Pennsylvania Game Commission

May - June 2008
Pennsylvania Game Commission

GAME COMMISSION RELEASES 2007-08 DEER HARVEST ESTIMATES
HARRISBURG. PA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission reports that hunters harvested an estimated 323,070 deer in the state's 2007-08 seasons. That's down 11 percent from the previous seasons' harvest.
Hunters took 109,200 antlered deer in the 2007-08 seasons, down 19 percent from the previous license year's harvest of 135,290. Also, hunters harvested 213,870 antlerless deer in 2007-08, a five percent drop from the 226,270 antlerless deer taken in 2006-07.
"What stands out most when looking over the harvest data is the difference in the opening day deer kill of the two-week firearms season," said Dr. Christopher Rosenberry, Game Commission Deer Section Supervisor. "Report cards sent in by hunters show the antlered deer harvest on the opening day, Nov. 26, dropped more than 50 percent from 2006. Daily harvests for the rest of the two-week season, Nov. 27-Dec. 8, were similar to 2006.
"The firearms season's opening day antlerless deer harvest also dropped nearly 50 percent from 2006. However, the antlerless harvest throughout the remainder of the two-week season increased and, in due course, erased some of the opening day's harvest shortfall."
Based on past year's results, Rosenberry noted that it wasn't surprising that the drop in opening day harvests had a larger effect on the antlered harvest than the antlerless harvest.
"Historically, a majority of the antlered deer harvest occurs on opening day, whereas the antlerless harvest is typically more evenly distributed across the entire two weeks," Rosenberry said.

Bureau of Wildlife Management personnel currently are working to develop antlerless deer license allocation recommendations for the April Board meeting. Calvin W. DuBrock, Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Management director, said that in addition to harvest data, the staff will be looking at population trend data, deer reproduction data, forest regeneration data, input from five new Citizen Advisory Committees, and hunter survey results.
Harvest estimates for 2007-08 seasons are based on 124,569 usable harvest report cards (40,482 antlered; 84,087 antlerless) returned by hunters to the Commission and 25,400 deer (7,338 antlered; 18,062 antlerless) examined by Game Commission personnel in the field and at processors.
For an explanation of the agency's deer harvest estimating procedure, visit the Game Commission's website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), click on "Deer Program" in the "Quick Clicks" box in the right-hand corner of the homepage, then scroll down and select "Deer Harvest Estimates" brochure.
Yearling bucks comprised 56 percent of the 2007-08 antlered harvest, which is the same percentage posted in 2006-07. Button bucks and doe fawns were 24 percent and 20 percent, respectively, of the antlerless harvest, and almost identical to 2006-07 season rates.

Total deer harvest estimates by WMU for 2007-08 (with 2006-07 figures in parentheses) are as follows: WMU 1A: 4,900 (5,800) antlered, 12,500 (13,200) antlerless; WMU 1B: 6,000 (6,800) antlered, 11,400 (12,000) antlerless; WMU 2A: 6,600 (8,100) antlered, 14,300 (17,000) antlerless; WMU 2B: 4,400 (5,800) antlered, 15,300 (16,500) antlerless; WMU 2C: 8,400 (9,000) antlered, 11,600 (12,100) antlerless; WMU 2D: 9,100 (10,900) antlered, 18,100 (20,400) antlerless; WMU 2E: 3,600 (5,400) antlered, 6,400 (7,400) antlerless; WMU 2F: 4,800 (7,200) antlered, 7,100 (8,000) antlerless; WMU 2G: 5,100 (7,200) antlered, 6,600 (4,600) antlerless; WMU 3A: 3,400 (4,500) antlered, 7,800 (8,800) antlerless; WMU 3B: 5,900 (6,500) antlered, 10,200 (10,600) antlerless; WMU 3C: 5,300 (6,700) antlered, 9,600 (9,200) antlerless; WMU 3D: 3,600 (5,000) antlered, 7,000 (7,400) antlerless; WMU 4A: 4,500 (5,900) antlered, 6,700 (7,800) antlerless; WMU 4B: 3,500 (5,000) antlered, 4,500 (6,600) antlerless; WMU 4C: 4,800 (6,100) antlered, 9,400 (8,900) antlerless; WMU 4D: 5,800 (6,800) antlered, 8,100 (9,900) antlerless; WMU 4E: 3,300 (4,100) antlered, 8,100 (9,000) antlerless; WMU 5A: 2,400 (2,200) antlered, 3,900 (5,200) antlerless; WMU 5B: 6,000 (7,000) antlered, 11,100 (11,400) antlerless; WMU 5C: 6,500 (7,700) antlered, 18,900 (16,100) antlerless; WMU 5D: 1,000 (1,300) antlered, 5,200 (4,100) antlerless and unknown WMU: 300 (290) antlered, 70 (70) antlerless.

CHANGE IN ORANGE REQUIREMENT TAKES EFFECT
HARRISBURG, PA — Following publication in the March 29 edition of the PA Bulletin, Pennsylvania Game Commission officials today announced that hunters planning to participate in the upcoming spring gobbler season will no longer be required to wear fluorescent orange.
On Jan. 29, the Board of Game Commissioners gave final approval to a regulatory change to remove the fluorescent orange requirements for the spring gobbler hunters. Publication in the PA Bulletin was the final step required for the change to take effect, and applies for the upcoming 2008 spring gobbler season, which is set for April 26-May 26, as well as the youth spring gobbler day on April 19.

"Various members of Pennsylvania's hunting community for some time have urged the Game Commission to reevaluate its regulatory mandate for turkey hunters wear at least 100 square inches of solid fluorescent orange-colored material on the head while moving about or relocating during the spring turkey season," said Carl G. Roe, agency executive director. "The safety of hunters afield is, without a doubt, one of the paramount concerns of the Game Commission. But, the available statistical data relating to hunting-related shooting incidents during the spring turkey season shows that there is no clear evidence that the fluorescent orange requirement has made any appreciable reduction in spring gobbler hunting-related shooting incidents.

BUTLER COUNTY PROCESSOR CITED FOR NUMEROUS GAME VIOLATIONS
HARRISBURG, PA — Following a lengthy undercover investigation into the illegal commercialization of wildlife, William Kielty III, 60, of Evans City, Butler County, was charged with 28 violations of the Game and Wildlife Code for allegedly possessing unlawfully taken deer and illegally selling game. If convicted of all charges, which were filed with Magisterial District Judge Wayne Seibel of Evans City on Feb. 21, Kietly faces penalties of up to $22,700, and the possible loss of his hunting and trapping privileges for up to 65 years.

