As bear season and archery season draw to a close, many hunters across Colorado are preparing for upcoming rifle seasons. Earlier this month, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced general reminders, permitting updates and safety warnings for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts.
While hunters are well aware of the dates, it is a valuable reminder for hikers and other recreationalists that Colorado hunting seasons last until late November. Bear rifle and archery seasons started at the beginning of this month, and close on Tuesday, Sept. 30. After a two-week break, the first of four rifle seasons opens on Oct. 15 and closes Oct. 19. The remaining rifle seasons run Oct. 25 to Nov. 2, Nov. 8-16 and Nov. 19-23.
CPW requires that big-game hunters using a firearm must wear fluorescent orange or pink when in the field. Camouflaged orange or pink attire is not allowed on its own, as it is not visible enough to other hunters. The agency recommends that other recreation users also wear bright colors, especially during rifle seasons. Orange, fluorescent yellow and pink are the most visible. For dog owners, it is practical to use similarly colored pet vests and collars during hunting season, and to keep dogs on leash even in sections of wilderness where voice control is acceptable.
CPW reminds the public that it is illegal to intentionally interfere with hunters, including causing animals to flee, interfering with access to public areas or, heaven forbid, injecting oneself into the line of fire. In a Sept. 3 press release, the agency emphasized the shared responsibility of safety among hunters, hikers, bikers, leaf peepers, wildlife viewers and off-highway-vehicle users. Most of Colorado’s outdoor spaces are multi-use public land. During hunting season, it is crucial for both hunters and nonhunters to show respect and courtesy toward all other recreationalists.
Safety reminders
While recent rain has allowed most counties to lift fire restrictions, wildfire risk remains a concern. Hunters are urged to secure chains on campers and trailers and check tires prior to driving to trailheads or access points. CPW recommends avoiding driving or parking over dry grass. Hunters and campers should remember to use established fire rings when possible, and otherwise build fires away from flora. When putting out campfires, the coals should be cool to the touch to ensure the fire is adequately extinguished.
CPW reminds hunters that while coyotes and gray wolves can look similar from a distance, the two species are distinct. Both the federal Endangered Species Act and state law protect gray wolves in Colorado. Wolves can be close to three feet tall and six feet long, with broader snouts and ears proportional to the large canines. Wolf tracks are roughly twice the size of coyote tracks. Penalties for illegally shooting a gray wolf can include a fine up to $100,000, jail time and loss of hunting privileges.
Coyotes are very slender, two-feet tall or shorter and around four feet long, with large ears and slender snouts. Hunters who wish to harvest coyotes need to complete additional steps. Even if they have not filled their big game license, coyote hunters must possess a small game license and complete a Harvest Information Program (HIP) survey.
Weather remains a risk even in autumn months. Following a lightning strike resulting in the death of two young hunters near Monte Vista two weeks ago, it behooves people to review storm safety practices before venturing out. When unexpected lightning occurs, recreationalists should leave elevated areas as quickly as possible, including alpine areas above treeline and open meadows. However, sheltering under caves, overhangs or isolated trees is not recommended. The best place to shelter is in well-spaced forest between lower trees. Do not lie flat on the ground; instead squat in a ball-like position with your head tucked.
Other updates
CPW has established a new permitting system for small game birds. Hunters wishing to harvest mountain sharp-tailed grouse, greater sage-grouse and white-tailed ptarmigan need to purchase a $5 annual permit, in addition to a regular small game license, and complete the HIP survey. The permit can be bought online at www.cpwshop.com CPW hopes to better track these species for future hunting seasons and estimate interest levels for the small birds. Limited licenses are still available for deer, elk, pronghorn and bear. Hunters can purchase over-the-counter licenses for bear, elk, pronghorn and white-tailed deer. Limited licenses that weren’t issued in the primary or secondary draws go on the “Leftover List” and are available for purchase in person or online. CPW posts a “Reissue Preview List” every Tuesday with hunter-returned licenses that become available for purchase every Wednesday morning. Hunting resources are available at cpw.state.co.us/hunting