunged more than 70 percent. The past
five-year average is 5.3 incidents per 100,000 hunters, compared to 19
per 100,000 in the 1960s.

 

Trained instructors certified by DEC teach safe, responsible and ethical
outdoors practices and the important role of hunters and trappers in
conservation. New York has an extremely safety-conscious generation of
hunters, thanks largely to more than 60 years of dedicated efforts of
more than 2,500 volunteer Sportsman Education Instructors. All
first-time hunters and bowhunters must successfully complete a hunter
safety course and pass the final exam before being eligible to purchase
a hunting license. All courses are offered free of charge.

 

While hunting is safer than ever, accidents happen and it is important
to remember that every hunting related shooting incident is preventable.
Many, if not all of these incidents could have been prevented, if only
the shooter and/or victim had followed the primary rules of hunter
safety.

 

•   Treat every firearm as if it were loaded 

•   Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction

•   Identify your target and what lies beyond

•   Keep finger off the trigger until ready to fire

•   Wear hunter orange

 

For more information, including the 2012 Hunting Safety Statistics,
visit the Sportsman Education Program section on the DEC website
www.dec.ny.gov. 







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reminder, or unsubscribe please visit
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You may also catch the latest updates on New York's fish and wildlife by
subscribing to Field Notes, another free online e-mail list provided by
the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources. To learn more and
subscribe, see www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html

DEC ALERTS HUNTERS: CROSSBOW LAW EXPIRES DECEMBER 31,2012

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-12-22T01:55:05

NY Big Game,
  
Expiration of State Law will make use of crossbows unlawful for Big Game
Hunting
  
 The provisions in the Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) that allow
the use of crossbows for big game hunting, as well as eliminate a permit
requirement for hunters with physical disabilities to use special
archery equipment during any big game or small game hunting season, will
expire on December 31, 2012, New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens reminded hunters today.
  
 Legislation allowing the use of crossbows during certain big game
hunting seasons in September 2010 took effect on February 1, 2011. This
allowed licensed hunters to use a crossbow during the 2011 and 2012 big
game hunting seasons.
  
 “The popularity of crossbows is growing in New York, though relatively
few hunters have taken deer with crossbows because they may only be used
during the regular firearms season and subsequent muzzleloader season,”
Commissioner Martens said. 
 
 The immediate effect of the law expiring is that big game hunters will
not be able to use a crossbow during the January 2013 deer hunting
season in Suffolk County, or during a special January 2013 deer hunting
season established in the designated “Deer Management Focus Area” in
Tompkins County.
  
 For hunters  with physical disabilities who are allowed to use special
archery equipment during any big game or small game season, that
activity will still be lawful, but they may need to apply once again for
a “Modified Archer Permit” from DEC’s Special Licenses Unit in Albany. 
The expiring legislation had required only a physician’s affirmation of
need, instead of a special permit.
  
 For information about current crossbow hunting rules in New York and
what opportunities will expire, see www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/68802.html.  
For information about hunter preferences regarding crossbow use, see
Appendix 5 of DEC’s Management Plan for White-tailed Deer in New York
State 2012-2016 (www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/deerplan2012.pdf ).
  
 


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preliminary Southern Zone hunting report

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-11-21T21:47:57

NY Big Game,

Regular firearms season for deer and bear in New York's Southern Zone began this past Saturday, and for most hunters, the opening weekend is a time not to be missed. Roughly 85% of NY's 550,000 deer hunters participate at some point in the Southern Zone regular season, and over 90% of those hunters are afield opening day. Too, opening weekend of the Southern Zone regular season typically accounts for about 20-25% of the statewide annual reported deer take, roughly 1/4 to 1/3 more than the total reported take for the entire Southern Zone bow season, and nearly double the reported take during all seasons in the Northern Zone.

This year was likely no different, and with crisp, frosty mornings and mild afternoons, this past weekend was a great time to be deer hunting. Our biologists and technicians were spread out across the state examining deer at meat cutters and likely escaping for a few hours of hunting themselves. Despite the typical variation around the state, reports from the field generally point to a heavier harvest than last year. This is consistent with hunter harvest reports through DEC's phone and internet reporting system. Reported deer take during the Southern Zone opening weekend was 9% higher than in 2011, and now through the first 4 days of the season (Saturday through Tuesday), reported take is running about 13% higher than last year.

However, opening weekend in the Southern Zone was not nearly as productive for black bears this year. Despite strong bear harvests early in the bowhunting season, by late October bear harvest reports were just trickling in. Now, for the opening weekend of the Southern Zone regular bear season, hunters have reported taking about 125 bears, down substantially from the 317 taken on opening weekend in 2011 and more akin to the 2010 harvest level. We suspected that bear take during regular season might drop off due to possible early denning behavior associated with the lack of fall soft and hard mast (apples, acorns and beechnuts), and it appears that prediction is playing out.

Happy Thanksgiving and good hunting.

Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist

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Southern Zone Regular Deer and Bear Hunting Seasons begin this Saturday, November 17

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-11-14T20:46:53

NY Big Game,

The 2012 regular deer and bear hunting seasons open at sunrise on Saturday, Nov. 17, in New Yorks Southern Zone, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens today announced. The big game season closes at sunset on Sunday, Dec. 9.

"Hunting is the most effective and efficient tool to maintain wildlife populations at levels that are compatible with our communities and natural resources," said Commissioner Martens. "With an exceptionally mild winter and strong deer and bear populations throughout the state, hunters have good prospects for a successful season."

The Southern Zone Regular Deer Season is New Yorks most popular hunting season, with participation from approximately 85 percent of New Yorks 550,000 licensed deer hunters. Harvest during this season accounts for nearly 60 percent of the total statewide deer harvest. The remainder occurs in the Northern Zone, on Long Island, and during special seasons when only archery or muzzleloading firearms may be used.

With an earlier start to the bow season in the Southern Zone and a special Youth Firearms Deer Hunt over Columbus Day Weekend, some deer hunters have already enjoyed a fruitful season. Likewise, black bear hunters have begun the year with harvests during bow season in the Southern Zone comparable to 2011. However, with scarce apples and little acorn or beech nut production this year, bears may den early, particularly if we get snow in November.

Following the regular deer and bear seasons in the Southern Zone, late bowhunting and muzzleloading seasons will open at sunrise on Dec. 10 and close at sunset on Dec. 18. Hunters taking part in these special seasons must possess either bowhunting or muzzleloading privileges.

In the Northern Zone, the regular deer and bear hunting season opened Oct. 20 and will close at sunset on Dec. 2. This zone generally includes the Adirondacks, Tug Hill Plateau, Eastern Lake Ontario Plain and the Champlain and St. Lawrence Valleys. A late archery and muzzleloading season for deer will be open in portions of the Northern Zone from Dec. 3 to Dec. 9.