The investigation began in the fall of 2006, when Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officer (WCO) Randy Pilarcik, who serves the southern district in Butler County, received numerous complaints from the public that Kielty was allegedly accepting illegally harvested and untagged deer and then selling the meat.
"Kielty had been operating his deer processing business in the garage behind his house for years," said WCO Pilarcik, who was joined by Deputy WCO Scott Klopfer in conducting the investigation. "About a decade ago, Keilty pled guilty to having illegal and untagged deer."
Pilarcik said that the investigation found evidence that Kielty was taking deer that were taken illegally, as well as picking up and failing to report road-killed deer. In addition to being charged with selling the meat from unlawfully possessed deer, Kielty is accused of stealing and selling meat from legal deer he was processing for hunters who took deer lawfully.
Kielty, who was enrolled as a participating processor in the Hunters Sharing the Harvest program, also is accused of keeping some of the venison from hunter-donated deer for himself or to sell, and would then forward the remainder to local food banks and soup kitchens.
"This man stands accused of stealing from hard-working hunters - both their venison and their money - and sadly, people in need," WCO Pilarcik said.

A breakdown of the 28 charges are as follows:
- 8 counts of unlawfully taking or possessing game or wildlife. On five separate occasions, Kielty is accused of accepting for processing a total of eight deer that were unlawfully taken or not properly tagged;
- 19 counts of illegally buying and selling game. On seven separate occasions, Kielty is accused of illegally selling venison or offering to sell processed deer burger, packaged chops, roasts, steaks and jerky; and
- One count of unlawful acts concerning licenses. Kielty is accused of illegally using the tag of another individual.
WCO Pilarcik noted that Pennsylvanians may claim road-killed deer and process the meat for their personal use. To do so, they must call the Game Commission region office representing the county where the collision occurred and an agency dispatcher will collect the information needed to provide a free permit number, which the caller should record. A resident must call within 24 hours of taking possession of the deer. Antlers from bucks killed in vehicle collisions must be turned over to the Game Commission.

SPRINGTIME ALERT: DO NOT DISTURB YOUNG WILDLIFE
HARRISBURG, PA — Whether hiking in the woods, driving through the countryside or simply enjoying nature, Pennsylvania Game Commission officials encourage outdoor enthusiasts to leave wildlife alone and not remove it from the wild, especially young of the year.
"Being outdoors in the spring is an enjoyable way to spend time and learn more about nature," said Calvin W. DuBrock, Game Commission Bureau of Wildlife Management director. "In the coming months, it will become common to find young deer, rabbits, birds, raccoons or other wildlife that may appear to be abandoned. Rest assured that in most cases, the young animal is not an orphan or abandoned and the best thing you can do is to leave it alone."

DuBrock noted adult animals often leave their young to forage for food. Also, wildlife often relies on a natural defensive tactic called the "hider strategy," where young animals will remain motionless and "hide" in surrounding cover while adults draw the attention of predators or other intruders away from their young.
"While it may appear as if the adults are abandoning their young, in reality, this is just the animal using its natural instincts to protect its young," DuBrock said. "Nature also protects young animals with camouflaging color and by giving them little scent to avoid being detected by predators.
"Wild animals are not meant to be pets, and we must all resist our well-meaning and well-intentioned urge to want to care for wildlife. Taking wildlife from its natural settings and into your home may expose or transmit to people or domestic animals wildlife diseases. Wildlife also may carry parasites - such as fleas, ticks or lice - that you wouldn't want infesting you, your family, your home or your pets."
People can get rabies from the saliva of a rabid animal if they are bitten or scratched, or if the saliva gets into the person's eyes, mouth or a fresh wound. The last human rabies fatality in Pennsylvania was a 12-year-old Lycoming County boy who died in 1984.

TURKEY HUNTING SAFETY TIPS
HARRISBURG, PA — While spring gobbler hunters are no longer required to wear fluorescent orange, the Pennsylvania Game Commission still encourages them to display a fluorescent orange alert band near their stationary hunting position, especially those who plan to call or use decoys. It may alert a hunter who is closing in on your call or decoys that a person is in the area.

Hunters also are encouraged to place decoys in a way that will limit their susceptibility to in-the-line-of-fire shotgun discharges from approaching hunters.
Only bearded turkeys may be taken in the spring season. The beard is a grouping of hair-like feathers that protrude from the bird's chest. Hunters are reminded to remove any red, white, blue or black clothing before heading afield because these colors are found on a turkey's head or body. Remember, too, it's illegal to stalk turkeys or turkey sounds.
To make sure your next turkey hunting experience is both safe and enjoyable, follow these turkey hunting safety tips:
Positively identify your target. Be absolutely certain it's a legal turkey before pulling the trigger. Confirm, then confirm again. Never shoot at sounds or movement.
Never stalk a turkey or turkey sounds. Stalking during the spring season is illegal. Movement or sounds you think are a turkey may be another hunter. Be patient. Let the bird come to you.

Assume every noise and movement is another hunter. If there is any doubt whatsoever - don't shoot.
Pre-select a zone of fire. Shoot at a turkey only in your predetermined zone of fire - and only when you're certain it's safe.
Make your position known to other hunters - wear fluorescent orange. While it is no longer mandatory to wear orange when moving through the woods, particularly while carrying a bird, the Game Commission highly recommends it. We also recommend that you display orange at your calling location by wrapping a fluorescent orange band around a tree to alert other hunters of your presence.
Protect your back. Select a large tree, rock or other substantial natural barrier while calling and sit with your back against it. To improve your visibility, hunt in open woods.
Shout "STOP" to alert approaching hunters. Never move, wave or make turkey sounds to alert hunters of your position.
Eliminate red, white, blue and black colors from your clothing. These colors are found on the head, neck and body of mature gobblers. You could be mistaken for a turkey if you wear these colors!

WILD TURKEY FIELD REPORTS
HARRISBURG, PA — Mary Jo Casalena, Pennsylvania Game Commission wild turkey biologist, has prepared a statewide field report, as well as a report for each Wildlife Management Units (WMU), to share agency field observations on wild turkey hunting prospects and population trends. If you need assistance locating WMUs, please consult pages 42-45 in the 2007-2008 Pennsylvania Hunting & Trapping Digest.

