Vermont Deer Hunting Season Kicks Off with Promising Population Insights
Vermont’s deer rifle season has commenced, and officials from the Department of Fish and Wildlife report a thriving white-tailed deer population, signaling a promising year for hunters. Fish and Wildlife biologist Nick Fortin noted, “There are a good number of deer out there, certainly more than we’ve had the last few years,” highlighting anecdotal evidence of an increase in buck sightings.
The two-week rifle season allows hunters to take one legal buck until December 1. Fortin encourages hunters to submit a tooth sample from any deer they harvest at check stations, which aids in the assessment of the state’s deer population age structure. Additionally, hunters, even those who don’t bag a deer, can participate in the department’s annual deer hunter effort and sighting survey to provide valuable data about wildlife encounters and hunting experiences, which will be accessible online starting Saturday.
As hunting engagement varies across the state, Orleans and Essex counties feature the highest participation, with 12% of Vermonters actively hunting—79% of whom are deer hunters, according to department data. Although participation surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, trends indicate a return to pre-pandemic levels, and Fish and Wildlife project coordinator Christopher Saunders anticipates a gradual decline in hunting participation due to demographic shifts.
Emphasizing safety and enjoyment, Fortin reminded all forest-goers to wear hunter orange during the season. “Get out there and have fun, but most importantly, be safe,” he urged, as Vermont hunters continue to engage in various seasonal hunting activities commenced earlier this fall. With a focus on safety and resource conservation, officials hope for another successful season.
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Photo credit vtdigger.org