Hunters should be aware of several important programs and recent changes as they prepare for the 2012 regular hunting season.
New CWD Rules Prohibit Importation of Whole Deer Carcasses from Pennsylvania: With the discovery of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in a captive white-tailed deer in Pennsylvania, DEC has issued an emergency rule to restrict importation of wild deer carcasses and parts from Pennsylvania. This rule is intended to protect New Yorks deer from newly identified potential sources of CWD. See CWD Regulations for Hunters at (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/8325.html ) for more information.
Rifles authorized for Cayuga County: New legislation now allows use of rifles for big game hunting in Cayuga County. See Rifle, Shotgun, and Bow Areas at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/35010.html for other areas where rifles can be used.
Mandatory Antler Restrictions: Mandatory antler restrictions (bucks must have at least 3 points on one side) are now in effect in WMUs 3A, 4G, 4O, 4P, 4R, 4S, and 4W during all seasons for all hunters 17 years and older. Mandatory antler restrictions also remain in effect in WMUs 3C, 3H, 3J, and 3K. For hunters not in the mandatory AR area, consider voluntary protection of young bucks. With such a mild winter this past year, we expect over-winter fawn survival was exceptionally strong and anticipate that hunters may see more yearling (1.5 years old) bucks afield this fall. Through most of New York, hunters can take a buck of any age, but an increasing number of hunters are voluntarily choosing not to take young, small-antlered bucks. We encourage hunters who are interested in seeing and taking older, larger bucks to consider working with local hunting clubs and neighboring landowners to cooperatively and voluntarily reduce their harvest of young bucks. See http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27663.html for more information.
Bear Hunting Areas: Beginning in 2011, bear hunting was expanded to include portions of eastern New York from Westchester to Washington County. See http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28605.html#Black for more bear hunting areas.
Crossbows: Crossbows may be used during the regular deer and bear hunting seasons and during the late muzzleloading seasons. See http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/68802.html on the rules for hunting with a crossbow and to download the required Certificate of Qualification.
Junior Hunters: Junior Hunters (14 and 15 years old) can hunt deer and bear with a firearm when appropriately accompanied by an experienced adult. See the Junior Hunter Mentoring webpage at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/46245.html for program requirements and to download the Mentored Youth Hunter Permission Form.
Harvest Reporting: Hunters are required to report their harvest of deer and bear within 7 days. Failure to report harvested deer or bear is a violation of NYS Environmental Conservation Law. Hunters may report via our online reporting system at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/8316.html or by calling the toll-free automated reporting system at 1-866-GAME-RPT (1-866-426-3778).
Black Bear Tooth Collection: Successful bear hunters are asked to submit a tooth of their bear so DEC can age the bear and monitor bear population dynamics. See http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/45598.html for instructions.
Venison Donation: Hunters are encouraged to participate in the Venison Donation program (http://www.venisondonation.com). By filling your permits and donating your deer, you help accomplish the needed deer management and you can feed less fortunate families.
Although safety-conscious hunters have significantly reduced the number of firearms-related injuries, studies show that individuals wearing hunter orange clothing are seven times less likely to be injured than hunters who do not wear the bright fluorescent color. Hunters are encouraged to review hunting safety tips (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/9186.html) and pay careful attention to basic firearm safety rules that can prevent hunting related shooting incidents.
Point your gun in a safe direction.
Treat every gun as if it were loaded.
Be sure of your target and beyond.
Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
Remember to wear Hunter Orange.
Hunters interested in getting the most up-to-date information about deer and bear management in New York are invited to join an e-mail list at http://lists.dec.state.ny.us/mailman/listinfo/nybiggame. The latest updates on New Yorks fish and wildlife can also be sent directly to those who subscribe to Field Notes (http://www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html), another free online e-mail list provided by the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources.

For specific descriptions of regulations and open areas, hunters should refer to the 2012-13 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/37136.html). Hunters are urged to review all regulations and safety tips contained in the guide.

Additional Deer Management Permits Available For Hunters

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-11-01T14:24:33

NY Big Game,

ADDITIONAL DEER MANAGEMENT PERMITS AVAILABLE FOR HUNTERS

Remaining Deer Management Permits (DMPs) will be available in several Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) beginning today, Nov. 1, 2012, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced.

DMPs, which allow hunters to harvest antlerless deer, are issued for specific WMUs to help control deer populations. In several units, the target number of DMPs was not issued during the initial application period. In these WMUs, DEC will re-open the DMP application process on a first-come, first-served basis.

Hunters may apply for leftover DMPs at any sporting license sales outlet beginning Nov. 1, 2012. Leftover DMPs will not be available by phone, by mail or via the internet. Applicants who previously paid the $10 DMP application fee or are exempt from the application fee will not be charged for this additional application.

Applications for remaining DMPs will be accepted for the following WMUs: 1C, 3M, 3R, 3S (bowhunting-only), 7F, 7H, 8A, 8F, 8G, 8H, 8J, 8N, 9A, and 9F. For WMU locations, check the 2012-13 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide or go to: www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/8302.html.

During this extended application period DEC will issue DMPs for an individual WMU all day. The status of issued permits will be reviewed each night, and as the target number of permits are issued for an individual WMU, they will be removed from the list of those available effective the following day, with no further applications accepted for those units. A list of units with available leftover DMPs will be routinely updated at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/6399.html.
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deer vehicle collisions and deer management in NY

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-10-29T16:31:07

NY Big Game,

It's that time of year again when deer-vehicle collisions will be on the rise. So stay alert, drive carefully, and slow down, particularly at dawn and dusk when deer are most active.

Relatedly, State Farm Insurance® recently released their list of states where deer-vehicle collisions are most likely (see www.statefarm.com/aboutus/_pressreleases/2012/october/23/west-virginia-again.asp). Based on State Farm® data, NY ranks #3 for total number of deer-vehicle collisions, but once the number of licensed drivers is factored in, NY ranks #23 for likelihood of an individual having a deer-vehicle collision. These data from State Farm® give us a general picture of the trends of deer-vehicle collisions in the state and are what we used to generate the chart of Estimated Deer-Vehicle Collisions in New York shown on page 22 of our Deer Management Plan (www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/deerplan2012.pdf). These data are not useful for making deer management decisions at the wildlife management unit scale. Rather, they simply illustrate the scope of impact that deer populations have on NY drivers.

Interestingly, every year I talk to hunters who seem convinced that NY deer management is run by the auto insurance industry. Yet, I can definitively say that DEC staff make decisions about deer management without influence from auto insurers. In fact, in the years I've been part of the deer program and working with our regional biologists to set antlerless harvest quotas, I have not once been contacted by an auto insurance representative.

So do deer-vehicle collision rates play any role in NY deer management? Sure, here's how. We periodically conduct Citizen Task Force (CTF) meetings (www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7207.html) in Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) throughout the state to engage the public in dialogue about the deer-related impacts experienced in their area and to generate recommendations for change in the local deer population. CTFs are comprised of local folks from a variety of backgrounds and may include hunters, farmers, foresters, conservationists, motorists, landowners, small business owners, and others. If deer-vehicle collisions are a hot issue for these folks, it may influence their recommendation for change in the deer population in that WMU. Also, deer-vehicle collisions are often a prime concern for many municipalities looking to establish deer reduction programs within their municipal borders.

