AUGUSTA – October is here, and along with the beautiful colors of autumn and cool days, bird season is upon us. Maine has a robust population of Ruffed Grouse, with more than 425,000 birds harvested annually throughout the three-month season. While we look for the flights of migrating Woodcock later in the month, Maine has a resident population that keeps the action going all season.
The Maine Warden Service reminds all hunters to use extreme caution and to clearly identify your target and surroundings this fall season. The proper use of hunter orange clothing, preparing trip itineraries and bringing with you sufficient supplies and communication devices to help you in the event you become lost are important steps to ensure a safe and memorable hunt. Remember to report violations seen in the field to Operation Game Thief at 1-800-ALEART-US. Please respect private property and thank a landowner for the privilege of using their land.
Also, Maine Game Wardens want to remind you to encourage a child to go hunting. Take the proper steps and attend hunter safety courses and share with them the vast opportunities and memories of Maine’s outdoor hunting heritage.
Current hunting reports can be found at http://www.maine.gov/ifw/aboutus/huntingandfishingreports/index.html. So, grab your shotgun, your bird dog and check your regulations: http://www.maine.gov/ifw/hunting_trapping/pdfs/2014HuntingSeasonsChartSept2014.pdf
Inland Fisheries and Wildlife wishes everyone a safe and productive fall hunting season. Please call your nearest IF&W regional office with any questions.
yeah—and stay off other peoples property unless you have express and specific permission…