Statewide - 2007 spring harvest density (harvest per square mile) and summer sighting index (turkeys seen per 1,000 miles driven) were above the previous three-year average. Summer sighting index also was above the previous nine-year average and spring harvest density was equal to the previous nine-year average. This strong population along with an above average fall 2007 mast crop and relatively mild winter translates into a healthy and above average statewide population for the 2008 spring season. The jake population is above average in many locales so, even though the population level is above average, gobbling activity may not be, given the generally quiet nature of jakes.

WMU 1A - Excellent compared to the state average, but well below average compared to itself - 2007 showed the worst production since before 1995. With the shortened fall season to two weeks since 2005 and average reproduction in 2005 and 2006, expect spring 2008 harvest to be similar to last year, but still not at the levels of the early 2000s. There will be an average number of two-year-old gobblers, which are relatively easy to call in, but still may be a good proportion of four-year-olds in the population, which are difficult to call in.

WMA 1B - Excellent compared to state. Average for the WMU - Average proportion of two-year-old males in the population for easy calling, below average for jakes (which shouldn't affect this year's harvest much, but may decrease harvest next spring).

WMU 2A - Still well above the statewide average, but well below average for itself. Fall turkey season was shortened from three weeks to two weeks in 2007, which will allow more turkeys to survive to the 2008 season. Summer 2007 reproduction was above the previous three-year average so jakes abound in the population, while few two- and three-year-old gobblers are present. Search out the young, but quiet jakes as well as the older experienced four-plus-year-old gobblers.

WMU 2B - Variable. This WMU is difficult to predict because of the lack of public land. For hunters who secure access to hunting areas, prospects are good for calling in a two-year-old or a jake. Very few three-year-olds, but still should be a good supply of four-year-olds in the population, which are the most difficult to call in due to their years of experience.

WMU 2C - This spring should be the best it's been in this WMU since 2001 because of a combination of a shorter fall season length from three weeks to two weeks since 2004, excellent reproduction in 2006 and 2007 so there are more two-year-olds and jakes in the population than the previous four years. Spring harvest densities (harvests per square mile) are nearing the statewide average.

WMU 2D - Excellent compared to the state, but well below average for this WMU. Summer reproduction last year was again below average, but slightly better than the last two years. Expect the harvest to be similar to last year.

WMU 2E - Excellent for this WMU for harvesting two-year-olds and jakes, poor for older gobblers. Expect the harvest to be even higher than last year's. Harvest is approaching the statewide average since shortening the fall season in 2004.

WMU 2F - For this WMU, better than the last several years, due partially to the shortened fall season in 2007 from three weeks to two weeks, which allowed more turkeys to survive to the 2008 season. Expect an average proportion of two-year-old males in the population for easy calling. Harvest density and summer turkey sighting indices continue to be below the long-term average for this WMU and compared to the state. However, hunters continue to enjoy hunting this expansive WMU.

WMU 2G - Expect a slightly higher harvest than 2007. Summer reproduction last year was the best it's been in this WMU in four years and the two-year-old population is slightly above average for this WMU, so look to harvest a jake or two-year-old. Prospects look poor for harvesting older gobblers. The population is beginning to show an increasing trend, similar to the long-term average for this WMU, but below the state average.

WMU 3A - Prospects look very promising compared to itself and the state. Excellent for jakes, two- and three-year-olds, but below average for older gobblers compared to itself. Summer turkey sightings last year hit a record high, better than the heyday years of 2001 and 2002!

WMU 3B - Excellent. This WMU typically maintains relatively steady harvest density and summer turkey sightings, but in 2007 they were both record levels for this WMU, so expect the spring harvest to be above average for this WMU and compared to the state.

WMU 3C - Excellent. Summer reproduction has been at record levels for the past three years setting the stage for a record population of jakes, two-year old and three-year old gobblers for 2008. Expect harvests to be well above the state average and well above average for this WMU.

WMU 3D - Above the state average, but average compared to itself. This WMU typically maintains harvest densities above the state average, but there are fewer jakes this year than average.

WMU 4A - Although harvest densities here remain below the state average, compared to itself, harvests are expected to be off the charts for jakes, excellent for three-year and four-year-old gobblers and average for two-year-olds. Harvests had been increasing due to the record recruitment in 2004 and 2005 and average in 2006. Recruitment last year hit another all-time record. The two-week fall season that has been in place since 2004 may be helping this population to rebound.

WMU 4B - Harvest densities are above the state average, and expect the 2008 harvest density to be similar to last year and above average compared to itself and the state. There are an average proportion of jakes, two- and four-year-old gobblers, but very low numbers of three-year-olds in the population. With the continued two-week fall season, spring harvest densities have been increasing even though this WMU has had tremendous fluctuations in recruitment recently.

WMU 4C - Best 2007 spring harvest density in the state and a similar harvest is expected this year. This WMU continues to maintain one of the highest spring harvest densities in the state, even though the summer turkey sighting index trend remains below the state average. Indications from the stable summer sighting index trend and slightly rising spring harvest density trend suggest that hunting prospects again will be excellent.

WMU 4D - Average compared to itself and below the state average. Although the summer turkey sighting index and spring harvest density remain below the state average, the 2006 and 2007 harvest densities were nearly record highs for this WMU, similar the previous record set in 2001. However, with the increase in fall season length in 2007 from two to three weeks, fewer turkeys will be available for the spring season. Recruitment during the past four years has been average for this WMU and the harvest is expected to be average to slightly below average.

WMU 4E - Like WMU 4C, another turkey hotspot. This WMU has been maintaining one of the highest spring harvest densities in the state. Also, summer turkey sightings show there are a record numbers of jakes and two- and three-year-old gobblers in the population. Expect this year's harvest to be even better than last year's.

WMU 5A - Although harvests and summer turkey sightings continue to be some of the lowest in the state, the closed fall turkey season and above average summer reproduction have been factors aiding in population increase. Jakes are plentiful for 2008. Expect an above-average harvest for this WMU, similar to last year, due to the abundance of jakes from an excellent breeding season in 2007, and an abundance of three-year-old, more experienced birds. There may be less gobbling however, due to the lower proportion of two-year-old gobblers than last year.

WMU 5B - The data set for this WMU is minimal, but overall, expect an average harvest compared to itself. Harvests and summer turkey sightings are one of the lowest in the state.