Remember, deer-vehicle collision rates peak in November, so drive safely. For more information, check out "Reducing Deer-Vehicle Crashes," a publication of Cornell University Cooperative Extension (http://wildlifecontrol.info/pubs/Documents/Deer/Deer-Vehicle_factsheet1.pdf).

Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist

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Northern Zone Regular Deer and Bear Season beginstomorrow

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-10-19T18:48:38

NY Big Game,

The regular season for deer and bear in the Northern Zone begins tomorrow, October 20, and runs through Sunday, December 2. See www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28605.html for deer and bear hunting seasons and open areas. DEC biologists and technicians have been checking deer and bears at meat cutter shops during the past few weeks, and are reporting good harvests in the early, archery, and muzzleloading seasons. Last year's mild winter allowed deer to enter the summer in great physical condition, including good antler growth. The lack of fawn mortality during winter should mean many more yearling deer in the woods this fall.

The reported bear harvest during the early seasons has been above average, already eclipsing last year's total Adirondack Range harvest. Mast crops appear to be spotty this year, so if you find an area with a good crop of acorns or beechnuts, your chances of encountering a bear are much higher.

Deer Management Permits (DMPs) are issued in some Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) in the Northern Zone. DMPs may only be used in the WMU for which they were issued.

Public land is plentiful in the Northern Zone, and DEC's State Lands Interactive Mapper (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/45415.html) is a helpful tool to identify state land boundaries, trails, and backcountry campsites, and to review topography and aerial imagery of the places you might hunt.

Enjoy the pleasant fall weather, be safe, and remember to report your harvest.

Ed Reed
Region 5 Deer and Bear Biologist

Emergency CWD regulation prohibits importation of certain deer and elk parts from Pennsylvania

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-10-18T17:04:19

NY Big Game,
 
If you hunt deer or elk in Pennsylvania or know someone who does, be
aware of this new rule.  See the press release below.
 
 
DEC ISSUES EMERGENCY REGULATION FOR CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE TO PROHIBIT
IMPORTING CERTAIN ANIMAL PARTS
Action Taken to Protect New York’s Deer Population in Response to
Pennsylvania Discovery
 
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)
issued an emergency rulemaking that revises the state’s Chronic Wasting
Disease (CWD) regulations in response to a confirmed case of CWD in
Pennsylvania, DEC Commissioner Joe Martens announced today. Effective
immediately, the revision prohibits importing certain parts of
white-tailed deer or American elk taken in the state of Pennsylvania.
 
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture confirmed the first case of
CWD in Pennsylvania on October 11 at a deer farm in New Oxford (Adams
County), PA. CWD is a contagious neurological disease affecting deer,
elk and moose. It causes a characteristic spongy degeneration of the
brain in infected animals resulting in emaciation, abnormal behavior,
loss of bodily functions and death. In response, DEC amended its CWD
regulations to prohibit importing the following parts of deer or elk
taken in Pennsylvania: brain, eyes, spinal cord, tonsils, intestinal
tract, spleen or retropharyngeal lymph nodes.
 
“Hunters who take a deer or elk in Pennsylvania must now butcher the
animal and remove the prohibited parts before entering New York State,”
said DEC Commissioner Martens.  “This action is necessary to protect New
York’s populations of deer and moose. Most successful hunters already
opt to butcher a deer and put the meat in a cooler before traveling back
to New York.”
 
DEC’s ongoing extensive surveillance program, initiated in 2002, first
confirmed CWD in New York State in 2005 and has not discovered any
additional cases of CWD since that time. DEC recently revised its
surveillance plan and efforts this year will concentrate on collecting
tissues at taxidermists as well as deer processors. 
 
It is not known exactly how CWD is transmitted. The infectious agent, a
prion, may be passed from animal to animal through feces, urine or
saliva. The minimal incubation period between infection and development
of clinical disease appears to be about 16 months. The maximum
incubation period is unknown, as is the point at which shedding of the
CWD agent begins during the prolonged course of infection.
 
The movement of infected material is believed to be one of primary
routes of transmission. This amendment to the CWD regulations prohibits
importing those parts of a deer where the disease is most likely to be
found. DEC advises hunters not to consume the meat of any animal that
acts abnormal and to exercise precautions when butchering animals, such
as using rubber or latex gloves. Also, DEC urges hunters to dispose of
deer parts that will not be consumed in a municipal landfill.
 
Additional information about CWD can be found on DEC’s website at:
http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7507.html and
http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/33220.html. Information is also available
on the Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance's website at
http://www.cwd-info.org/. 
 
 
For reference, the parts of harvested deer or elk that hunters are
allowed to bring into NY from PA (and other restricted states and
provinces) include meat (without the backbone), cleaned hide and cape,
antlers or cleaned skull plate with antlers attached, tanned hide and
finished taxidermy mounts.
 
See www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/8325.html for a list of states and provinces
from which whole deer, elk and moose carcasses may be brought into NY. 
All carcasses and parts of deer, elk or moose brought into NY must have
a tag identifying the species of animal, the state, province, or country
where the animal was taken and the name and address of the person who
took the animal. Usually the tagging requirements of the
state/province/territory of origin will contain this information.
 
Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist
 
 
 

Note: To change your email address with NY Big Game, get a password
reminder, or unsubscribe please visit
http://lists.dec.state.ny.us/mailman/listinfo/nybiggame 

You may also catch the latest updates on New York's fish and wildlife
by subscribing to Field Notes, another free online e-mail list provided
by the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources. To learn more
and subscribe, see www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html

Field Report: Youth Deer Hunt a Positive Experience for New York Hunters

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-10-12T14:54:03

NY Big Game,


FIELD REPORT: YOUTH DEER HUNT A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FOR NEW YORK HUNTERS
 
Columbus Day weekend, October 6-8, marked the state’s first youth
firearms deer hunt and reports from the field indicate the youth deer
hunt was a success for many junior hunters as they learned about New
York’s rich deer hunting tradition under the watchful eyes of
experienced mentors, New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe Martens announced today. 
 
“The youth deer hunt is a great opportunity for the next generation of
New York hunters and is an important step in preserving our hunting
heritage while maintaining our ability to manage deer through hunting in
the future,” said Commissioner Martens.  “We received enthusiastic
feedback from parents and excited young hunters who took part of the
Columbus Day weekend.  These experiences demonstrate the great value of
providing this unique opportunity for junior hunters.”
 
During the youth deer hunt, junior hunters (ages 14-15) with a big game
hunting license were eligible to take one deer of either sex with a
firearm when properly accompanied by a licensed and experienced adult. 
 
The number of Junior Hunting license holders who were eligible to
participate at least one day of the youth hunt was 12,753.   To date,
junior hunters have reported taking 486 deer, though hunters have 7 days
to report their kill.  DEC anticipates the final harvest estimate for
the youth deer hunt will be higher after all reports are in and the
harvest is calculated.
 
