Hunting and Trapping Newsletter

NYS Hunting and Trapping Licenses for the 2020-2021 Season Go on Sale August 10

Hunting and trapping licenses and Deer Management Permits (DMPs) for the 2020-2021 season will go on sale Monday, August 10. With liberal bag limits and some of the longest seasons around, New Yorkers can enjoy hunting continuously from September 1 (squirrel) into April (snow geese).

You can purchase licenses and permits at any one of DEC's license-issuing agents or by telephone at 866-933-2257. The new hunting and trapping licenses are valid from Sept. 1, 2020 through Aug. 31, 2021, while annual fishing licenses are valid for 365 days from date of purchase.

New York's habitat serves a vital role in maintaining healthy and sustainable fish and wildlife resources. Purchasing a hunting or trapping license helps support DEC's important conservation projects and ensures the future of natural resources for generations to come. DEC also encourages outdoor enthusiasts to consider purchasing a Habitat & Access Stamp each year. Funds from the $5 Habitat & Access Stamp support projects to conserve habitat and improve public access for fish-and-wildlife-related activities. This year's Habitat & Access Stamp features a northern leopard frog. Last year's Habitat & Access Stamp featuring a bull moose was the most popular stamp in DEC history, with more than 25,000 sold.

Visit DEC's website for more information.

DEC Provides Pheasants for Sponsored Hunts – Apply Now!

DEC is now accepting applications for Sponsored Pheasant Hunts. Sponsored hunts are free, non-competitive events coordinated by a group, club, individual or organization to benefit youth, women, first-time hunters, veterans and people with disabilities. NYSDEC provides up to 50 game farm-raised pheasants to each sponsoring organization free of charge for these hunts.

Sponsored pheasant hunts are a great opportunity for experienced hunters to introduce novice hunters to the fine tradition of pheasant hunting. In a sponsored hunt, dedicated local sportsmen and sportswomen share their expertise with beginning hunters in a supportive environment. This program gives individuals the chance to embark on a life-long pursuit of hunting and outdoor enjoyment.

If you or your group would like to sponsor a hunt, program requirements and an application may be downloaded from DEC’s website. All applications must be received by no later than September 1st. Successful applicants will be notified via phone. If your application is approved, you will be required to make arrangements with the Reynolds Game Farm located in Ithaca, NY to coordinate a delivery time, date, and location.

Photo: Hailey Masterson with her first pheasant

Have Your Wildlife Photos Featured at DEC!

The DEC Bureau of Wildlife is seeking photographs from the public to use in all DEC materials including reports, social media, posters, and our website. While many people have adjusted their summer plans in the wake of the pandemic, New York's wildlife is as busy as ever with their seasonal activities. We invite you to capture and share these moments in the lives of your wild neighbors -- whether feathered, smooth, furry, or scaly. If you sit outside quietly for an hour, you might be surprised by what kinds of critters visit your backyard! Remember to respect wildlife and view them from a distance using binoculars or a spotting scope to observe their natural behavior. Visit the DEC website for more wildlife watching tips.

Learn more about the photo submission guidelines and upload your wildlife photos and stories.

Remember to Report Turkey Sightings this August

While you are exploring the forests and fields around your home this summer, be sure to keep an eye out for wild turkeys.

Reported observations of wild turkeys are used to track changes in abundance and productivity (number of poults produced per adult hen) over time and in different parts of the state. It also helps forecast hunting prospects for the coming fall season and for subsequent spring seasons. Survey forms can be downloaded from the DEC website or you can submit your observations online. Thanks for your help!

DEC Seeks New Participants for Bowhunter Wildlife Sighting Log

Do you bowhunt? DEC’s Bureau of Wildlife is seeking new participants for the New York Bowhunter Sighting Log. The program, implemented over two decades ago, is designed to provide information on long-term population trends for certain wildlife species. Because bowhunters spend so much time sitting still in the same place, they are ideal wildlife observers. Cooperators keep a record of their bowhunting activities and wildlife species seen from their stand. The data, collected annually from thousands of bowhunters, is useful for population monitoring and helps biologists make informed management decisions. For more information, please visit DEC's bowhunter sighting log webpage.

Photo courtesy of Judy Guske.