WMU 5C - Harvest densities have been decreasing, but expect an average harvest as indicated from an average proportion of two- and three-year-old gobblers in the population. Harvest density remains below the state average.

WMU 5D - Data set is too small to forecast.

GAME COMMISSION SCHEDULES BIG GAME SCORING SESSIONS
HARRISBURG, PA — Do you have a Pennsylvania deer, bear or elk that you think might make the official big game records for Pennsylvania? If so, you'll be glad to know that, in June, the Pennsylvania Game Commission will be conducting big game scoring sessions across the state, where hunters may bring in their deer antlers, elk antlers or bear skulls to have them officially scored.

"Over the years, scoring sessions were typically held every three years, but because of budget constraints, it's been six years since the last scoring session," said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. "Also, thanks to the antler restrictions implemented in 2002, the chances of a buck living long enough in Pennsylvania to grow a trophy-sized rack are better than ever before.

"For these reasons a couple changes from past scoring session procedures have been made."
Roe noted that, for this measuring session, hunters are required to rough score their trophies first, to see if they at least come close to established minimum scores for the various categories. If they're within 10 points of the minimum for the specific category (or within one-inch for bear), then consider making plans to bring the trophy in for an official measurement.

Blank score sheets may be downloaded from the Game Commission website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) by clicking on "Hunting" in the left-hand column of the homepage, selecting "Pennsylvania Big Game Records" in the list of categories and then scrolling down and choosing the appropriate score sheet.
Score sheets also may be obtained by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Pennsylvania Game Commission, Big Game Score Sheets, Dept. MS, 2001 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110- 9797. Be sure to specify which score sheet you want: white-tailed deer, typical or non-typical; black bear; or elk, typical or non-typical.
In order to be considered for Pennsylvania's Big Game Records, minimum scores - including the margin of coming within 10 points (or one inch for bear) - for the various categories are: 130 for typical whitetail taken with a firearm; 105 for typical whitetail taken with archery; 150 for non-typical whitetail taken with a firearm; 125 for non-typical whitetail taken with archery; 18 for black bear taken with a firearm; 16 for black bear taken with archery; 290 for typical elk taken with a firearm; 190 for typical elk taken with archery; 315 for non-typical elk taken with a firearm; and 265 for non-typical elk taken with archery.

For purposes of Pennsylvania big game records, harvests using a crossbow or a muzzleloader are counted in the firearms categories.
Once hunters rough-score their trophies and come within 10 points of the minimum for the specific category, they should then contact the region office where they would like to take their trophy to be assigned a specific time to bring the antlers or skull during the scheduled measuring sessions.
To ensure appropriate staffing to fulfill requests, reservations will be accepted, in the order they are received, until 30 days prior to the event in each of the six regions. Following are the dates and locations, as well as phone numbers for each of the region offices.

Southwest Region: June 21 and, if necessary, June 22, at the Southwest Region Office, 4820 Route 711 in Bolivar, Westmoreland County. Calls for reservations will be accepted through the Region Office (724-238-9523) from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Southeast Region: June 21 and 22; Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, just off Hopeland Road, two miles south of Kleinfeltersville, Lebanon County. Calls for reservations will be accepted through the Region Office (610-926-3136) from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Southcentral Region: June 28 and, if necessary, June 29; McConnellsburg American Legion building, McConnellsburg, Fulton County. Calls for reservations will be accepted through the Region Office (814-643-1831), Monday-Friday.

Northwest Region: June 14 and, if necessary, June 15, Rocky Grove Fire Hall, 29 Wood St., Franklin, Venango County. Take Route 417 North from Franklin, and make right at blinking light. The fire hall is on the left. Calls for reservations will be accepted through the Region Office (814-432-3187).
Northcentral Region: June 21 at the Northcentral Region Office, 1566 South Route 44 Highway, Jersey Shore, Lycoming County; and June 22, at the Red Fern Inn, along Route 255, across from the Country Fair Convenience Store and next to Wal-Mart, St. Marys, Elk County. Calls for reservations will be accepted through the Region Office (570-398-4744) from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Northeast Region: June 21 and 22, at the Luzerne County Fairgrounds, Route 118, Dallas. Calls for reservations will be accepted through the Region Office (570-675-1143) from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m., Monday-Saturday.
Roe noted that any hunter who has had his or her trophy measured by a certified Boone & Crockett or Pope & Young measurer can simply mail a copy of the official score sheet (both sides) to: Pennsylvania Game Commission, Attn: Big Game Records, 2001 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797. These trophies will then be added to the Pennsylvania Big Game Records.

Started in 1965, the Pennsylvania Big Game Scoring Program is sponsored jointly by the Game Commission and the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association. It was developed to showcase the truly outstanding trophies that have been taken in the Commonwealth.
"As the results of the past 13 measuring sessions have shown, Pennsylvania is home to outstanding white-tailed deer and black bear," Roe said. "There is no doubt that this will continue to be the case after the upcoming measuring sessions are held and, this time around, we'll add elk to the list of big game records.
"Even if you don't have a qualifying trophy to bring in, a big game scoring session is still a great event to attend."

SOMERSET COUNTY TRIO PLEAD GUILTY TO WILDLIFE VIOLATIONS
HARRISBURG, PA — Following a lengthy undercover investigation, three Somerset County individuals pled guilty to a variety of Game and Wildlife Code violations, involving deer, bear and ruffed grouse. Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officer Brian Witherite filed all of the charges before District Judge Douglas Bell, Meyersdale.
Those individuals who pled guilty were Terry J. Holler, 52, of Boynton, Lee W. Prickrel, 22, of Salisbury, and Riley M. Sines, 24, of Salisbury.
The investigation began when information was provided about Holler illegally selling deer meat and bear gall bladders. While conducting an undercover investigation into these allegations, further information was obtained about Prickrel and Sines illegally killing deer and ruffed grouse.

Based on the information, on Sept. 29, the opening morning of the 2007 archery season, WCO Witherite and Deputy WCO Jeremy Coughenour apprehended Prickrel and Sines hunting over a baited area. Witherite and Coughenour discovered an untagged, eight-point antlered deer laying on the ground nearby and, after further investigation, uncovered a videotape of the hunt that showed the deer being shot by Prickrel while the deer was standing on the bait pile in the woods.
On March 13, Holler pled guilty to nine counts of unlawfully buying and selling game and was ordered to pay fines of $3,500 plus, and he had his hunting and trapping privileges revoked for 35 years. Of the nine counts, five involved the sale of deer meat, and four counts involved the buying and selling of black bear parts, including two gall bladders, one pair of paws and a bear hide.