DEC Environmental Conservation Officers and wildlife staff were afield
throughout the weekend, monitoring hunter activity and talking with
bowhunters, small game and turkey hunters, and junior hunters about
their experience during the youth deer hunt.  Reports from the junior
hunters were overwhelmingly positive, and other hunters reported their
hunting was not affected by the ongoing youth deer hunt.  Some hunters
indicated that while they did not support the youth hunt when it was
first proposed, their actual observations over the weekend and seeing
what a positive experience it was for so many kids, has changed their
minds. 
 
Additionally, New York’s junior hunters demonstrated why mentored youth
have the greatest safety record of all hunters across the nation; no
hunting related shooting incidents were reported during the youth deer
hunt. 
 
To showcase the success of junior hunters, DEC encourages parents to
submit a picture to DEC’s Big Game Hunting Photo Gallery
(www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/54055.html).



 

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Bowhunting Season for Deer and Bear

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-09-28T20:14:08

NY Big Game,
 
Bowhunting season for deer and bear in the Northern Zone began Thursday, September 27, and it will begin in the Southern Zone on Monday, October 1.  See www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28605.html for deer and bear hunting seasons and open areas.
 
Northern Zone bowhunters are reminded that last year's license is required when hunting prior to October 1.  Also, Deer Management Permits (DMPs) may now be used during the early bow season (and early muzzleloader season) in the Northern Zone.  DMPs may only be used in the Wildlife Management Unit and the during the license year for which they were issued.  In the Southern Zone, with the bow season beginning October 1 this year, bowhunters now benefit from an additional 12 days of hunting opportunity.  
 
I intend to spend some time bowhunting next week, and I hope you all can do so too.
 
Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist
 
 
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Early bear season off to a great start

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-09-21T23:37:46

NY Big Game,
 
Less than one week into the early bear season in northern New York, hunters reported taking more than 140 bears. During the same time period for the past five years, the take averaged only 104 bears. Currently, areas with the greatest bear harvest appear to be along the western fringe of the Adirondacks within Herkimer, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.   We anticipated higher harvest levels for this early season compared to last year, and preliminary numbers indicate a great start. 
 
Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist
 
 


 
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Youth Hunt is Confirmed for Columbus Day Weekend 2012

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-09-17T19:15:46

NY Big Game,
 
DEC issued the following official press release
(www.dec.ny.gov/press/84851.html) late last week, announcing that New
York's first-ever Youth Firearms Deer Hunt will take place this Columbus
Day Weekend (October 6, 7, and 8, 2012).  Details are now available on
DEC's website linked below.
 


DEC ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR COLUMBUS DAY WEEKEND YOUTH DEER HUNT 
 
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has confirmed that
junior hunters ages 14-15 will be able to hunt deer during a special
youth firearms deer season over Columbus Day Weekend this year, October
6 through October 8, 2012.  
 
“Implementation of this youth deer hunt is a hallmark moment for New
York hunters and represents continued efforts of DEC to engage more
young people in nature and outdoor recreation,” said DEC Commissioner
Joe Martens. 
 
The youth deer hunt will take place Columbus Day weekend in both the
Northern Zone and Southern Zone; a youth hunt was not established on
Long Island due to restrictions in the Environmental Conservation Law.
Junior hunters (ages 14-15) with a big game hunting license will be
eligible to take one deer of either sex with a firearm when properly
accompanied by a licensed and experienced adult.  Junior hunters may use
a Deer Management Permit or Deer Management Assistance Program tag for
an antlerless deer or, during the youth firearms season only, they may
use their regular season tag to take a deer of either sex.  
 
In areas restricted to bowhunting only (Westchester County and parts of
Albany and Monroe counties), junior hunters may only use bowhunting
equipment to take deer during the youth hunt weekend.  “Bowhunting
seasons remain open during the youth hunt, but I encourage bowhunters to
set your bow aside for the weekend and be a mentor for a youth’s first
firearms deer hunt,” Commissioner Martens stated. 
 
While there is pending legislation that may impact future youth hunts,
until it has been acted on, DEC’s regulations remain in effect.  More
details of the Youth Firearms Deer Hunt, rules for junior hunters and
their mentors, and several frequently asked questions are available at
www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/46245.html. 
 
DEC also offers special opportunities for junior hunters (ages 12-15)
for waterfowl, wild turkey, and pheasants.  See
www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/52495.html for information about these other
programs.
 


 
 
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and subscribe, see www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html

Early bear season starts Saturday; hunting season summary sheet available

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-09-11T13:32:03

NY Big Game,

The Early Black Bear Hunting Season in the Northern Zone begins this Saturday, September 15, 2012. During the early bear hunting season, hunters may use a bow (with appropriate bowhunting eligibility), muzzleloader, handgun, shotgun, rifle or crossbow. Last year's license (2011-2012) is required when hunting prior to October 1, 2012. Successful bear hunters must report the harvest within seven days via DEC's online reporting (https://nyfgharvest.appsolgrp.com:8063/nyfggh/harvest/start.action) system or by calling our toll-free number 1-866-GAME-RPT. See www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28605.html#Black for a map showing which Wildlife Management Units are included in the Early Bear Season. You may also be interested in the booklet "Hunting Black Bear in New York" at www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/bbhunting10.PDF.

Also, we've created a 2-page summary sheet of the 2012-13 Hunting Seasons (www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/huntingseasons1213.pdf), which shows dates and bag limits for big game, small game, turkey and furbearer seasons. You can print the season summary along with the 2012-2013 Sunrise-Sunset table (www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/1213guidesun.pdf) and carry them with you afield or keep them in your vehicle or at camp for convenient reference. For detailed information on regulations, licenses, places to hunt, sportsman education and more, visit DEC's Hunting webpage (www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/hunting.html).

Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist

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Deer hunting information; Alert for EHD Virus in deer

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-08-14T15:28:50

NY Big Game,

With 2012-13 hunting licenses now available, we have updated information on our website to help you plan your deer hunting activities.
DMP Availability and Probability of Selection - www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/30409.html This page shows which Wildlife Management Units will have Deer Management Permits (doe tags), and what hunters' odds are for being selected for a DMP.
2012 Deer Season Forecasts - www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/37304.html In particular, you will be interested in the regional reports which contain unit-by-unit forecasts from our regional field biologists.
2012-13 New York State Hunting and Trapping Guide - For current hunting regulations, season dates and bag limits, sunrise/sunset chart, and a number of wildlife and hunting related articles, you can download the at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/37136.html or scroll through the entire guide online at www.eregulations.com/newyork/hunting.
Also, please report sick or dead deer to DEC.
DEC needs your help identifying outbreaks of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) (www.dec.ny.gov/animals/39767.html), a fatal virus transmitted to deer by biting midges, generally known as "no see-ums" or "gnats." Infections commonly occur in late summer and early fall. Sick deer have small bruises in the mouth and nose and swelling of the head, neck, tongue and lips. A large number of sick or dead deer may be found in a small area, particularly in or near water sources. Though no outbreaks have been detected in New York yet this year, we previously had limited EHD outbreaks in 2007 in Albany and Niagara counties and in 2011 in Rockland County. The virus is not a problem for humans or domestic animals but can have a locally significant impact on deer populations. If you encounter a sick deer or an unusual number of dead deer, please report it to your nearest DEC regional wildlife office (www.dec.ny.gov/about/50230.html).

Jeremy Hurst
Wildlife Biologist

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2012-13 Sporting Licenses Available Monday, August 13

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-08-10T19:28:55

NY Big Game,

2012-13 SPORTING LICENSES AVAILABLE BEGINNING AUGUST 13, 2012
Deer Management Permits, Hunting, Fishing, Trapping Licenses will be
Available

The 2012-13 hunting, fishing and trapping licenses and Deer Management
Permits (DMPs) may be purchased beginning Monday, August 13, New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Joe
Martens today announced.

“Hunting, trapping and fishing opportunities in New York are fantastic
and DEC is committed to helping provide outdoor enthusiasts with
numerous recreational opportunities to enjoy the beauty of our state
throughout the year,” Commissioner Martens said. “DEC continually works
to make improvements to better serve the public and protect our natural
resources. Recently, we adopted a new deer management plan, we are
developing statewide management plans for black bear and furbearers, and
we continue our effort to build and upgrade boat launches.”

Licenses and permits can be purchased at one of DEC’s 1,500 license
sales outlets statewide. Sporting licenses can also be ordered by
telephone or by visiting the DEC website at
http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6101.html. The 2012-13 sporting licenses
are valid beginning October 1, 2012. The new Hunting & Trapping and
Freshwater Fishing regulation guides are available at all license
issuing outlets as well as from the DEC website at www.dec.ny.gov.

DEC’s Automated Licensing System (DECALS) is New York State’s
computerized system for issuing sporting licenses and tracking license
sales and revenues. DECALS may also be used for donations to the Habitat
Access Stamp Program, Venison Donation Coalition, Conservation Fund and
the Trail Maintenance Program. DEC continues to improve and enhance
DECALS to better meet the needs of sportsmen and women. For questions
regarding license purchases, please call DECALS Call Center at
(1-866-933-2257). Hours of operation for the Call Center are 7 a.m. to 7
p.m., Monday through Saturday from August 13 to October 13, 2012.
Regular weekday hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. will resume on October 15,
2012.

License buyers should have the following items ready when applying:
complete name and address information, customer ID number if you have
it, proof of residency information (driver's license number or
non-driver's ID number with a valid NYS address to qualify for a
resident license), and, if purchasing by phone or internet, credit card
and card expiration date. Hunting license purchases require individuals
to provide proof of hunting education certification or a copy of a
previous license, or this information must already be contained in their
DECALS file.

Sales of all sporting licenses are deposited into the Conservation Fund
which is used for the management of New York's fish and wildlife
populations and for protection and management of wildlife habitat.

New Laws and Regulations for 2012-2013
Hunters should be aware of several new laws and regulations in effect
for 2012-13:
The Southern Zone bowhunting season and the regular season in
Westchester County (bowhunting only) begin on October 1.
A late bowhunting season will run concurrent with the late muzzleloader
season in the Northern Zone.
The Northern Zone regular season will now begin on the 2nd Saturday
after Columbus Day each year (October 20, 2012 this season).
Deer Management Permits (DMPs, “doe tags”) may be used in all seasons
in the Northern Zone. DMPs may only be used in the Wildlife Management
Unit (WMU) for which they are issued.
Mandatory antler restrictions (3 points on one side minimum) are now in
effect in WMUs 3A, 4G, 4O, 4P, 4R, 4S, and 4W during all seasons for all
hunters 17 years and older.
All of Suffolk County will be open for the special January firearms
season, subject to local discharge ordinances.
A Deer Management Focus Area in central Tompkins County will intensify
use of hunting to assist communities in the Ithaca area with the burden
of overabundant deer populations.
Bear hunting seasons will run concurrently with the newly adjusted deer
seasons.
New legislation now allows use of rifles for big game hunting in Cayuga
County.
More detail for each of these changes is available in the 2012-2013
Hunting and Trapping Regulations Guide
(http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/37136.html).

Anglers should be aware that while the majority of fishing regulations
have not changed, some changes were made for the 2012-13 season. Some
of these changes were made on popular fishing waters such as Lake Erie,
the Upper Niagara River, the Salmon River, Great Lakes tributaries and
Oneida Lake. Anglers are advised to review the 2012-13 Fishing
Regulations Guide (http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html) to
determine if regulations changes have occurred on waters they intend to
fish.

Deer Management Permits
Deer Management Permits (DMPs) will be available at all license issuing
outlets and by phone, internet or mail, from August 13, 2012 through
close of business October 1, 2012. DMPs are issued through a random
selection process at the point of sale, and customers who are selected
for DMPs will receive their permits immediately. Chances of selection
(http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/30409.html) in each WMU are available at
License Issuing Agent locations, or on the DMP Hotline at
1-866-472-4332. Chances of getting a DMP remain the same throughout the
application period - hunters do not need to rush to apply for a DMP on
the first day of sale.

If a significant number of DMPs are still available in a WMU after
October 1, leftover DMP sales will commence on November 1, 2012 and will
continue on a first-come/first-serve basis until the end of the hunting
season or until all DMPs have been issued in the WMU. Additionally,
Bonus DMPs will be available in the bowhunting-only WMUs 3S, 4J, and 8C
and in WMUs 1C, 9A and possible others. For information about Bonus DMPs
see http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/10001.html.

The target DMP allocation for 2012 varies by unit depending on the
management objective, but overall DEC intends to issue about 10 to12
percent more DMPs than in 2011. In addition to the Adirondack and Tug
Hill units where DMPs are not authorized, WMUs 3A, 4L, 4U, 4Z and 6A
will have no DMPs in 2012. Hunters are reminded that DMPs are only
valid for antlerless deer in the WMU specified on the permit.

Be a Mentor to a New Hunter, Trapper, or Angler
Adult hunters and trappers are encouraged to pass along their
traditions and become a mentor for a junior hunter or trapper. The
junior hunter and trapper mentoring program allows 14 and 15 year olds
to hunt big game with a firearm and 12 to 15 year olds to hunt big game
with a bow while accompanied and supervised by an experienced adult
hunter. Unlicensed youth less than 12 years of age may also accompany
and assist a licensed and experienced adult trapper. More details about
these opportunities are available in this year's Hunting and Trapping
Laws and Regulations Guide or Junior Hunter Mentoring Program webpage at
http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/46245.html.

Due to pending legislation, it is unknown if the youth hunt (firearms)
for deer, tentatively scheduled over Columbus Day weekend, will occur.
If legislation is passed for the youth hunt, DEC will publicize this via
news release and on the website.