On Oct. 18 and Nov. 8, Prickrel pled guilty to the following charges: one count of failing to tag and report big game kills, one count of using unlawful devices and methods, two counts of unlawfully taking and possession game or wildlife, one count of unlawfully killing a ruffed grouse in closed season, and two counts of illegally buying and selling game. He was fined a total of $2,875, paid $50 restitution and had his hunting and trapping privileges revoked.

GAME COMMISSIONERS ADOPT 2008-09 SEASONS AND BAG LIMITS
HARRISBURG , PA —The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners today gave final approval to hunting and trapping seasons and bag limits for 2008-09, including a slate of antlerless deer license allocations for the 22 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs).

BOARD ADOPTS 2008-09 DEER SEASONS
The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners today gave final approval to a slate of deer seasons for the 2008-09 seasons, which retains nearly all of the opportunities provided in the past to address the goals of the agency's deer management plan.
A substantial change for the deer hunting seasons is a five-day, antlered deer only season in Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) 2D, 2G, 3C and 4B starting the Monday after Thanksgiving (Dec. 1-5), followed immediately by seven days of concurrent, antlered and antlerless deer hunting (Dec. 6-13). The approved package retains the two-week (Dec. 1-13) concurrent, antlered and antlerless season in the remaining 18 WMUs.

"The goals of the deer management plan have not changed," said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. "The changes to these four WMUs will allow us to investigate the relationship between antlerless allocations and season length as we move forward with our deer management plan."
Roe noted that the four WMUs were chosen because: WMUs 2G and 4B have ongoing deer research in them; WMU 2D is an area where antler restrictions are set at four points on one side, and is where the agency previously had deer research conducted; and WMU 3C is an area where antler restrictions are set at three points on one side, and is a physiographic area of the state where no extensive deer research has been conducted.

"Antlerless deer harvest versus number of days of opportunity, or the overall season length, will be evaluated over the next four years of five days of antlered deer and seven days of concurrent seasons," Roe said. "Also, we will conduct annual surveys of hunters to address other aspects of the program.
"In the future, stakeholders may be able to provide input by sharing whether they'd like more opportunity via time, such as two weeks or more, or more people involved through perhaps more tags and shorter seasons."

Game Commission staff, per Board direction in January, is preparing a four-year study to determine the impact and effectiveness of the proposed five-day antlered/seven-day concurrent season before additional WMUs may be considered for this season configuration.
The Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) that addresses landowner deer management objectives within WMUs remains in place. And, noting that the focus of DMAP is to allow landowners to direct additional hunting pressure on specific areas to meet that landowner's objectives, the Board gave preliminary approval to a measure to allow DMAP antlerless deer permit holders to hunt for antlerless deer in WMUs 2D, 2G, 3C and 4D for the full two-weeks of the firearms deer season, Dec. 1-13, similar to all other 18 WMUs. The Board must approve this measure in June before it takes effect for the upcoming 2008-09 deer hunting seasons.
The Board also gave preliminary approval to a regulatory change to allow hunters in special regulation areas counties (Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia) to harvest more than one deer at a time without first lawfully tagging previous harvest, provided all deer harvested are lawfully tagged immediately thereafter. This change is part of the agency's continuing efforts to find solutions to the high deer-human conflicts in these urban counties. For all other areas, hunters must continue to tag the first deer harvested before attempting to harvest a second.

BOARD APPROVES ANTLERLESS DEER LICENSE ALLOCATIONS
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners today approved antlerless license allocations for each of the 22 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs) based on measurements of deer health; habitat health; and level of deer-human conflicts based on Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) input; as well as deer population trends.
The agency continues to seek a decrease in the population trends in WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D, which are the three most developed areas of the state. Based on CAC input, and supported by scientific measurements, the agency is continuing to allow for an increase in the population trend in WMU 4B, which was initiated in 2006, and has proposed to begin to allow for an increase in the population trends in WMUs 4E and 5A. In all other WMUs, the agency continues to seek stabilization of population trends.
For more information on these measurements, both the quantitative thresholds and qualitative labels, please see "Deer Program" on the agency's website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) in the "Quick Clicks" box in the right-hand column of the homepage.
Following is a listing of the approved allocations for each WMU, along with last year's allocation. More detailed information for each WMU allocation will be posted on the agency's website in the near future, in the "Deer Program" section.

WMU BOUNDARIES PROPOSED FOR CHANGES
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners today gave final approval to a regulatory change that shifts some of the boundaries of the present 22 Wildlife Management Units (WMUs).
In 2003, the agency first approved a uniform system of 22 WMUs to replace the system of multiple, species-specific management units. The primary objective of WMU system was to simplify regulations, and develop and implement management decisions on a system of more homogenous units based on physiography; land cover and use; human population density; and land ownership. Boundaries were defined using recognizable physical landscape features, such as rivers and highways, rather than political boundaries that are largely unmarked on the landscape.

"At the time of the approval of new units it was agreed to evaluate use of the units after five years," said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. "The 2007-08 seasons marked the fifth year of using the system. Input on possible changes to WMUs was solicited from Game Commission headquarters and region staff. Wildlife population and harvest data also were analyzed. Recommended changes were relatively few."

The following WMU map revisions were adopted for the 2008-09 seasons:
1) the boundary between WMUs 2C and 2E near Ebensburg was not clear on the state highway map or on the ground and needed correction;
2) new highway construction around Lewistown has changed the location of Route 22, the boundary between 4B and 4D, requiring a map correction;
3) the boundary between WMUs 3B and 3C between Towanda and Tunkhannock is Route 6, which closely follows the Susquehanna River. Using the river as the boundary will reduce hunter access problems and property split problems and better-align WMU and township boundaries;
4) due to continuing increases in human populations in southeast Pennsylvania, the north/south border of WMU 5C around Reading and Allentown was shifted farther north, affecting boundaries with WMUs 5B, 4C and 3D; and
5) the east/west boundary between WMUs 5C and 5B were moved farther west to include more of Chester County and a portion of Lancaster County.
"These changes to WMU boundaries will have minimal impact on wildlife databases," Roe said.
In January, the Board tabled a proposal to align the "Special Regulation Areas" boundaries - currently county boundaries - within the WMU system. Firearm limitations will continue to be identified by county. Specifically, only bows and crossbows may be used in Philadelphia; and rifles may not be used in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware or Montgomery counties.