Anglers are encouraged to "Take the Pledge" and help grow the sport of
fishing in New York State by taking someone new fishing this year. More
than 11,000 New York anglers have participated in this joint program of
the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation and the Department since
its inception in 2006. Anglers interested in Taking the Pledge can do so
on DEC’s fishing page at http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/fishing.html.

The I FISH NY Guide to Freshwater Fishing in New York State features a
map/brochure and provides information on over 320 lakes and ponds and
110 rivers and streams recommended by DEC Fisheries staff across the
state. The map can be requested by contacting fwfish-alzg/AvbNgHjR302lo9ZcpyrNiDsoR7y< at >public.gmane.org
(NY FISHING MAP in the subject line). New for 2012 are the interactive
maps of public fishing waters and boat launch sites which can be found
at www.dec.ny.gov/pubs/42978.html. Additional fishing information can
be found at www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7832.html.

Contribute Via Habitat Stamps, Trail Supporter Patch, or Donation
Directly to Support the Conservation Fund or the Venison Donation
Program
DEC encourages all outdoor enthusiasts to consider purchasing a
Habitat/Access Stamp and/or a Trail Supporter Patch. These stamps and
patches help support DEC's efforts to conserve habitat and increase
public access for fish and wildlife-related recreation and maintain
non-motorized trails. Buying a $5 stamp or patch or donating directly to
the Conservation Fund is a way to help conserve New York's fabulous
wildlife heritage and enhance outdoor recreation in New York State.
Additionally, anyone - not just hunters and anglers - can help feed the
hungry by contributing to the Venison Donation Program at all license
issuing outlets. Individuals should inform the license sales agent that
they want to make a donation of $1 or more to support the program. Since
1999, the Venison Donation Coalition has paid for the processing of more
than 330 tons of highly nutritious venison, the equivalent of 2.8
million meals served. For more information about the program, go to
http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/8351.html.

Participate in Citizen Science to Benefit Wildlife Management
Each year, thousands of hunters, trappers and anglers help DEC monitor
wildlife populations by recording their wildlife observations while
afield. To learn about how you can participate in the Cooperator Ruffed
Grouse Hunting Log, Bowhunter Sighting Log, Winter Wild Turkey Flock
Survey and other citizen science programs, please see Citizen Science:
Wildlife Observation Data Collection
(http://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/1155.html).

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by the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources. To learn more
and subscribe, see www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html

DEC Announces Leashed Tracking Dog Handler Examination

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-07-27T15:08:43

NY Big Game,
 
 
DEC ANNOUNCES LEASHED TRACKING DOG HANDLER EXAMINATION

Exam Slated for August 24; Applications due August 17
 
The examination for individuals interested in obtaining a license to
use leashed tracking dogs to find wounded or injured big game animals is
scheduled for Friday, August 24, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. until noon at
designated New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
regional offices across the state, the agency announced today. The list
of Regional Offices can be found at:
http://www.dec.ny.gov/about/50230.html. 
 
The deadline for registering to take the exam is August 17.  A score of
80 percent or higher on the written exam and a valid New York State Big
Game hunting license are mandatory requirements for receiving a license.
There is a $50 license fee, and a $25 non-refundable processing fee
associated with the license, which expires five years from the date of
issuance.  

More information regarding the leashed tracking dog license can be
found at: http://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/25020.html.
 
To apply for the leashed tracking dog exam, contact DEC’s Special
Licenses Unit by calling 518-402-8985, by email
(fwslu-alzg/AvbNgHjR302lo9ZcpyrNiDsoR7y< at >public.gmane.org) or by writing to:


NYS DEC      
Special Licenses Unit     
625 Broadway 
Albany, NY 12233-4752

 

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by the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources. To learn more
and subscribe, see www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html

DEC Adopts Changes for State Deer Hunting Regulations

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-07-18T16:03:17

NY Big Game,
 
DEC issued the following news release late last week, announcing the
adoption of several regulation changes for deer and bear hunting.  These
changes are in effect now and will apply to the 2012 hunting seasons. 
For more detail, use the links in the press release to read the text of
the adopted regulations and DEC's assessment of the public comment we
received.
 
 
DEC ADOPTS CHANGES FOR STATE DEER HUNTING REGULATIONS
New Rules Include Longer Bow Seasons, Mandatory Antler Restrictions in
More Areas and Other Deer Hunting Changes
 
The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has adopted rules
affecting deer and bear hunting in New York, to implement certain
aspects of the state's Five-Year Deer Management Plan, Commissioner Joe
Martens announced.

“With these changes, DEC has started implementing several strategies of
the recently adopted Management Plan for White-tailed Deer,”
Commissioner Martens said. “Though the management plan addresses much
more than deer hunting, these changes emphasize the value of hunting as
a tradition for New Yorkers and as the primary tool for deer management.”
  

The adopted changes include:
Beginning the Southern Zone bowhunting season and the regular season in
Westchester County (bowhunting only) on October 1 and establishing a
late bowhunting season concurrent with the late muzzleloader season in
the Northern Zone.  These changes will increase opportunities by several
weeks for most New York bowhunters.
Adjusting the Northern Zone season dates by opening the Northern Zone
regular season for 44 days, beginning on the 2nd Saturday after Columbus
Day.  This is a slight change from the original proposal to begin the
regular season on the 4th Saturday in October.  Some hunters were
concerned that the original proposal would extend the season too late
into December.  The adopted season structure results in fewer years when
the regular season will extend later than it has in the past.
Allowing Deer Management Permits (DMPs, “doe tags”) to be used in all
seasons in the Northern Zone.  This change will simplify regulations and
increase hunter opportunity and choice.  No management impact is
expected since DEC determines the total number of DMPs issued in each
area of the state based on current deer population conditions and
hunting activity.
Expanding mandatory antler restrictions (3 points on one side minimum)
into Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 3A, 4G, 4O, 4P, 4R, 4S, and 4W, as
called for in the Deer Management Plan.  DEC is working to develop a
systematic and objective process to guide future decisions regarding
antler restrictions or other buck harvest strategies to best satisfy the
desires of New York deer hunters and stakeholders.
Opening all of Suffolk County for the special January firearms season,
subject to local discharge ordinances.  This change will simplify
options for hunters, should local municipalities change ordinances to
allow discharge of bows or firearms.
Establishing a Deer Management Focus Area in central Tompkins County to
intensify use of hunting to assist communities in the Ithaca area with
the burden of overabundant deer populations.  The focus area program is
established to reduce total deer populations within the focus area by
providing more time and more tags to hunters who can gain access to
huntable land.  DEC plans to evaluate this new approach over the next
several years and, depending on the results, will consider designation
of other locations as deer management focus areas.  More information
about the focus area program, including registration forms will be
available on the DEC website in September.
Adjusting bear hunting seasons to remain concurrent with deer seasons. 
DEC believes retaining a consistent season structure for big game
hunting is currently preferable, though future bear management may
necessitate deviation from this approach.
The full text of the adopted regulations is available at
www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/81317.html.  To understand DEC’s rationale
for the adopted season changes, and to review DEC’s assessment of public
comments on this rulemaking, see
www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/deerregapc2012.pdf (144 KB).  Also, the
2012 deer hunting seasons can be found at
www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/28605.html and additional information about
mandatory antler restrictions in New York is available at
www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27663.html. 
 
DEC’s Deer Management Plan
(www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/deerplan2012.pdf, 2.6 MB) was the
foundation for these regulation changes.  Over the coming year, DEC will
be initiating other aspects of the plan to address ecological impacts of
deer and continue improving deer management capacity for the benefit of
all New Yorkers.
 
 
 

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If you care, leave it there

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-05-24T14:38:18

NY Big Game,
 
IF YOU CARE, LEAVE IT THERE
DEC Urges New Yorkers Not To Disturb Fawns and Other Young Wildlife
 
New Yorkers should keep their distance and not to disturb newborn fawns
or other young wildlife as many animals are in the peak season for
giving birth, the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) today cautioned. 
 
It is not unusual to see a young bird crouched in the yard or a young
rabbit in the flower garden, both apparently abandoned.  Finding a fawn
deer lying by itself is also fairly common.  Many people assume that
young wildlife found alone are helpless and need assistance for their
survival, however, in nearly all cases this is a mistake and typically
human interaction does more damage than good.  Those that see a fawn or
other newborn wildlife should enjoy their encounter but keep it brief,
maintain some distance and do not attempt to touch the animal.
 
Young wildlife quickly venture into the world on shaky legs or fragile
wings. While most are learning survival from one or both parents, some
normally receive little or no care. Often, wild animal parents stay away
from their young when people are near. For all of these young animals,
the perils of survival are a natural part of life in the wild. 
 
White-tailed deer fawns present a good example of how human
intervention with young wildlife can be problematic.  Most fawns are
born during late May and the first half of June. While fawns are able to
walk shortly after birth, they spend most of their first several days
lying still.  During this period a fawn is also usually left alone by
the adult female (doe) except when nursing.  People occasionally find a
lone fawn and mistakenly assume it has been orphaned or abandoned, which
is very rare.  Fawns should never be picked up.  If human presence is
detected by the doe, the doe may delay its next visit to nurse.  
 
A fawn’s best chance to survive is by being raised by the adult doe.
Fawns nurse three to four times a day, usually for less than 30 minutes
at a time, but otherwise the doe keeps her distance. This helps reduce
the chance that she will attract a predator to the fawn. The fawn’s
protective coloration and ability to remain motionless all help it avoid
detection by predators and people.
 
By the end of its second week, a fawn begins to move about more and
spend more time with the doe. It also begins to eat grass and leaves. At
about ten weeks of age, fawns are no longer dependent on milk, although
they continue to nurse occasionally into the fall. During August and
September, all deer begin to grow their winter coat and fawns lose their
spots during this process.
 
Should you find a fawn or other young wildlife, If You Care, Leave It
There.  In nearly all cases that is the best thing for the animal.  DO
NOT consider young wildlife as possible pets. This is illegal and is bad
for the animal. Wild animals are not well suited for life in captivity
and they may carry diseases that can be given to people. Resist the
temptation to take them out of the wild.   For more information and
answers to frequently asked questions about young wildlife, visit the
DEC website at: www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6956.html.
 

 


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DEC Proposes Changes to Deer Hunting Rules

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-04-05T18:39:04

NY Big Game,

DEC has proposed rules affecting deer hunting to implement the state’s
Five-Year Deer Management Plan. Here is the press release to announce
the changes, followed by some additional links to more background
information.

“Regulation changes are needed to implement many of the strategies of
the recently adopted Management Plan for White-tailed Deer,”
Commissioner Martens said. “The changes to the deer hunting seasons,
mandatory antler restrictions, use of Deer Management Permits (DMPs),
and development of Deer Management Focus Areas will increase
opportunities for New York hunters, consistent with input we’ve received
from the public and deer management goals.”

DEC adopted the five- year deer management plan in October 2011
following extensive public input and can be viewed at:
www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/deerplan2012.pdf.

Comments previously submitted on the draft deer management plan were
important in finalizing the deer plan and developing this rulemaking
proposal. DEC will accept public comments on this proposal through May
21, 2012. Comments on this rule should be specific to the proposals
herein and should not be resubmissions of previous comments submitted on
the full deer management plan or previous regulatory proposals.

This rule also proposes some adjustment of bear hunting seasons, which
are generally concurrent with deer seasons. DEC is proposing to:
Establish a three-day youth firearms season for deer to occur during
Columbus Day weekend in portions of the Northern and Southern Zone where
deer may be taken with a firearm which will increase opportunities for
junior hunters. Junior hunters (ages 14 and 15) will be authorized to
take one deer of either-sex with a firearm during the youth season. DEC
anticipates participation by approximately 16,000 youth hunters, roughly
one youth hunter for every two to three square miles of deer habitat in
New York. The youth season will run concurrently with early bowhunting
season and is not expected to have any noticeable impact on deer
behavior or bowhunter success, particularly in light of the more than
100,000 small game hunters also afield during the early fall. Youth deer
hunts are held concurrent with bowhunting seasons in many other states,
including Connecticut, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Opinions of
potential participants about a youth firearms season can be found at
www.dec.ny.gov/docs/wildlife_pdf/ythdeer2012.pdf. Lengthen bowhunting
seasons in the Southern Zone by moving to a fixed opening date of
October 1 to increase bowhunting opportunities. This will lengthen
bowhunting seasons in the Southern Zone, and lengthen the regular season
(bowhunting only) in Westchester County by an average of 15 days and
include an additional four weekend days in most years. Adjust the
Northern Zone muzzleloader and regular season start dates by up to one
week later certain years to increase bowhunting opportunities and
accommodate the proposed youth firearms season. This rule will begin the
Northern Zone muzzleloader and regular seasons one week later in 6 of 10
years allowing for a longer early bow season these years. Establish a
late bowhunting season in the Northern Zone, concurrent with the late
muzzleloading season, to increase bowhunting opportunities. This rule
will increase bowhunting opportunities in the Northern Zone by an
additional seven days and will be similar to the concurrent bow and
muzzleloader seasons in the Southern Zone. Allow DMPs to be used during
Northern Zone bow and early muzzleloader seasons to simplify regulations
and increase hunter opportunity and choice. Current regulations allow
use of DMPs in the Northern Zone only during the regular season and late
muzzleloader season. This change will only affect those portions of the
Northern Zone where DMPs can be issued (Wildlife Management Units (WMUs)
6A, 6C, 6G, 6H, 6K), and this change will not affect the number of DMPs
issued. WMU locations can be identified at
http://www.dec.ny.gov/ourestrictions in WMUs 3A, 4G, 4O, 4P, 4R, 4S, and 4W to reduce harvest of
yearling (1.5 year old) bucks. The mandatory antler restriction will
prohibit hunters during all seasons in all portions of the listed WMUs
from taking an antlered deer unless it has at least 3 points on at least
one antler. Hunters less than 17 years old will be exempt from the
restriction. In 2011, yearlings comprised 49 percent of the total adult
bucks taken in these units. This rule is expected to change harvest
composition so that 15-20 percent of the adult bucks taken in these
units are yearlings. The restriction is expected to decrease total buck
harvest approximately 35-45 percent initially. Simplify the description
of the area open for deer hunting during the January firearms season to
include Suffolk County, subject to local discharge restrictions. Current
regulations include a complex and lengthy description of open areas that
are unnecessary considering existing local ordinances and legal setbacks
from structures for discharge of firearms. Establish provisions for
designation of Deer Management Focus Areas to intensify use of
traditional hunting in specifically designated geographic areas to
assist communities with the burden of overabundant deer populations.
This rule will increase bag limits to two antlerless deer per hunter per
day and establish a Deer Management Focus Area deer hunting season in
late January. This rule will establish specific permit, tagging and
reporting requirements in focus areas. This rule also defines the first
such focus area in Tompkins County that includes portions of the towns
of Caroline, Danby, Dryden, Enfield, Ithaca, Lansing, Newfield, and
Ulysses. This area has very high deer populations and relatively poor
access for hunters. Deer management focus areas will enable greater
harvest opportunity for hunters who are able to gain access to lands for
hunting, and are intended to augment on-going management activities in
the affected area. Adjust bear seasons in the Northern and Southern Zone
to remain consistent with bow, muzzleloader and regular seasons for
deer. Correct a road name in the boundary descriptions for WMUs 5A and
5C, where Franklin County Route 24 was incorrectly identified as State
Route 24.
To see more detailed explanations of these proposals, including
instructions for providing comments, visit the DEC website at
www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/propregulations.html. The proposed rulemaking
can also be viewed in detail in the April 4, 2012 publication of the New
York State Register, which is available at
www.dos.state.ny.us/info/register/2012.html.