MENTORED YOUTH HUNTING PROGRAM TO CONTINUE FOR 2008-09
HARRISBURG, PA — The Mentored Youth Hunting Program, first implemented by the Board of Game Commissioners in 2006, will continue for the 2008-09 seasons. The list of eligible game for those youth under the age of 12 participating in the Mentored Youth Hunting Program will remain squirrel, woodchuck (groundhog), spring gobbler and antlered deer.

Youths participating in the Mentored Youth Hunting Program are required to follow the same antler restrictions as a junior license holder, which is two or more points on one antler or one antler three or more inches in length. Mentored youth may only pursue antlered deer, and may only participate in seasons in which antlered deer are legal and must follow appropriate sporting arm restrictions.
The program also requires that both the mentor and the youth abide by any fluorescent orange regulations, and that the mentored youth must tag and report any antlered deer or spring gobbler taken. Mentored youth may participate in the youth-only squirrel season and the youth-only spring gobbler day, as well as the general squirrel and spring gobbler seasons.

Under the program, a mentor is defined as a properly licensed individual at least 21 years of age, who serves as a guide to a mentored youth while engaged in hunting or related activities, such as scouting, learning firearm and hunter safety and wildlife identification. A mentored youth is defined as an unlicensed individual less than 12 years of age who is accompanied by a mentor while engaged in hunting or related activities.
The mentor to mentored youth ratio may not exceed one mentor to one youth, and the pair may possess only one sporting arm while hunting. While moving, the sporting arm must be carried by the mentor. When the pair reaches a stationary hunting location, the mentor may turn over possession of the sporting arm to the youth and must keep the youth within arm's length at all times.

BOARD CONTINUED ARCHERY AND EXTENDED BEAR SEASONS
HARRISBURG, PA — The Board of Commissioners today final preliminary approval to the traditional three-day statewide black bear season before Thanksgiving, extended bear seasons in certain portions of the state that is concurrent with the first week of the firearms deer season and a two-day archery bear season in nine Wildlife Management Units (WMUs).
While most bear seasons remain the same, extended hunting opportunities were added for WMUs 4C, 4D and 4E, and will run Dec. 3-6, Wednesday through Saturday, along with the concurrent firearms deer season in these units. Also, the Board expanded the extended season around the Williamsport and Lock Haven areas, which will be Dec. 1-6.
In January, the Board removed WMU 3D from the list of units to hold an extended bear hunt.
Pennsylvania extended modern-day bear hunting started in 2002, when bear hunters were given the opportunity to fill their tags the first week of the firearms deer season in Carbon, Monroe and Pike counties. With the advent of the state's 22 WMUs, the extended season was held in WMU 3D in 2003. In 2004, the number of WMUs open for the concurrent deer/bear season was expanded.
Bear licenses must be purchased prior to the opening of the firearms deer season, Dec. 1.

BOARD APPROVES NOVEMBER ELK SEASON
HARRISBURG, PA — The Board of Game Commissioners today gave final approval to Pennsylvania's upcoming elk season, which will be held Nov. 3-8. This year, hunters will submit applications for one of 45 licenses, of which 17 will be designated for antlered elk and 28 for antlerless elk. Applications soon will be accepted via mail, drop-off at agency offices and the agency's website, and the public drawing will be held on Sept. 20.
All applications must be accompanied by a nonrefundable $10 application fee. Those selected for one of the limited licenses will need to purchase a general hunting license ($20 for residents and $101 for nonresidents), as well as the elk license, which costs $25 for residents and $250 for nonresidents. Online applications will be accepted through "The Outdoor Shop" on the agency's website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) beginning in mid-May.
Additionally, the Board gave final approval to a technical change to refer to "elk hunt zones," consistent with the agency's elk management plan, rather than "elk management areas" or "elk management units."

BOBCAT PERMIT GUARANTEE SET FOR PREFERENCE POINTS
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners today gave final approval to several regulatory changes to bobcat seasons. Wildlife Management Unit 4D was added to the list of WMUs in which bobcats can be taken by those hunters/trappers who are selected for a permit. The Board also gave final approval to changes that will guarantee permits to those who have earned a certain number of preference points, and to allow nonresident furtakers to participate in public drawings.
"After 30 years of protection and 15 years of intensive research, the Game Commission initially limited harvest opportunities by geographic area and restricted taking to resident furtakers," said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. "As the season has expanded in scope and we now are able to issue more than 1,000 permits annually, we are moving to expand this opportunity to more areas that can sustain limited bobcat harvests, to guarantee those who have continued to apply an opportunity to earn a bobcat permit and include more interested trappers from other states."

Roe noted that the decision to add WMU 4D to the bobcat hunt/trap area is based on the increased number of incidental bobcat captures and bobcat sightings in this area.
Beginning in 2003, the Game Commission began awarding preference points to individuals who apply for and do not receive a bobcat harvest permit during a given year. This preference point system was designed to incrementally increase the probability of receiving a permit each year that an applicant is unsuccessful. Bobcat permits are awarded using a random computer drawing from an applicant database. The number of preference points is applied to the applicant's name prior to the drawing. Under this system, the odds of being selected increase significantly as points are accrued, but new applicants always have a chance of being selected. Applicants who are selected and receive a permit are prohibited from applying the following year and their preference points are set back to zero.
"Because the selection process is random it is possible that, under the current system, a person can maintain maximum preference points and never be selected to receive a permit," Roe said. "It is also possible - and this has occurred numerous times - that applicants may be selected to receive permits multiple times over the years, while others are never drawn. Some bobcat permit applicants see these situations as inequitable.

"We believe that the selection process can be modified to provide guaranteed permits to applicants with maximum preference points but, due to random events, fail to receive a permit. Models based on past trends in the applicant database suggest that we can provide this benefit without negating the chance of a new applicant receiving a permit or significantly reducing the odds of applicants with lesser preference point status. The designation of a maximum preference of six or seven points would result in between 100 and 350 permits guaranteed during a given year with the remaining permits allocated by random drawing. This change will take effect for the 2008 bobcat permit drawing."
Roe noted that nonresident furtakers increasingly have expressed an interest in applying for the bobcat permit drawing.
"Nonresidents currently are afforded the opportunity to be permitted as only bobcat guides," he said. "Nonresident furtakers make up less than one percent of licensed furtakers in Pennsylvania, and pay four times the resident price for their license. This proposed rulemaking would permit nonresident furtakers to submit an application for the bobcat permit drawing, beginning in 2008, and to receive a permit if drawn."
The Board also approved technical changes to update the regulations to reflect the current operational tagging procedures used in the bobcat management program.

BOARD CHANGES TO EXPAND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES
HARRIBURG, PA — The Board of Game Commissioners today gave final approval to a host of other seasons and bag limits designed to expand opportunities for hunters and trappers in 2008-09. Among the changes, the Board voted to:
* Extend by one day the special season for junior pheasant hunters to include an additional Saturday. Adding this Saturday will provide additional hunting opportunity of released game farm birds for juniors;
* Extend the shooting days for crows to 120 days. By starting the season on the Friday closest to July 1 and running it every Friday, Saturday and Sunday continuously through the first weekend in April, the agency will provide 120 hunting days for crows. By law seasons must be set to avoid the peak nesting season, which falls between April 7 and the end of May;
* Eliminate the previously closed season on ruffed grouse in the portion of State Game Land 176 in Centre County, which has been posted "RESEARCH AREA - NO GROUSE HUNTING," and commonly referred to as the Barrens;

* Direct the Executive Director to use his regulatory authority to remove protection of wild boars, and provide exceptions to allow protection in townships and/or counties where trap-and-removal efforts are underway. On Dec. 27, 2007, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled that wild boars are protected mammals under the Game and Wildlife Code. As a result, the agency must take regulatory action to remove protection from wild boars. By doing so, the Game Commission is seeking to avoid confusion that feral swine, also referred to as wild boars, are a game species, and clearly deliver the message that the agency's goal is the eradication of this invasive species.
For more details on these seasons, please see the table of approved 2008-09 seasons and bag limits at the end of this news release.

HUNTERS REMINDED ABOUT PROCESS FOR SETTING WATERFOWL SEASONS
HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave final approval to nearly all of the 2008-09 seasons and bag limits; however, there is one group of seasons that won't be finalized until summer: waterfowl and migratory bird seasons.
In July, in concert with federal frameworks, the Game Commission will set seasons and bag limits for September resident Canada goose and webless migratory birds, such as doves, woodcock, snipe and moorhens.

In August, the Game Commission and waterfowl hunting organizations will host waterfowl organizations, individual sportsmen and the public to attend a briefing on the status of waterfowl populations and proposed preliminary federal frameworks for the 2007-08 hunting seasons.
In addition to reviewing frameworks established by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for upcoming waterfowl and migratory bird seasons, Game Commission staff, along with conservation partners, will provide updates on current and planned research and management programs, as well as past hunting results.
Based on public comments received and gathered at the meeting, Game Commission staff will prepare and present recommended composite waterfowl and migratory bird seasons, bag limits and related criteria to the USFWS for final approval. All migratory bird hunting seasons and bag limits must conform to frameworks set by the USFWS. States select their hunting seasons within these established frameworks.

By mid-August, once the final selections are made, the Game Commission will print and distribute brochures outlining the seasons and bag limits for waterfowl and migratory bird seasons to U.S. Post Offices, where hunters may purchase their mandatory federal duck stamp. The brochure also will be posted on the Game Commission's website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) along with a news release announcing the agency's final selections by mid-August.