The public comment period will remain open until May 21. Please do not
submit comments by replying to this email message. Rather, please review
the proposal documents and use the mailing address or email link
provided with the proposal documents at
www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/propregulations.html (see Parts 1 and 4 -
Single Species and Species Management Areas [White-tailed Deer and Black
Bear]).

For additional background on these proposals, I encourage you to review
Appendix 2 (Proposed Deer Hunting Season Structure) and Appendix 3
(Alternative Buck Harvest Strategies) in the Management Plan for
White-tailed Deer in New York State, and the Assessment of Public
Comment on the Draft Deer Management Plan, all available at
www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7211.html#DeerPlan. You may also find information
regarding some of the proposals, including the youth hunt, changes to
bowhunting seasons and mandatory antler restrictions, on our website at:
Deer and Bear Hunter Surveys (www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/74971.html) and
Antler Restrictions in New York (www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/27663.html).

Jeremy Hurst
Big Game Biologist

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DEC Issues Guidance to Discourage Black Bear Encounters

Wild White-tailed Deer and Black Bear List — 2012-03-21T20:10:04

NY Big Game,

With the onset of warmer weather, New York’s black bear population will
be on the move. The New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation (DEC) today issued guidance on how to prevent nuisance bear
encounters.

Black bears will take advantage of almost any readily available food
source, including bird feeders and garbage. To prevent encounters
between bears and humans, people should never intentionally feed bears
and should take every precaution to discourage bears from seeking out
food sources in neighborhoods and other residential areas.

Typically, black bears are timid and will avoid all contact with humans.
However, bears will become a nuisance and can cause significant damage
if they believe they can obtain an easy meal from bird feeders, garbage
cans, dumpsters, barbeque grills, tents, vehicles, out-buildings or
houses.

It is not only illegal to intentionally feed bears, it is also illegal
to inadvertently feed them. Specifically, after written notice from DEC,
the incidental or indirect feeding of bears through food attractants
such as garbage, pet food or bird seed is illegal. DEC has the authority
to require the removal of these and other food attractants when bears
become problematic.

It is in the best interest of both bears and people for bears to get
their food solely from wild sources. Once a bear learns to associate
certain structures with food, it can become a serious nuisance to people
and a threat to itself. Bears that lose their natural fear of humans are
much more likely to be illegally shot, hit by an automobile or destroyed
under a DEC nuisance permit. Some studies suggest that when a bear is
fed (either directly or indirectly), its life expectancy is cut by as
much as 50 percent.

Once a bear becomes a problem, DEC is often asked to relocate the bear.
Contrary to popular belief, bear relocations are rarely effective at
solving the problem. Bears are extremely mobile and have excellent
homing abilities. Relocated bears often return to their original capture
site or may continue their bad habits at a new location. If the
circumstances that led to the original problem are not corrected, other
bears will quickly be attracted to the site and the bear/human conflicts
will persist.

In addition to being ineffective, bear relocations are extremely time
consuming and often dangerous. The heavy door on the bear traps,
although not dangerous to bears, presents a potential danger to curious
humans and pets. The simplest way to avoid a nuisance encounter is to
remove all food sources. Removing the food source will remove the bear.

Because virtually all nuisance bear problems are the result of hungry
bears being attracted to human food, pet food, bird food or garbage,
these problems can be minimized by taking these simple precautions:

Never feed bears. It is illegal.
If you believe that bears are being fed, please report it to DEC.
Stop feeding birds as soon as the snow melts. Birds do not need
supplemental food in the summer, when natural foods are most abundant.
Clean up all seed fragments and shells left over from winter feeding as
the smell will attract bears.
Dispose of garbage as frequently as possible and store in a secure
building prior to disposal.
If garbage is picked up at the curb, put the garbage out just before the
scheduled pickup or place it in a roadside bear-resistant container. Do
not put garbage out the night before pick-up at the curb.
Clean garbage cans frequently with ammonia.
Do not burn garbage, it’s illegal and it attracts bears.
Do not add meat scraps, bones or melon rinds to your compost pile.
Clean up barbecue grills before night fall, and after they cool down
store them inside.
Feed pets indoors and store pet food indoors. If pets must be fed
outdoors, take in all uneaten food and dishes before dark.
Turn off kitchen exhaust fans that vent to the outside whenever
possible.
When camping, keep food out of sight and secured in the trunk of a hard
topped, locked vehicle if available, hang food and garbage from a tree at least eight feet off the
ground. Keep picnic tables, utensils, fireplaces and the surrounding
areas clean.

To learn more about black bears, look for DEC’s DVD Living with New York
Black Bears at your public library or visit DEC’s website at
www.dec.ny.gov/animals/6960.html

Everyone is asked to respect bears as wild animals — from a distance.
For more information about bears in your area, contact the nearest
regional DEC office. For a list of regional offices, visit
http://www.dec.ny.gov/about/558.html on the DEC website.

Note: To change your email address with NY Big Game, get a password
reminder, or unsubscribe please visit
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You may also catch the latest updates on New York's fish and wildlife by
subscribing to Field Notes, another free online e-mail list provided by
the Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources. To learn more and
subscribe, see www.dec.ny.gov/about/63801.html