ADOPTED 2008-09 HUNTING SEASONS AND BAG LIMITS
SQUIRRELS, Red, Gray, Black and Fox (Combined): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with or without required license - Oct. 11-17 (6 daily, 12 in possession limit after first day).
SQUIRRELS, Red, Gray, Black and Fox (Combined): Fall Season - Oct. 18-Nov. 29; Late Seasons - Dec. 15-23 and Dec. 26-Feb. 7 (6 daily, 12 in possession limit after first day).
RUFFED GROUSE: Oct. 18-Nov. 29, Dec. 15-23 and Dec. 26-Jan. 24 (2 daily, 4 possession).
RABBIT (Cottontail): Oct. 25-Nov. 29, Dec. 15-23 and Dec. 26-Feb. 7 (4 daily, 8 possession).
PHEASANT: Special season for eligible junior hunters, with or without required license - Oct. 11-18 (2 daily, 4 in possession). Male pheasants only in WMUs 2A, 2B, 2C, 4C, 4E, 5A and 5B. Male and female pheasants may be taken in all other WMUs.
PHEASANT: Male only in WMUs 2A, 2B, 2C, 4C, 4E, 5A and 5B - Oct. 25-Nov. 29. Male and female may be taken in all other WMUs - Oct. 25-Nov. 29, Dec. 15-23 and Dec. 26-Feb. 7 (2 daily, 4 in possession).
BOBWHITE QUAIL: Oct. 25-Nov. 29 (4 daily, 8 possession). (Closed in WMUs 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D.)
HARES (SNOWSHOE RABBITS) OR VARYING HARES: Dec. 26-Jan. 1 (1 daily, 2 possession).
WOODCHUCKS (GROUNDHOGS): No closed season, except: Sundays; during the antlered and antlerless deer seasons; and until noon daily during the spring gobbler turkey season.
CROWS: July 4-April 5, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday only. No limit.
STARLINGS AND ENGLISH SPARROWS: No closed season, except during the regular firearms antlered and antlerless deer seasons and until noon daily during the spring gobbler turkey season. No limit.
WILD TURKEY (Male or Female): Wildlife Management Units 1A, 1B and 2A (Shotgun and bow and arrow) - Nov. 1-15; WMU 2B (Shotgun and bow and arrow) - Nov. 1-22; WMUs 2C, 2E, 2F, 4A and 4B- Nov. 1-15; WMUs 2D, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4C, 4D and 4E - Nov. 1-22; WMUs 5A and 5B - CLOSED TO FALL TURKEY HUNTING; and WMUs 5C and 5D (Shotgun and bow and arrow) - Nov. 1-7. (1 bird limit, either sex).
SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): Special season for eligible junior hunters, with required license - April 18, 2009. Only 1 spring gobbler may be taken during this hunt.
SPRING GOBBLER (Bearded bird only): April 25-May 25, 2009. Daily limit 1, season limit 2. (Second spring gobbler may only be taken by persons who possess a valid special wild turkey license.)
BLACK BEAR (WMUs 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3A, 4A, 4B and 4D) Bow and Arrow only: Nov. 19-20. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.
BLACK BEAR (Statewide): Nov. 24-26. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.
BLACK BEAR (WMU 3C and Portions of WMUs 3B, 4E and 2G): Dec. 1-6. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year. All of WMU 3C. Also, in that portion of 3B, East of Rt. 14 from Troy to Canton, East of Rt. 154 from Canton to Rt. 220 at Laporte and East of Rt. 42 from Laporte to Rt. 118 and that portion of 4E, East of Rt. 42. Also, in that portions of WMUs 2G in Lycoming and Clinton counties, and 3B in Lycoming County, that lie North of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River from the Rt. 405 Bridge, West to Rt. 15 at Williamsport, Rt. 15 to Rt. 220, and North of Rt. 220 to the Mill Hall exit, North of S.R. 2015 to Rt. 150; East of Rt. 150 to Lusk Run Road and South of Lusk Run Road to Rt. 120, Rt. 120 to Veterans Street Bridge to S.R. 1001; East of S.R. 1001 to Croak Hollow Road, South of Croak Hollow Road to Rt. 664 (at Swissdale), South of Rt. 664 to Little Plum Road (the intersection of S.R. 1003), South of S.R. 1003 to S.R. 1006, South of S.R. 1006 to Sulphur Run Road, South of Sulphur Run Road to Rt. 44, East of Rt. 44 to Rt. 973, South of Rt. 973 to Rt. 87, West of Rt. 87 to Rt. 864, south of Rt. 864 to Rt. 220 and West of Rt. 220 to Rt. 405 and West of Rt. 405 to the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.
BLACK BEAR (WMUs 4C, 4D and 4E): Dec. 3-6. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year.
BLACK BEAR (Rockview State Correctional Institution): Dec. 1-6. Only 1 bear may be taken during the license year. Prior approval must be obtained from prison to hunt.
ELK (Antlered or Antlerless): Nov. 3-8. Only one elk may be taken during the license year.
ELK (Antlered or Antlerless): Sept. 1-27, 2008. Only one elk may be taken during the license year.
DEER, ARCHERY (Antlerless Only) WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D: Sept. 20-Oct. 3, Nov. 17-29 and Dec. 15-23. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER, ARCHERY (Antlered and Antlerless) Statewide, including WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D: Oct. 4-Nov. 15 and Dec. 26-Jan. 10. One antlered deer per hunting license year. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER (Antlered and Antlerless) WMUs 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 2C, 2E, 2F, 3A, 3B, 3D, 4A, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D: Dec. 1-13. One antlered deer per hunting license year. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER (Antlered Only) WMUs 2D, 2G, 3C and 4B: Dec. 1-5. One antlered deer per hunting license year.
DEER (Antlered and Antlerless) WMUs 2D, 2G, 3C and 4B: Dec. 6-13. One antlered deer per hunting license year. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER, ANTLERLESS (Statewide): Oct. 23-25. Junior and Senior License Holders, Disabled Person Permit (to use a vehicle) Holders, and Pennsylvania residents serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Services or in the U.S. Coast Guard only, with required antlerless license. Also included are persons who have reached or will reach their 65th birthday in the year of the application for a license and hold a valid adult license, or qualify for license and fee exemptions under section 2706. One antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER, ANTLERLESS MUZZLELOADER (Statewide): Oct. 18-25. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER, ANTLERED OR ANTLERLESS FLINTLOCK (Statewide): Dec. 26-Jan. 10. One antlered per hunting license year, or one antlerless deer and an additional antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER, Antlerless (WMUs 2B, 5C and 5D): Dec. 15-23 and Dec. 26-Jan. 24. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.
DEER, ANTLERLESS (Military Bases): Hunting permitted on days established by the U.S. Department of the Army at Letterkenny Army Depot, Franklin County; New Cumberland Army Depot, York County; and Fort Detrick, Raven Rock Site, Adams County. An antlerless deer with each required antlerless license.

ADOPTED 2008-09 FURBEARER HUNTING SEASONS
COYOTES: No closed season. Unlimited. Outside of any deer or bear season, coyotes may be taken with a hunting license or a furtaker license, and without wearing orange. During any archery deer season, coyotes may be taken while lawfully hunting deer or with a furtaker license. During the regular firearms deer and any bear seasons, coyotes may be taken while lawfully hunting deer or bear, or with a furtaker license while wearing 250 square inches of fluorescent orange. During the spring gobbler season, may be taken by those with a valid tag and meet fluorescent orange and shot size requirements.
RACCOON & FOXES: Oct. 25-Feb. 21, unlimited.
OPOSSUM, SKUNKS & WEASELS: No closed season, except Sundays and prior to noon during the spring gobbler season. No limits.
BOBCAT (WMUs 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D and 4D): Oct. 25-Feb. 21. One per permit. (Bobcats may only be taken by furtakers in possession of a Bobcat Hunting-Trapping permit.)
ADOPTED 2008-09 TRAPPING SEASONS
MINK & MUSKRAT: Nov. 22-Jan. 11. Unlimited.
COYOTE, FOXES, OPOSSUM, RACCOON, SKUNKS, WEASELS: Oct. 26-Feb. 22. No limit.
COYOTE & FOXES (Statewide) Cable Restraints: Jan. 1-Feb. 22. No limit. Participants must pass cable restraint certification course.
BEAVER (Statewide): Dec. 26-March 31 (Limits vary depending on WMU).
BOBCAT (WMUs 2A, 2C, 2E, 2F, 2G, 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D and 4D): Oct. 26-Feb. 22. One per permit. (Bobcats may only be taken by furtakers in possession of a Bobcat Hunting-Trapping permit.)
ADOPTED 2008-09 FALCONRY SEASONS
SQUIRRELS (combined), QUAIL, RUFFED GROUSE, COTTONTAIL RABBITS, SNOWSHOE OR VARYING HARE, RINGNECK PHEASANT (Male or Female combined): Sept. 1-March 31. Daily and Field Possession limits vary. (Migratory game bird seasons and bag limits for falconers will be set in accordance with federal regulations in August.)
No open season on other wild birds or mammals. Waterfowl and Migratory Game Bird seasons will be established in accordance with Federal Regulations this summer.